European Union

The European Commission and the European Central Bank will give their consent for Bulgaria to join the Eurozone. This is expected to happen on January 1, 2026, making the country the 21st member of the currency union.

NEURC simplified the conditions for gas transportation through the Trans-Balkan Corridor. This will allow importing up to 3 million cubic meters of gas per day, strengthening the energy security of the region.

Prime Minister Fico responded to the threats of German Chancellor Merz regarding pressure on Slovakia for its position on Russia. He stated that the country does not need instructions and will defend its interests.

The EU Council has adopted the SAFE program worth €150 billion to stimulate joint procurement in the field of defense. The instrument will allow the bloc to support Ukraine by linking its defense industry with the program.

Ukraine will receive funds for 1. 5 years to purchase weapons, repair equipment and implement defense projects. Funding is provided under the ERA initiative.

Mark Rutte wants to hold a short NATO summit without divisions among members due to Trump and Zelensky. The US may cut support for Ukraine, complicating the situation at the summit.

In April 2025, registrations of new passenger cars in the EU increased by 1. 3%. Hybrids occupied the largest market share – 35%, and electric vehicles showed positive dynamics.

Friedrich Merz stated that the West's efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine have been unsuccessful. He emphasized that Europe should prepare for long-term support for Ukraine.

According to media reports, EU-US talks on combating evasion of sanctions against Russia have failed. An EU special representative announced a break in communications with the American side.

The United Kingdom and the EU are trying to agree on the terms of a defense agreement, despite disagreements over financial contributions and access to the EU defense fund. The security of Europe is at stake.

Friedrich Merz stated that the EU will not allow a minority to block decisions. He emphasized that there are instruments of influence, including the cessation of funding.

Gold prices fell after Trump delayed the introduction of 50% duties on European goods. Interest in gold as a safe asset has decreased.

The IMF mission is completing its work on the review of the EFF program for Ukraine, which envisages a tranche of $500 million. The government expects a positive result and continues reforms.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy will visit Berlin to discuss future technical negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. Friedrich Merz plans to inform about the new package of EU sanctions against Russia.

The Finnish Foreign Ministry demands explanations from russia regarding the alleged violation of the country's airspace by two military aircraft. The incident occurred over the Gulf of Finland, and the border service is conducting an investigation.

For the third day in a row, the Russian Federation has been setting anti-records, bombarding Ukraine with deadly weapons. Yurii Ihnat stated that only strong anti-Russian sanctions aimed at stopping the production of weapons can stop this trend.

In the next two weeks, Russian propagandists will continue to discredit diplomacy. Narratives about the lack of support for Ukraine from the EU and the US and other fables will be spread.

Israel intends to take control of most of the Gaza Strip as part of Operation "Gideon's Chariot. " It is planned to relocate 2 million Palestinians to three areas of the coastal strip.

The EU is preparing the 18th package of sanctions against Russia, but its adoption will be difficult, the Presidential Office suggests. Some EU countries are defending the values of the "Russian world," which complicates consensus.

Kaja Kallas stated about the increase in Russian attacks on Ukraine, emphasizing the need to put pressure on the Russian Federation. The EU is ready to act and hopes for the support of international partners.

Ruslan Stefanchuk stated that Ukraine has high expectations regarding the opening of three clusters of negotiations with the EU already in June. The government has approved roadmaps and handed them over to European colleagues.

Oil prices rose after Trump extended trade talks with the EU. Also, limited progress in talks between the US and Iran reduced concerns about Iranian oil.

Christian Stocker believes that the current EU rules are outdated and contribute to radicalization. Austria is taking measures to limit the right of refugees to family reunification.

Johann Wadephul stated that the West should respond to the latest Russian attacks with additional sanctions. He hopes that this will force Putin to negotiate.

US President Trump has postponed the introduction of a 50% tariff on trade with the EU until July 9, 2025, at the request of Ursula von der Leyen. Negotiations between the EU and the US are to begin in the near future.

The President announced sanctions against individuals involved in financing Russian terrorism, propagandists, and mafia groups. Ukraine is synchronizing sanctions with the EU and other countries.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius allows the Bundeswehr to participate in peacekeeping forces in Ukraine if there is an international mandate and a ceasefire. The decision will be made on collective defense.

German Foreign Minister Baerbock stated that Putin is not interested in peace, therefore additional sanctions are needed. Ursula von der Leyen reported that new restrictions are already in development.

European countries are considering purchasing American weapons for Ukraine if Trump refuses to help. Europe does not have enough weapons and production capacity to meet Ukraine's needs.

According to European Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, the EU seeks to reach an agreement with the US, but on the basis of respect. European politicians have expressed disappointment over possible further tariffs from the US.