Charles Michel, the president of the European Council, will participate on Thursday in major discussion tables on the first day of the G7 meetings in Apulia, Italy, representing the European Union alongside Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission. Earlier, he granted a brief interview to a small group of European journalists, including El Periódico from the same publishing group.
What exactly is being discussed regarding Russian assets at the G7?
The key point to remember is that, since the large-scale invasion of Ukraine began, Russia has been held accountable for its aggression. He has reiterated support for the idea of targeting frozen assets, noting that legal and financial hurdles exist. The European Commission has developed concrete steps, and progress has been made to show that the G7, together with the United States, can advance measures so that more money reaches Ukraine faster. The recipient countries need funds now. At this moment, there is confidence that an agreement among G7 members can be reached.
Would the 50 billion proposed replace the 3 billion euros annual fund recently created by the EU from the proceeds of frozen Russian assets?
He cannot share the specifics of the agreement. What he can say is that this proposal adds to the 100 billion euros that the EU has been directing to Ukraine from the outset of the war.
Is there a worry that the EU will approve a new proposal while some member states disagree?
He chose his words carefully. He feels confident that a unanimous agreement will emerge at the G7 and be backed by all EU member states, since leaders have been in close contact to avoid any surprises in the process.
Is there a possibility of negotiating Ukraine’s EU membership during this presidency?
That is the expectation, though meetings with member countries are still being prepared, including with some who are more cautious. The aim is to steer political debate in a constructive direction.
Will Hungary cause problems?
There is no secret. In the past, clarifications were needed, but decisions were ultimately achieved.
Let’s turn to Gaza. A new ceasefire proposal exists. Should the G7 be expected to weigh in on this?
He has just returned from Jordan, where he participated in an initiative led by the King of Jordan, Egypt, and the UN. Being present at these discussions helps to understand regional perspectives. From his view, three priorities will shape today’s debates. First, the war must stop now, and it is encouraging that the UN Security Council approved a resolution and that President Biden received a clear proposal. The goal is a ceasefire, the end of the war, and the release of all hostages held by Hamas. Second, the humanitarian crisis is unacceptable, and there must be unfettered access to aid. More than 70,000 children have been separated from their parents, creating a dire situation. Third, progress toward a two-state solution and a peace process remains essential. Although the situation is difficult, there is a window of opportunity as Arab countries work on a concrete plan. This war affects civilians and also fuels polarization in Europe.
Some far-right groups have good ties with the Israeli prime minister. What is his assessment?
That is a significant point. He does not underestimate electoral outcomes and believes it is in Europe’s interest for the Council to set clear directions. The EU must uphold fundamental principles without double standards. Two major crises demand attention: Ukraine, which threatens European and global stability, and the Middle East, where the humanitarian tragedy requires steady, principled action. It is essential to stay true to those principles without hypocrisy.
What language should the G7 use when referring to China? Will the tone echo Hiroshima or be more measured?
Two points stand out. First, concerning Ukraine and its territorial integrity, there should be no softening of commitments. It is crucial to expect a more responsible stance from China in defending the UN Charter and the core principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is disappointing that China did not participate in the peace discussions in Switzerland. Second, within the G7, coordination is vital as the economies involved are the leading ones worldwide. A coordinated approach to security and economic policy, including supply chain diversification and carbon pricing, requires ongoing discussion among members. Differences exist, and not every country shares the same stance on every issue, but a common framework is essential for progress.