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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 Union’s anti-corruption efforts have stalled, with Hungary and Bulgaria scoring the lowest in Transparency International’s 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, said Flora Cresswell, regional advisor for Europe. The findings are crucial as the EU prepares to adopt a new Anti-Corruption Directive.
The European Parliament approved a legislative change allowing the transfer of asylum seekers to unrelated countries before claim processing, stated German MEP Lena Düpont. This move is significant as it may reshape EU cooperation with third countries regarding migration.
Political groups in the European Parliament agreed on the EU-US trade deal, established in July 2025 by US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The deal requires ratification following controversies around tariffs and territorial sovereignty issues.
MEPs from Hungary’s Tisza party opposed European Parliament safeguards for the EU’s Mercosur trade deal, asserting support for local farmers. Their stance raises concerns within the European People’s Party as they lead in upcoming elections against Viktor Orbán’s government.
French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have called for the European Union to re-engage diplomatically with Russia to influence post-war security discussions. This push has intensified amid debates on appointing a special envoy to streamline communication with the Kremlin.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated the proposed “European preference” aims to prioritise EU-made products in public procurement, essential for enhancing competitiveness and reducing dependency on foreign imports. Industry leaders warn of supply chain disruptions and increased costs.
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