If the European Union fails to find his successor within the established time frame, the post of Chairman of the Council of Europe will be taken over by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

The head of the European Council announced his intention to stand for the June elections to the European Parliament, causing a stir in Brussels. If elected, Charles Michel will leave his post. This means that the EU will have only six months to elect a new President of the Council of Europe. If the heads of state fail to agree on Michel's successor, he will be replaced in office by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. This is explained by the fact that from July to December of this year it is Hungary that will chair the Council.

According to the current rules, the position of President of the European Council cannot be combined with the mandate of a member of the European Parliament. Therefore, Michel will have to resign. The deadline for this is reportedly July 16th.