EU member states’ defence research and development reached €13 billion in 2024, growing by €4 billion in 2025, per European Defence Agency estimates. The AGILE programme allocates €115 million to support rapid innovation, aiming to enhance defence technology deployment within three years.

Social media accounts supporting Hungary’s ruling Fidesz party have accused Meta of censoring Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ahead of the 12 April elections. Fidesz campaign chief Balázs Orbán claimed users faced restrictions on liking posts. However, Meta stated no such limitations exist and called the allegations unfounded.

EFFECTIVE ACTION IN EUROPE

This morning, European Union leaders emphasise immediate responses to energy challenges and unified strategies for economic resilience.
Further discussions on trade, sanctions, and cooperation are anticipated.

Israeli strikes in Lebanon have resulted in over 1,200 fatalities, according to Lebanese Justice Minister Adel Nassar. The ongoing conflict escalates tensions in the region, prompting international concern over humanitarian impacts and regional stability amid ongoing military actions.

The US and Israel intensified military actions against Iran following President Trump’s ultimatum to “completely obliterate” Iranian energy sites unless the Strait of Hormuz reopens to international shipping. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Justice Minister described the escalating Israeli ground incursions as an “occupation,” amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.

The EU will urge Israel to reconsider legislation permitting the execution of Palestinians convicted of nationalistic killings, expressing significant concern over its discriminatory nature. The bloc, opposing capital punishment, emphasises that such measures violate the right to life and risk irreversible judicial errors.