Browsing: Brussels

The US government has condemned the European Commission’s €890 million fine against Google for violating the Digital Markets Act, asserting it jeopardises the EU-US trade deal. Washington claims the sanction targets American firms unfairly and warns of escalating trade tensions with Europe.

The European Commission is poised to announce a substantial fine against Google, potentially exceeding one billion euros, under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This decision follows investigations into allegations of market power abuse, including the promotion of its own services and restrictions on app developers outside its platform.

Around 6,000 members of Italy’s armed forces and security services marched in Rome, demanding higher pay and improved pensions. The rally, organised by defence unions, followed the government’s recent collective agreement, which many unions rejected for not adequately addressing their concerns, resulting in calls for further reforms and protections.

German MEP Engin Eroglu warned that restricting Chinese access to the EU market could destabilise China’s export-driven economy. With an unprecedented €1 billion deficit in 2026, the European Commission plans unilateral measures, including tariffs and quotas, to protect industries from the surge of low-cost imports.

The European Commission has submitted a list of EU products to the US, seeking exemptions from the 15 per cent tariffs established under the 2025 trade deal. Key items include Roquefort cheese, olive oil, and machinery, representing approximately €150 billion in exports.

Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed that Spain’s sovereignty claim over Gibraltar remains intact following the signing of a Brexit-related agreement with the UK in Brussels. The deal, which includes the removal of the border fence, is viewed as a step forward for cooperation and coexistence between Gibraltar and Spain.

Former MP Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her Dartmoor home, sustaining serious head injuries. The 78-year-old was discovered in her kitchen after failing to respond to a scheduled Zoom call. A 26-year-old man was briefly arrested but released, with police stating the investigation continues.

EU finance ministers convened in Brussels to deliberate on Spain’s proposal for a new joint borrowing mechanism, potentially allowing up to €850 billion annually. ECB President Christine Lagarde supports the initiative, emphasising its importance for economic stability amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.

US President Donald Trump has revived annexationist rhetoric regarding Greenland, prompting renewed scrutiny. In Brussels, ambassadors express disagreement over strategies for Serbia, while a controversial letter concerning FIFA gains traction in the European Parliament, highlighting ongoing tensions within EU governance.

Belgian football fans have voiced strong criticism of FIFA’s reversal of the suspension for US striker Folarin Balogun before the World Cup round-of-16 match against Belgium. Supporters in Brussels expressed concerns over fairness, insisting that a red card should apply universally, irrespective of external influence.