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- ‘He’s doing my head in!’ – Wayne Rooney reveals his problem with the United Strand
- MEP Saskia Bricmont criticises EU-US trade agreement as ‘total capitulation’
- Mass Shooting in Canada: Nine Dead, 25 Injured at School and Home
- Emmanuel Macron launches EU common debt debate on 11 February 2026
- EU Releases 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, Highlights Anti-Corruption Stagnation
- European Parliament approves asylum reform allowing transfers to third countries
- European Parliament Approves EU-US Trade Deal Agreement on Tuesday
- West Ham vs Man Utd LIVE: Premier League latest score and confirmed lineups
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
‘He’s doing my head in!’ – Wayne Rooney reveals his problem with the United Strand
10:08 am
‘He’s doing my head in!’ – Wayne Rooney reveals his problem with The United Strand | Football
TL;DR – Two-minute read
Wayne Rooney expressed his frustration with Frank Ilett’s social media challenge involving his uncut hair, stating it distracted from Michael Carrick’s successful management of Manchester United. Meanwhile, Carrick sought to focus on the team’s performance amid the challenge’s growing attention, as they aimed for a fifth consecutive victory against West Ham but settled for a 1-1 draw.
Wayne Rooney has expressed his annoyance with Frank Ilett, the creator of The United Strand on Instagram, stating that the social media challenge focused on Ilett’s uncut hair is “doing his head in”. This critique was made as Manchester United’s interim manager Michael Carrick continues to build momentum following a promising start to his tenure.
Ilett initiated his challenge in October 2024, vowing not to cut his hair until Manchester United secured five consecutive victories in all competitions. The situation worsened as Erik ten Hag was sacked shortly thereafter, leading to further disappointments under his successor Ruben Amorim, who also left the club recently.
United’s performances have improved recently, achieving wins over notable teams such as Manchester City and Arsenal. However, the social media campaign surrounding Ilett has diverted attention from the team’s progress. Rooney commented, “We’re talking about Michael Carrick and Manchester United trying to win their fifth game in a row and the whole thing is about this guy getting his hair cut.”
Despite the distractions, Carrick seems focused, as he indicated that while he is aware of the media buzz, it will not affect the team’s approach. Following a disappointing draw against West Ham, where they missed the opportunity to achieve Ilett’s goal, Carrick’s team remains fourth in the Premier League.
Manchester United will aim to rectify the situation when they face Everton next Monday.
MEP Saskia Bricmont criticises EU-US trade agreement as ‘total capitulation’
10:00 am
TL:DR – MEP Saskia Bricmont criticises EU-US trade agreement as ‘total capitulation’
• MEP Saskia Bricmont characterised the EU-US trade agreement as a “total capitulation” during an interview with Euronews.
• Bricmont is a member of the Greens/EFA group in the European Parliament.
• She advocated for increased investments in the EU and a strategic decoupling from Washington.
• The comments were made during an interview on Euronews’ morning show Europe Today.
'EU-US trade deal is a total capitulation to Trump,' MEP Bricmont says
In an interview with Euronews’ morning show Europe Today on [date], Members of the European Parliament (MEP) Saskia Bricmont of the Greens/European Free Alliance group described the trade agreement between the European Union and the United States as a “total capitulation.” Bricmont urged for increased investments and a decoupling from Washington, highlighting the significance of the agreement in current EU-US relations.
Bricmont’s statements reflect growing concerns within the European Parliament regarding the implications of the trade deal for European sovereignty and economic independence. The call for more investments indicates a desire among some EU lawmakers to seek alternatives that might reduce reliance on the US.
Bricmont’s remarks underscore an ongoing debate in Europe about balancing transatlantic ties while prioritising local economic interests. Further discussions in the European Parliament are expected, as the implications of the trade agreement are scrutinised.
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Mass Shooting in Canada: Nine Dead, 25 Injured at School and Home
7:09 am
TL:DR – “Mass Shooting in Canada: Nine Dead, 25 Injured at School and Home”
- Ten casualties reported in a mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, Canada.
- Six fatalities occurred at the school; one individual died en route to the hospital.
- The shooter, identified as female, was found dead from a self-inflicted injury.
- Around 25 others injured, with two in life-threatening condition.
- Police confirmed links between the school shooting and another at a nearby home.
- The tight-knit community is receiving support and counselling following this tragedy.
Nine killed and 25 injured in mass shooting at a school and home in Canada | News World
Ten people are dead and at least 25 left injured in a mass shooting in a remote town in Canada.
Six people were shot dead in Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and one person died on the way to the hospital.
Two more people were found dead inside a home in Tumbler Ridge, in British Columbia in western Canada.
