The Netherlands is strongly objecting to a proposed new EU budget of €2 trillion for 2028-2034, deeming it too high and misaligned with priorities. Prime Minister Jetten is in Brussels to discuss the proposal with European counterparts, which represents a significant increase from the current €1.2 trillion budget. The Dutch government has consistently expressed concerns, labeling the increase as “unacceptable” and “unaffordable.” While the latest draft, presented by the EU presidency, includes a reduction of €300 million annually, the Netherlands still finds the overall amount excessive. A portion of the proposed budget, €168 billion, is allocated to repaying loans from the EU’s coronavirus recovery fund. The budget equates to 1.13% of the EU’s gross national income, excluding the repayment of corona loans, remaining consistent with the current budget; including the loans, it rises to 1.23%.