The Ring

Did European solidarity fail after the Ceuta crisis? Is Europe really united on migration?

From Morocco’s role and Spain’s response to whether EU member states are doing enough to help out when one member state comes under pressure, the debate raises more questions than answers.

The same week that Ceuta’s president, Juan Jesús Vivas, travelled to Brussels in a cry for help, we are joined by Czech centre-right MEP Tomáš Svetechovský and German Socialist MEP Birgit Sippel. Both EU lawmakers clash on how Europe should respond to the migration crisis and whether EU member states should take in and relocate migrants arriving in Spain. 

Can Europe come together in a crisis like this? And has the EU migration pact unravelled just as it started being enforced? 

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Brussels. 

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All eyes are on the election in the small East German state of Saxony-Anhalt. A potential absolute majority for the far-right there could shake up German politics and rattle Europe. The beginning of a new crisis?

Is Saxony-Anhalt simply expressing frustration with the political establishment? Or are we about to witness a turning point for Germany — and potentially for Europe? And who is to blame?

These questions spark this week’s debate between EU lawmakers Jean-Marc Germain (Socialists & Democrats) and Hildegard Bentele (European People’s Party).

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From migration and trade to the rising cost of housing, Europe continues to face complex political challenges with far-reaching consequences.

As the migration debate returned to the EU Parliament, who decides who belongs in Europe? Will the EU-Mercosur agreement boost Europe's economy or put farmers and environmental standards at risk? How can Europe help tackle the housing crisis and make homes more affordable?

These questions sparked some of this season’s debates between EU lawmakers, including Ciaran Mullooly (Renew Europe), Juan Fernando López Aguilar (Socialists & Democrats), and Maria Ohisalo (Greens), as well as centre-right MEPs Tomas Tobé, Jörgen Warborn, and Dirk Gotink from the European People’s Party.

As Members of the European Parliament take a break from Brussels, we look back at some of the debates that made headlines. Listen to this special summer edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament in Brussels and Strasbourg.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From energy security to migration and foreign policy, the current geopolitical context raises difficult questions about Europe's role in a changing world.

Who will pay for Europe’s defence spending? How should Europe respond to growing tensions and instability in the Middle East?  

These questions sparked some of this season’s debates on The Ring between EU lawmakers, including left MEPs Marc Botenga, Martin Schirdewan, and Özlem Demirel, Socialist MEP Hana Jalloul, as well as EPP MEPs Riho Terras, Lukas Mandl, and Reinhold Lopatka.

As Members of the European Parliament take a break from Brussels, we look back at some of the debates that made headlines. Listen to this special summer edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament in Brussels and Strasbourg.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can a country of fewer than six million people steer the European Union through some of its biggest challenges? What will Ireland's priorities be during its six-month presidency of the Council of the EU? And can Dublin leave a lasting mark on the bloc's agenda?

These questions sparked this week's debate between Irish lawmakers Neale Richmond (Fine Gael) and Rose Conway-Walsh (Sinn Féin).

Both politicians clash over the opportunities and challenges facing the country at a pivotal moment for Europe. From negotiations on the EU's long-term budget to defence, technological sovereignty, and economic competitiveness, the Irish presidency will have to navigate a packed political agenda.

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from Europe House in Dublin.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is causing Europe's economic slowdown? Should the EU expand common debt? And what happens if the EU fails to reach an agreement?

These questions spark this week’s debate between EU lawmakers Pasquale Tridico (The Left) and Markus Ferber (European People’s Party).

Both MEPs clash over whether common debt is the answer to Europe's stagnant economy and weakened competitiveness after a Spanish proposal for Brussels to borrow as much as €850 billion each year to fund growth has revived a longstanding debate in the EU.

While Tridico argues that expanding common debt is “a matter of a well-built economy”, Ferber warns that “the markets will not trust us with more borrowing”. In this context, both MEPs weigh in on the fierce global competition facing Europe and the damaging impact on the bloc’s industries and economy. 

