Controversial Figures in New EU Commission Lineup

After weeks of stalemate, an agreement on the new EU Commission's top positions is finally within reach. The European People's Party, Social Democrats, and Liberals have agreed to confirm all of Ursula von der Leyen's designated vice-presidents. However, the final vote is still pending.

The nominations of Teresa Ribera from Spain and Raffaele Fitto from Italy have sparked significant debate. Ribera faces opposition due to her handling of the Valencia floods, while Fitto's nomination is criticized for his ties to Italy's far-right government. Despite resistance, the factions have reached an understanding to approve all nominees, including the controversial Hungarian commissioner Oliver Varhelyi.

The agreement also involves a pledge for future cooperation among the parties to form a pro-European majority, though this is non-binding. Some factions remain skeptical, notably the Social Democrats, who are uneasy about collaborating with far-right figures. Despite these tensions, the agreement paves the way for the new Commission to commence its duties on December 1, contingent on the European Parliament's approval.