French European Union Commissioner Thierry Breton resigned on Monday in a move with “immediate effect”, posting an image of his resignation letter to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on X.
Breton said in his letter that von der Leyen “a few days ago” asked France to withdraw her name as the country’s choice for the Commission “for personal reasons” in exchange for a “supposedly more influential portfolio.”
“In light of these latest developments – further evidence of questionable governance – I must come to the conclusion that I can no longer fulfil my duties in the Chamber,” Breton said in the letter.
Her announcement comes as von der Leyen finalises her list of commissioners following the summer EU elections. Each EU member state will have a seat at the Commission table, although their political clout and importance will vary significantly depending on the portfolio.
The text is updated…