EU

Morocco’s interior ministry reported 11 fatalities from migrant attempts to reach Spain’s Ceuta last week, significantly lower than Spain’s figure of at least 72. This surge, attributed to social media misinformation, prompted diplomatic tensions within the European Union over migration policies.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that following the arrival of around 60,000 irregular migrants in Ceuta, the majority have returned to Morocco, thanks to cooperation between Spanish and Moroccan authorities. Emergency talks are underway among EU member states to address the migrant crisis effectively.

Former EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier emphasised that the UK must decide its relationship with the bloc, outlining clear conditions for rejoining. He expressed that while Brexit is settled, the door remains open, contingent on the UK respecting fundamental EU freedoms if it seeks closer ties.

Ten years post-referendum, Brexit’s impact remains contested. Irish MEP Barry Andrews claims the UK’s departure has caused political and economic turmoil, while Dutch MEP Sander Smit believes the EU has lost a vital voice. The debate centres on the future relationship between the UK and the EU.

European leaders, including France’s Macron and the UK’s Keir Starmer, convened in Berlin for an E5 summit aimed at strengthening defence collaboration amid shifting US commitments. The summit addressed support for Ukraine and strategic military projects, coinciding with a key NATO summit in Ankara in July.

Two fin whales were killed off Iceland’s coast shortly after commercial hunting resumed, marking the first catches since 2023. This follows a two-year pause attributed to economic issues. The Icelandic government plans to introduce a bill banning whaling this autumn amid international concern over declining whale populations.

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