EU

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez defended his government’s migration policy at the European Council summit, countering criticism from Czech, Danish, and Austrian leaders. He asserted Spain effectively manages irregular immigration, highlighting successful interceptions and returns, while rejecting claims of facilitating secondary migrant movements within the EU.

A new US-led coalition aims to secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, complementing existing efforts by France and the UK, according to France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. This initiative, announced as “Maritime Freedom Construct,” reflects heightened concerns over maritime safety amid rising tensions in the region.

US President Donald Trump announced on Friday his intention to increase tariffs on cars and trucks from the European Union to 25% next week, citing non-compliance with a trade deal. The move exacerbates tensions amid ongoing negotiations regarding EU-US trade relations.

France and Germany have deployed firefighting units to the Netherlands to combat woodland blazes that began earlier this week. Dutch authorities, overwhelmed by the fires impacting military training grounds, requested assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, prompting this international response.

Hungary’s new Prime Minister Péter Magyar has defended appointing his brother-in-law, Márton Melléthei-Barna, as Minister of Justice amid opposition criticism. Magyar emphasised his administration’s commitment to restoring EU relations and unlocking critical funding while pledging to address past governance issues and improve public services.

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