Europe is still reeling from the recent drone incursions into Baltic airspace.

In a show of solidarity, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius are in Lithuania today following last week’s drone scare. Today on the Brussels Playbook Podcast, we unpack the latest developments, including discussions about Baltic companies teaming up with Ukrainian firms to tap into their expertise in bomb-shelter construction.

Also on the pod: Calls are growing for Europe to appoint its own negotiator in Ukraine-Russia peace talks, now that the U.S. has stepped back. Even Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Europe to take a more active role. But not everyone is convinced — Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys and Polish Deputy Prime Minister Radosław Sikorski have both raised concerns. Zoya and Nick break down the debate. 

And finally, negotiations over the EU’s next long-term budget are heating up, with some countries balking at the proposed €1.8 trillion price tag. We explain what’s driving the pushback. 

Should the EU spend more or less money on the next budget? Let us know what you think by sending us a message on WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29.

And don’t forget to check out the Paris Playbook Podcast. You can listen to the trailer and subscribe here.

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