European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EC supports the opening of the first cluster in negotiations with Ukraine on membership.
Beijing views SCO countries as an "anchor of stability" amid international conflicts. NATO is observing China's reorganization and military buildup.
EU leaders are discussing two options: concluding a quick trade agreement or a tough response to Trump's threats of 50% tariffs on all goods from the EU. A decision must be made by July 9, when the “grace” period expires.
Romanian President Nicușor Dan announced that the European Union will open the first cluster of accession talks with Moldova on July 4. This event will take place during the "EU – Moldova" summit in Chisinau, starting with the "Fundamental Values" cluster.
Leaders of 26 EU countries will note the success of Ukraine's reforms on the path to accession/ Hungary is against, citing its "referendum" and alleged integration of the war.
The EU is concerned that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will veto the start of EU accession talks with Ukraine, citing the results of "consultations. " The European Commission is looking for ways to bypass unanimity to resolve this issue.
The Minister for European Affairs of Poland, Adam Szłapka, assessed the progress at the EU summit regarding the sanctions package against Russia and defense funding. Slovakia and Hungary oppose new sanctions, while Sweden hopes for agreements.
Slovakia will not support the new EU sanctions package against Russia due to unresolved gas supply issues after 2027. Prime Minister Robert Fico demands a postponement of the vote, which could lead to a deficit and losses of up to 20 billion euros.
The European Union summit starts today in Brussels, where key topics include the war in Ukraine, strengthening defense capabilities, and competitiveness. EU leaders will discuss further support for Ukraine, its path to EU membership, pressure on Russia, and efforts to achieve peace.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen faces a vote of no confidence over "Pfizergate" and other accusations. Far-right MEPs are trying to initiate a vote, but the chances of success are low due to the need for majority support.
The European Commission has presented the EU Space Law, aimed at improving the competitiveness of the European space sector, its security and sustainable development. The document unifies space regulations and aims to reduce bureaucracy.
The European Union will not lower the price cap on Russian oil due to the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East. The proposal to lower the price from $60 to $45 per barrel has been postponed due to market instability.
EU countries have agreed to increase the European Investment Bank's annual lending limit to €100 billion and triple financing for the defense industry. The bank also plans to invest €70 billion in technological innovation and renewable energy sources.
Nearly 4. 3 million Ukrainians have received temporary protection in EU countries as of the end of January 2025. The largest number of Ukrainians are in Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic, where their numbers are increasing.
Apple and Meta will not face immediate sanctions for non-compliance with EU digital rules. Financial penalties will only be applied after prior analysis, not automatically, after a sixty-day grace period.
The European Union plans to keep Russian assets worth €210 billion frozen until the end of 2025. Profits from these assets will be directed towards supporting Ukraine, particularly its defense industry and energy sector recovery.
The administrative court of Paris overturned the requirement for EU porn sites to verify users' ages. The French government will contest this decision, believing it followed a legal procedure.
Ukraine will need to agree to many compromises for accession to the European Union, which could positively affect citizens. In particular, the transport sector will face changes to European standards, but the language issue for the Hungarian minority may not be as difficult.
The European Union is developing a scheme to increase profits from almost €200 billion in frozen Russian assets by moving them into riskier investments. This will ensure long-term support for Ukraine.
The European Parliament and the Council of the EU have agreed on a reform of the visa-free suspension mechanism. Israel and Serbia are the first at risk due to accusations of human rights violations.
The European Commission believes that AliExpress does not take into account the risks of spreading illegal content. The company does not apply policies to sellers who sell illegal goods.
92-year-old Étienne Davignon is accused of involvement in the murder of Patrice Lumumba in 1961. The hearing is scheduled for January 2026, and relatives are demanding the truth.
The European Commission is proposing measures to accelerate investment and production in defense. This should make the EU more prepared for security challenges and reduce bureaucracy.
Ukrainians will be able to use mobile communications in the EU without additional costs from January 1, 2026. The agreement between EU and Ukrainian operators will also be extended until the end of 2025.
During the G7 summit, Ursula von der Leyen criticized China for undermining global trade through subsidies to companies. She called on G7 countries to combat China's dominance in the raw materials sector.
The European Commission has officially proposed a plan for the gradual cessation of importing Russian gas and oil into the EU by the end of 2027. This is expected to increase the Union's energy independence and competitiveness.
The European Commission plans to legislate a ban on imports of Russian gas and LNG by the end of 2027. New contracts will be prohibited from 2026, and long-term contracts from 2028.
A G7 summit is taking place in the Canadian province of Alberta. European leaders are already on the ground, and Trump's plane has also landed. An informal meeting of G7 leaders has taken place.
A "Unity Center" for Ukrainians will be created in Prague, where consultations on housing, work and legal status will be provided. The center will promote integration and voluntary return to Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa called on Trump to end the trade war. They stressed the importance of avoiding protectionist measures.