- EPP pushes for EU-US trade deal discussions, Socialist chair insists on 19 May
- Laos detains hostel owner as investigation into methanol poisoning continues
- Sanctions target Hamas amid international criticism of Israel’s settlements
- Manchester’s Gay Village Sealed Off as Hotel Evacuated Following ‘Chemical Incident’
- Turkish Airlines plane catches fire upon landing at Kathmandu airport
- Keir Starmer pledges to restore hope and rebuild ties with Europe
- EU to approve sanctions on Israeli settlers, says Kallas
- Trump Rejects Iran’s Peace Proposal, Fuelling Escalation in Oil Prices
EU
The European People’s Party (EPP) aims to expedite discussions on the EU-US trade deal, while Socialist chair Lange insists that the next negotiating round remains set for 19 May, as confirmed by sources familiar with the ongoing negotiations.
Sanctions targeting Hamas members, including asset freezes and travel bans, were announced following international criticism of Israel’s settlement expansion and violence in the occupied territories. The measures aim to address ongoing tensions in the region.
Keir Starmer reaffirmed his commitment to revitalise the Labour Party and address the UK’s challenges following poor local election results. He emphasised the need for closer ties with the EU, aiming to reposition Britain within Europe while tackling concerns over cronyism and economic stagnation.
Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne attended a eurozone meeting to address global macroeconomic imbalances, emphasizing Canada’s commitment to strengthening ties with the EU amid declining US relations. Discussions will continue at G7 and G20 meetings.
Romania’s Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare expressed strong support for proposed EU measures to enhance competitiveness and investment, including a two-speed union, during an informal EU summit. This push comes as Romania aims to improve its high budget deficit ahead of euro adoption.
A series of arrests related to the killing of 23-year-old Quentin Deranque in Lyon occurred on Tuesday evening, amidst a flood of conflicting narratives and misinformation surrounding alleged suspects, as authorities work to clarify the situation.
Four suspects have been arrested following the death of French far-right activist Quentin Deranque, who suffered a brain injury during a protest against MEP Rima Hassan, stated Lyon’s public prosecutor. Tensions rise ahead of municipal elections in March.
Finance ministers from eight European member states approved national defence investment plans worth €74 billion on February 17, 2026. A spokesperson for the Cypriot presidency stated this decision facilitates affordable loans under the EU’s Security Action for Europe scheme, which aims to enhance defence procurement.
The European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, will attend Trump’s Board of Peace meeting focusing on Gaza, but the European Commission remains cautious about membership due to concerns over governance, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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.

