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- EU proposes major tobacco tax overhaul, raising cigarette duties by 139%
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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
European leaders emphasised strength, equality, and responsibility this morning on International Women’s Day. Social media messages highlighted the ongoing importance of empowerment and the fight against oppression for women across the European Union.
EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING
This morning, the European Commissioner for crisis management stated the EU is “prepared for anything” amid escalating tensions related to the Middle East conflict. Meanwhile, disputes between Hungary and Ukraine over oil transit continue to intensify.
EUROPEAN UNION UPDATE
This morning, the European Union faces rising tensions over trade deals and energy crises amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.
Discussions centre on unity and strategic responses across member states.
EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING
This morning, Europe prepares for International Women’s Day, reflecting on gender equality issues. Overnight, the situation for women in Iran has deteriorated sharply amid ongoing conflict and repression, raising urgent concerns.
EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING
This morning, new Eurostat data reveals that 35.2% of managerial positions in the European Union were held by women in 2024, a significant increase from 31.8% in 2014.
EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING
Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Denmark and Greece have formed a coalition to establish deportation centres outside Europe. This initiative, discussed at a Brussels meeting, aims to manage rejected asylum seekers awaiting repatriation.
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