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Tensions rise over EU's 2028-2034 budget ahead of 2027 elections

Ireland's proposed 1.62 trillion euro budget faces skepticism from Sweden and Germany, while France opposes deep cuts.

Updated Oct 15, 2026 · 14:31 UTC4 reports

The short version

  • Ireland's EU presidency proposed a 2028-2034 budget of 1.62 trillion euros, 30% above the current package but 8% below the Commission's request.[Associated Press]
  • Sweden says several hundred billion euros more in cuts are needed and that the plan would raise its contribution about 60%, while Germany says agreement remains a long way off.[Associated Press]
  • Cohesion and agriculture make up about two-thirds of the budget, France opposes major cuts and wants new EU taxes, and leaders aim for a deal by Christmas.[France 24 · Associated Press]

Key facts

  • Ireland, which holds the EU's rotating presidency, proposed a 2028-2034 budget of 1.62 trillion euros, 30% above the current seven-year package and 8% below the Commission's request.[Associated Press]
  • The EU budget amounts to around 1.2% of the bloc's gross national income.[Associated Press]
  • Cohesion funds and agriculture policy together account for about two-thirds of the EU budget.[Associated Press]
  • Sweden says several hundred billion euros more in cuts are needed and that the Irish plan would raise its contribution by about 60%.[Associated Press]
  • German Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed Ireland's efforts but said agreement remains a long way off.[Associated Press]
  • EU leaders are seeking a deal on the nearly 2 trillion euro budget for 2028-2034 by Christmas, with concerns that upcoming elections, especially in France, could strengthen eurosceptic forces.[France 24]
  • France opposes major budget cuts and seeks new EU-wide taxes, including levies on large companies and tobacco.[France 24]
  • The Friends of Cohesion camp seeks more funding for agriculture and regional development.[France 24]

What remains uncertain

  • Whether leaders reach a deal by Christmas is unresolved, and the reports describe deep divisions among member states.[France 24 · Associated Press]
  • The 60% rise in Sweden's contribution is Sweden's own assessment of the Irish plan and is not independently verified in these reports.[Associated Press]
  • How cohesion and agriculture spending would be cut or protected, and how any shortfall would be covered, remains unresolved.[Associated Press]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.