The lasting friendship between ECR and Trump’s Republicans

Which EU politicians will attend the inauguration of Donald Trump as president of the United States today and why are the European Conservatives and Reformists so tight with the Republicans? Questions Radio Schuman answers today.

Although foreign heads of state and government are generally not invited to US presidential inauguration ceremonies, numerous European politicians will attend Donald Trump’s swearing-in event.

Among them are prominent right-wing leaders such as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Spain’s Santiago Abascal, and France’s Marion Marechal.

Many of these individuals are affiliated with the third and fourth largest factions in the European Parliament: the Patriots for Europe and the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR).

Sources indicate that a majority of ECR leadership will attend, including newly elected president Mateusz Morawiecki, as well as vice presidents Carlo Fidanza, Marion Marechal, and George Simion.

Additionally, several lesser-known Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) such as Rihard Kols from Latvia, Dominik Tarczynski from Law and Justice, and Croatia’s Stephen Bartulica are expected to participate. While the Patriots for Europe is a relatively new group, the ECR, founded in 2009, has developed long-standing ties with the Republican Party.

Today Radio Schuman explores the connections with Euronews reporter Vincenzo Genovese.

We also take a quick look at the agenda of the day, including the European Parliament plenary session in Strasbourg and the meeting of EU finance ministers of the Euro area.

Additionally, Radio Schuman explores those parts of Europe where flights experience more turbulence.

Radio Schuman is hosted and produced by Maïa de la Baume, with journalist and production assistant Eleonora Vasques, audio editing by  David Brodheim. Music by Alexandre Jas.