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EU
The EU is revising the Tobacco Taxation Directive, proposing a 139 per cent increase in minimum excise duties on cigarettes. This overhaul also aims to establish EU-wide minimum taxes on vapes, heated tobacco products, and nicotine pouches, marking the most significant change in tobacco taxes in over a decade.
Wildfires are raging across Belgium, Germany, France, Croatia, Spain, and Greece amid extreme heat and dry conditions. In Belgium, a major blaze has consumed 3,000 hectares in the High Fens reserve, prompting the deployment of over 250 firefighters and international aid through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
Two Spanish F-18 fighter jets intercepted and destroyed an unidentified drone in Romanian airspace early on Sunday, 24 kilometres north of Galati. Defence Minister Miruta confirmed the incident, highlighting Romania’s role in the European Union’s defence and the importance of vigilance amid ongoing tensions with Russia and Ukraine.
The European Commission has unveiled a strategy to assist nine EU member states bordering Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, aiming to mobilise billions of euros to combat economic and demographic decline. This move addresses urgent regional challenges.
US Ambassador to the EU Andrew Puzder praised Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s Munich Security Conference speech, calling it a positive step for the trans-Atlantic alliance. He noted significant European progress on migration policy alignment with the US, crucial amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.
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.
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