Browsing: European Commission

Political groups in the European Parliament agreed on the EU-US trade deal, established in July 2025 by US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The deal requires ratification following controversies around tariffs and territorial sovereignty issues.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have called for the European Union to re-engage diplomatically with Russia to influence post-war security discussions. This push has intensified amid debates on appointing a special envoy to streamline communication with the Kremlin.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated the proposed “European preference” aims to prioritise EU-made products in public procurement, essential for enhancing competitiveness and reducing dependency on foreign imports. Industry leaders warn of supply chain disruptions and increased costs.

EU officials have expressed concerns about Spain’s plan to regularise undocumented migrants, stating it could set a precedent for other member states. This development is significant as the EU seeks to manage migration effectively amidst ongoing challenges.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, proposed that countries unable to reach consensus on economic policies should form smaller groups to advance initiatives, ahead of a pivotal summit aimed at strengthening Europe’s economy against US and China pressures.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet French President Emmanuel Macron today amidst increasing discussions on direct talks between Europe and Russia, with Macron recently dispatching diplomat Emmanuel Bonne to Moscow, reflecting a shift in diplomatic strategy.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is allocating €3 billion to assist EU countries in managing expected energy bill increases from the 2028 carbon tax, announced Climate Action Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra. This funding supports vulnerable households transitioning to cleaner energy solutions.

The European Parliament, via François Kalfon, Shadow Rapporteur on military mobility, advocates for EU plans to enhance military logistics with a European preference to prevent foreign ‘kill switches’ in critical infrastructure. This is crucial as the EU aims to reduce military transit times amid increasing geopolitical tensions.

On 2 February, Israel reopened the Rafah crossing into Gaza, marking progress in the US-brokered ceasefire with Hamas, according to Martin Konečný, director of the European Middle East Project. The reopening follows the return of the last Israeli hostage.

The European Commission plans a new round of sanctions against Russia, including a proposed ban on maritime services for vessels carrying Russian oil, as officials consult G7 partners. This development comes as the war nears its fourth year, impacting energy revenues and sanctions enforcement.