EU

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision to name a Special Operations Forces unit, Heroes of the UPA, has prompted significant backlash from Polish officials. President Karol Nawrocki expressed profound disappointment, labelling the move as detrimental to Polish-Ukrainian relations, and suggested revocation of Zelenskyy’s Order of the White Eagle.

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France is launching an inquiry into the treatment of its nationals aboard the Gaza flotilla, as announced by Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. Reports allege violations including humiliation and sexual violence during their detention, prompting Barrot to refer the case to the Public Prosecutor for further investigation.

Ukraine is prepared to support Romania following a Russian drone strike on a residential building in Galați. President Zelenskyy urged the European Union to impose significant new sanctions on Russia to deter further aggression and protect regional stability after a wave of drone attacks targeted civilian infrastructure.

Concerns about Europe’s security strategy intensify amid ongoing debates in the European Parliament over military spending. MEPs Lukas Mandl and Marc Botenga expressed starkly opposing views on investing billions in defence amidst geopolitical tensions, particularly Russia’s actions in Ukraine, highlighting Europe’s shifting military priorities.

Lithuania’s capital Vilnius was temporarily shut down due to a potential drone incursion on Wednesday, reflecting heightened tensions along NATO’s eastern flank amid ongoing conflicts. The incident prompted airport closures and evacuations of key government figures, as well as strong condemnations from European leaders regarding Russia’s actions.

The European Commission has retained its carbon border tax in a new plan for fertilisers, aimed at supporting farmers despite rising costs linked to carbon pricing. Commissioner Christophe Hansen stated the importance of maintaining competitiveness against cheaper imports while acknowledging the financial pressure on agriculture and food prices.

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the European Order of Merit on Tuesday. In her acceptance speech, she emphasised that Europe can no longer assume peace and security, highlighting concerns over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and shifting US security policies that indicate a loss of established certainties.

Diplomats and MEPs reached an agreement to implement the EU-US pact, which removes duties on most US industrial goods imported into Europe. The deal follows US President Trump’s threat of 25% tariffs on EU cars, with MEPs negotiating terms amid ongoing tensions in transatlantic relations.

The European Commission’s “Defence Readiness Omnibus” aims to streamline defence procurement and enhance production amid security threats. Although key negotiations are ongoing, concerns about eligibility criteria and national sovereignty persist, complicating efforts to fortify Europe’s defence capabilities ahead of looming challenges.

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