An international investigation has revealed that the smuggling of Anguilla anguilla eels is a multi-billion dollar business. Since 2021, almost 4 tons of glass eels have been exported from the EU, and gang members have been arrested.
Slovenia has banned the import, export, and transit of weapons to and from Israel, becoming the first EU country to introduce such restrictions. This decision has symbolic significance due to the almost zero volume of arms trade between the countries.
A study by the "European Movement" showed that only a third of citizens in the largest EU countries consistently support democratic values. 64% of respondents do not rule out the advantages of authoritarian rule, yet almost half support the idea of European defense integration.
According to a Deutsche Bank report, rent for a three-bedroom apartment in European city centers continues to rise, with only five cities having an average cost below 2,000 euros. London is the most expensive city with a rent of 5,088 euros, while Athens is the cheapest at 1,080 euros.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing. They urged China to use its influence on Russia to end its aggressive war against Ukraine, acknowledging that relations between Beijing and Brussels have reached a "watershed moment."
The European Union has concluded an agreement with the United States, under which it will fully pay for military equipment that Washington will send to the EU. A significant part of these weapons will be distributed to Ukraine.
Shipowners and oil traders are distancing themselves from the Indian company Nayara Energy Ltd. after its inclusion in the EU sanctions package. The tanker Talara turned around and left the port of Vadinar without loading fuel, and Nayara began demanding prepayment due to concerns about payments.
The German government expressed disagreement with the European Commission's proposal for the EU budget, which included €100 billion in aid to Ukraine. Berlin considers an increase in the budget unacceptable when member states are consolidating their own budgets.
The European Commission has temporarily suspended its investigation into the social network X for violating digital transparency rules. This decision is related to trade negotiations between the EU and the US to avoid escalating tensions with Washington.
International visitors arrive at the DreamVille campsite at Tomorrowland festival after a fire destroyed the main stage. Organizers confirm the opening of the campsite and welcoming guests, while seeking a solution for the festival weekend.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski expressed optimism about the swift adoption of the 18th EU sanctions package against Russia. This will happen despite public opposition from Slovakia, which blocked it the day before.
Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has resigned and is being considered for the post of Minister of Defense. Yulia Svyrydenko is to head the government, and Mykhailo Fedorov will become the first vice-prime minister.
EU's top diplomat Kaja Kallas stated that Russia is intensifying the use of chemical weapons against Ukraine to force its surrender. At least 9,000 cases of chemical weapon use have been recorded since the start of the full-scale invasion.
The Kremlin considers US President Donald Trump's statements about sanctions against Russia "very serious. " Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated that Moscow is ready to negotiate with Kyiv, but will continue the "special military operation" if there is no response.
US President Donald Trump threatens to impose 30% tariffs on European goods from August 1, which, according to the EU's chief negotiator with the US, Maroš Šefčovič, will "practically ban" transatlantic trade. The EU has postponed the introduction of retaliatory tariffs on American goods until August 1 and is discussing further countermeasures.
Europe is facing a new wave of AI-powered Russian disinformation, doubling bot attacks on email and media. This tests the EU's Digital Services Act, which may become stricter.
EU ambassadors have practically agreed on the 18th package of sanctions against Russia, including a 15% reduction in the price cap for Russian oil. A final agreement is expected before the meeting of foreign ministers in Brussels.
A deal between the EU and US President Donald Trump on threatened tariffs is unlikely to be reached in the coming days, according to Irish Minister Paschal Donohoe. The deadline for the agreement has been moved to August 1, allowing more time for negotiations.
The European Union is considering further financial assistance to Ukraine after 2026. Danish Minister of Economy Stephanie Lose confirmed that this issue will be a priority during Denmark's presidency of the EU Council.
The EU diplomatic service will present member states next week with options for action against Israel in response to human rights violations in the Gaza Strip. Restrictions could include suspending the agreement, sanctions against ministers and military personnel, trade measures, an arms embargo, or suspending scientific cooperation.
The European Union plans to create emergency reserves of critical minerals, including rare earth metals, and cable repair kits. This decision was made amid growing concerns about the EU's vulnerability to attacks and hybrid threats.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated China's readiness to cooperate with France in nuclear energy, aviation, AI, green energy, and biotechnology. Issues concerning Ukraine and the Middle East were also discussed, and China resolved the issue of anti-dumping duties on European cognac.
The United States of America is considering imposing 17% tariffs on agricultural exports from the European Union. European officials are trying to negotiate exemptions for certain goods, including aircraft parts and alcohol.
Today, European Union ambassadors will consider the 18th package of sanctions against Russia. Journalist Rikard Jozwiak notes that there will be no "white smoke" (decision) today.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that Beijing cannot allow Russia to be defeated in the war against Ukraine. He explained this by fears that the US would then fully shift its attention to China.
EU's chief diplomat Kaja Kallas stated that Chinese companies' support for Russia in the war against Ukraine poses a serious threat to European security. She urged China to cease material support for the Russian military-industrial complex and to promote peace in Ukraine.
Budapest is set to host Pride. A record number of participants are expected to protest the Hungarian government's restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights.
Donald Trump announced the suspension of negotiations with Ottawa on tariffs in response to Canada's introduction of a digital services tax on American tech companies. The U.S. will impose tariffs on Canada within seven days.
Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, during an EU meeting in Brussels, stated the importance of not shifting focus from Ukraine. Latvia advocates for the adoption of the 18th package of sanctions against Russia and the blocking of its financial assets.
President of France Macron stated the effectiveness of American strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities such as Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. He also emphasized President Trump's active position on a ceasefire in Gaza.
