- Fourth of July celebrations coincide with America’s 250th birthday amid heat wave
- Pope Leo XIV honours migrants on July 4 during visit to Lampedusa
- Italian government investigates theft of 80 fentanyl vials from hospital
- Iran holds dayslong funeral for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei following his death in war
- Canada commemorates U.S. Independence Day with military fly-past and celebrations
- Trump warns of communist threat in Mount Rushmore speech before July 4th
- Meghan and children will not accompany Harry during London trip next week
- Germany requires doctor’s note for first day of sick leave under new rules
EU
Germany’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service has recovered a Soviet Second World War M1943 infantry gun from the Neisse River near Forst. Excavation work near the Polish border uncovered the well-preserved weapon, now set for disposal at the KMBD’s facility in Kummersdorf.
EU POLICY UPDATES
This morning, the European Union addresses key issues including economic strategies and international diplomacy.
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.
The EU’s energy chief, Dan Jørgensen, has warned that high energy prices may persist even with a swift peace deal in Iran, urging member states to prepare for extended disruptions. Rising fuel costs have prompted discussions on measures like rationing and car-free Sundays to manage demand.
High Representative Kaja Kallas convened EU foreign ministers in Kyiv to commemorate the victims of the Bucha massacre, a pivotal event symbolising the quest for justice and accountability in Ukraine. This gathering highlights the EU’s ongoing support for Ukraine amid its conflict.
Germany has the highest total number of immigrants, while Sweden boasts the highest naturalisation rate within the European Union. These statistics highlight contrasting approaches to immigration and integration across member states, reflecting distinct national policies towards foreign nationals.
The leader of the exiled Iranian Kurdish opposition party has condemned Iran’s leaders as “butchers” and described current attempts at military weakening of the regime as supportive. Mohtadi emphasised that any regime change should come from the Iranian people themselves, criticising Europe’s “policy of appeasement” towards Tehran.
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas indicated that using Russia’s frozen assets to finance Ukraine is still possible if Viktor Orbán maintains his veto on the €90 billion loan. Orbán blocked this financial support due to a dispute over the Druzhba oil pipeline, impacting Ukraine’s funding amid ongoing conflict.
Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen has urged EU countries to implement coordinated measures to reduce oil and gas consumption amid rising prices due to the Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure. He warned against fragmented responses, stressing the need for a unified approach to ensure supply stability.
From our sponsors
Subscribe to News
Get the latest news from WTX News Summarised in your inbox; News for busy people.
Advertisement
Subscribe to Updates
Get the latest creative news from FooBar about art, design and business.

