EU

Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of dishonesty regarding US demands, asserting Zelenskyy misrepresented discussions about territorial concessions related to security guarantees. Rubio also indicated potential shifts in American military support, citing future needs related to Iran.

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The European Parliament’s rapporteurs have reached an agreement on the digital euro’s design, facilitating both online and offline payments. This development addresses growing economic tensions with the US and aims to reduce dependence on American payment systems, advancing the legislative process following months of impasse.

The EU has enacted a comprehensive customs reform to manage increasing trade volumes and streamline standards enforcement. The agreement, deemed the most significant since 1968, introduces a customs data hub for efficient monitoring and simplified procedures for compliant traders, while enhancing controls on non-compliant goods.

Centre-left candidate António José Seguro has claimed a decisive victory in Portugal’s presidential election, securing 67% to 73% of the vote against far-right candidate André Ventura, who garnered 27% to 33%. The results matter as Seguro’s win consolidates his position over Ventura’s growing opposition party.

Portugal has commenced voting in the presidential election runoff, with António José Seguro, Socialist Party candidate, expected to beat Chega leader André Ventura. Approximately 11 million voters are eligible, marking a key moment in Portugal’s evolving political landscape.

The European Parliament, via François Kalfon, Shadow Rapporteur on military mobility, advocates for EU plans to enhance military logistics with a European preference to prevent foreign ‘kill switches’ in critical infrastructure. This is crucial as the EU aims to reduce military transit times amid increasing geopolitical tensions.

US President Donald Trump endorsed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on Truth Social, praising his stance on migration ahead of the crucial April 12 election. Orbán faces a challenge from Péter Magyar’s Tisza Party, currently leading in polls with 35%.

On 2 February, Israel reopened the Rafah crossing into Gaza, marking progress in the US-brokered ceasefire with Hamas, according to Martin Konečný, director of the European Middle East Project. The reopening follows the return of the last Israeli hostage.

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