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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.
On a drive to strengthen the EU, especially with the threat of Trump’s growing allies within the union, who won’t allow a stronger EU.
Attending the United Nations Conference on Financing for Development in Seville. And using the opportunity to sweeten relations with former African colonies.
She has started the week positivvely frist by attacking Ursula Von der Leyen and raising the profile of EU president ( much needed) and then later she was speaking to business leaders in Brussels telling them Europe is open for business
She is in Seville today and said the EU needs: “A paradigm shift is needed on development aid”. A clash is forming with the EU, right wing are attacking EU presidency.
(Thursday, 3 July 2025) – Europe is reeling after the death of Liverpool and Portugal player Diogo Jota, who died, alongside his footballer brother, in a car crash in Spain. The Portuguese FA has asked UEFA for a minute’s silence across all games as the Women’s Euros begins and Portugal face Spain today.
Europe is still sweltering under record-breaking temperatures sweeping the continent, with several countries considering a work-from-home order. The heatwave is the biggest story for the region, with reports of deaths and rising illnesses.
It’s been announced that the European Commissioner is set to face a no-confidence vote next week, and the EU are pushing back on Hungary, which has vetoed Ukraine joining the bloc.
The week has seen protests across the region as well as Pride events taking place.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticises EU members for not suspending a trade deal with Israel despite a recent review citing major human rights violations in Gaza.
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