European Union ambassadors have agreed on a major new defence initiative- an arms fund worth €150 billion to strengthen Europe’s military capabilities.
The fund, proposed by the European Commission in March, is a response to growing fears about Russia and uncertainty over whether the U.S., under President Trump, would continue to protect Europe.
Over the past three years, EU countries have already boosted defence spending by more than 30%, but leaders say more action is needed. The new programme, called Security Action for Europe (SAFE), will support collaborative defence projects across the EU and promote European-made weapons and technologies. To qualify for funding, at least 65% of a project's value must come from companies within the EU, the European Economic Area, or Ukraine.
Countries with Security and Defence Partnership agreements with the EU, such as the UK (which signed an agreement this week), may also qualify under additional conditions. This move opens the door for UK firms like BAE Systems to participate in SAFE-funded projects.
The Commission fast-tracked the legislation, skipping European Parliament approval and requiring only unanimous consent from all 27 EU countries. That consent was secured on Wednesday, with final ministerial approval expected on May 27.
European Council President Antonio Costa praised the decision, calling it a key step toward a more secure and united Europe.
European foreign ministers agreed to increase pressure on Russia by imposing new sanctions targeting its energy and banking sectors amid ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
As G7 leaders prepare to meet, most member states are ready to cut the Russian oil price cap to $45 even without U.S. backing.
The European Union and Britain reached a landmark agreement Wednesday to ease border crossings in Gibraltar, ending years of uncertainty over the territory’s post-Brexit status.
The European Union and India reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration in third countries today, marking the start of a new phase in development cooperation.
Germany has welcomed the rare-earth trade truce between China and the U.S., calling it a positive step that could inspire similar progress in EU-U.S. talks.
Iran launched a fresh wave of missile attacks on Israel early Monday, injuring at least 25 people and triggering nationwide alerts and defence responses.
World leaders are gathering in Calgary for the G7 summit, where the escalating Israel-Iran conflict is set to dominate discussions.
U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered immigration officials to expand deportation operations in major cities, prompting nationwide protests and clashes.
Thousands rallied in Athens to call for the opening of the Rafah border crossing and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to support Greenland, saying the Arctic island is not for sale and warning of growing "predatory ambition" toward the region.
Pakistan will begin its first freight train service to Russia from Lahore on June 22. The route is part of the INSTC and aims to connect Pakistan's rail network with Central Asia, establishing a new trade corridor via Iran, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan.
Israeli strikes have reportedly targeted areas near the residences of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, according to the New York Times, citing local witnesses.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has condemned U.S. immigration raids and National Guard deployment in Los Angeles, calling for reforms instead of enforcement.
The Israeli military has issued an evacuation advisory for Iranian civilians living near weapons production sites and associated infrastructure within Iran. The message was shared on the social media platform X in both Arabic and Farsi by an official military spokesperson.
An Air India flight with 242 passengers on board crashed in Meghaninagar, close to Ahmedabad airport in Gujarat, on Thursday afternoon.
World leaders are gathering in Calgary for the G7 summit, where the escalating Israel-Iran conflict is set to dominate discussions.
U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered immigration officials to expand deportation operations in major cities, prompting nationwide protests and clashes.
Thousands rallied in Athens to call for the opening of the Rafah border crossing and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to support Greenland, saying the Arctic island is not for sale and warning of growing "predatory ambition" toward the region.
George Russell claimed victory at the Canadian Grand Prix, securing Mercedes’ first win of the season in the 10th round of the Formula 1 World Championship.
Iran launched a fresh wave of missile attacks on Israel early Monday, injuring at least 25 people and triggering nationwide alerts and defence responses.
World leaders are gathering in Calgary for the G7 summit, where the escalating Israel-Iran conflict is set to dominate discussions.
U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered immigration officials to expand deportation operations in major cities, prompting nationwide protests and clashes.
Thousands rallied in Athens to call for the opening of the Rafah border crossing and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to support Greenland, saying the Arctic island is not for sale and warning of growing "predatory ambition" toward the region.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment