December 4, 02:10 PM • 35068 viewsThe 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.
Gold prices fell after Trump delayed the introduction of 50% duties on European goods. Interest in gold as a safe asset has decreased.
The European Commission is working on strengthening sanctions against Russia due to its attacks on Ukraine. It is necessary to increase defense support for Ukraine and increase pressure on the Russian Federation.
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.
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.
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.
The Trump team's frustration is caused by the EU's unwillingness to impose tariffs on Chinese industry. The US wants trade partners to impose sanctions on China.
The European People's Party is criticized for its rightward shift after the elections. Party leader Manfred Weber emphasizes the importance of avoiding the mistakes of the past, such as Adolf Hitler's rise to power. The politician is seeking cooperation with centrist political forces.
The EU has created a SAFE instrument with borrowing of up to €150 billion for investments in defense. Ukraine will receive support through increased military assistance and integration of defense industries.
The EU is working on a new package of sanctions against the Russian Federation, but opportunities are limited due to the position of the US. Without their support, the sanctions may be ineffective, especially on energy resources.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed the 18th package of EU sanctions with Ursula von der Leyen, emphasizing the need to restrict Russian oil and financial schemes. They also coordinated actions after negotiations with Trump.
Talks between Leo XIV and J. D. Vance took place in the Vatican. They discussed cooperation between the Church and the state, issues of religious freedom, and the situation in Ukraine.
Giorgia Meloni met with the US Vice President and the head of the European Commission against the background of trade tensions. Italy is acting as a mediator to restore Western unity.
The US, along with Europe, will strengthen sanctions against Russia if Putin does not conduct peace talks with Ukraine. According to US Treasury Secretary Bessent, Washington's previous sanctions against the Russian Federation have proven ineffective.
Russia Detained the Greek Oil Tanker Green Admire, Which Was En Route from Estonia to Rotterdam. Estonia Has Warned NATO Allies About the Unpredictable Behavior of the Russian Federation.
The President of the European Commission and the Vice President of the United States held a meeting in Rome, discussing trade issues and the situation in Ukraine. They expressed a shared desire for a just and lasting peace.
The President of Ukraine met with EU leaders, thanking them for the preparation of the 17th sanctions package. They discussed increasing pressure on Russia and supporting Ukraine on its path to the EU.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated the need to prepare for a ceasefire in Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and support for Ukraine.
António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen assured of their support for Ukraine and emphasized the strengthening of sanctions against Russia. This is being done to force Putin to negotiate for peace.
The European Union is ready to increase sanctions pressure on Russia to force Putin to negotiate. The new sanctions package will include restrictions against "Nord Stream", shadow fleet vessels and banks.
The British Prime Minister stated that Putin's behavior indicates his disinterest in peace. Allies will continue to work on a ceasefire and new sanctions against Russia.
The European Commission is preparing a new package of sanctions against Russia due to the disruption of the peace initiative. Nord Stream, the shadow fleet and the financial sector are under fire.
The EU court granted the NYT's request regarding the SMS correspondence between the head of the European Commission and Pfizer's management regarding the purchase of the COVID-19 vaccine. The EC could not explain why these messages do not contain important information.
Ursula von der Leyen confirmed the agreement of the 17th package of EU sanctions against Russia. It provides for restrictions on access to battlefield technologies and 189 vessels of the "shadow fleet".
The European Union is discussing how to avoid Hungary blocking negotiations on Ukraine's accession. Brussels is looking for ways to circumvent the veto needed to open and conclude negotiations.
The European Commission is considering changes to sustainability rules to make it easier to attract private investment in the defense industry. This should stimulate arms production in Europe.
The European Union and member states have allocated €140 billion in aid to Ukraine, of which €50 billion is military. European Commissioner Kubilius called for integration instead of a logic of aid.
European allies of Ukraine are considering blocking Nord Stream 2 if Moscow refuses a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the United States. The EU may also double the number of vessels on the sanctions list for transporting Russian oil.
The head of the European Commission supported a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. The EU is ready to impose tough sanctions against Russia in case of violation of the truce.
Dmitry Peskov stated that Trump has influence on Ukraine for negotiations, but Kyiv is not ready. He expressed hope for Trump's mediation for the flexibility of the Kyiv regime.
