Author: Iris East

EU Commission Vice-President Dubravka Šuica will face scrutiny from member states at Monday’s Foreign Affairs Council regarding her attendance at Donald Trump’s Board of Peace inauguration, amid criticism of the Commission overstepping its foreign policy mandate.

The European Union’s proposal for a new sanctions package against Russia remains unresolved after ambassadors failed to agree on a maritime services ban for Russian oil tankers. High Representative Kaja Kallas emphasized the urgency as the 24 February deadline approaches.

Fleur Bakker, founder of the social enterprise “A Beautiful Mess,” announced the initiative is expected to achieve a €5 million turnover by 2026, helping 300 refugees gain job training as part of essential market integration efforts.

The European Commission, led by Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, aims to revisit the WTO’s “Most Favoured Nation” principle due to the widening EU trade deficit with China, seeking to ensure equal market access amid persistent barriers faced by European firms in China.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested for Misconduct: Public Reaction Explodes — what we know so far Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct related to an incident involving a Range Rover. This event has drawn considerable media attention, reflecting ongoing scrutiny surrounding the former prince’s public and private conduct. Authorities have confirmed that the investigation is currently ongoing, with no further details on the circumstances leading to the arrest being made available. The incident comes amid a backdrop of significant public and media interest in the life and actions of the Duke of York, raising questions about his future engagements.…

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will visit China next week with a large business delegation, aiming to strengthen economic ties amid rising Chinese competition for Germany’s car makers. He emphasized the importance of balancing cooperation and competition in foreign economic policy.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has accused Ukraine of sabotage, stating that Hungary will block financial assistance for Kyiv until the transit of Russian oil resumes. This development is significant ahead of Hungary’s upcoming election.

The US Supreme Court ruling raises concerns about the EU-US trade deal established last summer, impacting past tariffs and future investment pledges, according to the European Commission, which is currently reviewing the ruling.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested: Misconduct Investigation Updates — what we know so far Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct, a significant event that has drawn considerable attention. The police operation, which is ongoing, involved a search of Royal Lodge, the royal residence where he currently resides. Authorities are investigating allegations related to the prince’s conduct, with a spokesperson confirming his release under investigation. Mountbatten-Windsor has not yet commented publicly on the situation, and further developments are expected as the investigation proceeds. Quick links: What we know so far | How UK outlets are framing the story | Additional…

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.