European Union

Global temperatures exceed 1.5°C above pre-Industrial levels for the first time

The European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has confirmed 2024 as the first full year in which global temperatures exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. The milestone, driven by human-caused climate change, signals a significant shift in global temperature trends.

EU Council President expresses condolences over AZAL flight

Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg to serve as the country’s interim leader

Alexander Schallenberg will serve as Austria's interim leader after Chancellor Karl Nehammer's resignation, as the far-right Freedom Party begins efforts to form a coalition government.

Romanian president tasks Social Democrat with forming new government

Romania's president to appoint Marcel Ciolacu as PM; new pro-European coalition to tackle budget deficit, tax hikes, and re-run elections after far-right meddling.

EU suspends Georgia’s diplomatic visa-free access

The European Union has made a key decision impacting Georgia's diplomatic relations, introducing changes to previously established agreements. While discussions continue among member states, challenges remain in achieving consensus on broader measures tied to human rights and governance concerns.

EU moves to engage with Syria's new government

The European Union has taken its first step toward direct engagement with Syria's new government. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas announced that the bloc’s top diplomat for Syria will travel to Damascus for talks with the new leadership.

EU halts asylum process for Syrians

Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, several European countries, including Germany, the UK, and those in the Balkans, have suspended Syrian asylum applications. Thousands are left in limbo as governments reassess their policies amid Syria’s uncertain future.

Austria clears path for Romania and Bulgaria in Schengen

Austria has lifted its veto on Romania and Bulgaria’s full Schengen membership, paving the way for EU ministers to finalize their entry this week. This decision follows a significant reduction in illegal border crossings, a result of Austria's immigration demands.

Netherlands extends border controls for six months

The Netherlands has extended its border controls for six months, impacting both land and air travel within the Schengen zone. This move, aimed at reducing illegal immigration, aligns with similar actions taken by neighboring Germany and includes stricter asylum policies to limit migrant inflows.

French farmers protest against Mercosur trade deal in Strasbourg

French farmers gathered in Strasbourg while the EU Parliament is holding a plenary session.

EU commits €200M for Morocco's earthquake recovery, total aid to reach €1B

The European Union has pledged €200 million to assist Morocco with post-earthquake reconstruction, bringing total aid to €1 billion. Despite this support, relations between Morocco and the EU are strained due to a legal dispute over Western Sahara and trade agreements.

EU considers replacing Russian LNG imports with those from the US

The European Union could consider replacing Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports with those from the United States. The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said it would be cheaper to buy it from America.