EU

China’s role in circumventing EU sanctions against Russia is worsening, according to EU sanctions envoy David O’Sullivan. Despite regular discussions with Chinese authorities, O’Sullivan noted that unilateral actions against Chinese companies will continue as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine persists, impacting both parties economically.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy granted approval for Russia’s Victory Day parade in Moscow on 9 May, citing humanitarian reasons after US-brokered negotiations. Concurrently, US President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire beginning Saturday, including a significant prisoner swap between both countries.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Italian leaders Giorgia Meloni and Antonio Tajani in Rome to discuss international security. Tajani expressed Italy’s commitment to a post-war mission to Hormuz. Blinken highlighted ongoing negotiations with Iran and the challenges of unreliable allies.

The European Commission cleared Hungarian Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi of allegations related to a spying network targeting Commission staff, concluding its investigation without evidence of wrongdoing. This decision ensures Várhelyi’s position as EU Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare ahead of Hungary’s new Prime Minister Péter Magyar’s inauguration.

The European Union’s sanctions on Russia, intended to undermine its war efforts in Ukraine, are showing signs of impact. Russia’s economy contracted by 0.3% early this year, with a ballooning public deficit and rising inflation, prompting officials, including President Putin, to seek measures for economic recovery.

Negotiations on the EU-US trade deal remain stalled, as the European Commission reported “progress” after late-night talks with MEPs and member state officials. Despite this, divisions persist over tariff safeguards, with further discussions scheduled for 19 May amid renewed US tariff threats.

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