EU

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasised the need for accountability in the EU’s €90 billion loan to Ukraine, amidst an investigation into graft allegations involving a former Zelenskyy aide. Pevkur highlighted that Ukraine must demonstrate responsible fund usage to secure ongoing support from both Ukrainians and Europeans.

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Between 40,000 and 70,000 people marched in Brussels on 12 May, protesting against the Belgian government’s “anti-social” reforms. Organised by three major trade unions, demonstrators highlighted issues of pensions, purchasing power, and wage indexation amid rising energy prices linked to the Middle East conflict.

A false claim has emerged online alleging that Hungarian opposition leader Péter Magyar intends to reintroduce military conscription. This assertion is linked to Storm-1516, a Russian disinformation group, despite Magyar’s party manifesto explicitly rejecting conscription and any military involvement in Ukraine.

A ceasefire between the United States and Iran was announced on Tuesday after six weeks of conflict in the Middle East, contingent upon Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz. However, instability persists as Iran closed the waterway in response to Israeli attacks, complicating energy security for European consumers.

US Vice-President JD Vance is set to visit Pakistan for peace talks with Iran, amidst a fragile ceasefire between the two nations. This diplomatic engagement highlights the ongoing efforts to stabilise relations in the region, indicating a significant move in international negotiations.

Five senior MEPs have urged the European Commission to take action regarding perceived threats to the integrity of Hungary’s parliamentary elections on Sunday. They express concerns over disinformation, foreign interference, and journalist intimidation, citing a potential Russian operation supporting the ruling Fidesz party’s campaign.

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