EU

World leaders are convening in Yerevan, Armenia, for the 8th European Political Community meeting, focusing on unity and stability in Europe. Among the attendees are British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as nearly 50 countries discuss geopolitical challenges, including US-Iran tensions.

Donald Trump’s abrupt announcement to withdraw 5,000 active-duty troops from Germany caught allies off guard. The decision escalates tensions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has been vocal in his criticism of US actions regarding the war in Iran and broader strategic issues.

Germany’s Defence Ministry has confirmed it will not purchase additional F-35 fighter jets, dismissing reports amid delays in the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project. This decision is significant as it underscores the ongoing challenges in European defence collaboration.

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the country’s participation in the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) agreement, paying €10 million, marking Canada as the first non-European state involved. The UK, however, faces demands of €4 billion to €6.75 billion for similar access.

EU Commission Vice-President Dubravka Šuica will face scrutiny from member states at Monday’s Foreign Affairs Council regarding her attendance at Donald Trump’s Board of Peace inauguration, amid criticism of the Commission overstepping its foreign policy mandate.

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