Former European Council President Charles Michel has sharply criticized Europe's lack of a seat at the table in the ongoing Iran war negotiations, calling it a failure that undermines the bloc's global standing. In an interview on Euronews' flagship morning show Europe Today, Michel argued that the European Union must play a more decisive role in resolving conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, including the recent escalation involving Iran.
Michel, who served as the European Council's president from 2019 to 2024, stressed that security and the economy are now inextricably linked. He urged EU leaders to strengthen the bloc's influence and defend its interests, particularly in a world where geopolitical tensions are reshaping global alliances. "Europe not being at the table is a failure," he said, adding that the EU must become more sovereign and resilient to navigate the challenges ahead.
Europe's Strategic Autonomy
The former Belgian prime minister's comments come at a time when the EU is grappling with its role in international crises, from the war in Ukraine to the volatile situation in the Middle East. Michel's call for greater strategic autonomy echoes a broader debate within the bloc about reducing dependence on the United States and other external powers. He argued that the EU's credibility as a global actor depends on its ability to act independently and decisively.
Michel also highlighted the need for Europe to bolster its defense capabilities and economic resilience. "We cannot rely solely on others for our security," he said, pointing to the increasing intertwining of security and economic policies. He called for a more integrated approach, where EU member states coordinate their efforts to protect critical infrastructure, supply chains, and technological assets.
The former president's remarks are particularly resonant in light of recent events, such as the pro-Russian network spreading fake German ballot fraud videos, which underscore the hybrid threats facing European democracies. Michel warned that disinformation and cyberattacks are part of a broader strategy to undermine the EU's unity and stability.
EU Sovereignty and Resilience
Michel's vision for a more sovereign Europe includes strengthening the bloc's decision-making processes and its ability to act swiftly in crises. He noted that the EU's institutional framework often slows down responses, a weakness that adversaries can exploit. "We need to be faster and more efficient," he said, calling for reforms that would allow the EU to project power more effectively on the world stage.
His comments also touched on the economic dimension, with Michel advocating for a more robust European industrial policy. He argued that the EU must reduce its reliance on external suppliers for critical goods, from energy to semiconductors, to ensure its long-term security. This aligns with ongoing efforts in Brussels to enhance the bloc's open strategic autonomy, a concept that has gained traction in recent years.
Michel's critique is likely to resonate with EU leaders who have been pushing for a stronger European voice in international affairs. However, it also highlights the challenges of achieving consensus among the 27 member states, each with its own national interests and priorities. The former president acknowledged these difficulties but insisted that the EU must overcome them to remain relevant.
As the situation in Iran and the Middle East continues to evolve, Michel's words serve as a reminder of the stakes involved. The EU's absence from key negotiations not only weakens its influence but also leaves it vulnerable to decisions made by others. For Michel, the path forward is clear: Europe must take its destiny into its own hands.
His interview comes amid broader discussions about the EU's role in global security, including the recent EU close to deal on Russia sanctions, which could have significant implications for the bloc's foreign policy. Michel's call for greater sovereignty and resilience is a timely reminder that Europe's future depends on its ability to act collectively and decisively.
In the end, Michel's message is one of urgency. He believes that the EU cannot afford to be a bystander in the world's most pressing conflicts. "We must be at the table, not just as observers but as shapers of the agenda," he said. Whether EU leaders heed his advice remains to be seen, but his words have reignited a crucial debate about Europe's place in the world.
