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- Hungary advances rule of law under new prime minister, EU report says
- US Strikes Iranian Infrastructure as Tensions Escalate in Region
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- EU may restrict Chinese imports to safeguard market stability, warns MEP
EU
Hungary’s recent reforms under Prime Minister Péter Magyar aim to restore the rule of law, the European Commission reported. Key developments include joining the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and dismantling the controversial Sovereignty Protection Office, reflecting significant progress in anti-corruption measures and judicial independence.
German MEP Engin Eroglu warned that restricting Chinese access to the EU market could destabilise China’s export-driven economy. With an unprecedented €1 billion deficit in 2026, the European Commission plans unilateral measures, including tariffs and quotas, to protect industries from the surge of low-cost imports.
The European Commission has submitted a list of EU products to the US, seeking exemptions from the 15 per cent tariffs established under the 2025 trade deal. Key items include Roquefort cheese, olive oil, and machinery, representing approximately €150 billion in exports.
Roberto Mazzarella, 48, one of Italy’s most wanted fugitives, has been captured, reducing the list of dangerous criminals to three. Authorities seized €20,000 in cash and forged documents during the operation, linked to Mazzarella’s extensive drug trafficking and money laundering activities in Naples.
EU ENERGY CONTEXT
This morning, Europe faces escalating pressures on energy supply and costs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Continued discussions on regulatory measures are expected.
The Global Terrorism Index 2026 highlights a troubling trend in terrorism, noting that minors and young adults now represent 42% of terror-related investigations in Europe and North America. This marks a threefold increase since 2021, indicating a rapid shift in radicalisation processes.
Under EU treaties, member states retain the right to veto decisions impacting core sovereignty, including foreign policy and taxation. However, Hungary’s repeated vetoes on issues like aid to Ukraine and sanctions against Russia raise concerns about using sovereignty claims as leverage, complicating reform efforts within the bloc.
Despite strikes and rising flight costs linked to the Iran conflict, European travel is expected to surge this Easter. EasyJet anticipates nearly 30,000 flights, marking its busiest season. However, UK and Dutch airports hold the highest parking fees, with London Stansted charging around €66 for 24 hours.
Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen alerted EU governments to a heightened risk of diesel and jet fuel shortages due to potential supply disruptions linked to Middle East tensions. The EU maintains approximately 100 million barrels in emergency oil reserves, but analysts warn of finite buffers amid escalating demands.
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