Latest News
- US Congress passes key funding bill to avert government shutdown
- Keir Starmer Rebukes Calls to Resign Amid Labour Party Dissent
- Putin appears at scaled-back Victory Day parade amid health concerns
- Thousands march in Brussels against government pension reforms
- Justice Department charges Dali cargo ship operator over Key Bridge collapse
- US president Trump rejects Iran’s ceasefire proposal amid escalating tensions
- EU criticises reopening of Russian pavilion at Venice Biennale, calls for funding halt
- Canada braces for potential blackouts as solar flare approaches Earth tomorrow
EU
Between 40,000 and 70,000 people marched in Brussels on 12 May, protesting against the Belgian government’s “anti-social” reforms. Organised by three major trade unions, demonstrators highlighted issues of pensions, purchasing power, and wage indexation amid rising energy prices linked to the Middle East conflict.
Fourteen EU member states have condemned the reopening of the Russian pavilion at the Venice Biennale, igniting a significant controversy in Italy, while Brussels has urged for the suspension of funding related to the event.
The European Union plans to implement a ban on certain agricultural imports, just two weeks after the EU-Mercosur trade deal provisionally entered into force, liberalising agricultural trade despite strong opposition from farmers. This decision signifies ongoing tensions in global trade policies.
As EU countries debate the European Commission’s proposal, China is urging national governments to abandon the planned law. Beijing has warned that failure to comply will lead to countermeasures, highlighting escalating tensions between the EU and China over regulatory standards.
EU FOCUS THIS MORNING
Europe addresses ongoing energy and security challenges
as imminent discussions on sanctions and reforms continue.
The European Parliament has adopted its stance on the EU long-term budget, advocating for a 10% increase and the implementation of EU-level taxes. Members of the European Parliament are prepared for rigorous negotiations as discussions regarding the budget for the 2028-2034 cycle progress.
Relations between Hungary and its neighbours deteriorated ahead of the 12 April election, which saw newcomer Magyar defeat long-standing nationalist leader Viktor Orbán. This political shift marks a significant change in Hungary’s approach to regional relations and governance.
The European Commission is shifting towards a firmer stance on China, spurred by China’s threat of retaliation against the EU’s Made in Europe legislation. On 29 May, EU Commissioners will debate a new strategy amid rising pressures from industry and economic threats perceived from Beijing, signalling potential changes in trade policy.
EU UPDATE
This morning, Europe grapples with labour allegations, media freedom concerns, and evolving international trade dynamics, affecting the EU’s stability and unity.
Key issues underscore the importance of collective responses and strategic cooperation.
© 2026 WTX News.