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- EU proposes major tobacco tax overhaul, raising cigarette duties by 139%
- US economy shows signs of recovery as inflation rates begin to stabilize
- Thieves steal Renaissance masterworks from MuMe museum during Ferragosto holiday
- Grizzly bear escapes enclosure at Calgary Zoo before being recaptured
- Trump directs Pentagon to reduce military exercises with South Korea after its refusal to aid Iran’s denuclearisation efforts
- One dead as Hurricane Lala hits Hawaii with 91mph winds and heavy rain
- Belgium battles historic wildfire as heat fuels blazes across Europe
- Search continues for missing pilot in Ontario’s Kawartha Lakes region
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.
EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING
The leaders of Canada, Germany and Norway are urging Trump this morning to reconsider his suspension of Russian oil sanctions.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius expressed concerns regarding the potential impact on Ukraine.
EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING
This morning, Ugochi Daniels of the IOM expressed serious concern regarding humanitarian needs in Lebanon. The situation has prompted increased scrutiny from European Union officials.
EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING
This morning, tensions escalated as Iran’s new Supreme Leader vowed retaliation against the US and Israel for airstrikes. The European Union is closely monitoring developments amid ongoing military actions that have significant regional implications.
EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated, affecting inflation and energy costs across Europe. This morning, the European Union faces potential economic repercussions despite limited trade links with Tehran.
EU DAILY UPDATE
This morning, the European Union addresses pressing issues surrounding energy security and proposed regulations affecting member states.
Key developments will shape the EU’s future policies.
EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING
The EU’s six largest economies this morning urged Brussels to expedite capital markets integration, calling it an urgent necessity. They also support the development of pan-European digital payment solutions to enhance the EU’s strategic autonomy.
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