Latest News
- US strikes Iran following Apache helicopter downing over Strait of Hormuz
- EU targets Patriarch Kirill for sanctions after Hungary’s earlier veto
- Auto group calls for cancellation of China EV deal to prioritise US focus
- House set to vote on $70 billion ICE funding bill after Senate approval
- Local father identified as hero who confronted knifeman in Belfast
- US Apache helicopter crashes near Strait of Hormuz; Israel is costing US lives!
- France bans Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich from entry amid sanctions
- Albania investigates Kushner-backed property project amid misinformation
EU
The European Union will attempt to sanction Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church, following Hungary’s previous veto in 2022. His inclusion in a new sanctions package was confirmed by diplomats, marking a renewed effort to address his controversial role in justifying the invasion of Ukraine.
A series of false claims surrounding the controversial Albanian property development linked to Jared Kushner has emerged, including misleading allegations of ties to Israel and fabricated protest videos. Amidst this misinformation, Albania’s anti-corruption prosecutor has launched an investigation into dubious regulatory approvals in ecologically sensitive areas.
France and Germany announced the abandonment of their Future Combat Air System (FCAS) joint fighter jet programme due to unresolved disagreements between companies involved. This setback hinders European defence cooperation amid rising geopolitical tensions, although development of the Combat Cloud digital network will proceed.
Germany emerged as the world’s largest exporter of plastic waste in 2025, exporting 810,000 tonnes. The UK followed with 675,000 tonnes, marking an eight-year high. The European Union exported 1.5 billion kg annually, primarily to non-OECD countries, with Turkey as the largest recipient.
Warsaw has registered its first same-sex marriage, following a court ruling requiring recognition of marriages registered abroad. This follows a November decision by the EU’s highest court, prompting local authorities to comply. Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski confirmed further recognitions will be pursued proactively.
A senior NATO military official confirmed that the planned withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from Germany will not affect NATO’s deterrence and defence strategies, following a dispute between President Trump and Chancellor Merz. The decision highlights ongoing tensions in transatlantic military commitments.
EU BRIEFING
This morning, Europe confronts challenges in energy dependency and strategic reforms.
Attention turns to exchange rates and economic forecasts.
The European Political Community convened in Armenia last week, addressing global instability and escalating US-EU trade tensions, particularly regarding potential tariffs on European cars. Participants, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, discussed strengthening democracy, military cooperation, and economic ties amid shifting geopolitical landscapes.
European industries face significant challenges amid the upcoming Trump-Xi summit, with concerns that a potential US-China deal could prioritise American access to rare earths, leaving Europe vulnerable. As critical supply chains are manipulated, Brussels prepares for potential economic fallout and intensified competition with cheaper Chinese products.
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