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- EU approves €90 billion loan for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict on Thursday
- EU finalises €90 billion loan for Ukraine, includes British bidding options
- European Investment Bank mobilises €3 billion to support vulnerable households amidst EU carbon tax changes this week.
- António José Seguro Wins Portuguese Presidential Election on Sunday
- Gary Neville sends message to Arsenal after Man City stun Liverpool
- Portugal Votes in Second Round of Presidential Election on Sunday
- Luke Shaw throws shade at Ruben Amorim with comment on Michael Carrick
- Fighter Jets Intercept Wizz Air Flight from London Following Text Threat in UK
LIVE German 2025 Election Results as they come in and analysi on who will be the next German Chancellor.
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Global Reaction to DE Elections
EU approves €90 billion loan for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict on Thursday
5:00 am
TL:DR – EU approves €90 billion loan for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict on Thursday
• European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet President Emmanuel Macron in Paris today, on 25 October 2023.
• EU countries have secured a €90 billion loan to support Ukraine’s finances and military over the next two years.
• Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic are exempt from financial contributions to the loan.
• A new package of sanctions on Russia is expected to be presented to EU ambassadors on 27 October 2023.
• Latvian PM Evika Siliņa and Estonian President Alar Karis advocate for a special EU envoy for Russia-Ukraine negotiations.
Newsletter: Macron edges Europe towards re-engaging Russia
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris today, following reports that Macron discreetly sent his senior diplomat, Emmanuel Bonne, to Moscow for discussions with Russian counterpart Iouri Ouchakov earlier this week. This development comes amid a growing debate on the potential for direct talks between Europe and Russia, marking a significant shift in diplomatic strategy.
The discussions are particularly relevant as EU countries have finalised a €90 billion loan to support Ukraine’s finances and military for the next two years, providing essential certainty for Kyiv while US-brokered peace talks continue. Of this amount, two thirds will be allocated to purchasing weapons and ammunition, a decision reached after some negotiation regarding the origin of the arms.
Latvian PM and Estonian President Advocate for Special EU Envoy for Russia-Ukraine Talks
Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa and Estonian President Alar Karis have both called for the European Union to appoint a special envoy for ongoing negotiations to resolve Russia’s war in Ukraine. Their comments reflect a shift in Europe’s approach toward engaging Russia directly, with calls for renewed diplomatic channels, particularly as leaders like Macron advocate for talks.
Siliņa stated, “I think you need to engage in diplomacy. You always need to talk, but we need to isolate and still have sanctions on Russia.” Karis emphasised the importance of having a representative from a significant European country who would be credible on both sides.
EU Commission Cautions Spain Over Social Media Regulations
The European Commission has issued a warning to Spain regarding its recent decision to ban social media for individuals under the age of 16, reminding member states to avoid introducing additional regulations that conflict with the Digital Services Act (DSA). Thomas Regnier, the Commission’s spokesperson for technology, stated that while it values initiatives to protect minors, member states should not impose further obligations on platforms that contradict EU legislation.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has faced criticism from Telegram founder Pavel Durov, who claimed the new regulations could turn Spain into a “surveillance state.” Sánchez responded by suggesting that such criticism indicates the need for stricter regulations on tech giants.
US ICE Agents’ Presence at Winter Olympics Raises Concerns in Italy
The presence of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina has sparked significant backlash in Italy. Experts assert that while ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations can operate overseas, they require the host country’s consent for any actions taken.
The international deployment of ICE has been tied to broader concerns regarding illegal immigration and security, prompting discussions about its implications for foreign relations.
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EU finalises €90 billion loan for Ukraine, includes British bidding options
2:00 am
TL:DR – EU finalises €90 billion loan for Ukraine, includes British bidding options
• Ukraine’s budget will be empty by April 2026, according to an article by Jorge Liboreiro.
• The EU initiated a €90 billion loan due to the inability to access Russia’s frozen assets.
• Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic have opted out of the funding.
• €30 billion of the loan will be used for state operations, including salaries, while €60 billion is designated for defence.
• The European Parliament is set to vote on the funding soon due to urgent deadlines.
• British companies can participate in contracts if London pays borrowing costs.
Watch the video: €90 billion loan for Ukraine — how will it help?
On 5 February 2026, the European Union confirmed the approval of a €90 billion loan to support Ukraine, as the country faces an empty budget by April. This plan comes after Ukraine was unable to access Russia’s frozen assets in December and is designed to ensure continued funding for essential services and defence.
The loan is divided into €30 billion for maintaining state services, including payments for doctors, teachers, and pensioners, with the remaining €60 billion allocated to defence. However, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic have secured total opt-outs from this arrangement.
