Year: 2026

The European Commission cleared Hungarian Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi of allegations related to a spying network targeting Commission staff, concluding its investigation without evidence of wrongdoing. This decision ensures Várhelyi’s position as EU Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare ahead of Hungary’s new Prime Minister Péter Magyar’s inauguration.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

Mum Zoe Coutts and boyfriend Scott O’Connor have been sentenced to 27 years for inflicting severe injuries on her two-year-old son, Kol Page. The child’s abuse occurred during their care, leading to his tragic death in June 2024.

Mount Dukono erupted this morning, killing three hikers, including two foreigners. Despite climbing restrictions, the group attempted to summit the active volcano, which erupted, sending ash 10km high. Rescue teams have located all survivors; investigations into possible negligence continue.

The European Union’s sanctions on Russia, intended to undermine its war efforts in Ukraine, are showing signs of impact. Russia’s economy contracted by 0.3% early this year, with a ballooning public deficit and rising inflation, prompting officials, including President Putin, to seek measures for economic recovery.

EU MONITORING

EU ministers to address increasing border checks this morning.
Concerns raised over impacts on Schengen free movement.

VOLCANO ERUPTION
Three hikers died after Indonesia’s Mount Dukono erupted overnight, with ten others reported missing in the aftermath of the event.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

Overnight, planters have replaced tents on Tottenham Court Road, central London, impacting around 25 rough sleepers. This morning, local relationships remain supportive despite the changes aimed at addressing homelessness.

Authorities are searching for 29 passengers who left the hantavirus-hit m/v Hondius, including seven British nationals. The search follows the death of a woman aboard the ship. Oceanwide Expeditions is working to contact all disembarked guests to gather further details.

Negotiations on the EU-US trade deal remain stalled, as the European Commission reported “progress” after late-night talks with MEPs and member state officials. Despite this, divisions persist over tariff safeguards, with further discussions scheduled for 19 May amid renewed US tariff threats.

Three passengers have died from a hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius in the Atlantic, confirmed by the World Health Organisation. With additional cases anticipated, the ship is heading to Tenerife for disembarkation on Saturday. Follow updates on this situation.