EU

A severe storm disrupted a major handball tournament in Rastatt, Baden-Württemberg, injuring eight adults and a child as lightning struck while participants secured tents. Similarly, a lightning strike in Münsingen-Dottingen injured one individual, triggering widespread power cuts in the area. Extreme heat is forecast for the coming days.

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French far-right leader Jordan Bardella commenced a two-day visit to Poland, aiming to forge alliances with right-wing leaders ahead of France’s presidential election. In Warsaw, he met with President Karol Nawrocki, discussing security, national borders, and the role of both nations in shaping Europe’s future.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa signed a modernised trade deal with Mexico at an EU summit, enhancing economic ties amid rising geopolitical tensions. This agreement opens markets for key sectors, supporting the EU’s diversification strategy and reducing reliance on the US and China.

Ireland’s Foreign Minister Helen McEntee warned that granting “associate membership” to Ukraine could hinder its EU accession momentum, risking a two-tier membership approach. This follows German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s proposal aimed at overcoming a two-year stalemate in Ukraine’s EU bid.

The European Commission has downgraded its 2026 growth forecast for the EU economy to 1.1%, citing increased energy prices due to the Middle Eastern conflict. The eurozone outlook fell to 0.9%, reflecting risks from global energy market disruptions and escalating inflation, now expected to reach 3.1%.

Concerns about Europe’s security strategy intensify amid ongoing debates in the European Parliament over military spending. MEPs Lukas Mandl and Marc Botenga expressed starkly opposing views on investing billions in defence amidst geopolitical tensions, particularly Russia’s actions in Ukraine, highlighting Europe’s shifting military priorities.

Lithuania’s capital Vilnius was temporarily shut down due to a potential drone incursion on Wednesday, reflecting heightened tensions along NATO’s eastern flank amid ongoing conflicts. The incident prompted airport closures and evacuations of key government figures, as well as strong condemnations from European leaders regarding Russia’s actions.

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