French European Commissioner resigns, criticizes von der Leyen’s leadership

Thierry Breton, France’s European Commissioner, resigned on September 16, sharply criticizing European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for undermining him. His departure casts uncertainty over the EU’s power transition and complicates its post-election processes.

Breton had been nominated for a second term by French President Emmanuel Macron, but he withdrew from the position, accusing von der Leyen of trying to persuade Macron to withdraw his nomination behind his back, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

In a letter posted on X, Breton stated that von der Leyen had requested France to withdraw his candidacy in favor of a "more influential portfolio," without discussing these personal reasons directly with him.

This resignation adds an unexpected and dramatic twist to the EU's transition of power, which has already faced challenges due to national politics and von der Leyen’s efforts to create a gender-balanced College of Commissioners. Countries like Slovenia and Romania have already replaced male candidates with women under von der Leyen’s pressure.

In his resignation letter, Breton expressed pride in his efforts to serve the European Union above national and party interests over the past five years. However, he concluded that recent developments, which he views as evidence of poor governance, made it impossible for him to continue his role.

Breton also accused von der Leyen of offering France a more influential position if Macron agreed to switch candidates, a strategy she has reportedly employed with other smaller EU member states.

Tensions between Paris and Brussels regarding France’s portfolio in the next European Commission have intensified recently. French officials have expressed dissatisfaction with the portfolio allocated to Breton, amid speculation that Italy’s commissioner pick might secure a coveted economics role.

Breton and von der Leyen have had a contentious relationship, marked by frequent clashes both privately and publicly over the past five years.