What would be the economic cost for Europe if EU countries fail to find common ground? 

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Belgium has become a key battleground in Europe's fight against organised crime. With the Port of Antwerp serving as one of the continent's main entry points for cocaine from Latin America, drug trafficking is fuelling violence, corruption and growing concerns about public security. As authorities step up their response, one question remains: is Belgium doing enough to tackle the drug trade?

This question sparks this debate between Brussels Mayor Philippe Close, from Socialist Party, and Brussels MP Mathias Vanden Borre from the opposition party N-VA. Close and Vanden Borre debate whether Belgium's current approach is working, clash over the balance between law enforcement and public health, and discuss how to curb the influence of organised crime while making the country's cities safer.

Listen to this special edition of The Ring, brought to you from our studios in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For two years, farmers have taken to the streets across Europe, protesting against rising production costs, environmental regulations and growing competition from abroad. While Brussels has responded with concessions and financial support, the debate over the future of European agriculture is far from over.

Can the EU keep providing a political shield to farmers as it shifts its focus to defence and global trade? This question is at the heart of this edition of The Ring, with Irish Renew MEP Ciaran Mullooly and Finnish EPP MEP Pekka Toveri. As the EU prepares its next long-term budget, Mullooly and Toveri debate whether the Common Agricultural Policy should remain a political priority, clash over the future of CAP funding, and discuss how rising geopolitical tensions, trade agreements and climate pressures are reshaping Europe's farming sector.

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Strasbourg.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A record-breaking heatwave is baking Europe - have politicians failed to protect citizens? Is air-conditioning the answer? As temperatures continue to rise, a critical question emerges: is Europe prepared for a hotter future?

This question is the centre of this edition of The Ring, featuring Italian Green Benedetta Scuderi and German EPP Andrea Wechsler. Scuderi and Wechsler discuss the political consequences of a (failed?) climate policy and clash repeatedly over the EU's Green Deal and the lessons learnt from the current heatwave. 

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What has Brexit taught Europe about sovereignty, migration, and disinformation? Has it strengthened the case for deeper European integration? And will the United Kingdom ever rejoin the EU?

Ten years after the UK voted to exit the European Union, the debate over Brexit's legacy is far from over. MEPs Barry Andrews (Renew Europe) and Sander Smit (European Conservatives & Reformists) go head-to-head on whether Brexit has strengthened or weakened Europe—and whether Britain could or should one day return to the bloc.

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can the EU reinvent its economy for a new era of global competition? Is deeper integration the answer, or does Europe need fewer rules and more risk-taking?

From Artificial Intelligence to rare minerals, from Trump's tariffs to China's cheap exports - in this edition MEPs Jörgen Walborn (EPP) and Lina Gálvez (S&D) debate about the global economic challenges that lie ahead and that impact all of us in Europe.

The European Union likes to see itself as an economic superpower — a market of 450 million consumers, home to some of the world's biggest companies and the largest trading bloc on the planet. But can the bloc remain a global economic heavyweight while balancing climate goals, social protections and strategic autonomy?

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Strasbourg.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The World Cup is on, the single biggest sport event of the year, followed by millions of people around the world. But so far, the vibes of the tournament are strangely subdued.

Has the world’s most popular sport finally reached the upper echelons of global politics? Is football no longer “just a sport”? Is it first and foremost a private event that brings joy and entertainment to people's lives?

MEPs Lukas Mandl (EPP) and Rasmus Andresen (Greens) debate about the future of the World Cup in the latest edition of The Ring.

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should the EU and NATO strengthen their air defence posture and adopt a tougher deterrence strategy? Or is there a risk that further military escalation could make Europe less secure? 

As the war in Ukraine enters its fifth summer, Europe faces a growing security dilemma. Russian drones continue to violate EU and NATO airspace, raising concerns about the continent's readiness to respond to an increasingly assertive Moscow.

Two members of the European Parliament, Rasa Juknevičienė from Lithuania of the European People's Party and Merja Kyllönen from Finland of The Left, joined The Ring to discuss how Europe should respond.

