Brussels, Belgium, Nov 21, (V7N) — After a week of tense negotiations, the European Parliament's leading political groups struck a deal on Wednesday to approve the EU's new executive team, including a controversial hard-right commissioner. The agreement clears the way for a parliament confirmation vote next week, with the new European Commission set to begin its mandate in December.

The breakthrough came after late-night discussions between leaders of the centre-right European People’s Party (EPP), the centre-left Socialists and Democrats (S&D), and centrist Renew Europe. The deal resolved a deadlock over seven pending commissioner approvals, including all six vice-presidents of Ursula von der Leyen's incoming team.

The resolution comes at a critical time for the EU, which is grappling with multiple challenges such as the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, economic pressures from China, and the political uncertainty posed by Donald Trump’s likely return to the White House.

The primary source of contention was the nomination of Raffaele Fitto, an Italian politician from the far-right Brothers of Italy party, as a vice-president. Fitto’s European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group did not support von der Leyen’s reappointment as Commission president, prompting opposition from the left and centre.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed Fitto’s confirmation as a recognition of Italy’s prominence within the EU, calling it “worthy of Italy’s role as a founding member and major economic power.”

Renew and S&D, however, secured assurances from the EPP that the coalition would maintain a "pro-European" majority in parliament. This agreement included commitments to enhance Europe’s defense capabilities and global competitiveness.

Spain’s Teresa Ribera: The Spanish socialist, tapped for the influential competition commissioner role, faced opposition from the right over her handling of deadly floods in Valencia. Her confirmation followed her address to Madrid’s parliament earlier this week.

Concerns about Varhelyi’s views on abortion and LGBTQ rights led to the removal of sexual and reproductive health from his portfolio. Despite lingering apprehensions, his nomination proceeded under the deal.

The standoff and its resolution underline the delicate power balance within the European Parliament. Renew described the agreement as a return to a "pro-European majority," while S&D emphasized its reinforcement of EU democratic values.

However, dissatisfaction lingers among some lawmakers on the left over Fitto’s inclusion, suggesting potential dissent in next week’s vote. Despite this, the deal ensures the Commission’s smooth transition, an outcome widely seen as crucial amid the EU’s mounting internal and external challenges.

The European Parliament is set to vote on the Commission lineup next week. Once confirmed, von der Leyen’s team will take office in December, marking the start of a term expected to be dominated by geopolitical tensions, climateaction, and economic reforms.