Under EU treaties, member states retain the right to veto decisions impacting core sovereignty, including foreign policy and taxation. However, Hungary’s repeated vetoes on issues like aid to Ukraine and sanctions against Russia raise concerns about using sovereignty claims as leverage, complicating reform efforts within the bloc.

Despite strikes and rising flight costs linked to the Iran conflict, European travel is expected to surge this Easter. EasyJet anticipates nearly 30,000 flights, marking its busiest season. However, UK and Dutch airports hold the highest parking fees, with London Stansted charging around €66 for 24 hours.

The Flora 1 has departed the Russian oil port of Primorsk, en route to Santos, Brazil, flying the Sierra Leone flag, as reported by ship tracking site MarineTraffic. The vessel’s movement highlights ongoing international shipping activity linked to Russian oil exports.

Chef Nick Bril received a 12-month suspended sentence after running over intern Joe Claridge with his SUV, causing severe injuries and a double amputation. The incident occurred outside The Jane, Bril’s Michelin-star restaurant in Belgium, following a staff party. Further action is pending regarding compensation for Mr Claridge.

Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen alerted EU governments to a heightened risk of diesel and jet fuel shortages due to potential supply disruptions linked to Middle East tensions. The EU maintains approximately 100 million barrels in emergency oil reserves, but analysts warn of finite buffers amid escalating demands.