Overview

• European Council President Charles Michel has announced his early resignation to run for a seat in the European Parliament.
• If a successor is not found by July, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, known for his close ties with Russia and anti-democratic policies, will temporarily hold the presidency.
• Orban's potential leadership of the council is causing concern due to his track record of vetoing financial aid to Ukraine and his stance against EU regulations.
• Critics have accused Michel of abandoning his post during a critical time for EU diplomacy, with ongoing issues such as the Ukraine war and increasing tensions with China.
• EU leaders are under pressure to find a successor before July to prevent Orban from gaining control of the council.