Finland and France announced a strengthened defence partnership, with Finland joining a French initiative focused on enhancing European security through nuclear deterrence. A “Nuclear Steering Group” will be established to implement this cooperation, while Finland maintains its commitment to NATO amid ongoing regional discussions.

The European Parliament is advocating for stricter EU-wide deadlines and automatic approvals to expedite energy infrastructure development. This initiative seeks to address significant delays in renewable energy projects, with Parliament proposing quicker approval timelines than the Commission and Council, potentially igniting tensions with member states.

Marine Le Pen will deliver her first campaign speech on Sunday in Hénin-Beaumont as she relaunches her bid for the 2027 presidential election. Currently leading the polls with 34% support, Le Pen faces internal party tensions and controversies, including criticism over aid to Ukraine and a scandal involving racist comments by a police officer associated with the National Rally.

Ulrich Siegmund, lead candidate of the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt, faced backlash for suggesting military equipment could support the party’s “remigration and deportation offensive”. His comments relate to the planned Elbit Systems facility in Sangerhausen, which has drawn local protests and raised concerns over arms production.

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has urged AI companies to decelerate development, citing risks linked to “superintelligent” systems. His comments follow AI researcher Jacob Coxon’s departure from the industry, warning that rapid advancements pose serious dangers. Amodei emphasised the need for cautious progress in AI technology.

During a visit to his Irish golf course, US President Donald Trump expressed support for the reunification of Ireland, describing it as “fantastic.” Meeting with Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Trump stated, “It’s going to happen eventually,” while acknowledging the UK’s role in the matter.