The shooter – who the police said was described as female – was also found dead inside the school from ‘a self-inflicted injury’.
Six people were shot dead in Tumbler Ridge Secondary School (Picture: Madi Taylor)
Tumbler Ridge is a remote town in British Columbia (Picture: Canadian Press/Shutterstock)
Pupils in the close-knit school described how they barricaded themselves inside their classrooms for two hours during what has become one of the deadliest school shootings in the country’s history.
Police first received a report of an active shooter at 1.20pm local time (9.20pm in the UK).
The emergency alert sent to Tumbler Ridge locals as the shooting unfolded described the suspect as ‘female in a dress with brown hair’.
At least two other people were rushed to hospital with serious or life-threatening injuries.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police say they believe the fatal shooting at the school and home are linked.
Around 100 students and staff were evacuated from the school after officers arrived at the scene.
The alert sent to locals as the shooting unfolded (Picture: Facebook / Matt Neil Hunter)
Tumbler Ridge school is at the heart of a ‘tight-knit’ community (Picture: Google Maps)
Grade 12 (UK Year 13) student Darian Quist said an alarm sounded in the hallways shortly after he got to school.
He told CBC news that he and his classmates ‘got tables and barricaded the doors’ for over two hours until police escorted them out of the building.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was ‘devastated by the shooting’.
He added: ‘My prayers and deepest condolences are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones to these horrific acts of violence.
‘I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed irreversibly today, and in gratitude for the courage and selflessness of the first responders who risked their lives to protect their fellow citizens.’
British Columbia Premier David Eby told reporters: ‘It’s hard to know what to say on a night like tonight. It’s the kind of thing that feels like it happens in other places and not close to home.’
Tumbler Ridge Secondary School has 160 students roughly aged 12 to 18, according to its website.
The school was closed for the rest of the week and counseling will be made available to those in need, school officials said.
Emmanuel Macron launches EU common debt debate on 11 February 2026
7:00 am
TL:DR – Emmanuel Macron launches EU common debt debate on 11 February 2026
• On 11 February 2026, Euronews reported on French President Emmanuel Macron’s debate regarding EU common debt, referred to as eurobonds.
• Saskia Bricmont, a Belgian MEP from the Greens, was interviewed about the topic.
• European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen discussed the concept of a “multi-speed Europe”.
• Eleonora Vasques provided updates on the EU migration debate during the show.
• Shona Murray reported on the US’s absence from the NATO defence ministers’ meeting.
Europe Today: Macron calls for more EU joint debt; Merz pushes back
On 11 February 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron initiated a significant debate regarding European Union common debt, known as eurobonds. This discussion is pertinent as it attempts to address the financial structure within the EU amidst ongoing economic challenges.
The exploration of eurobonds reflects a shift towards a collaborative financial approach within the EU. This move has garnered attention from various EU officials and members of the European Parliament, indicating its importance in current fiscal discussions.
Maria Tadeo Reports from Strasbourg
EU News editor Maria Tadeo provided insights from Strasbourg on the ongoing debate surrounding eurobonds. This conversation signals a pivotal moment in EU financial policy.
Saskia Bricmont Discusses EU Financial Strategies
Saskia Bricmont, a Belgian Member of the European Parliament from the Greens group, was interviewed regarding the implications of this proposed financial structure. Her perspective adds depth to the discussion on shared economic responsibilities among EU member states.
Ursula von der Leyen Explains “Multi-Speed Europe”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen elucidated the concept of a “multi-speed Europe,” suggesting varying levels of integration among member states. This notion is critical in understanding the potential future of economic collaboration in the EU.
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EU Releases 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, Highlights Anti-Corruption Stagnation
2:00 am
TL:DR – EU Releases 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, Highlights Anti-Corruption Stagnation
• Transparency International’s 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, released on 10 February 2026, shows the EU remains the least corrupt region worldwide with a score of 62 out of 100.
• Hungary and Bulgaria rank as the worst-performing EU member states with scores of 40.
• Denmark, Finland, and Sweden are the best-performing EU countries with scores of 89, 88, and 80, respectively.
• The EU adopted its first Anti-Corruption Directive in December 2025, set for adoption in March 2026.
• The directive requires annual publication of EU-wide corruption data and national anti-corruption strategies.
EU remains least corrupt but anti-graft progress stalls, report warns
The European Union has maintained its status as the least corrupt region globally, according to Transparency International’s 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index released on 10 February 2026. However, the organisation noted that anti-corruption efforts have largely stalled over the past decade, which is significant as it highlights the challenges facing EU member states in combating corruption.
