Europe News Live: Germany defeats Poland 2-0 in Women's Euro 2025 opener

An early summer heatwave is impacting much of Europe, with temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius in Budapest, leading to significant disruptions in river transport, according to a report in The Independent. The extreme heat has caused water levels on the Danube River to drop, forcing cargo ships to reduce their loads to avoid running aground. This situation is creating challenges for supply chains that depend on the major waterway for transporting goods across the continent.

Germany defeated Poland 2-0 in their opening game of the Women's European Championship in St. Gallen, Switzerland, on Friday, AP says in a report. Jule Brand was pivotal for the eight-time champions, scoring the opening goal in the 52nd minute after cutting inside two defenders. Brand then set up the second goal, securing the win for Germany against a Polish team making its debut in the tournament.

European Central Bank officials gathered in Portugal this week to address Europe's economic competitiveness in relation to the United States and China, according to a report in The New York Times. The discussions focused on developing strategies to counter challenges posed by foreign industrial policies, such as the US Inflation Reduction Act, and to bolster the continent's economic resilience. The meeting centered on ways to attract investment, foster innovation, and improve the overall business environment within the Eurozone to better compete on a global scale.

Pope Francis is returning to the traditional papal summer residence in the Italian town of Castel Gandolfo, reversing his earlier decision to forgo the retreat, The New York Times says in a report. The move marks a return to a 400-year-old custom where popes would escape the Roman summer at the hilltop residence. Pope Francis had previously broken with this tradition, and his absence reportedly had an economic and symbolic impact on the local town, which historically benefited from the papal presence.

European lawmakers have approved a new set of animal welfare laws aimed at protecting cats and dogs across the Union, according to a report in The Local. The new rules mandate compulsory microchipping for both cats and dogs to improve traceability and combat the illegal pet trade. Additionally, the legislation introduces a ban on non-medical, cosmetic mutilations, specifically prohibiting practices like ear-cropping and tail-docking.

The European Union is pushing for all households within the 27-nation bloc to assemble a three-day emergency supply kit in preparation for potential crises, according to a report in The Local. The recommendation is a response to a range of potential emergencies, including conflicts and natural disasters. Suggested items for the survival kit include essentials such as bottled water, non-perishable food like energy bars, a flashlight, and other basic survival tools.

The number of babies born in the European Union fell by 5.4 percent to 3.67 million in 2023, the largest decline in decades, according to a report in The Local. Official data released Friday underscores the bloc's ongoing demographic challenges as the birth rate continues to drop.

Public support in Sweden for replacing the national currency, the krona, with the euro is at its highest level in 15 years, according to a report in The Local. A survey from Gothenburg University's SOM Institute indicates a significant shift in sentiment. While Sweden is an EU member, it has historically remained outside the Eurozone by not meeting all convergence criteria, effectively providing an opt-out.

The European Union has enabled member states to establish migrant return centers in countries outside the bloc, a controversial policy aimed at facilitating deportations, according to a report in The Local. The move on Tuesday provides a framework for EU nations to create these hubs following sustained pressure from member governments seeking to expedite the return of migrants who do not qualify for asylum.

The UK and the European Union have reached a new agreement to establish closer ties on defence and trade, aiming to improve post-Brexit relations, according to a report in The Local. The deal marks a significant development in the relationship between the two sides following the UK's departure from the bloc. The agreement focuses specifically on enhancing cooperation in the areas of trade and mutual defence.

The EU Council has reached an agreement to change air passenger rights, which would lead to lower compensation for flight delays and cancellations across Europe, The Local said in a report. The proposal involves raising the thresholds, such as the minimum length of a delay, before passengers are entitled to financial compensation from airlines. This decision is part of a broader review of the existing EU Regulation EC 261/2004. For the changes to become law, the proposal must now be negotiated with the European Parliament, which may seek to amend or reject the Council's position.

The European Union's highest court has ruled that 'golden passport' schemes for wealthy foreign investors violate EU law, according to a report in The Local. The decision from the European Court of Justice was the result of a legal challenge brought by the European Commission against Malta. The court found that granting citizenship without a 'genuine link' to the member state undermines the principles of EU citizenship and the sincere cooperation required among member states. This ruling effectively outlaws the practice, which the Commission has long argued poses risks related to security, money laundering, and tax evasion for the entire bloc.

Switzerland has officially announced its interest in forging a security and defence partnership with the European Union, The Local said in a report. The Swiss government stated that such a collaboration would aim to strengthen its defence capabilities in response to the changed security environment in Europe. Officials emphasized that any potential agreement would be structured to respect and maintain Switzerland's traditional policy of military neutrality.

The head of Lithuania's central bank has called for the European Union to issue joint debt to fund a major increase in defense capabilities across the bloc, Politico says in a report. The proposal, made in response to heightened security threats in Eastern Europe, suggests a collective financing mechanism modeled on the EU's post-pandemic NextGenerationEU recovery fund. This approach aims to help member states meet spending targets and bolster the EU's strategic autonomy, though it is expected to face resistance from fiscally conservative nations concerned about shared financial liability.

Spanish club Real Madrid will face German club Borussia Dortmund in the quarterfinals of the FIFA Club World Cup, Al Jazeera said in a report. The match features two prominent European teams competing on the global stage in the tournament. The report provides team news and start time information for the quarterfinal fixture.