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Brussels

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I rapporti del governo italiano con Stati Uniti e Israele sembrano molto più tesi, in particolare dopo la richiesta di sanzioni europee contro il ministro della Sicurezza Nazionale israeliano Itamar Ben-Gvir. Si tratta di azioni di facciata o di un cambiamento radicale in politica estera?

In questa edizione speciale di "The Ring", dai fori imperiali di Roma, partecipano al dibattito Claudio Borghi, senatore della Lega, e Arturo Scotto, deputato del Partito democratico.

"Se uno si comporta come un cameriere, poi il padrone ti tratta da cameriere. È successo questo a Giorgia Meloni. A un certo punto, quando ha dovuto prendere un pochino le distanze perché aveva perso il referendum dopo quell'abbraccio mortale con Donald Trump, lui gli ha ricordato chi comanda", ha detto Scotto durante il dibattito, fermo sostenitore anche della necessità di rompere gli accordi commerciali con Israele.

"Le sanzioni economiche tendono a essere un boomerang", gli ha risposto Borghi. "Il problema è che noi siamo in surplus commerciale con Israele quindi in realtà saremmo noi i sanzionati", ha detto l'esponente leghista.

Ascoltate questa edizione speciale di The Ring, in diretta dal cuore di Roma.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is higher defense spending in Europe a strategic investment or a random act to please Donald Trump?

Europe finds itself at a moment of profound uncertainty, caught between wars on its borders, growing geopolitical rivalry, economic anxiety and questions about the future of the transatlantic alliance. What should Europe's answer be?

Two members of the European Parliament, Lukas Mandl from the European People’s Party from Austria and Marc Botenga, from The Left group from Belgium, got into a heated debate over this.

Does the newfound sense of European vulnerability that has triggered a historic shift in European defense policy justify spending billions of euros on new weapons? An unconditional no from Botenga and an evenly clear yes from Mandl.

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Strasbourg. 

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The European Political Community’s first meeting in the South Caucasus last week reflects the stretching contours of Europe, geographically, politically and strategically. Is Europe truly becoming an independent global power? Should the 

EU respond to external pressure with deeper integration? Will Canada join the EU someday?

In this edition of our weekly debate show The Ring, Damian Boeselager (Volt/Greens) and Helmut Brandstätter (Renew) discuss whether Europe can lead in a changing world order. 

Listen to this edition of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament studios in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is a trade war with China looming? Can the EU still strike a balance between protection and cooperation? How will the EU deal with a country it needs but that doesn’t share its set of values? 

In this edition, MEPs Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D) and Nicolás de la Parte (EPP) discuss what could be one of the most consequential topics on the EU's political agenda.

Trade tensions between China and the European Union are escalating after Beijing called on EU member states to revise the bloc’s proposed “Made in Europe” legislation. The draft proposal of the European Commission seeks to tighten the rules for foreign companies that want to participate in EU public procurement contracts. The initiative was met with criticism by China’s commerce ministry, affirming Beijing would respond with countermeasures. What's next for EU-China relations?

Listen to this special edition of The Ring, brought to you from our studios in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special football edition of The Ring, we deconstruct a Champions League game that will go down in history as one of the best ever. Nine goals - can top quality football really be any better? Our experts also weigh in on what else is moving Europe's most popular sport.

To talk about what happened on that memorable Tuesday and what else is moving European football these days, host Stefan Grobe was joined by two other big football fans and consummate Brussels insiders: Connor Allen who manages government and external relations at a big company and Petros Fassoulas, secretary general of the European Movement International.

We commented on Sports Commissioner Glenn Mecallef’s reaction to the match, debated some darker sides of football, especially the problem of racism among supporters, and discussed whether football is a unifying factor for Europe and the world.

Listen to this special edition of The Ring, brought to you from our studios in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should governments impose strict rent controls to limit price increases? Should foreign investors face limits or bans on buying residential property? Can the EU play a stronger role, or should housing remain primarily a national responsibility? 

