António Costa, the newly appointed president of the European Council, faces a challenging start to his tenure as he leads his first summit of the EU’s 27 leaders. With pressing issues such as Donald Trump’s return to the White House and ongoing tensions regarding Russia and Ukraine, Costa’s ability to unify the bloc will be put to the test amidst distractions from key member states like France and Germany.
A Challenging Start
Costa, who previously served as the Prime Minister of Portugal, was elected to lead the European Council following the summer elections. His reputation for forging compromises is seen as a potential asset, especially in a time when the EU is grappling with internal divisions and external pressures.bán, whose pro-Russian stance complicates consensus on support for Ukraine.
Costa has already made some changes to the traditional summit format, reducing the duration from two days to one. This adjustment has been well-received by leaders, allowing for more focused discussions rather than lengthy drafting sessions. His approach emphasizes clarity and strategic dialogue, which could foster a more collaborative environment.
However, some diplomats caution that Costa’s honeymoon period may be short-lived. As the EU grapples with the implications of a second Trump presidency, leaders are aware that they must act decisively, yet they remain divided on the best course of action.
The upcoming informal retreat of European leaders in February will be crucial for Costa as he seeks to solidify his role and address the pressing questions facing the EU. The dynamics of the transatlantic relationship will be a key topic of discussion, and how Costa manages these conversations could define his presidency.
