Latest News
- Pope Francis visits Metz as Macron escorts him to the airport
- Hungary’s Parliament removes immunity from Prime Minister Magyar and two former ministers
- Kelowna businesses voice safety concerns during mayoral candidates’ debate
- Kurt Olsen resigns from the Justice Department amid 2020 election inquiries
- Manhunt launched after British pensioner found dead with head injuries in France
- Magdalena Andersson returns government mandate after failing to form cabinet
- NFL requests removal of video featuring Brian Dawkins from Homeland Security
- FBI adds suspect in Hardeep Singh Nijjar assassination to most wanted list
EU
European defence ministers convened in Brussels to bolster support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression, which is impacting the region. Discussions will focus on enhancing the EU’s emergency protocols against hybrid threats and addressing financial aid needs for Ukraine’s military, as President Zelenskyy seeks €23.5 billion.
Pope Leo XIV cautioned against the dangers of artificial intelligence during a speech at UNESCO’s Paris headquarters, emphasising that technology must serve humanity. He warned of potential dehumanisation and called for safeguards, particularly for vulnerable children, amidst broader discussions on technology’s impact on society.
EU REGULATIONS
This morning, Europe focuses on strengthening trade regulations amid ongoing discussions over economic cooperation within the European Union.
Key updates expected throughout the day.
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.
UN Special Rapporteur for the Palestinian territories Francesca Albanese stated she will not resign despite calls from France and Germany following her comments on Israel. Albanese asserts she has the full backing of the UN Human Rights Council and aims to redirect focus to her findings on state support for Israel.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the United States may withdraw from the International Energy Agency if it continues its pursuit of a net-zero emissions agenda by 2050, emphasizing the need for reforms focused on energy security amid current geopolitical challenges.
The European Commission has called an emergency Oil Coordination Group meeting following Hungary and Slovakia’s suspension of diesel supplies to Ukraine, intensifying tensions concerning the Russian Druzhba pipeline. This development is significant as it impacts energy security in the region.
The death of French far-right activist Quentin Deranque has prompted the Patriots for Europe group to request a minute of silence at the European Parliament’s next plenary session, following his fatal assault during protests in Lyon.
Homeownership rates are declining across Europe, with the Re/Max Europe annual European Housing Trend report revealing a 2% drop in the UK, France, Germany, Romania, and the Czech Republic. This shift reflects changing lifestyle preferences and financial barriers in today’s economy.
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