EU negotiators are under pressure as they enter critical trade talks with the US, amidst heightened tariff threats from President Donald Trump. German MEP Bernd Lange and the Cypriot EU presidency strive to finalise a summer deal, yet internal divisions complicate the process, raising uncertainties for European businesses.

A Dutch couple, aged 69, died from hantavirus after birdwatching in Ushuaia, Argentina, before boarding the MV Hondius. Authorities believe they were exposed to rodents at a landfill site. WHO is tracing other passengers; further investigations into the outbreak are ongoing.

Catalan Minister Jaume Duch praised Madrid’s diplomatic stance, asserting Spain’s early criticism of US actions, particularly regarding Iran, demonstrates its leadership within Europe. Duch emphasised the necessity for closer ties between regional governments and EU institutions to address local challenges more effectively, supporting greater autonomy for Catalonia.

Today, enjoy thrilling matches from the Europa League, UEFA Conference League, Saudi Arabian Premier League, and CONMEBOL Libertadores. Europa League…

Donald Trump has paused a military operation, as optimism rises for a peace deal with Iran. The potential agreement could see Iran halt uranium enrichment, offering hope for the reopening of the crucial Strait of Hormuz. Flight cancellations are on the rise; further updates are expected.

Trade tensions between China and the European Union are escalating, as Beijing urges EU states to reconsider the “Made in Europe” legislation. This proposal aims to restrict foreign access to EU public procurement, drawing sharp criticism from China, which threatens countermeasures if deemed discriminatory.

A German court ruled a holidaymaker is entitled to £850 after losing sunbed battles at a hotel in Kos. The family struggled daily to find loungers, despite a hotel ban on towel reservations. The next step for those facing similar issues is to check travel package guarantees.

European Commission Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu announced a new anti-poverty strategy aimed at eradicating extreme poverty and social exclusion in the EU by 2050. The initiative seeks to address the plight of 92.7 million people currently at risk, despite lacking a dedicated budget for implementation.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

This morning, plans have emerged to transform the BT Tower into a luxury hotel with a swimming pool at 580ft. Public consultation will commence next week regarding these proposals for the iconic London landmark.

The US Navy’s MQ-25A Stingray drone successfully completed its first two-hour test flight. Developed by Boeing, this autonomous aircraft will refuel warplanes mid-flight, enhancing mission duration. Further test flights will validate its capabilities before naval operations commence.