- Jack Smith testifies at Senate hearing regarding Trump investigations
- Mother seeks funds for burial plot after son’s roadside memorial is damaged repeatedly
- Fitness influencer Vadym Oleynik faces backlash for riding sea turtle in Oman
- European Parliament estimates digital levy could raise €25bn annually
- EU plans to use Google fines to reduce member states’ budget contributions.
- Russia intensifies attacks on Kyiv, targeting Academy of Sciences
- Five men arrested near RAF Fairford released on bail amid investigation
- Satellite images reveal extensive destruction across Gaza three years into conflict
EU
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.
E.U. BRIEFING
This morning, Europe addresses various economic and environmental challenges, focusing on sustainability and regulatory developments.
Key discussions are expected on energy, defence, and digital policy.
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.
(Friday 11 July 2025) – Ursula von der Leyen survived her no-confidence vote with ease, after MEPs sought to oust her. The political fallout could still be significant, with the motion reigniting concerns about her leadership style, lack of transparency and political positioning.
Much of the European news has been dominated by the ongoing heatwave sweeping the continent, with the UK set for a third heatwave this week. Plenty of European countries have issued health warnings, whilst other European nations are battling wildfires amid the extreme heat.
The Euro 2025 is in full swing, with this Sunday marking the final matches in the group stages. England’s Chelsea and France’s PSG face off for the Club World Cup final.
Poland’s government has announced temporary border controls along its frontiers with Germany and Lithuania, beginning 7 July for 30 days.
France has established a “Diplomatic Reserve”, aiming to recruit 1,000 volunteers by year-end to support citizen services abroad, strengthen diplomatic outreach, and counter misinformation.
From dancing in Austria to international workshops in computational chemical biology, there are some huge cultural and innovation events this week across the European continent. Check out what’s happening in the EU/ Europe this week.
Cliff Notes – Wildfire tears through southern Crete A raging wildfire tears through southern Crete…
A fast-moving wildfire ravaging near Ierapetra on Crete’s southern coast has prompted the emergency evacuation of over 1,500 people, including tourists staying in hotels and local residents.
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