EU

The Greek island of Thymaina faces an acute demographic crisis, with only two primary school children remaining and significant school closures nationwide due to declining birth rates. The education ministry reported it is shuttering 32 primary schools this year, exacerbating challenges for remote communities reliant on dwindling populations.

Italy’s foreign minister Antonio Tajani has proposed closing the Schengen area to Spain, citing security concerns following significant migrant crossings from Morocco to Ceuta. Tajani’s remarks, deemed “inappropriate” by Spain, prompted a military deployment for increased border security amid rising political tensions between the two nations.

Suspicions are rising that specific open mesh fabrics may contain Chinese glass fibre, which is already subject to EU anti-dumping and anti-subsidy duties due to unfair pricing and state support. This development raises concerns about compliance within the European market.

Three firefighters died battling wildfires in Greece as gale-force winds intensified the blazes. Over 150 firefighters are responding near Rethymno, with multiple aerial and ground units deployed. Evacuations are ongoing in affected areas, including Agia Galini, amid heightened alerts for local hotels and tourists.

Hundreds of migrants are swimming from Morocco to Ceuta, overwhelming border security, with over 1,500 reaching the Spanish enclave recently. Authorities report that reception centres are at full capacity, prompting rescue efforts from Spain’s Civil Guard and Maritime Rescue Service amid calls for enhanced management of the situation.

Italy has yet to finalise its €14.9 billion SAFE defence loans as domestic issues delay the decision, causing frustration in Brussels. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani indicated the amount may be lower, complicating access for other EU nations needing unspent funds for military support.

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