EU

President Donald Trump has threatened a 100% tariff on goods from any country, particularly targeting European nations, that implement taxes on digital services provided by US companies. This escalation comes as countries seek revenue in increasingly digital economies, with unresolved tensions over digital tax regulations.

Europol reported a significant rise in organised crime within the EU, identifying 731 active criminal networks comprising over 400,000 members. Drug trafficking remains predominant, with cybercrime rapidly increasing. Law enforcement aims to dismantle these networks by targeting their financial structures and promoting cross-border collaboration.

Slovenia’s new parliament will convene on 10 April, initiating coalition negotiations following a narrow election victory by the liberal Freedom Movement. President Nataša Pirc Musar emphasised the need for expedient government formation due to the current geopolitical climate, anticipating complex discussions ahead.

The “No Kings” movement in the US is increasingly impacting Europe, as protests against President Trump’s policies connect with nationalist sentiments, particularly in Hungary. Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s upcoming election could further align EU movements with Trump’s ideology, prompting concerns over democracy and rule of law across the continent.

The European Commission has dismissed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s call for a trade deal with China, urging Beijing to address its economic practices. This follows Europe’s ongoing struggle with a significant trade deficit attributed to China’s low-cost exports amid a real estate crisis, raising concerns over competition and industrial decline.

Energy analysts warn that prolonged halts in Qatari LNG imports to the EU could trigger a significant surge in natural gas prices. A continued interruption, coupled with an extended conflict in Iran, may lead Europe into a crisis reminiscent of the 2022 energy turmoil.

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