Latest News
- Senate returns from recess to tackle legislative priorities before midterms
- US pilot rescued in 21-aircraft operation after being shot down over Iran
- Finland joins France’s nuclear initiative to enhance European security
- Sudan’s aid network faces collapse without immediate funding, warns UN agency
- Canada’s 2026 census participation rate reaches 98.4 per cent, says StatCan
- Justice Department charges nearly 80 defendants in COVID loan fraud cases
- Meghan Markle and Prince Harry featured in SNL UK sketch after UK move
- Iran and Israel derail US peace deal amid MOSSAD naval attacks
EU
Finland and France announced a strengthened defence partnership, with Finland joining a French initiative focused on enhancing European security through nuclear deterrence. A “Nuclear Steering Group” will be established to implement this cooperation, while Finland maintains its commitment to NATO amid ongoing regional discussions.
The European Parliament is advocating for stricter EU-wide deadlines and automatic approvals to expedite energy infrastructure development. This initiative seeks to address significant delays in renewable energy projects, with Parliament proposing quicker approval timelines than the Commission and Council, potentially igniting tensions with member states.
Marine Le Pen will deliver her first campaign speech on Sunday in Hénin-Beaumont as she relaunches her bid for the 2027 presidential election. Currently leading the polls with 34% support, Le Pen faces internal party tensions and controversies, including criticism over aid to Ukraine and a scandal involving racist comments by a police officer associated with the National Rally.
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.
EU UPDATE
This morning, Europe prepares for key discussions on migration policies and environmental regulations.
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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