Author: Iris East

European steel shipments to the US fell by 30% from June to December 2025, as announced by Eurofer Director General Axel Eggert. The decline highlights the impact of the US’s 50% tariffs on EU steel, creating urgent discussions regarding trade negotiations.

UN Special Rapporteur for the Palestinian territories Francesca Albanese stated she will not resign despite calls from France and Germany following her comments on Israel. Albanese asserts she has the full backing of the UN Human Rights Council and aims to redirect focus to her findings on state support for Israel.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the United States may withdraw from the International Energy Agency if it continues its pursuit of a net-zero emissions agenda by 2050, emphasizing the need for reforms focused on energy security amid current geopolitical challenges.

The European Commission has called an emergency Oil Coordination Group meeting following Hungary and Slovakia’s suspension of diesel supplies to Ukraine, intensifying tensions concerning the Russian Druzhba pipeline. This development is significant as it impacts energy security in the region.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested Amid Misconduct Allegations — what we know so far Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a development that has emerged in the context of ongoing scrutiny surrounding allegations related to Epstein. The arrest follows the King’s statement affirming that the law must take its course, signalling the seriousness with which the monarchy is addressing the situation. This incident adds to the mounting pressures faced by the royal family, which has become increasingly scrutinised in light of past controversies. The implications of this arrest may reverberate throughout the institution, as both public…

Avalanche Tragedy: 8 Skiers Dead in Lake Tahoe Incident, Updates Here — what we know so far Eight skiers were found dead following an avalanche in the Lake Tahoe area of California, with one individual still unaccounted for. The incident occurred on the morning of February 18, 2026, when a significant avalanche swept through a popular backcountry skiing location. Local authorities, including the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue team, have been involved in recovery efforts. The deceased individuals are believed to have strong ties to the Lake Tahoe community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support from residents. Search and…

The death of French far-right activist Quentin Deranque has prompted the Patriots for Europe group to request a minute of silence at the European Parliament’s next plenary session, following his fatal assault during protests in Lyon.

The French Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson demands an explanation from European Commissioner Marija Šuica following the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace on Thursday, underscoring the importance of clarity in EU diplomatic engagements.

Homeownership rates are declining across Europe, with the Re/Max Europe annual European Housing Trend report revealing a 2% drop in the UK, France, Germany, Romania, and the Czech Republic. This shift reflects changing lifestyle preferences and financial barriers in today’s economy.

Georgian President Salomé Zourabichvili stated in an interview with Euronews that Russian President Vladimir Putin “has to be brought to peace by constraint,” emphasizing the urgency of addressing ongoing regional tensions.