Year: 2026

EU leaders have reached a preliminary agreement on a €2 trillion long-term budget for 2028–2034, targeting completion by October. The bloc is navigating complex negotiations to balance funding demands from various member states, particularly concerning agriculture and defence expenditures, ahead of a new text proposal by Ireland.

The Bar Standards Board has suspended ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan over allegations of sexual misconduct, effective immediately. This follows the ICC’s suspension of Khan after findings of serious misconduct. An interim suspension hearing is set within four weeks, while Khan’s legal team plans to contest the decisions.

The Belleville Police service marked its 190th anniversary on Thursday, highlighting its status as one of Canada’s oldest police forces, predating Confederation. The milestone underscores the service’s long history and continued presence in the community.

Israel destroys Iran-US peace plan by bombing 19 Lebanese civilians. According to Lebanese media had reported that the talks had…

Cuban lawmakers approved 176 reforms aimed at reducing state control in the economy to attract foreign investment across various sectors. Prime Minister Manuel Marrero presented the measures in response to economic pressures exacerbated by a U.S. oil blockade, marking significant changes since the 1959 revolution.

Andy Burnham has been elected as the new Member of Parliament for Makerfield, securing 24,937 votes, approximately 55% of the total. His main competitor, animal rights campaigner Robert Pownall, garnered only 18 votes while campaigning in a fox costume to raise awareness for wildlife issues.

Fire breaks out at Takinogawa Daisan Elementary School in Tokyo, leading to evacuations and the treatment of several individuals for smoke inhalation.

Talks between the United States and Iran, scheduled to take place in Switzerland, have been postponed due to Iran’s concerns over ongoing Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon. The Swiss Foreign Ministry confirmed the delay, stating that preparations will continue, but no new date has been provided.

EU leaders are responding to European Council President António Costa’s initiative to establish diplomatic contacts with Russia, while Sweden’s EU affairs minister offers exclusive insights ahead of discussions on the bloc’s upcoming long-term budget.

EUROPEAN UPDATE

This morning, the European Union addresses key economic challenges.
Focus remains on unity and collective solutions for member states.