Ex-EU Council Chief Warns EU Over Foreign Policy Double Standards

(MENAFN) Former European Council president Charles Michel has cautioned that inconsistencies in how the European Union applies its foreign policy principles are damaging its global standing, pointing to what he described as a growing tendency to “appease” key allies.

Speaking at the Delphi Economic Forum in Athens, he argued that uneven application of EU values risks weakening the bloc’s influence and credibility internationally.

“Double standards are a puzzle that undermine the European credibility and authority. And sometimes, let’s be honest, I have the impression that there’s a temptation to appease United States, to appease Israel, and to be not far from it arrogant with the rest of the world,” he said.

He emphasized that the EU needs a more consistent and trustworthy approach in its international dealings, warning that unclear or selective positions toward partners who do not fully respect rules-based norms could erode Europe’s soft power and authority.

Turning to defense matters, Michel added that EU countries should play a more decisive role in security policy and move faster to reinforce Europe’s defense industrial capacity.

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