European Union

In the first half of 2024, Gazprom's net loss amounted to 480. 64 billion rubles, almost twice as much as in the same period of 2023. At the same time, the company's revenue increased by 7% to RUB 2.9 trillion.

Hungary vetoed the EU's joint statement on the Venezuelan elections, where Maduro was declared the winner. Borrell has independently expressed concerns about shortcomings and irregularities during the vote.

Hungary's Foreign Minister accused the EU of cutting off Russian oil supplies through Ukraine. Hungary is demanding the resumption of transit, which accounts for a third of its oil imports.

Lithuania plans to appeal Hungary's decision to simplify entry for Russian and Belarusian citizens in the EU. The Lithuanian Foreign Minister believes that this poses a threat to the security of the Schengen area.

The Hungarian Foreign Minister suggested that the EU could have asked Ukraine to stop the transit of Lukoil's oil. He accused the European Commission of inaction in protecting the interests of Hungary and Slovakia.

Border guards detained three Sri Lankan citizens who were trying to illegally cross the border from Ukraine to Slovakia. The foreigners were hiding in sunflowers and corn, and were detected using video surveillance and a drone.

Denmark has suspended four years of military cooperation with Georgia due to the EU's decision. The country calls on Georgia to return to the Euro-Atlantic path and to adhere to the EU's reform agenda.

In 11 months, cargo turnover through the Ukrainian sea corridor reached 60 million tons, of which 40. 6 million tons were exported food. Ukraine remains the guarantor of global food security, and export revenues are the basis of financial stability.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó holds phone consultations with his counterparts from Russia and Slovakia over Ukraine's decision to stop the transit of Lukoil's oil. Hungary considers Ukraine's actions a violation of the Association Agreement with the EU.

The European Commission is going to clarify with Hungary the issue of Budapest's simplification of visa procedures for citizens of Belarus and Russia, emphasizing that all instruments should guarantee the security of the EU and the Schengen area.

The European People's Party calls on the EU to take urgent action over Hungary's decision to ease visa restrictions for Russians. This creates security risks and may allow Russians to circumvent restrictions in the Schengen area.

Ukraine's government plans to expand rail and road connections with Poland by opening a new border crossing point, and to set up a commission with Moldova to build a bridge across the Dniester.

According to the CCD NSDC, the enemy is recruiting Ukrainians for sabotage in the rear, including arson attacks on military vehicles. Russia's goal is to create tension in Ukraine and the EU and reduce support for the West.

Hungary has reportedly allowed Russian and Belarusian citizens to obtain a 'national card' to work in the country for 2 years. This has raised concerns in the EU about the possible infiltration of Russian spies.

President of Finland Alexander Stubb outlined four key elements for achieving peace in Ukraine. He emphasized that negotiations do not mean concessions and called on China to influence Russia to end the war.

The government plans to raise the military tax for mobile operators to 5%. Operators consider this a step backwards in terms of accessibility and warn of a possible rise in prices.

George Maloney met with Xi Jinping in Beijing. They discussed bilateral relations, the war in Ukraine, and tensions in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of balanced cooperation.

Slovak Prime Minister Fico announced that diesel supplies to Ukraine might be cut off if Kyiv does not resume transit of Lukoil oil. He offered a technical solution to his Ukrainian counterpart, Shmyhal.

The Czech Defense Ministry is studying Poland's experience in creating the Ukrainian Legion. Defense Minister Jana Černohova announced the possibility of forming a similar volunteer unit for Ukrainians in the Czech Republic.

The Polish Foreign Minister said that Hungary did not receive support at the EU Council meeting. Its position between Moscow and Brussels irritates other members, and the proposal to hold the meeting in Ukraine was vetoed by Hungary.

The EU plans to offer the US a quick trade deal if Trump wins. If he imposes punitive tariffs, the EU is ready to respond with its own duties of up to 50% on American goods.

The wealth manager of Russian oligarch Pyotr Aven has agreed to the confiscation of more than £750,000 in the UK. The money was confiscated from bank accounts following allegations of sanctions evasion.

Penny Pritzker, the U. S. Special Representative for Ukraine's Recovery and Rebuilding, has arrived in Kyiv. Together with American company executives, she aims to help Ukraine build its future, emphasizing the importance of a transparent business environment.

Since the beginning of June 2024, almost 250 tons of honey from Odesa region have been exported to the United States. The honey was inspected and received the necessary documents from the State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection at the state border.

Carsten Linnemann, CDU Secretary General, proposes to abolish financial assistance to Ukrainian refugees who do not work officially. He believes that the current basic income system is unfair and needs to be changed.

Poland's deputy foreign minister suggested that Hungary should withdraw from the EU and NATO and form an alliance with Putin because of its constant criticism of these organizations. He also recalled Hungary's blocking of EU funds for Poland.

The EU's European External Action Service is forced to cut spending by €43 million due to budget overruns. Diplomats are advised to avoid traveling, parties, and to increase security at their residences.

Venezuela is holding presidential elections, where incumbent President Maduro is running against opposition candidate Gonzalez. There are concerns about possible fraud and a limited number of international observers.

Switzerland refused to transfer to Ukraine the profits from frozen russian assets in its banks. This decision is explained by Swiss law and the country's international obligations.

European Parliament President Josep Borrell condemned the rocket attack on the Golan Heights. The attack from Lebanon killed at least 12 young people and injured nearly 20 others.