Latest News
- EU negotiator defends slow legislative process amid US tariff threats
- Trump criticises Iran’s ceasefire proposal as ‘totally unacceptable’ amid tensions
- Pope Leo XIV marks first anniversary with call for peace and unity
- Trump rejects Iran’s response to US ceasefire proposal as unacceptable
- Frontier Airlines flight hits trespasser at Denver airport, leading to evacuation
- Nika Kovač launches “My Voice, My Choice” for abortion access in EU
- Putin signals potential end to Ukraine war following Victory Day parade
- Thousands celebrate Europe Day in Budapest after new prime minister sworn in
EU
German MEP Bernd Lange defended the EU legislative process on the US trade deal, responding to US criticism of slow progress. Washington’s pressure for swift tariff cuts met with stalled negotiations, as Lange emphasised the importance of stable European safeguards amid rising tensions and recent US court rulings.
Pope Leo XIV marked his first anniversary addressing peace amidst ongoing global conflicts, urging mercy for hearts hardened by strife. During a Mass in Pompeii, he highlighted the necessity for spiritual commitment alongside political efforts, stating that “peace is born within the heart,” a reminder amid rising tensions.
Slovenian anthropologist Nika Kovač and her institute, “8 March,” have initiated the European Citizens’ Initiative “My Voice, My Choice,” aiming to improve abortion access in Europe. Launched with over one million signatures, it has already prompted discussions in the European Parliament and measures from the European Commission.
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.
NATO chief Mark Rutte stated Europe must rely on the US for defence, prompting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to advocate for an independent Europe at the Munich Security Conference, referencing Article 42.7’s obligations for EU member assistance.
European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, will attend the US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace gathering to discuss Gaza, despite concerns over governance and charter issues, signalling continued EU engagement in post-war reconstruction efforts.
German Vice-Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil stated that failing to advance the digital euro is detrimental to Europe, urging swift progress ahead of a meeting with euro area ministers in Brussels. The proposal currently faces a deadlock in the European Parliament.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated at the Munich Security Conference that US President Donald Trump remains “very serious” about controlling Greenland, a crucial diplomatic issue for Denmark, amid growing concerns over Arctic security dynamics following recent deals.
© 2026 WTX News.