EU

In a crucial address, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk outlined serious challenges ahead, attributing them to the escalating Russian-Ukrainian war. He highlighted the introduction of high-speed jet-powered drones by Russia and warned of intensified attacks on Ukrainian cities, indicating a need for solidarity among NATO members in strategy and response.

The Greek parliament has voted overwhelmingly to lift the parliamentary immunity of former European Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos, facilitating the ongoing Belgian investigation into the Qatargate scandal. Avramopoulos, who denies any wrongdoing, requested the immunity’s removal to cooperate fully with authorities.

The European Commission has introduced five large-scale defence projects aimed at enhancing member states’ capabilities, particularly on the eastern flank. With a budget of €325 million, the projects focus on drones, maritime defence, air power, and missile defence, involving 18 member states and Ukraine in four initiatives.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda announced that top political leaders have agreed to amend the constitution, removing Article 137, which bans nuclear weapon deployment. Nauseda cited outdated geopolitical conditions, noting the presence of Russian nuclear capabilities in nearby Kaliningrad and Belarus as a pressing concern.

Spain has seen nearly 1.2 million undocumented migrants apply for legal status under a recent initiative launched by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The scheme, open since April, contrasts sharply with measures taken across Europe amid increasing far-right pressures. Of the applications, 67% are from Latin America.

During the inaugural ceremony of Ireland’s EU Council presidency, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated Ukraine has fulfilled all requirements to advance its EU accession negotiations. Despite this, Hungary’s Prime Minister raised concerns, casting doubt on rapid progress, while relations with Poland have strained over historical issues linked to Ukraine’s military unit naming.

The National Committee for the Administration of Gaza reported productive talks in Cyprus aimed at alleviating humanitarian suffering and planning reconstruction efforts following the conflict. The committee expressed commitment to a US-backed plan and stressed the need for transparency in managing international aid, though no specific timeline was provided.

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