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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
The island nation, which applied for European Union membership in 2009, suspended talks in 2015. Overnight developments may signal changes in its approach to EU accession.
EU MORNING UPDATE
Overnight, the European Union addresses pressing economic challenges.
Key discussions focus on energy security and trade dynamics.
EU FOREIGN POLICY
This morning, Europe grapples with von der Leyen’s expansive foreign policy moves amid tensions from the US-Israeli conflict in Iran.
Member states question her authority and approach.
ELECTRICITY AND MOBILITY
This morning, the EU and Switzerland signed crucial accords enhancing mobility and electricity trading.
Legal certainty for employers and commuters improves significantly.
New target aligns with the ongoing debates about the EU’s resilience to broader geopolitical challenges, particularly in the context of energy supply security and climate diplomacy amidst global concerns.
EU EMISSIONS LABEL
This morning, the European Union abandoned its emissions label plans for steel.
Industry concerns prompt a shift towards supporting low-carbon steel demand instead.
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