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- G7 to release 100 million barrels of oil to address energy prices
- Russian strike on buses kills 33 as attacks on Ukraine escalate.
- Jon Rahm to leave LIV Golf due to unacceptable contract terms
- Alberta and Saskatchewan premiers reject Elon Musk’s independence comments
- National Democrats increase support for Texas gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa
- Primark recalls Halloween witch toys due to possible asbestos contamination
- Naked statue of Donald Trump unveiled in Strasbourg, titled ‘Orange Plague’
- Russian court sentences man to six years for seeking asylum in Lithuania
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G7 to release 100 million barrels of oil to address energy prices
1:00 pm
G7 to release 100 million barrels of oil to address energy prices
Oil Release Proposal
The G7 plans to release up to 100 million barrels of oil as part of a coordinated effort to finalise a previous 400-million-barrel emergency release.
The G7 plans to release up to 100 million barrels of oil as part of a coordinated effort to finalise a previous 400-million-barrel emergency release.
Emergency Oil Stocks
Approximately 1.1 billion barrels of publicly held emergency stocks remain among IEA members, including over 200 million barrels of diesel, highlighting the critical supply management required amid ongoing market volatility.
Approximately 1.1 billion barrels of publicly held emergency stocks remain among IEA members, including over 200 million barrels of diesel, highlighting the critical supply management required amid ongoing market volatility.
IEA Response
“All participants at the IEA-EU meeting backed prioritising diesel stocks given the current tightness in the market,” said IEA chief Fatih Birol.
“All participants at the IEA-EU meeting backed prioritising diesel stocks given the current tightness in the market,” said IEA chief Fatih Birol.
Exclusive: G7’s 100-million-barrel pledge tied to unfinished March emergency oil release
Published on •Updated
The G7’s proposed release of up to 100 million barrels of oil to curb soaring energy prices aims to complete the outstanding portion of the 400-million-barrel emergency release coordinated by the International Energy Agency (IEA) in March, according to an internal document seen by EU News.
“Of its 400 million barrels, 326 million have been released. Because some members over-delivered, the 100 million barrels in the G7 statement can be covered within the existing action if everyone fulfils their commitments,” reads the document.
The IEA members backed accelerating the March releases and completing them “as soon as possible” at an IEA meeting alongside the European Commission on 7 October.
The rush followed an ultimatum from Washington, which pressured Europe to release more of its crude oil and diesel or face an export ban on diesel. Global oil markets remain volatile with ongoing disruption in the Middle East, and Brent crude oil traded at $105 on Thursday.
IEA chief Fatih Birol said that Middle Eastern crude flows are recovering significantly. However, refined-product flows, like diesel or jet fuel, remained severely constrained, with disruptions to Russian refining capacity and China’s export ban adding to the squeeze.
At the IEA-EU meeting, all participants backed prioritising diesel stocks given the current tightness in the market, with IEA data showing “a real physical disruption in diesel supply”.
Several European governments have already fulfilled their obligations, while others still have national procedures to complete. While the political agreement exists, delivery depends on national decisions over how strategic stocks are counted and released.
Greece, Italy and Portugal have met their pledged commitments. Emergency oil stocks from France, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain are under assessment.
Portugal questioned how effectively the IEA handles the emergency release and said it will only consider new commitments once all members have delivered their existing ones, noting that about 50 million barrels remain pending at EU level, according to the document.
Greece wants to know how much time the March release has bought so far.
Demystifying G7’s language
The internal document seen by EU News clarifies the G7’s somewhat ambiguous wording in its latest announcements.
On 2 October, the group said it would fulfil its commitments through a 100 million barrel coordinated release over four months, including a substantial front-loaded diesel release within the first 20 days. It linked the move to the “immediate and full implementation” of the March 2026 commitments.
The Commission referred EU News’ questions about the details of the latest G7 announcement to the IEA. But the IEA didn’t reply to EU News’ requests for clarification on volumes and refined products.
In its 7 October statement, the G7 said participants in the IEA-EU meeting “emphasised their commitment to delivering on the March 2026 Collective Action”.
The March action was an extraordinary response to the Middle East supply shock, which followed the United States and Israeli military attacks against Iran on 28 February and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
IEA members originally agreed to make 400 million barrels available to the market, with the bulk of the contribution coming as crude oil and European countries supplying a greater share of refined products.
