It was supposed to be a crowning moment for Emmanuel Macron — the culmination of his long, arduous pursuit of eurozone reform. Yet far from underscoring the French president’s European leadership role, the  EU summit  that opened in Brussels on Thursday could end up highlighting his increasing isolation.

Despite backing from Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, opposition to  Mr Macron’s reform initiative has hardened among the EU’s northern member states. Meanwhile, a  dispute over migration has overshadowed the summit, exposing deep rifts in the 28-member bloc and straining France’s relationship with its longtime ally, Italy. It could even blow up the German government. 

Having finally won Ms Merkel’s  support for his radical proposals, he faces the prospect of seeing her 13-year reign as Europe’s most powerful leader — and France’s closest partner — come to an abrupt, ignominious end.