The global average corruption score has reached a new low of 42, while the EU’s regional average stands at 62 out of 100. Since 2012, 13 countries in Western Europe and the EU have significantly declined, while only seven have shown significant improvement.
Hungary and Bulgaria’s Low Scores
Hungary and Bulgaria have been ranked as the worst-performing EU member states, with Hungary scoring 40 and Romania at 45. Flora Cresswell, regional advisor for Europe at Transparency International, stated that the erosion of checks and balances in Hungary has created “a melting pot of corruption risks.” She explained that the diminishing framework of accountability is linked to a lack of media freedom, undermined judicial independence, and increased corruption risks in public spending.
Trends in Slovakia and Other EU States
Transparency International observed concerning trends in Slovakia, which scored 48, citing government campaigns against independent whistleblowing agencies that have rolled back the ability to investigate and prosecute corruption. France and Sweden also experienced drops in their scores, attributed to sanctions enforcement challenges and integrity scandals, while the Baltic states saw improvements by implementing effective anti-corruption strategies and enhancing transparency.
EU Anti-Corruption Directive Adoption
In December 2025, the European Union agreed on its first Anti-Corruption Directive aimed at harmonising criminal laws on corruption across member states. This provisional agreement mandates the establishment of EU-wide definitions and sanctions for corruption offences, as well as the annual publication of corruption data. Flora Cresswell noted that the directive is “lacking ambition,” as many critical elements, such as lobbying transparency, are not obligatory. The text is expected to be adopted in March 2026, with member states given two years to transpose the directive.
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European Parliament approves asylum reform allowing transfers to third countries
11:00 pm
TL:DR – European Parliament approves asylum reform allowing transfers to third countries
• On Tuesday, the European Parliament approved a legislative change allowing asylum seekers to be transferred to unrelated countries before claims are processed.
• The change to the Asylum Procedure Regulation (APR) removes the requirement for a link to a transfer country.
• German MEP Lena Düpont stated the change enables EU cooperation with third countries for migration management.
• The change was passed with 396 votes in favour, led by the European People’s Party and right-wing groups, while 226 voted against.
• Concerns were raised about risks for asylum seekers from civil society organisations, including ECRE, regarding their safety in third countries.
• On the same day, the Parliament approved a list of “safe countries of origin,” including Bangladesh and India, to expedite asylum processing.
European Parliament clears way for transferring asylum seekers to unrelated countries
The European Parliament approved on Tuesday a legislative change that allows asylum seekers arriving in the European Union to be transferred to unrelated countries prior to having their claims processed. This change to the “safe third country” concept, as part of the Asylum Procedure Regulation (APR), removes the previous requirement for a link between an applicant and a transfer country, enabling national authorities to relocate individuals to nations they have never visited.
This decision is significant as it facilitates cooperation between EU states and foreign governments to accept migrants from Europe, similar to arrangements made by the previous United Kingdom government with Rwanda. The new regulation states that asylum seekers can be moved to virtually any country, provided there is an agreement in place and the country is deemed “safe” in accordance with international standards.
Regulations and Safeguards for Asylum Seekers
Under the new provisions, the protection of asylum seekers from persecution and serious harm is mandated, alongside respect for the principle of non-refoulement. They will be ensured access to a functioning asylum system, which includes education and work permits as well as residence rights. However, this new regulation will not apply to unaccompanied minors, whose cases will still be processed within European countries or relevant transit countries.
Lena Düpont, a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from Germany and rapporteur of the file, stated, “This vote will allow EU member states to really make use of cooperation with third countries in a different manner than before,” suggesting that the change aligns with international law and could reduce delays in the European asylum system.
Parliamentary Voting and Opposition
The legislative change was approved with 396 votes in favour, 226 against, and 30 abstentions, marking a division within the European Parliament. The European People’s Party (EPP), along with the right-wing European Conservatives (ECR) and far-right Patriots for Europe (PfE) and Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN), supported the bill, while the Socialists and Democrats (S&D) and Renew Europe largely opposed it.
Concerns raised by S&D MEP Cecilia Strada, reported by Euronews, argue that the removal of the connection criterion could lead to the instrumentalisation of asylum seekers by third countries seeking financial agreements. The European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE) has also expressed worries that the legislation may heighten risks for vulnerable demographics, including survivors of violence and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Approval of Safe Countries of Origin List
On the same day, the European Parliament approved the first EU list of “safe countries of origin” for asylum purposes, which includes Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, India, Kosovo, Morocco, and Tunisia, along with all candidate countries for EU membership excluding Ukraine. This new classification aims to expedite the asylum process, allowing for fast-track procedures for applications from nationals of these countries.
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