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- Hungary returns seized cash and gold to Ukraine’s Oschadbank, says Zelenskyy
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Trade tensions between China and the European Union are escalating, as Beijing urges EU states to reconsider the “Made in Europe” legislation. This proposal aims to restrict foreign access to EU public procurement, drawing sharp criticism from China, which threatens countermeasures if deemed discriminatory.
European Commission Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu announced a new anti-poverty strategy aimed at eradicating extreme poverty and social exclusion in the EU by 2050. The initiative seeks to address the plight of 92.7 million people currently at risk, despite lacking a dedicated budget for implementation.
Hungary has returned $40 million and 9kg of gold to Ukraine’s Oschadbank, seized during a March raid amid diplomatic tensions. President Zelenskyy lauded this as a crucial step in improving relations, following Hungary’s lift of a veto that previously stalled EU financial support for Ukraine.
High Representative Kaja Kallas has reiterated her rejection of direct talks between the European Union and Russia, emphasising that Moscow is preparing for a “long-term confrontation with the West.” Kallas highlighted the necessity of remaining resolute in the face of escalating military tensions.
US President Trump has intensified his criticism of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, urging him to focus on the Russia-Ukraine conflict rather than the Iran war. Trump’s remarks follow Merz’s assertion that the US is being “humiliated” by Iran, and highlight ongoing tensions over NATO troop presence in Europe.
EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič announced discussions with US counterparts about establishing a digital legislation forum, aiming to address concerns related to the EU’s Digital Services and Markets Acts. The US seeks to ease these regulations, linked to ongoing steel and aluminium tariff negotiations.
Belgium is negotiating with French energy group Engie to take control of its nuclear power plants, aiming to secure energy supplies. Prime Minister Bart de Wever confirmed plans to halt decommissioning operations while advocating for increased use of nuclear energy amid rising energy prices linked to global conflicts.
European defence spending surged by 14% in 2025, totalling €739 billion, with Germany becoming the largest investor after increasing its budget by 24% to €97 billion. This rise comes amid US pressure for NATO members to meet 5% GDP targets by 2035, marking the highest growth since the 1950s.
Hungarian Prime Minister-elect Péter Magyar indicated that EU funds could soon be released to Hungary following productive talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Their discussions addressed unlocking billions in frozen funding, necessary for economic support, amid a looming August deadline.
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