The end of Brussels’ most important dinner party

The fight over the EU’s next seven-year budget is heating up. European affairs ministers are meeting in Luxembourg today to discuss the cash pot. Last week, the Cypriot presidency came up with concrete figures … but the backlash was almost immediate. Zoya and Ian discuss the main sticking points. Next, one of the most useful diplomatic gatherings in Brussels for years has been the exclusive dinners organized at the U.S. ambassador to the EU’s residence in Uccle. Now, these intimate meetings are disappearing and diplomats are feeling their absence. Lastly, things aren’t looking good for MCC Brussels, a think tank linked to former prime minister Viktor Orbán. The timing is awkward as the former leader comes to town this week. This summer, we’re celebrating 100 episodes of the Brussels Playbook Podcast. Do you want to attend a live taping? Click here to register for a chance to apply!  Questions? Comments? Send us a voice note or message us on WhatsApp here or at +32 491 05 06 29. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices