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Hungarians will vote on Sunday, 12 April 2026, in pivotal parliamentary elections that could reshape the nation’s relationship with the European Union. Incumbent Prime Minister Viktor Orbán faces off against Péter Magyar, leader of the Tisza party, which advocates for pro-European policies and renewed access to EU funds.

US Vice President JD Vance will visit Hungary on 4-5 April to meet Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and discuss the US-Hungary partnership. This visit comes ahead of Hungary’s general election, following President Trump’s endorsement of Orbán’s conservative agenda earlier this year.

Soaring energy prices and potential supply disruptions are forcing the European Union to balance climate goals with energy affordability. Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen stated the bloc will uphold its green transition, urging nations to invest in renewables despite delayed coal phase-outs in Italy and Germany’s short-term reliance on fossil fuels.

Austria has declined US requests for military overflights since the start of the Iran war, affirming its position of neutrality, as stated by Defence Ministry spokesperson Colonel Michael Bauer. This follows similar refusals from Switzerland and an expanded ban on US military flights in Spain.

Incumbent Toulouse mayor Jean-Luc Moudenc of the conservative Republicans party secured 53.17% of the vote in recent municipal elections. His left-wing rival, François Piquemal, has indicated plans for legal action following alleged foreign interference and disinformation targeting his campaign, which included unfounded claims.

The multinational coalition aims for “the collective mobilisation of our full range of diplomatic and economic tools” to ensure a “safe and sustained opening” of the Strait of Hormuz, as stated by the British foreign secretary.

Hungary has increasingly wielded its veto power within the EU to obstruct decisions on Ukraine aid, sanctions against Russia, and budget matters since 2022. This shift reflects a new strategy, as experts warn the potential for deadlock now threatens the EU’s decision-making efficacy amid geopolitical challenges.

Luxembourg boasts the highest average hourly wage in Europe at €49.7, according to recent Eurostat data. In contrast, Latvia, Romania, and Bulgaria report the lowest rates, under €13. Notably, Bulgaria experienced the fastest salary growth, seeing a 69.4% increase from 2021 to 2025.

French citizens are removing the EU flag from town halls and schools, spurred by a viral post from Carcassonne’s far-right mayor, Christophe Barthès. This act reflects growing Euroscepticism but is not indicative of a widespread movement across France, as legal requirements for flag display remain unclear.

Poland’s Secretary of State at the Energy Ministry, Wojciech Wrochna, emphasised the need for “flexibility” in energy policies, while the European Commission insists that a unified response is essential to address ongoing energy challenges effectively.