First Take
Quick reactions to breaking events — what just happened and why it matters for Europe.
Moldova's European Dream Faces a Russian Nightmare
Moldova opened EU accession negotiations in 2024, but Russian interference, Transnistria, and energy dependence threaten to derail the process.
Europe's Semiconductor Dream Is Running Behind Schedule
Two years after the EU Chips Act, Europe's semiconductor ambitions face labor shortages, cost overruns, and fierce competition from the US and Asia.
The Mediterranean Migration Deal Nobody Talks About
The EU's migration partnership with Tunisia has dramatically reduced Mediterranean crossings. But human rights groups say the deal is outsourcing abuse.
“Waiting times for psychiatric care exceed six months in most EU countries. Youth mental health indicators are at their worst recorded levels. Europe is facing a silent crisis that its healthcare syste...”
The Quiet Revolution in European Defence Procurement
The EU Defence Industrial Strategy is pushing member states to buy weapons together. It is messy, political, and exactly what Europe needs.
Germany's Coalition Crisis Is Europe's Problem Too
With the traffic-light coalition fracturing over fiscal policy, Germany is unable to lead on European defence, energy, or enlargement. The consequences extend f...
The Arctic Is Melting. So Is the Old Security Order.
Climate change has opened new shipping routes and resource deposits in the Arctic. Russia, China, and NATO are all racing to stake their claims.