France led the call for a “Buy European” initiative, advocating that EU taxpayer money should be used to support European factories. Conversely, Germany and the Netherlands emphasised the urgency of sourcing arms quickly, suggesting purchases from countries like South Korea and the United States if necessary.
Following the agreement, British companies are eligible to bid for contracts, contingent on London contributing a “fair share” of the loan’s borrowing costs. The next step involves a vote in the European Parliament, which is expected to expedite the process due to the looming April deadline. Additionally, reports indicate that Russia is not expected to repay damages related to the loan, raising questions about the debt’s viability.
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European Investment Bank mobilises €3 billion to support vulnerable households amidst EU carbon tax changes this week.
11:00 pm
TL:DR – European Investment Bank mobilises €3 billion to support vulnerable households amidst EU carbon tax changes this week.
• The European Investment Bank (EIB) is mobilising €3 billion to address potential energy bill increases from the upcoming EU carbon tax on road transport and buildings, as stated by the European Commission.
• The funds are intended to support low- and middle-income households during the transition, according to Climate Action Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra.
• EU countries must use these funds for the social climate fund and measures to mitigate price increases linked to ETS2, as per EU regulations.
• The new carbon tax has been delayed until 2028 due to concerns about its social impact.
EIB to frontload €3bn to mitigate impact of EU’s carbon tax on road transport and buildings
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is mobilising €3 billion to mitigate anticipated rises in energy bills due to the European Union’s planned carbon tax on road transport and buildings, according to a press statement from the European Commission. This action responds to pressure from the European Parliament, which has insisted that these funds be activated ahead of the new tax, effective from 2028, to aid vulnerable populations during the transition.
The immediate significance of this funding is to support low- and middle-income households as the EU implements measures aimed at reducing carbon emissions. Under the new system, energy firms will have to purchase permits for their carbon outputs, which is likely to increase fossil fuel prices, ultimately inflating energy costs for consumers.
EIB Funding to Support Vulnerable Households
Climate Action Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra stated that the €3 billion will be allocated to EU member states to assist households in the transition towards cleaner energy solutions. “The aim is to accelerate the deployment of solutions that reduce energy and transport bills, such as heat pumps and electric vehicle schemes,” he said.
The EIB will provide the funds to member states on the condition that they commit to returning revenue from the Emissions Trading System 2 (ETS2) to the EU’s climate bank. This new funding follows an earlier €4 billion allocated to the Social Climate Fund, bringing the total available to €7 billion before 2028.
Concerns Over Potential Economic Burdens
European lawmakers have voiced concerns that the implementation of the new carbon tax could become a financial burden for citizens. They emphasised the need to showcase positive examples of the transition before the tax takes effect. “It is very important that people see the possibilities before the price kicks in, so that we have good examples everywhere in Europe,” a statement from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) said.
A think tank, EPICO, commented that while EIB’s frontloading is “not a breakthrough”, it may help EU countries prepare for the social impacts of ETS2. “Without sufficient early investment, ETS2 remains politically fragile,” warned EPICO’s executive director, Bernd Weber.
Implementation Delayed Until 2028
The EU’s carbon tax, originally scheduled to implement in 2027, has been postponed to 2028 due to concerns over its social impacts. Countries such as Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic have expressed opposition to the tax’s expansion, arguing that they are unprepared to comply.
Electric mobility advocates have cautioned that delays could lead to continued reliance on more polluting vehicles. They argued that the extra year should be used effectively to ensure a fair and sustainable implementation of ETS2.
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António José Seguro Wins Portuguese Presidential Election on Sunday
9:00 pm
TL:DR – António José Seguro Wins Portuguese Presidential Election on Sunday
• António José Seguro won the Portuguese presidential election on Sunday, securing between 67% and 73% of the vote, as reported by national television stations.
• André Ventura received between 27% and 33% of the votes in the same election.
• Approximately 11 million people were eligible to vote in the election.
• António José Seguro had previously received 31.1% of the vote in the first round, while André Ventura garnered 23.52%.
Centre-left António José Seguro beats far-right rival to Portuguese presidency: exit polls
Two exit polls have indicated a substantial victory for centre-left candidate António José Seguro over his far-right rival André Ventura in the Portuguese presidential election held on Sunday. According to projections from two national television stations, Seguro, aged 63, secured between 67% and 73% of the vote, while the 43-year-old Ventura garnered between 27% and 33%.
This election matters significantly as it reflects the prevailing political sentiments in Portugal, with approximately 11 million people eligible to vote, both domestically and abroad. António José Seguro had been considered the frontrunner against André Ventura, whose Chega party, established in 2019, has become the largest opposition force in the Portuguese parliament.
