EU Explores Rolling Over Covid-Era Debt as Spending Needs Mount

The European Union is looking into delaying repayments on billions in debt it took on during the pandemic, as countries search for more money to spend now on defense and advanced technologies.

The European Commission, the EU executive’s arm, is preparing an analysis of the possibility, according to people familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Several countries, including France, have already urged the EU to push back the payments, which are set to begin in 2028, arguing that tightening budgets and urgent spending needs should take priority.