Author: Iris East

Four suspects have been arrested following the death of French far-right activist Quentin Deranque, who suffered a brain injury during a protest against MEP Rima Hassan, stated Lyon’s public prosecutor. Tensions rise ahead of municipal elections in March.

The United States’ Ambassador to Belgium, Bill White, met with the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs following his statement on antisemitism, prompting a strong rebuke from Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot over perceived interference in domestic affairs amid an ongoing investigation into unlawful circumcisions.

Finance ministers from eight European member states approved national defence investment plans worth €74 billion on February 17, 2026. A spokesperson for the Cypriot presidency stated this decision facilitates affordable loans under the EU’s Security Action for Europe scheme, which aims to enhance defence procurement.

The European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, will attend Trump’s Board of Peace meeting focusing on Gaza, but the European Commission remains cautious about membership due to concerns over governance, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

NATO chief Mark Rutte stated Europe must rely on the US for defence, prompting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to advocate for an independent Europe at the Munich Security Conference, referencing Article 42.7’s obligations for EU member assistance.

European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, will attend the US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace gathering to discuss Gaza, despite concerns over governance and charter issues, signalling continued EU engagement in post-war reconstruction efforts.

Starmer Cancels Council Election Delay: What This Means for Voters — what we know so far Sir Keir Starmer has announced the cancellation of plans to delay 30 local council elections across England, a decision that comes amidst a backdrop of growing pressure from within the Labour Party and public sentiment. The local elections, originally scheduled for May, will proceed as planned, affirming the government’s commitment to uphold democratic processes at the municipal level. The reversal follows significant criticism regarding the implications of postponing the elections, including concerns about disenfranchising voters and undermining local governance. With the elections now set…

German Vice-Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil stated that failing to advance the digital euro is detrimental to Europe, urging swift progress ahead of a meeting with euro area ministers in Brussels. The proposal currently faces a deadlock in the European Parliament.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated at the Munich Security Conference that US President Donald Trump remains “very serious” about controlling Greenland, a crucial diplomatic issue for Denmark, amid growing concerns over Arctic security dynamics following recent deals.

UK Weather Alert: Heavy snow, ice, and flooding expected this week — what we know so far Weather warnings are in effect as the UK prepares for significant snowfall and ice, coupled with flooding risks across more than 70 areas. The Met Office has issued these alerts amidst forecasts indicating potential hazardous conditions this weekend, particularly in northern and western regions. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions, as travel disruptions and power outages could occur due to inclement weather. The severe conditions underscore the importance of preparedness as communities brace for the anticipated impact of…