S&D May Withdraw Support from Von der Leyen Over Green Deal U-turn

Brussels: The Socialists and Democrats (S and D) group is contemplating withdrawing its support for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen following her reversal on the European Green Deal. This potential shift was highlighted by Elly Schlein, the leader of Italy’s centre-left Democratic Party (PD), on Wednesday.

According to Ansa News Agency, Schlein emphasized the significance of the group’s votes, stating, “Our votes are not guaranteed and I assure you that our votes count.” Her remarks come amid speculation that the coalition with the European People’s Party (EPP) and the Liberals could be in jeopardy due to von der Leyen’s change of direction.

Schlein further stated that the S and D group is currently very critical of the Commission. She mentioned that Iratxe Garcia Perez, the group leader of the EU Socialists, had a meeting with von der Leyen and that discussions would follow to determine their strategic approach moving forward.