Fresh, new release could come
The IEA said members still hold around 1.1 billion barrels of publicly held emergency stocks, including more than 200 million barrels of diesel.
The Paris-based agency didn’t rule out further releases if necessary. For now, it is trying to squeeze the remaining barrels from the mechanism agreed seven months ago.
The IEA said the March releases had already helped plug part of the supply gap, but stressed that diesel markets remain particularly tight, making the October action different in emphasis from March.
The next political test comes on 15 October, when the IEA Governing Board gathers governments to settle the details of the operation, including volumes, timing and the type of refined oil products to be released.
Russian strike on buses kills 33 as attacks on Ukraine escalate.
11:01 am
Russian strike on buses kills 33 as attacks on Ukraine escalate.
Russian military operations have intensified in Ukraine, with recent reports confirming a strike on civilian buses that resulted in at least 33 fatalities. This escalation has heightened tensions in the region, prompting global leaders to call for urgent interventions and reaffirm their support for Ukraine in facing ongoing aggression. The situation remains critical, with Russian forces conducting systematic bombings in various areas, including Kramatorsk, which continues to draw condemnation from international communities.
In economic repercussions, Europe faces increasing energy challenges as the conflict disrupts supply chains and escalates concerns over energy security. The EU is bracing for potential disruptions in gas supplies, urging member states to diversify energy sources. An emergency meeting is slated for next week to address these escalating energy vulnerabilities and formulate a cohesive response.
Key developments across the world
Russian strike on buses kills 33, say officials, as deadly attacks on Ukraine surge
GLOBAL SECURITY — A Russian missile strike on civilian buses in Ukraine has resulted in at least 33 fatalities.
This attack, which occurred near the frontline in Kramatorsk, marks a significant escalation in hostilities as Russia intensifies its military campaign. Ukrainian officials have condemned the assault as a deliberate targeting of civilians amidst an ongoing conflict.
WHO says it does not have ‘full picture’ from Russia following suspected plague death
INTERNATIONAL LAW — The World Health Organization revealed it lacks complete information from Russia regarding a suspected plague death case.
EU envoy lands in China for last-ditch talks over car exports
DIPLOMACY — The European Union has sent an envoy to China as discussions continue regarding tariffs on car exports.
This visit comes amid rising tensions between Europe and China over trade practices, particularly relating to the automotive sector. The outcome of these talks could significantly impact economic relations and market dynamics between the two regions.
EU-China trade talks begin in Beijing amid escalating pressure
GLOBAL TRADE — Trade negotiations between the European Union and China have commenced under increasing scrutiny of trade practices.
These discussions focus on addressing concerns about economic imbalances and unfair competition, particularly in the technology and automotive markets. The outcomes from these negotiations could reshape future trade relations and regulatory frameworks between the two economic powerhouses.
What to watch — Monitor the developments from Ukraine as military actions continue to escalate in the region.
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EU envoy lands in China for last-ditch talks over car exports
Jon Rahm to leave LIV Golf due to unacceptable contract terms
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Get you up to speed: Jon Rahm to quit LIV Golf tour over ‘unacceptable’ terms
Jon Rahm has announced he is quitting LIV Golf, citing the proposed terms of LIV 2.0 as “unacceptable,” according to his lawyer. This decision was made during a bankruptcy hearing in New Jersey, where LIV Golf is currently undergoing restructuring.
LIV Golf filed for Chapter 11 protection in New Jersey last month and has secured up to $300 million in funding from BC Partners, pending bankruptcy court approval. Several golfers are seeking to terminate their contracts due to unpaid claims, with Jon Rahm holding the largest claim at $7.5 million.
Jon Rahm’s decision to leave LIV Golf was communicated through his lawyer, who stated that the terms of LIV 2.0 were “unacceptable” for the two-time major champion. Meanwhile, other golfers are seeking court assistance to terminate their contracts as LIV Golf continues efforts to secure funding and emerge from bankruptcy, with a proposed financing plan of up to $300 million currently pending court approval.
What remains unclear — It is uncertain how LIV Golf’s restructuring and funding will impact the status of unpaid contracts and obligations to players like Jon Rahm.
Jon Rahm to leave LIV Golf due to unacceptable contract terms
Sport|GolfJon Rahm to quit LIV Golf tour over ‘unacceptable’ terms
‘Rahm has reviewed the proposed terms of LIV 2.0 and has determined that they are unacceptable,’ his lawyer said.
