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- Pope Francis recovers after lung surgery at Gemelli hospital in Rome
- Federal IVF programme aimed at unifying diverse approaches, experts say
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- Protests erupt in Iran against government’s handling of public health crisis: reporting varies
- London Underground closures this weekend affect Piccadilly, District and Overground lines
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- Pope Leo XIV urges Vladimir Putin to ceasefire in Oleshky, Ukraine
- Southern California wildfire damages homes and forces evacuations in Orange County
EU
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez defended his government’s migration policy at the European Council summit, countering criticism from Czech, Danish, and Austrian leaders. He asserted Spain effectively manages irregular immigration, highlighting successful interceptions and returns, while rejecting claims of facilitating secondary migrant movements within the EU.
MEP Rihard Kols has condemned US President Donald Trump’s deal to lift restrictions on Russian diesel, labelling it a “very bad signal.” Over 100 MEPs urge the EU to uphold support for Ukraine and impose an outright ban on Russian oil and gas imports.
Elon Musk clarified that any disruptions in Ukraine’s use of the Starshield satellite communications system are under the authority of the US government, not SpaceX. His comments follow concerns from Ukrainian officials regarding speed limits affecting military operations, amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
EFFECTS ON EUROPE
This morning, the European Union faces challenges over economic policies and climate regulations.
The EU is revising the Tobacco Taxation Directive, proposing a 139 per cent increase in minimum excise duties on cigarettes. This overhaul also aims to establish EU-wide minimum taxes on vapes, heated tobacco products, and nicotine pouches, marking the most significant change in tobacco taxes in over a decade.
Wildfires are raging across Belgium, Germany, France, Croatia, Spain, and Greece amid extreme heat and dry conditions. In Belgium, a major blaze has consumed 3,000 hectares in the High Fens reserve, prompting the deployment of over 250 firefighters and international aid through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
Two Spanish F-18 fighter jets intercepted and destroyed an unidentified drone in Romanian airspace early on Sunday, 24 kilometres north of Galati. Defence Minister Miruta confirmed the incident, highlighting Romania’s role in the European Union’s defence and the importance of vigilance amid ongoing tensions with Russia and Ukraine.
EFFECTS ON ECONOMY
This morning, Europe faces economic challenges due to rising temperatures impacting productivity.
Economic forecasts anticipate significant GDP shifts across the European Union.
Europe faces escalating wildfires, with thousands evacuating as temperatures soar and droughts worsen. In France, 100 people fled near Luglon, while Germany’s Eifel region saw 1,800 evacuated amidst the largest fire in North Rhine-Westphalia’s history. Firefighting efforts intensify across the continent.
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