EU

How are geopolitical shifts reshaping the prospects for European Union enlargement in the Western Balkans? This report summarizes an expert discussion on the evolution of EU enlargement policy in the Western Balkans in the context of a changing security environment and the growing influence of external actors. The discussion highlights that, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, enlargement has become not only a technical, conditionality-based process but also a strategic instrument of European security. Participants pointed to uneven progress among Western Balkan countries, persistent challenges related to the rule of law and democratic reforms, and the increasing influence of external actors, particularly Russia and China. The publication also emphasises the need to preserve the principle of merit-based conditionality, strengthen gradual integration through tangible benefits for citizens, and improve the EU’s strategic communication towards local societies. A key conclusion is that the credibility and success of enlargement will depend on the EU’s ability to balance geopolitical urgency with sustained support for the region’s democratic transformation.

By the end of 2026, the European Union will introduce a unified digital identity for citizens and businesses. The EU Digital Identity Wallet will allow users to store official documents, sign contracts, and verify their identity across member states with just a few clicks. The initiative aims to reduce bureaucracy, cut costs, and remove barriers within the single market, while also raising concerns about data protection and the potential pressure to make the system widely mandatory. The article was commented on by Filip Křenek, analyst at the EUROPEUM Institute.

U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated pressure on Europe through tariff threats and explicit challenges to Greenland’s sovereignty. The European Union is now weighing a response that balances diplomacy with tougher countermeasures, including the potential use of its so-called economic “bazooka.” Experts warn that without a confident and united stance, Europe risks further weakening transatlantic relations and its own global standing. Commented on by Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office of the EUROPEUM Institute.

Prime Minister Robert Fico's visit to Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago did not yield any official results, yet Fico presented it at home as a significant diplomatic success. Analyst Martin Vokálek comments on the meeting, considering Fico's foreign policy unreasonable and claiming that "Slovakia risks being torn apart in all four directions."

Martin Vokálek, an analyst at the EUROPEUM Institute for European Policy, points out that the European Union should respond unanimously to Donald Trump's statements regarding possible pressure on Denmark in connection with Greenland. He believes that the EU should confirm its common position at the upcoming summit and send a signal that it rejects the use of economic threats as a tool of political pressure. At the same time, he emphasizes that the Union should prioritize dialogue but be prepared to use legal instruments to protect its interests if pressure is actually exerted.

The year 2026 will bring new challenges for the European Union. Join us on 12 January 2026 to discuss them at a debate from the series ‘What’s New in the European Parliament?’.

The Chinese electric vehicle market is slowing down as government support is gradually being reduced and domestic demand weakens. Chinese manufacturers are increasingly seeking to export their vehicles abroad, including to Europe, which may influence future EV prices and intensify competition for European carmakers. However, analysts stress that this does not indicate a collapse of the Chinese market, but rather a consolidation in which only the strongest players will survive, giving Europe time to adapt its electric mobility strategy. The article was commented on by Filip Křenek, analyst at the EUROPEUM Institute.

The prospects for ending the war in Ukraine in 2026 remain uncertain, shaped by global geopolitical dynamics from Washington to Beijing. While risks include wavering U.S. commitment, European political fragmentation, and growing Russia–China cooperation, Ukraine also faces important opportunities, particularly through deeper integration with the European Union and a stronger role in Europe’s security architecture. Commented by Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office of the EUROPEUM Institute.

The aim of the project is to provide access to reliable information about the European Union and its enlargement process in the Armenian social media environment.

Although Andrej Babiš claims to have resolved his conflict of interest by transferring Agrofert into a trust structure, Brussels remains cautious. The European Commission has so far refrained from issuing a clear position, waiting to see whether the proposed solution genuinely addresses the legal and political risks related to the use of EU funds. Commented by Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office of the EUROPEUM Institute.

The proposed reparations loan for Ukraine, backed by frozen Russian assets, has encountered resistance within the EU, mainly due to Belgium’s firm stance. While legal concerns play a role, the blockade is also shaped by domestic political considerations and fears over fiscal stability. Despite these obstacles, a compromise may still emerge ahead of the December European Council summit, particularly if risk-sharing mechanisms are clarified and pressure from other member states increases. Commented by Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels Office of the EUROPEUM Institute.

EU member states have taken the first significant step toward releasing frozen Russian assets for Ukraine. Despite opposition from Slovakia and Hungary, they approved a mechanism ensuring that the funds will not depend on sanctions or the decisions of individual countries, allowing them to help Kyiv obtain the necessary financial support. Martin Vokálek, Executive Director and Head of the Brussels office of the EUROPEUM Institute, commented on this for Denník N.