Thierry Breton has big plans for the future of European defence policy. Ideally, he would become Commissioner in a new defence portfolio to be created by Ursula von der Leyen after the elections

The European Central Bank recorded a loss in 2023 for the first time in around 20 years. Now, with the help of the key interest rate, they are being written off. This is to the detriment of the weakening economy.

The motto of the security conference "Peace through dialogue" is a contradiction in terms: anyone who issues an international warrant against the President of the Russian Federation and does not invite any representatives does not want dialogue!

Under the banner of "saving democracy", part of democracy is being buried in Germany:The free competition of political forces as well as the possibility of dismissing governments by giving one's vote to other political forces.

The energy turnaround is one of the strongest and most damaging influences on the economy of the Federal Republic, and therefore on the economy of Europe. This policy is being pursued in a double game between the Commission and Olaf Scholz's cabinet.

In my view, 2023 was characterised by three very negative developments within the EU, the disastrous effects of which will only be felt slowly and over many years.

The bankruptcy of SIGNA Holding is sending shockwaves through the construction and retail sectors. However, it is very clear that banks, insurance companies and politicians have contributed significantly to this misery.

The Commission and the Council are intervening on a massive scale in the European energy market - without a proper legislative procedure, without the involvement of the European Parliament, and without regard for the sovereignty of the Member States.

The Commission and the Council have introduced a whole series of powerful instruments that are only partially covered by the EU treaties. The misuse of the "emergency clause" is paving the way for an authoritarian system for the elites.

There is a gold-rush atmosphere - especially among those companies that are supposed to "rebuild" Ukraine. This includes the arms and technology industry, such as the Rheinmetall corporation.