During a recent address at the annual meeting of European ambassadors in Brussels, António Costa, the President of the European Council, openly disagreed with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, regarding the state of the global order. Costa argued that a multipolar world requires multilateral solutions rather than a return to spheres of influence where power politics dominate over international law. He expressed concern over the actions of global powers such as Russia, China, and the United States, which he believes threaten the established norms of international relations.

Costa's statements come in direct response to von der Leyen's previous remarks where she suggested that the rules-based international order is effectively finished, calling for a reevaluation of how the EU engages with global issues. In reinforcing the importance of adhering to international rules, Costa highlighted that individuals or nations that engage in bullying should not be confronted by breaking rules themselves. Teresa Ribera, Spain's Minister for the Ecological Transition, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of upholding international norms.

The exchange between Costa and von der Leyen signifies a critical moment for the EU's foreign policy posture as it navigates complex dynamics involving major powers. The implications of Costa's call for multilateralism could influence the Union's strategies in addressing geopolitical tensions, ensuring that the EU presents a unified stance against violators of international norms. This debate sheds light on the differing perspectives within the EU about how best to tackle contemporary global challenges, especially regarding aggressive actions from states like Russia and China.