
EU Budget Talks Expose Deep Divisions Over Growth, Defense and Taxes
EU leaders remain divided over a nearly €2 trillion budget, proposed spending cuts and new levies on digital services, crypto assets and online gambling.

EU leaders remain divided over a nearly €2 trillion budget, proposed spending cuts and new levies on digital services, crypto assets and online gambling.

Over 8.4 million Ukrainians live abroad amid ongoing conflict, significantly altering the country's demographic and economic landscape and presenting challenges for recovery.

Spain deploys military and faces regional border shifts amid a mass migrant influx into Ceuta, highlighting challenges in migration management and territorial security.

Greece has sharply increased Schengen visa refusals for Russian applicants, with rejection rates up to 70%, disrupting Russian tourism amid new EU security regulations.

Donald Trump proposes the US host a future FIFA World Cup without Canada and Mexico, potentially partnering with China, signaling a strategic shift in international football event hosting.
Former Spanish PM Mariano Rajoy's remarks on the French football team sparked accusations of xenophobia, highlighting political divisions and challenges around national identity in Europe.

Germany announces a record €124.7 billion defense budget for 2026, marking a significant increase amid NATO’s evolving military spending landscape and U.S. pressure.

France joins Italy, Spain, and Hungary in tightening Schengen visa rules for Russian citizens, requiring in-person applications and biometric data to address security concerns.

Kosovo’s Vetëvendosje party wins 43% in early parliamentary elections but must build coalitions amid ongoing political instability and EU integration efforts.

Israel draws sharp criticism from Western allies after its security minister posts a video showing detained pro-Palestinian activists in degrading conditions, raising diplomatic tensions.

President Trump announces a significant reduction of US troops in Germany beyond prior figures, signaling a strategic reorientation of US military presence in Europe.

The US notifies European allies of significant arms shipment delays as it urgently replenishes stockpiles depleted by conflict with Iran, while approving large arms exports to Middle Eastern partners.