The European Union unveiled a bold 2-trillion-euro budget blueprint on July 16, 2025, aiming to bolster economic resilience and address climate challenges over the next seven years.
Presented by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the plan expands the current Multiannual Financial Framework by 15%, incorporating funds for green energy transitions, digital infrastructure, and defense against rising geopolitical threats. The proposal allocates €700 billion to climate initiatives, including a €300 billion hydrogen project, while setting aside €400 billion for defense, reflecting concerns over Russia’s actions in Ukraine and tensions with China.
The blueprint, which requires approval from the European Parliament and member states, proposes increasing national contributions by 0.6% of GDP, a move likely to face resistance from frugal nations like Germany and the Netherlands. Eastern European countries, however, support the defense focus, with Poland advocating for €100 billion in military aid.
Critics argue the plan risks inflation, given the EU’s 2.5% rate in 2025, while proponents highlight its potential to create 1.5 million jobs. Negotiations are expected to stretch into 2026, with von der Leyen emphasizing unity amid economic divergence, though the proposal’s scale may test the bloc’s cohesion.