EU

A routine check at Bari port led to the arrest of Régis Claude Albert Normand, a 46-year-old French citizen, after customs officials discovered five containers intended for anti-tank weapons, including three Akeron missiles. Normand claimed he was delivering the equipment for repairs, but documentation discrepancies have prompted further investigation.

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The Spanish government plans to present a draft bill reforming immigration and asylum laws, prompted by the Ceuta crisis where 80,000 crossed illegally from Morocco in July. The bill aims to align Spanish legislation with the European Pact on Migration and Asylum amid ongoing challenges regarding unaccompanied minors.

Around 6,000 members of Italy’s armed forces and security services marched in Rome, demanding higher pay and improved pensions. The rally, organised by defence unions, followed the government’s recent collective agreement, which many unions rejected for not adequately addressing their concerns, resulting in calls for further reforms and protections.

Protesters in Venice greeted American ambassador Tilman Fertitta’s luxury yacht with inflatable toys and signs reading “Venezia non si USA” during his visit on Friday. The demonstration, opposing perceived American influence, led to clashes with police as activists voiced opposition to current U.S. foreign policy.

Hungary’s recent reforms under Prime Minister Péter Magyar aim to restore the rule of law, the European Commission reported. Key developments include joining the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and dismantling the controversial Sovereignty Protection Office, reflecting significant progress in anti-corruption measures and judicial independence.

German MEP Engin Eroglu warned that restricting Chinese access to the EU market could destabilise China’s export-driven economy. With an unprecedented €1 billion deficit in 2026, the European Commission plans unilateral measures, including tariffs and quotas, to protect industries from the surge of low-cost imports.

The European Commission has submitted a list of EU products to the US, seeking exemptions from the 15 per cent tariffs established under the 2025 trade deal. Key items include Roquefort cheese, olive oil, and machinery, representing approximately €150 billion in exports.

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