Published On 8 Oct 20268 Oct 2026
Former world number one Jon Rahm has said he is quitting LIV Golf, robbing the breakaway circuit of one of its biggest stars while it fights to emerge from bankruptcy.
Rahm’s lawyer John Beck told a bankruptcy hearing on Wednesday that the two-time major champion made his decision after looking over details of LIV Golf’s planned next phase.
“Mr Rahm has independently reviewed the proposed terms of LIV 2.0, as the parties have been referring to it, and has determined that those terms are unacceptable as to him, and he will not be participating going forward in LIV 2.0,” Beck told the court.
Other golfers asked a US bankruptcy judge to help terminate their contracts and clarify their ability to negotiate with other tournament organisers and sponsors as their LIV contracts go unpaid.
LIV has already agreed to terminate Sergio Garcia’s contract after determining that the league would not honour its terms, and lawyers for Bryson DeChambeau, Cameron Smith, An Byeong-hun, Marc Leishman, Cameron Tringale and Matthew Wolff asked the judge to allow those players out of their old contracts.
Ending those contracts would not preclude those players from agreeing to participate in LIV 2.0.
Rahm, one of the most high-profile players to join LIV Golf, has won three consecutive season-long individual titles on LIV since joining the circuit in late 2023, eight months after winning the Masters for his second major title.
When LIV Golf filed for Chapter 11 protection in New Jersey last month, its filing listed several star golfers as creditors still owed millions in unsecured claims. Among them, Rahm had the largest claim among players at $7.5m.
Earlier this week, LIV secured funding from BC Partners to help it emerge from restructuring and strengthen its financial footing before the 2027 season. The financing, up to $300m, remains subject to bankruptcy court approval and customary conditions.
BC Partners Credit, which provides financing to middle-market companies, said the funding would support what it described as the next phase of LIV Golf, under which players would become equity owners of the league and its teams.
Alberta and Saskatchewan premiers reject Elon Musk’s independence comments
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Get you up to speed: Alberta, Saskatchewan premiers shut down Elon Musk’s call for separation
A trillionaire tech businessman stated on his social media platform X that Quebec and two Prairie provinces would benefit from independence. There are no immediate confirmations regarding the reaction or implications of this statement.
The businessman has not specified a timeline for the proposed independence of Quebec and the Prairie provinces. Officials from the affected areas are yet to respond to the comments made on the social media platform X.
Quebec’s independence was endorsed by a prominent tech businessman on his social media platform X, suggesting economic benefits not only for Quebec but also for the two Prairie provinces. This statement has sparked discussions among political leaders, who are now facing rising public sentiment regarding provincial autonomy.
What remains unclear — It is uncertain how the tech businessman’s proposal for independence would be implemented or received by the affected provinces.
Alberta and Saskatchewan premiers reject Elon Musk’s independence comments
The trillionaire tech businessman said on his social media platform X that Quebec would benefit from independence, as would the two Prairie provinces.
National Democrats increase support for Texas gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa
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Get you up to speed: National Democrats invest more heavily in Texas governor candidate Gina Hinojosa as Pritzker offers support
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa is receiving increased financial backing from national Democratic figures, including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, who has committed $1.2 million to her campaign in Texas. The Democratic Governors Association has also pledged at least $1 million to support Hinojosa’s efforts as recent polls indicated a narrowing race against incumbent Republican Governor Greg Abbott.
The Democratic Governors Association has committed to investing at least $1 million in Gina Hinojosa’s campaign following pressure from Latino Democratic leaders in Texas. As of the end of last month, Hinojosa’s campaign reported approximately $4 million in cash on hand, significantly trailing behind Greg Abbott, who has reported $17 million available for his campaign.
National Democrats are amplifying financial support for Gina Hinojosa, with Illinois Democratic Governor JB Pritzker contributing $1.2 million and the Democratic Governors Association committing at least $1 million following recent polling showing a competitive race against incumbent Governor Greg Abbott. Abbott’s campaign has labelled Hinojosa’s strategy as seeking support from out-of-state Democrat strongholds, while he continues to maintain a significant cash advantage in the campaign’s financial landscape.
What remains unclear — It is not clear how much additional financial support the Democratic Governors Association may provide to Hinojosa beyond the reported $1 million commitment.
