Brussels Playbook Podcast

Politics are driving a growing culture of secrecy at the European Commission, warns European Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly in this week’s episode of EU Confidential.In an exclusive exit interview with host Sarah Wheaton, O’Reilly shares her frustrations over obtaining documents and holding European Union institutions to account. From Pfizergate to investigations into deadly migrant shipwrecks, the former journalist reflects on how her faith in the EU’s ideals has fueled her determination to ensure its institutions live up to them.Her advice to her successor? Schmooze more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aitor Hernández-Morales, a senior POLITICO reporter, shares insights on the influential POLITICO 28 list, revealing how a vacuum in traditional power is giving rise to new political players. Kaya Kallas, the EU's foreign affairs chief, discusses her take on Ukraine’s ongoing conflict and broader geopolitical dynamics. Carmen Paun provides a critical look at Romania’s canceled presidential election, addressing the controversy over social media's influence and allegations of interference. An engaging mix of politics and social insight takes center stage.

Barbara Moens, the chief EU correspondent at POLITICO, Aitor Hernández-Morales, an Iberian politics expert, and Nick Vinocur, co-author of The Brussels Playbook, dissect the newly formed leadership trio in Brussels. They evaluate whether this team can effectively tackle challenges, especially support for Ukraine amidst changing political tides. The conversation also touches on the ongoing political crisis in France, the evolving EU dynamics, and the implications of leadership styles in navigating geopolitical issues. Expect insights full of sharp analysis!

Oana Lungescu, former NATO spokesperson, and Max Griera, POLITICO reporter, discuss Romania's surprising presidential election where pro-Russia candidate Călin Georgescu shook the political landscape. They explore the influence of TikTok on his nationalist campaign and the potential ramifications for NATO and European unity. Lungescu highlights concerns about the rise of far-right sentiments, while Griera reveals the intricate backroom politics behind the new European Commission, shedding light on shifting power dynamics in Brussels.

Gordon Repinski, POLITICO’s executive editor for Germany, discusses Chancellor Olaf Scholz's precarious position amid a looming political crisis and snap elections in Germany. Liana Fix offers insights on how this domestic chaos impacts EU stability. Eric Bazail-Eimil then dives into Marco Rubio's unconventional rise as a potential envoy under Trump, exploring his foreign policy evolution and Cuban-American influence. The conversation highlights the interplay between U.S. foreign policy and European security in a shifting political landscape.

Europe is grappling with an energy crisis fueled by geopolitical tensions, requiring urgent infrastructure changes. Experts highlight Denmark's success in renewable energy since the 1970s as a model for decarbonization. Unity among European nations is essential for enhancing energy security, and initiatives like the Northern Seas Treaty are crucial. Cybersecurity threats from adversarial nations pose significant risks to energy infrastructures. The discussion also emphasizes avoiding new dependencies on unreliable suppliers and fostering innovation and cooperation for sustainable energy.

Eddy Wax, a co-author of POLITICO’s Playbook, brings sharp insights on the recent EU Commissioner hearings, which showcased the political theater overshadowing actual policy discussions. The panel highlights the rising partisanship among MEPs and how it may reshape EU priorities. They discuss the potential impact of a second Trump presidency on Europe, especially regarding defense policies and political alliances. Wax also critiques the ambiguous commitments of the nominees, pointing out the urgent need for strong leadership amid escalating challenges.

Nicholas Vinocur, POLITICO editor-at-large, joins German MEPs Katarina Barley and David McAllister to discuss how Trump’s election victory is reshaping Europe's political landscape. They delve into Hungary's enthusiastic alignment with Orlando, the fracturing of Germany's government, and the implications for transatlantic relations. Pieter Haeck brings insights on the upcoming European Commission nominees, focusing on youth representation and the need for modernized military capabilities in response to shifting global dynamics.

Jakob Hanke Vela, a POLITICO reporter covering U.S. elections from D.C., and Francesca Chambers, USA Today’s White House correspondent with a decade of electoral experience, dive deep into the U.S. campaign's final days. They discuss the quirky nature of American campaigning, compare it to European elections, and analyze the implications of Trump’s potential return on transatlantic relations. The duo also examines how issues like migration and identity politics are shaping voter sentiment, highlighting the unpredictable landscape as the elections approach.

A vote that was supposed to be a slam dunk in favor of the EU turned into a nail-biter: barely 50 percent of Moldovans backed the country’s accession ambitions in last week’s referendum. Does a massive Russian interference campaign of vote-buying and lies explain the result — or is Brussels’ tepid support for Ukraine’s resistance to Russian aggression also to blame? Ahead of a vote with similar stakes in the Republic of Georgia, EU Confidential host Sarah Wheaton is joined by POLITICO reporters who’ve lived and traveled extensively in the region: Eva Hartog, Gabriel Gavin and, dialing in from Kyiv, Veronika Melkozerova. Next, we listen in on a POLITICO Pro Connect session (usually off the record and invitation- only) with our top policy editors unpacking the Commission’s new “Jenga tower” structure. Policy Editor Joanna Roberts discusses which commissioners have actual power — and which just have fancy titles — with Aoife White, Cory Bennett, Jan Cienski and Douglas Busvine. The event was part of POLITICO Pro Connect “In Conversation With” series, which you can learn more about here.Further reading:Moldova and Georgia ring alarm bells for the EU, by Gabriel Gavin and Eva HartogPro-EU campaign won in Moldova despite ‘unfair fight,’ president says, by Gabriel GavinThe man who bought a country, by Dato Parulava and Eva HartogAshes of Our Fathers. Inside the Fall of Nagorno-Karabakh, Gabriel Gavin’s book, will be released in January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices