EU

The European Political Community convened in Armenia last week, addressing global instability and escalating US-EU trade tensions, particularly regarding potential tariffs on European cars. Participants, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, discussed strengthening democracy, military cooperation, and economic ties amid shifting geopolitical landscapes.

European industries face significant challenges amid the upcoming Trump-Xi summit, with concerns that a potential US-China deal could prioritise American access to rare earths, leaving Europe vulnerable. As critical supply chains are manipulated, Brussels prepares for potential economic fallout and intensified competition with cheaper Chinese products.

Germany’s Defence Ministry has confirmed it will not purchase additional F-35 fighter jets, dismissing reports amid delays in the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project. This decision is significant as it underscores the ongoing challenges in European defence collaboration.

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the country’s participation in the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) agreement, paying €10 million, marking Canada as the first non-European state involved. The UK, however, faces demands of €4 billion to €6.75 billion for similar access.

EU Commission Vice-President Dubravka Šuica will face scrutiny from member states at Monday’s Foreign Affairs Council regarding her attendance at Donald Trump’s Board of Peace inauguration, amid criticism of the Commission overstepping its foreign policy mandate.

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