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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 Greek government announced a three-month suspension of asylum applications for migrants arriving by sea from Libya due to a recent influx exceeding 2,000 individuals.
Houthi rebels sank the cargo ship Eternity C in the Red Sea, resulting in at least four fatalities and many crew members kidnapped; 15 crew members remain unaccounted for.
On Monday, the European Commissioner was fighting for her political career as she appeared before MEPs ahead of her facing a no-confidence vote on Thursday.
Budapest police announced they will not pursue legal actions against participants of the Pride parade, despite the event being officially prohibited.
(Friday 11 July 2025) – Ursula von der Leyen survived her no-confidence vote with ease, after MEPs sought to oust her. The political fallout could still be significant, with the motion reigniting concerns about her leadership style, lack of transparency and political positioning.
Much of the European news has been dominated by the ongoing heatwave sweeping the continent, with the UK set for a third heatwave this week. Plenty of European countries have issued health warnings, whilst other European nations are battling wildfires amid the extreme heat.
The Euro 2025 is in full swing, with this Sunday marking the final matches in the group stages. England’s Chelsea and France’s PSG face off for the Club World Cup final.
Poland’s government has announced temporary border controls along its frontiers with Germany and Lithuania, beginning 7 July for 30 days.
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