Latest News
- Disruption at London Victoria expected to continue all day due to fire near Clapham Junction
- British climber dies after 200ft fall from Torrecerredo in northern Spain
- EU defence ministers discuss support for Ukraine amid rising threats
- US Senate moves forward with bipartisan budget deal amid fiscal challenges
- Tkʼemlúps te Secwépemc chief reports white nationalist protest on reserve
- Senator Kennedy advises Trump to prioritise affordability and address Iran before midterms
- Journalist captures moment girl, 14, is struck by car during report
- Pedro Sánchez vows to expedite housing decree amid protests in Madrid
EU
European defence ministers convened in Brussels to bolster support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression, which is impacting the region. Discussions will focus on enhancing the EU’s emergency protocols against hybrid threats and addressing financial aid needs for Ukraine’s military, as President Zelenskyy seeks €23.5 billion.
Pope Leo XIV cautioned against the dangers of artificial intelligence during a speech at UNESCO’s Paris headquarters, emphasising that technology must serve humanity. He warned of potential dehumanisation and called for safeguards, particularly for vulnerable children, amidst broader discussions on technology’s impact on society.
EU REGULATIONS
This morning, Europe focuses on strengthening trade regulations amid ongoing discussions over economic cooperation within the European Union.
Key updates expected throughout the day.
The United States and Iran have reached a two-week ceasefire agreement, announced shortly before a military escalation deadline set by President Trump. The accord includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, allowing tolls on transiting vessels, with further negotiations expected in Pakistan on Friday.
The European Union has urged US President Donald Trump to avoid bombing civilian infrastructure in Iran, warning it could be classified as a war crime. The EU emphasised the need for “maximum restraint” and diplomacy to achieve a peaceful resolution amid rising tensions related to the Strait of Hormuz.
US Vice-President JD Vance accused the European Union of interference in Hungary’s electoral process during his Budapest visit ahead of Sunday’s pivotal vote. Criticising EU digital rules and suggesting foreign influence on the election, Vance expressed support for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán as a leadership model for Europe.
European governments are significantly increasing investments in military space capabilities, responding to heightened security concerns following the cyberattack on the KA-SAT satellite network in February 2022. By 2030, investments are projected to exceed €95 billion, driven by commitments from Germany and France, as Europe seeks greater space autonomy.
The European Union has proposed the AGILE funding programme to enhance the speed of defence technology deployment. Aimed at startups and SMEs, AGILE seeks to bridge the gap between innovation and real-world military applications, addressing the growing challenges of modern warfare and innovation pace.
EU member states’ defence research and development reached €13 billion in 2024, growing by €4 billion in 2025, per European Defence Agency estimates. The AGILE programme allocates €115 million to support rapid innovation, aiming to enhance defence technology deployment within three years.
© 2026 WTX News.