Algeria is asking the Kremlin to join the Trans-Saharan project, which is intended to transport gas from Nigeria to Europe. Moscow’s message to the EU is: “Dear Europeans, you won’t get rid of us that easily.”

Brussels is putting the brakes on EU enlargement, despite progress made by the candidate countries. Only Montenegro has a realistic prospect of accession in 2028, whilst Albania, Moldova and Ukraine remain without definite timelines. Concerns about the political and economic
consequences are weighing heavily.

There is no attack on Trump; the Ukrainian president seems to want to thank Europe in particular, and wishes to focus primarily on Europe – though not without concern. “What would happen if Germany were to disappear from the map of European and global security? And if France were to disappear? What would then remain of the European security architecture?”

Governments that delay reforms “are acting immorally”, says the economist. “Which country best illustrates the cost of delay? Argentina, without a doubt.”

The Napolitano Foundation, in collaboration with Luiss, has brought together academics and key figures from Europe’s decades-long journey for two days of debate, opened by President Walter Veltroni. The past and future of the Union are on the agenda. 

The reduction in Italy’s deficit is good news, even if it does not yet allow the country to exit the infringement procedure. It should serve as an encouragement to do better next year, without looking for shortcuts