Kallas confident in a EU budget agreement in 2026

The EU's foreign policy chief expressed confidence that the 27 member states will reach an agreement on the next budget by the end of the year, while Portugal's foreign minister emphasized defense as a priority. Kaja Kallas highlighted the ongoing discussions regarding the multiannual financial framework, noting the diverse opinions among member states. She believes that European Council President António Costa will be able to broker a compromise, acknowledging the challenges involved in balancing various interests. Kallas anticipates lengthy negotiations during the upcoming European Council meeting in December.