From soaring rents in major cities to shortages of affordable homes across the bloc, pressure is mounting on national governments and EU institutions alike. Maria Ohisalo (Greens) from Finland and Dirk Gotink (European People’s Party) from the Netherlands step into The Ring and clash on how to tackle the housing emergency in Europe.

Listen now to this episode of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ist Deutschland wieder einmal der kranke Mann Europas? Angesichts der wachsenden Herausforderungen könnte man das meinen.

Was sind die Ursachen der Wohnungsnot? Bewältigt Deutschland den Reformstau? Was bedeutet das für die EU?

Im „Ring“ stehen sich zwei deutsche Politiker gegenüber, die unterschiedliche politische Lager vertreten und in verschiedenen Parlamenten tätig sind: Sepp Müller, stellvertretender Vorsitzender der CDU/CSU-Bundestagsfraktion, und Martin Schirdewan, Co-Vorsitzender der Fraktion Die Linke im Europäischen Parlament.

Hören Sie sich jetzt diese Sonderfolge von „The Ring in Berlin“ an.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does Orbán’s defeat mean for the future of the EU? Beyond potential improvements in relations with Hungary, the EU still faces a broader question: Does it need radical reform to avoid being sidelined on the global stage?

German MEP Daniel Freund (Greens) and Dutch MEP Sander Smit (European Conservatives & Reformists)step into The Ring to defend their views on future reforms of the EU.

Péter Magyar’s landslide victory in Hungary’s parliamentary elections on Sunday has sparked renewed optimism in Brussels. After years of Viktor Orbán’s controversial rule, including numerous vetoes, the change in government has raised hopes that previously stalled EU support for Ukraine may finally be unblocked.

Listen now to this episode of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can the EU balance stricter migration policies with growing human rights concerns?

The European Parliament has adopted a reform enabling member states to set up “migration return hubs” in third countries for rejected asylum seekers. The measure allows deportations to external facilities negotiated with partner states.

What does the European Parliament’s rightward shift on migration mean for the future of asylum? MEPs Lena Düpont, from the centre-right European People’s Party, and Juan Fernando López Aguilar, from the Socialists & Democrats, clash on The Ring. 

While Düpont considers the return hub policy long overdue, López Aguilar accuses the centre-right of aligning with far-right groups to push through tougher migration measures, disregarding human rights concerns.

Listen now to this week’s episode of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the war in the Middle East enters its fourth week, Europe finds itself at a crossroads — balancing calls for restraint with mounting pressure to take a clearer stance. While EU leaders continue to urge de-escalation and the protection of civilians, divisions remain over whether Brussels should step up its role on the global stage.

In this edition of The Ring, recorded at the European Parliament in Brussels, two sharply contrasting voices go head to head. Riho Terras, former Estonian army chief and MEP for the EPP, faces Özlem Demirel, German MEP from The Left and a long-time anti-war advocate.

Can diplomacy alone shape outcomes in a region marked by decades of conflict? Or does Europe need to back its words with military strength to be heard? As the humanitarian toll rises and geopolitical stakes intensify, the debate cuts to the core of the EU’s identity as a global actor.

With opposing views — from calls to reject militarisation to arguments for strategic power — the discussion raises urgent questions about Europe’s responsibility, influence and limits in times of war.

Listen now to this week’s episode of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the impact is being felt far beyond the region — especially on global energy markets. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have tightened supply routes, pushing prices higher and adding new uncertainty for European economies.

Where does Europe stand as the pressure builds? MEPs Fabrice Leggeri, from Patriots for Europe, and Jussi Saramo, from The Left, go head to head to debate how the EU should respond — and what the crisis means for energy policy, economic stability and Europe’s strategic autonomy.

With prices volatile and geopolitical tensions rising, deeper questions are coming into focus. Should nuclear power play a larger role in Europe’s future energy mix? And will the European Union act quickly enough to protect households and businesses from the surge in costs?

