Latest News
- Trump administration files 31 lawsuits for state voter data access, status updates provided
- Five teenagers named following fatal wrong-way crash on M9 in Co Kildare
- Helicopter crash in Sifnos, Greece, kills three, including British couple
- Trump threatens to bomb Oman amid tensions following Iran deal expiration
- Trump Reduces Military Exercises with South Korea Amid North Korea Dialogue
- LeBlanc to meet senior Trump officials ahead of new tariffs实施
- Poll reveals mixed views on socialism among Democrats amid economic concerns
- Activity farm faces criticism over Titanic-themed ride seen as disrespectful
EU
The EU is revising the Tobacco Taxation Directive, proposing a 139 per cent increase in minimum excise duties on cigarettes. This overhaul also aims to establish EU-wide minimum taxes on vapes, heated tobacco products, and nicotine pouches, marking the most significant change in tobacco taxes in over a decade.
Wildfires are raging across Belgium, Germany, France, Croatia, Spain, and Greece amid extreme heat and dry conditions. In Belgium, a major blaze has consumed 3,000 hectares in the High Fens reserve, prompting the deployment of over 250 firefighters and international aid through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
Two Spanish F-18 fighter jets intercepted and destroyed an unidentified drone in Romanian airspace early on Sunday, 24 kilometres north of Galati. Defence Minister Miruta confirmed the incident, highlighting Romania’s role in the European Union’s defence and the importance of vigilance amid ongoing tensions with Russia and Ukraine.
Hungary’s incoming Prime Minister Péter Magyar announced that oil flows from Russia via the Druzhba pipeline could potentially resume next week, following communication from Hungary’s MOL. This pipeline, delivering oil through Ukraine, was halted after damage from a Russian drone strike in January, straining relations with Kyiv.
US Vice President JD Vance defended just war theory during a Turning Point USA event, criticising Pope Leo XIV’s stance on the war in Iran. Citing over a millennium of theological tradition, he warned the pontiff to tread carefully in theological matters. The pope was in Algeria, commemorating Saint Augustine.
The European Commission has dismissed claims of imminent jet fuel shortages, despite warnings from the International Energy Agency regarding potential cancellations of flights due to geopolitical disruptions. Officials state there are currently no shortages in the EU, though assessments and preparations for possible supply issues continue.
EFFECTS OF EU POLICY
This morning, Europe grapples with implications of new regulations, impacting trade and member state dynamics.
Key discussions continue over energy strategies and economic resilience.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, European countries have significantly increased their military and financial aid to Kyiv, providing extensive support in the form of weapons systems and ammunition for Ukrainian armed forces.
Staff at immigration offices across Spain have cancelled planned strikes after securing a deal with the government, including a pay rise of 10-18% and the filling of 700 vacancies. This comes in response to increased workloads following a new amnesty programme for around 500,000 undocumented migrants.
© 2026 WTX News.