A Role of Great Relevance in the EU
The question of who would not want to be EU Defence Commissioner posed by Politico.eu highlights the importance of this proposed new role in the next Commission. With the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the need for EU rearmament dominating the agenda, this role seems to be one of the most prominent in Brussels. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced the creation of this portfolio should she win a second term at the head of the EU executive after Sunday’s elections. This announcement has generated excitement and there is speculation that the post could go to a political heavyweight, such as Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski.
Perspectives and Names Under Consideration
Central and Eastern European nations argue that those targeted by Russia should be considered first. Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds has expressed that the region offers numerous candidates with experience on the front line of an aggressor country and good relations with Washington. Among the names being considered are the Estonian Prime Minister, Kaja Kallas, and the Romanian President, Klaus Iohannis, of the center-right European People’s Party (EPP), who was also considered for the position of Secretary General of NATO. The Lithuanian Foreign Minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis, also from the EPP, is also mentioned.
Reality of the Proposed Position
Despite expectations, it stands out that the job could simply be a nameplate with no significant budget or power. National capitals jealously maintain their power in military matters. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has mentioned that a defense commissioner is conceivable, as long as the focus is on industrial coordination. The possibility is looming that the commissioner will have a role in the management of the bloc’s civil space programs, as well as in industrial coordination to find efficiencies in weapons production and military infrastructure in the 27 member countries.
Dispute between Michel and Von der Leyen
Rumors are circulating in Brussels about the tense relationship between the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, and the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. There are fears that Michel is trying to thwart a possible second term for Von der Leyen. This tense dynamic became evident during a visit to Ankara in 2021, when Michel occupied the only available chair next to the Turkish president, leaving Von der Leyen relegated to a nearby sofa, in what became known as Sofagate. Some suggest that Michel aspires to take the place of EU foreign policy chief, succeeding Josep Borrell, with whom he has a good relationship.