Take a listen to this week’s episode of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Europe is facing spiralling healthcare costs, driven by an ageing population and the growing burden of chronic diseases. At the same time, demand for cutting-edge treatments is rising — bringing a fundamental question into focus: who should pay for healthcare innovation, and to what extent should health be treated as a business?

MEPs Tilly Metz, from the Greens, and Stine Bosse, from Renew Europe, go head to head to debate how the EU should respond — and what it means for access, affordability and innovation across Europe’s healthcare systems.

Debates over taxation in the pharmaceutical sector are adding another layer, raising concerns about how much profit companies should make from publicly funded research and innovation.

Beyond the immediate pressures, Europe also faces long-term structural challenges. Healthcare systems continue to spend significantly more on treatment than on prevention — prompting questions about sustainability and priorities.

Take a listen to this week’s special episode of The Ring, brought to you from the Euronews Health Summit in Brussels.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the war in Iran enters its second week, the ripple effects are reaching Europe — from rising energy prices to growing security concerns on the EU’s southeastern flank.

Where does Europe stand as the conflict escalates? MEPs Daniel Attard, from the Socialists & Democrats group, and Antonio López-Istúriz, from the centre-right European People’s Party, go head to head to debate how the European Union should respond to the war in Iran — and what the crisis could mean for Europe’s economy, security and global role.

Oil prices have surged above 100 dollars a barrel for the first time in four years, raising fears of economic turbulence for Europe’s export-driven economies. At the same time, the crisis is testing the relationship between Brussels and Washington. With Donald Trump back in the White House, will European governments align more closely with the United States, or attempt to chart a more independent path?

Meanwhile, several EU countries have deployed warships to reinforce the defences of Cyprus, an EU member state located close to the conflict zone and already affected by regional tensions.

Take a listen to this week’s episode of The Ring, brought to you from the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A spiralling conflict has erupted in the Middle East, risking major regional spill-over and dragging in European Union countries.

Was the EU right to refrain from criticising the initial attack on Iran? Are EU nations now inevitably being dragged into war? And what are the implications for Europe's economy, security, and stability?

MEPs Hana Jalloul and Reinhold Lopatka go head to head to debate the escalating conflict in the Middle East, and its implications for the European Union.

Jalloul, who hails from the socialist party of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, argues that Spain was right to question the legality of the US-Israeli strikes on Iran. She also calls out the brutality of the Iranian regime and backs the Iranian people's struggle to re-claim their freedom.

While Lopatka, from the centre-right EPP group, agrees that the legality of the strikes is questionable, he argues that the intervention is "justified" as the US aims to constrain Iran's nuclear capacities and support for its proxies, such as Hezbollah and the Houthis.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should Ukraine be given fast-track membership into the European Union?

The majority of MEPs seem to think so. Although they may not see eye to eye on the how or the exact when, most MEPs think Ukrainian EU membership would send a strong message of support to Ukrainians and one of defiance to the Kremlin.

To mark four years since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, this week on The Ring, we are joined by two Lithuanian MEPs: Aurelijus Veryga from the ECR (European Conservatives and Reformists) group and Petras Auštrevičius from the liberal Renew Europe group.

Although from opposing political families, one conservative and the other liberal, both agree that Ukraine belongs inside the European Union. We ask the big question: Is enlargement a test of solidarity, a measure of Europe’s strategic power, or both?

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dez dias após a segunda volta das presidenciais, o cenário político em Portugal continua em análise. António José Seguro venceu de forma clara André Ventura, travando a chegada da extrema-direita à Presidência da República — mas as questões de fundo permanecem.

Foi esta uma reafirmação dos valores democráticos ou uma coligação tática para conter o populismo? E o que revela este resultado sobre um país sob pressão social, com uma crise na habitação, tensões económicas e crescente fragmentação política?

Esta semana, no The Ring, gravado na Nova School of Business and Economics, discutimos o que estas eleições significam para a estabilidade interna de Portugal e para o equilíbrio político europeu.