National Democrats increase support for Texas gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa
National Democrats are stepping up their financial support for Texas Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa after recent polls showed a dead heat and more Democrats began to see an opportunity to potentially defeat three-term incumbent Republican Gov. Greg Abbott.
Illinois Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker, a possible 2028 presidential contender, and the Democratic Governors Association are each putting at least $1 million behind Hinojosa, according to sources familiar with the investments and a senior DGA official. Pritzker’s contribution is actually larger — $1.2 million, according to sources familiar with the commitment. The New York Times first reported the investment.
The infusion comes at a crucial point for Hinojosa’s campaign. She reported roughly $4 million in cash on hand at the end of last month, according to campaign finance filings, and her campaign said it had been outspent by Abbott by roughly 10-to-1.
In a statement, Hinojosa’s campaign said her campaign has “momentum,” and said “we’re grateful for the support we’ve received in this final stretch from leaders across the country.”
Last week, more than 70 Latino Democratic leaders sent a letter to Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, the chair of the DGA, urging the group to invest $10 million to help Hinojosa’s campaign. A source told WTX US News on Wednesday that the state’s Latino leaders, including Texas congressional lawmakers, met with the DGA to increase pressure to fund Hinojosa’s campaign, which was first reported by NBC News.
A source familiar with the investments tells WTX US News that the DGA took action to support Hinojosa after Pritzker committed his own money to the race.
A DGA official disputed that characterization, saying that Beshear told Hinojosa in a conversation on Tuesday of last week that the DGA would spend at least $1 million on her campaign. A source close to Hinojosa’s campaign confirmed the conversation between Beshear and Hinojosa took place, as well as the Kentucky governor’s $1 million commitment.
Abbott’s campaign said in a statement that she is “taking her campaign to out-of-state Democrat strongholds.”
Abbott has significantly outraised Hinojosa, including from July to September, when his campaign said it brought in $20 million to her campaign’s $13 million. But his campaign reported having $17 million cash on hand, indicating a huge amount of spending given the over $100 million on hand he reported at the beginning of the year.
A Democrat has not been elected to the governor’s mansion in Texas since Ann Richards in 1990, who lost reelection to George W. Bush four years later, and President Trump won the state by more than 13 points in 2024. Abbott had not been considered vulnerable, but recent polls had shown the race tightening.
Mr. Trump is campaigning in San Antonio on Wednesday with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and several other GOP candidates, although Abbott is not joining the rally.
Primark recalls Halloween witch toys due to possible asbestos contamination
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Get you up to speed: Primark recalls Halloween witch toys over asbestos fears | News UK
Primark has urgently recalled two Halloween decorations due to fears of asbestos contamination, which may be present in the sand inside the products. The Office for Product Safety and Standards has advised customers to stop using the items and keep them out of reach of children.
The affected products have model numbers 991174794 and 991179148, with associated barcodes 212047125 and 212080261. The Office for Product Safety and Standards is advising customers to cease use immediately and ensure the items are kept away from children while offering a full refund at all Primark stores.
Primark has recalled Halloween decorations after concerns they may contain asbestos, with the Office for Product Safety and Standards advising customers to stop using the products immediately. Affected customers can return the items for a full refund, while officials warn of the health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
What remains unclear — It is not specified how many units of the contaminated decorations were sold prior to the recall.
Primark recalls Halloween witch toys due to possible asbestos contamination
Two Primark Halloween decorations have been urgently recalled over fears they have been contaminated with asbestos.
The doorstep products, which are in the shape of a pumpkin hat and a witch with grey hair, may have been contaminated with a small quantity of asbestos.
It is thought to be in the sand inside of the products.
Customers have been told to place it in a heavy-duty plastic bag, double-tape it, and label it before storing it out of reach of children.
If the product has been damaged and the filling is accessible, customers have been told t wear gloves and a mask to clean the site with wet cloths.
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It can be returned to the nearest Primark store for a full refund.
The affected batches have the model numbers 991174794 and 991179148 and the barcodes 212047125 and 212080261.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards said: ‘The products present a risk to health as the sand sealed inside the gonks may be contaminated with a small quantity of asbestos.
‘Asbestos is a banned substance because it poses a risk to health even at low levels of exposure.
‘We recommend owners stop using the product immediately and keep out of the reach of children.’
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