António José Seguro Secures Victory in Presidential Election
In the first round of the election, António José Seguro received 31.1% of the votes, while André Ventura obtained 23.52%. This result reaffirms Seguro’s status as a leading figure in Portuguese politics.
Exit Polls Show Wide Margin for Seguro
As the election results are still developing, further updates are expected from journalists covering the event.
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Gary Neville sends message to Arsenal after Man City stun Liverpool
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Gary Neville sends message to Arsenal after Man City stun Liverpool | Football
TL;DR – Two-minute read
Manchester City completed a dramatic comeback against Liverpool, winning 2-1 at Anfield on Saturday. Dominik Szoboszlai initially put Liverpool ahead, but Bernardo Silva equalised in the 84th minute, followed by an injury-time penalty from Erling Haaland. This victory left City six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Gary Neville says title race was ‘ten minutes away’ from being ‘done’ before Manchester City’s incredible comeback win over Liverpool. On Saturday, Manchester City, trailing with ten minutes remaining, pulled off a dramatic comeback to defeat Liverpool 2-1 at Anfield, significantly affecting the Premier League title race.
Dominik Szoboszlai had put Liverpool ahead with a powerful free-kick, but Manchester City equalised through Bernardo Silva in the 84th minute. Erling Haaland secured the victory with a penalty deep into injury time after Alisson bundled over Matheus Nunes.
Man City’s Late Surge Preserves Title Hopes
Gary Neville, speaking on Sky Sports, stated, “Well ten minutes ago the title race was done. It was now or never for Man City – it’s now! Sometimes in a title race a team will grab an opportunity, City have grabbed one.” This victory leaves Manchester City six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Former Manchester City goalkeeper Paul Robinson commented on BBC Radio 5 Live, describing the match as “a brilliant game of football” that showcased the excitement of the Premier League. He noted that this significant result could boost City’s confidence as they aim to maintain a competitive edge in the title race.
Controversial Decision Disallows Late Goal
In a dramatic moment, Manchester City thought they had scored again deep into injury time when Rayan Cherki connected with an empty net after Alisson had advanced for a corner. However, the goal was disallowed by VAR due to a foul on Haaland by Szoboszlai before the ball crossed the line, leading to Szoboszlai receiving a red card.
Erling Haaland remarked on the incident, saying, “Of course, the referee had to follow the rules… Just give the goal, don’t give a red card. Simple as that.”
With this surprising victory, Manchester City is now positioned sixth in the Premier League, five points adrift of fourth-placed Manchester United. City will face Fulham on Wednesday evening, while Arsenal, who secured a 2-0 win against Sunderland on Saturday, are set to play against Brentford on Thursday.
Portugal Votes in Second Round of Presidential Election on Sunday
6:00 pm
TL:DR – Portugal Votes in Second Round of Presidential Election on Sunday
• Portugal began voting in the second round of its presidential election on 8 February 2026, with António José Seguro (PS) and André Ventura (Chega).
• Approximately 11 million people are eligible to vote in this election.
• António José Seguro secured 31.1% of the first-round vote, while André Ventura received 23.52%.
• The last time a second round was needed was in 1986.
• Portugal’s president has a largely symbolic role, with significant powers including the ability to dissolve parliament.
Portugal chooses between moderate and a populist candidates in presidential election runoff
Portugal began voting in the second round of its presidential election on Sunday, 8 February 2026, as citizens choose between centre-left Socialist Party candidate António José Seguro and far-right Chega party leader André Ventura. This election is significant as it represents a notable shift in the political landscape, with 11 million eligible voters, both domestically and abroad, participating.
The immediate significance lies in the fact that neither candidate secured the 50% of votes required for a first-round victory, with Seguro receiving 31.1% and Ventura 23.52%. As a result, voters are now determining who will lead Portugal in a nation where political dynamics are increasingly evolving.
Historical Context of the Election
This is the first second round for a presidential election in Portugal in 40 years. The last instance was in 1986, when Socialist Party leader Mário Soares emerged victorious against conservative CDS leader Diogo Freitas do Amaral, marking a significant political turnaround.
Current Political Landscape in Portugal
Political change is underway in Portugal, as André Ventura’s strong performance in the first round reflects Europe’s broader trend towards far-right populism. António José Seguro has positioned himself as a moderate candidate, promising to foster stability and work alongside the current centre-right minority government.
Role of the Portuguese President
The president of Portugal holds a largely symbolic role without executive power, primarily acting as a mediator and defusing political tensions. However, the president is equipped with influential tools, including the ability to veto legislation and dissolve parliament, a power that remains critical in the context of ongoing political instability. The next elected president will succeed centre-right president Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who has completed two five-year terms.
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