EU

European Commissioner for Defence Andrius Kubilius emphasised that the European response to Russian hybrid attacks must be proportionate and severe. He warned that Russia aims to influence European populations and called for a robust hybrid defence strategy, rejecting diplomatic engagement as a viable solution to the ongoing conflict.

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European Union Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen reported that while the EU is not facing an imminent energy-supply crisis, high energy prices are already impacting nearly 50 million Europeans struggling to heat their homes. He emphasised the need for flexible rules and increasing renewable energy investments.

The European Parliament’s proposed digital levy could generate up to €25.2 billion yearly, significantly exceeding the European Commission’s prior estimates. MEP Danuše Nerudová highlighted the broader tax base considered, which includes online gambling and digital services, amid ongoing negotiations for the EU’s long-term budget.

Experts in Sweden have cautioned that the government’s climate policy undermines efforts to cut CO₂ emissions from transport by 70 per cent by 2030, while aiming for net-zero emissions by 2045. This warning coincides with a recent protest regarding these critical environmental targets.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has paid tribute to Siim Kallas, the former Estonian Prime Minister and European Commission Vice-President, who died at 77. Metsola acknowledged Kallas’s pivotal role in Estonia’s state-building and currency introduction, extending condolences to his family, including daughter Kaja Kallas.

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed on Saturday that France will supply Kyiv with new interceptor missiles after a significant Russian drone attack on Kryvyi Rih, which killed at least 16 people. Macron expressed urgency in enhancing Ukraine’s air defence capabilities amidst ongoing aggression from Russia.

Prince Harry and six claimants must pay £9.54 million towards legal costs following their defeat against Associated Newspapers, the publisher of the Daily Mail. This initial payment relates to allegations of privacy violations. The claimants have until 2 October to appeal the decision.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed frustration regarding her government’s relations with the US administration, noting a lack of recent contact with Donald Trump. She emphasised the importance of Western unity while asserting Italy’s sovereignty and rejecting notions of inferiority to other nations.

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