Mariana Corrêa recebe Carlos Coelho, antigo eurodeputado do Partido Popular Europeu, e André Franqueira Rodrigues, eurodeputado do Grupo dos Socialistas & Democratas, para um debate direto sobre se Portugal conseguiu conter a extrema-direita — ou apenas adiou um confronto mais profundo.

Com a Europa atenta, fica a pergunta: este resultado reforça a posição de Portugal em Bruxelas ou expõe fraturas que vão além de uma vitória eleitoral clara?

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From parliamentary debates to cultural moments that spotlight identity and belonging, migration is not just about policy — it’s about who belongs, who decides, and what kind of Europe is taking shape.

This week on The Ring, we look beyond technical language and legal definitions to ask a broader question: can Europe reconcile national migration choices with collective responsibility? The European Parliament is discussing the “safe third country” concept and the creation of an EU-wide list of safe countries of origin. At the same time, Spain has approved a large-scale regularisation plan granting legal status to thousands of migrants.

MEPs Juan Fernando López Aguilar (Socialists and Democrats) and Tomas Tobé (European People’s Party) clash in a heated debate on one defining question: can the EU balance effective migration management with fundamental rights, or will political divisions once again shape Europe’s path forward?

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How far should the EU go to protect children online? Should there be EU-wide age limits, stricter rules for social media platforms, and bans on addictive design features like infinite scrolling? Or does Brussels risk overreach — infringing on national competences and limiting children’s digital rights and freedoms?

This week on The Ring, we turn to one of the most sensitive questions facing the EU’s digital agenda: as platforms and algorithms shape children’s education and social life, the debate goes far beyond screen time. It’s about what kind of digital Europe we are building for the next generation.

To unpack different visions, we’re joined by Christel Schaldemose of the Socialists and Democrats and Axel Voss of the European People’s Party. Two different approaches, one central question: can Brussels set common standards that both protect and empower Europe’s children — or will political divisions prevent the EU from taking decisive action?

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are the pros and cons of the EU-Mercosur trade deal? Why did the European Parliament send the text to the Court of Justice for clarification? Why did the EU sign an EU-India trade deal this week, and how will it impact you?

This week on The Ring, we turn to the future of European trade policy as economics and geopolitics become impossible to separate. With the US an increasingly unreliable partner and China an ever more dominant competitor, trade is no longer just about growth — it’s about security and influence.

As Brussels pushes ahead with negotiations with India, revives the Mercosur agreement, and deepens ties with Indo-Pacific partners, a fundamental divide is opening inside the EU. We are joined by MEPs Ciaran Mullooly of Renew Europe and Jörgen Warborn of the European People’s Party. Two opposing visions of EU trade policy raise a central question: Can Europe shape global trade on its own terms — or is it destined to react to decisions made elsewhere?

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Europe stay silent in the face of Trump's ambitions in Greenland? Is the NATO alliance at risk? This week on The Ring, we focus on Europe’s role in a rapidly fragmenting global order. As international law is increasingly ignored—from Venezuela and Ukraine to Greenland and Iran—the European Union stays divided, reactive and overly cautious on the world stage.

We are joined by MEP Henrik Dahl of the European People’s Party and MEP Lina Gálvez of the Socialists & Democrats. Two sharply opposing views on Europe’s global role raise one crucial question: Should the EU uphold international law at all costs—or adapt to a new power-based reality?

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week The Ring turns to Europe’s migration debate, as the EU moves toward tougher deportation rules and explores controversial “return hubs” for rejected asylum-seekers outside the Union. To debate the future of EU migration policy, we are joined by MEP Charlie Weimers, from the Conservatives and Reformists, and MEP Li Andersson, from the Left group. Two sharply opposing visions—one crucial European question:

With the new Migration and Asylum Pact not entering into force before 2026, are these latest measures a necessary response to security concerns—or a step toward a “Fortress Europe”?

