Christine Lagarde, the president of the ECB, stated that long-term inflation expectations in the euro area remain anchored, despite the energy crisis.

The President of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde, stated that long-term inflation expectations in the euro area are broadly anchored, although the energy crisis generated by developments in the Middle East continues to drive inflation and affect the economy. At a press conference following the Eurogroup meeting, Lagarde emphasized the ECB's commitment to price stability, in the context of the uncertainty caused by the energy shock.

The annual inflation rate rose to 3% in April, exceeding the ECB's target of 2%, and analysts expect interest rate hikes in the upcoming meetings. Lagarde warned that excessive relaxation of fiscal policy to combat the impact of energy prices could prompt the ECB to respond with interest rate increases. She also highlighted the importance of temporary and proportionate fiscal measures. The ECB kept interest rates unchanged in April but signaled an intensification of inflation risks and economic decline.