Day: October 21, 2025

French President Emmanuel Macron has recently adopted a more cautious approach, refraining from initiatives that may provoke backlash within France and becoming increasingly protective of his policy proposals, reports 24brussels.

In the last few weeks, Macron has intensified calls for stricter migration controls and emphasized the need to reduce regulatory burdens. He is also advocating for new legislation aimed at safeguarding children from social media exposure, while seeking exemptions for automakers concerning environmental targets. Critics argue these actions reflect a departure from ambitious European integration efforts.

An EU diplomat commented, “This Macron has been consumed by domestic troubles. He is no longer the European champion we once knew.” This sentiment illustrates a growing perception that Macron’s leadership is increasingly focused on national issues rather than the broader European agenda.

Not the same man(u)

Macron’s influence over the European Union’s landscape has been substantial over the past decade. During a pivotal address at Sorbonne University in 2017, he advocated for a more assertive Europe, stressing the need for reduced dependence on external partners for both goods and defense.

Initially, Macron’s vision went largely unacknowledged, but today, European Commission leaders and member states echo his call for “strategic autonomy.” This shift aims to reduce reliance on China and enhance military preparedness in response to Russian hostilities and a retreat of American military presence in Europe.

Macron, once regarded as the EU’s “think-tanker in chief,” has seen his early tenure characterized by a flurry of proposals aimed at reforming Europe, cementing his role on the international stage. As the EU grapples with multiple crises, the effectiveness of Macron’s renewed focus on domestic matters remains to be seen, raising questions about the future of European unity and leadership.

Martin Selmayr’s Return Signals a Shift in European Diplomacy

Martin Selmayr is set to re-enter the European diplomatic arena, raising tensions and expectations within the European External Action Service (EEAS), reports 24brussels.

Although Selmayr has not publicly commented on his appointment, he will nominally report to EEAS Secretary-General Belen Carbonell. His new role will empower him to represent the department at critical meetings with governments, potentially replacing Carbonell in key working groups and setting the groundwork for future power dynamics within the EU.

His return over the heads of career diplomats has raised eyebrows among officials, who express concern about the implications for the EEAS. “Selmayr has been at the Vatican for the past two years — that’s the sum total of his diplomatic record,” noted one official. “To turn around and say to the enormously experienced people in the diplomatic service that they want to bring in someone with a strong record, everyone will wonder, well, don’t we have that already?”

Inside the EEAS: Challenges and Changes

Bringing Selmayr back into the fold could prove contentious in an environment already wary of upheaval. His reputation as Juncker’s chief of staff, where he maintained a firm grip on power and often had fractious relations with colleagues, has left some wary about his approach at the EEAS. During his tenure, he earned the moniker the “Monster of the Berlaymont” for his uncompromising tactics.

Furthermore, insights from sources close to the matter indicate that Selmayr’s redesign of the deputy secretary-general position reflects newly appointed Josep Borrell’s efforts to bolster connections with EU member states. This strategy aims to enhance cooperation during regular Coreper meetings among ambassadors that are held multiple times a week.

As Selmayr steps back into a prominent role, the impact of his leadership on the EEAS remains to be seen, especially as Europe navigates complex geopolitical landscapes. The reactions from both diplomats and member state representatives will be pivotal as Selmayr seeks to establish his authority and influence within this essential institution.