As irregular crossings remain deadly and far-right pressure grows across member states, the European Parliament now faces a decisive choice: double down on stricter border controls or reaffirm Europe’s commitment to human rights and international law.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

¿Cómo puede España salir de esta crisis política? ¿Está en juego la estabilidad del Gobierno de Pedro Sánchez? ¿De qué manera afecta la incertidumbre española a la Unión Europea?

En esta edición especial en español presentada por Amaia Echevarria, «The Ring» viaja a Madrid, al histórico Ateneo, para analizar la creciente tensión política en España con dos voces experimentadas: José Manuel García-Margallo, exministro de Asuntos Exteriores y antiguo eurodiputado del Partido Popular Europeo, y José Zaragoza, diputado del Congreso por el Partido de los Socialistas de Cataluña.

Ambos confrontan sus visiones sobre cuestiones que están marcando la actualidad: la ruptura de Junts con el PSOE, la fragilidad parlamentaria del Gobierno y las consecuencias del juicio al fiscal general del Estado. ¿Qué efectos puede tener esta situación dentro y fuera de España? ¿Está la política nacional afectando la credibilidad del país en Europa?

Un choque político de primer nivel para entender hacia dónde se encamina España en un momento decisivo.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weekThe Ring focuses on the American-sponsored peace deal aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. Is the EU sidelined in the peace talks?

Should the EU prepare for war and increase its defence capabilities? Is military service the answer to boost preparedness? 

To react to the latest developments, we are joined in by liberal Irish MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú and conservative Romanian MEP Cristian Terheș. Both have polar opposite political beliefs, but share some views on the EU's role in ending the war in Ukraine.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, The Ring turns its focus to one of the EU’s most decisive battles: Is the Green Deal still alive?

Europe’s fight against climate change stands at a turning point. Officially, the 27 maintain a unified front — yet behind the scenes, ambition is fading, targets are being renegotiated, and “industry-first” pressures are gaining ground.

Stepping into The Ring this week are Javi López, Spanish MEP from the Socialists & Democrats, and Hildegard Bentele, German MEP with the European People’s Party.

Both face the crucial question: Can Europe still speak with one voice on climate action — or is its green leadership slipping away?

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Comment la France peut-elle sortir de cette crise politique ? Faut-il en finir avec un modèle social trop coûteux ? La France est-elle en train de perdre toute crédibilité en Europe ?

Cette semaine sur « The Ring » nous sommes à Paris et parlons de la crise politique en France avec Prisca Thevenot, ancienne porte-parole du gouvernement aujourd’hui députée du parti centriste « Ensemble pour la République » et Ian Brossat, sénateur, conseiller de Paris et porte-parole du Parti Communiste Français.

Ils vont confronter leurs opinions sur une question qui nous concerne tous : Quel modèle social pour la France ?

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who will pay to rearm Europe? And at what price will it come? In this episode, the spotlight turns to one of the continent’s most pressing issues: defence spending.

Two members of the European Parliament take center stage in The Ring: Riho Terras, Army General and former Estonia Chief of Defence, now with the European People’s Party, and Martin Schirdewan, co-chair of the Left.

Both debate a crucial question: Do more weapons truly make for a safer Union? Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, EU countries have been rearming at record speed — pouring billions into tanks, ammunition and drones. Supporters hail it as the dawn of a stronger, more independent Europe. Critics warn it risks draining resources from schools, hospitals, and the fight against climate change.

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two opposite visions for Europe’s future go head-to-head in the first episode of The Ring — Euronews’ newest political debate show.

Should Europe expand further? And at what cost? David McAllister and Marc Botenga, both Members of the European Parliament, step into the spotlight to debate on one of the EU’s most pressing questions.

A fiery exchange that explores the promises and pitfalls of EU enlargement — from security and democracy to workers’ rights and the Union’s own identity. 

This debate took place during Euronews’ Enlargement Summit on 4 November. Find out more about the event on euronews.com 

The Ring is Euronews’ weekly political showdown, where Europe’s toughest debates meet their boldest voices.

In each episode, two political heavyweights from across the EU face off to propose a diversity of opinions and spark conversations around the most important issues of EU affairs and the wider European political life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.