EU

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 Nauseda cited outdated geopolitical conditions, noting the presence of Russian nuclear capabilities in nearby Kaliningrad and Belarus as a pressing concern.

The US and Israel intensified military actions against Iran following President Trump’s ultimatum to “completely obliterate” Iranian energy sites unless the Strait of Hormuz reopens to international shipping. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Justice Minister described the escalating Israeli ground incursions as an “occupation,” amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.

The EU will urge Israel to reconsider legislation permitting the execution of Palestinians convicted of nationalistic killings, expressing significant concern over its discriminatory nature. The bloc, opposing capital punishment, emphasises that such measures violate the right to life and risk irreversible judicial errors.

Bulgarian writer Irina Papancheva’s latest work, Brussels Naked, explores the unpredictable nature of Brussels through the eyes of a young journalist. The novel features twelve interconnected stories, revealing varied experiences within the EU’s capital, showcasing both its enchantment and cruelties.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announced the discovery of explosives near the Balkan Stream gas pipeline that supplies Serbia and Hungary. Found in backpacks in Kanjiza, the explosives prompted Hungary’s Orbán to convene an extraordinary defence council. No motives for the placement have been disclosed.

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