The Council of Europe's human rights commissioner, Michael O’Flaherty, expressed concern on Friday over reports that Serbian authorities are using excessive force and arbitrary detentions to break up street protests, AP said in a report. In a statement, O’Flaherty emphasized that freedom of assembly and expression are fundamental rights guaranteed by the European Convention on Human Rights, which Serbia has a duty to uphold. He noted he is concerned about the current human rights situation in the country.

The Welsh women's national football team marked a historic milestone on Friday by holding its first-ever press conference at a major tournament, the Euro 2025 in Lucerne, Switzerland, as per a report in AP. Wales coach Rhian Wilkinson and midfielder Angharad James were present for the celebratory moment, which was announced by the team's press officer and met with applause and cheers from journalists. Wilkinson, a former player for Canada, and James both laughed and clapped to mark the occasion before the press conference began.

Automotive manufacturer Stellantis has issued a recall for more than 600,000 of its vehicles throughout Europe due to an identified engine problem, according to a report in The Independent. The company announced it will cover 100 percent of the costs for both the parts and labor required to rectify the issue for all affected vehicle owners.

Germany captain Giulia Gwinn was forced to leave the field with an injury during the first half of the team's Women's European Championship opener against Poland in St. Gallen, Switzerland, as per a report in AP. The Bayern Munich winger received treatment after a tackle while stopping Poland's Ewa Pajor. Despite initially indicating she could continue, Gwinn went down again shortly after and was replaced by Carlotta Wamser in the 40th minute.

France's women's national team will be without captain Griedge Mbock for their Euro 2025 opening match against England due to a calf injury, according to a report in AP. Coach Laurent Bonadei confirmed on Friday that the Paris Saint-Germain defender has been ruled out of the match in Zurich to avoid any risks. Mbock had been struggling with the injury and trained separately from the team on Thursday ahead of the tournament opener.

Ismail Abdo, the leader of the Rumba crime gang, has been arrested in Turkey, BBC says in a report. Abdo is described as a central figure in a violent and escalating turf war with a rival gang in Sweden, which has seen a surge in bombings and shootings. The ongoing gang violence has become a major domestic political issue in Sweden, prompting calls for increased international law enforcement cooperation.

Heat-related deaths at work in the European Union have increased by 42% since the year 2000, Euronews says in a report. Citing this statistic, the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) is calling for the implementation of new, common EU-wide legislation to protect the health and safety of workers during heatwaves. The trade union's demand highlights the growing risks posed by extreme temperatures in the workplace and seeks to establish a harmonized standard of protection across all member states.

A dramatic and rare 'roll cloud' was observed along the central coast of Portugal, prompting beachgoers to flee the area, as per a report in The New York Times. The low, horizontal, tube-shaped cloud appeared during a weeklong heatwave that has been affecting the country.

Unusually high pollen levels are being reported across Europe, causing hay fever symptoms in a growing number of people, including those who have never previously had allergies, according to a report in The Telegraph. The severity of the current pollen season is such that it is triggering allergic reactions in individuals who were previously asymptomatic. This phenomenon is placing an increased burden on public health systems as more people seek treatment for symptoms.

A research paper has concluded that the United Kingdom's record increase in net migration figures is a result of its departure from the European Union, as per a report in The Telegraph. The research claims a direct link between the UK leaving the bloc and the subsequent rise in migration.

The British Royal Navy has tracked a second Russian warship as it passed through the English Channel within a week, according to a report in The Telegraph. A UK warship and helicopters monitored the Russian vessel's transit. A Navy spokesman stated that "powerful sensors and systems" were utilized to "watch every move" of the ship.

A record heatwave is affecting Europe, causing temperatures at the summit of Mont Blanc to go above freezing, according to a report in The Telegraph. The heatwave is continuing to break records across the continent, with further temperature increases forecasted for countries including France, Germany, and Italy.

Under a new post-Brexit agreement, Spanish authorities will be granted the power to carry out border checks on individuals moving into the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar, The Telegraph says in a report. This arrangement means that movement into Gibraltar will be subject to Schengen area rules, with Spanish officials managing the checks. The deal, which aims to avoid a hard border, is a specific agreement for Gibraltar and is separate from the main UK-EU trade agreement that followed the UK's departure from the European Union.

A key political ally of Marine Le Pen in France has become embroiled in a racism scandal, threatening the far-right Rassemblement National (RN) party's long-standing strategy to improve its public image, Politico says in a report. The incident directly challenges the party's "de-demonization" campaign, which aims to distance the RN from its more extreme historical roots and appeal to a broader electorate. This development tests the party's ability to maintain its moderated public stance and provides new criticism for political opponents.

The European Union is planning a major overhaul of its health laws to be delivered in 2025, a move intended to strengthen the bloc's crisis preparedness and build a more robust European Health Union, according to a report in Politico. The initiative is largely a response to vulnerabilities exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to improve coordination, secure supply chains for medicines, and update legal frameworks for new technologies. While the report links EU Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi to the effort, his official portfolio is Neighbourhood and Enlargement, with health policy typically falling under the responsibility of the Health Commissioner. Any new legislation would require approval from both the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union.

The European Union has initiated measures to assist Moldova in defending its digital infrastructure against cyberattacks attributed to Russia, Politico says in a report. This move comes as Moldova, a candidate for EU membership, faces increasing pressure and destabilization efforts, including sophisticated hacking campaigns targeting government and critical infrastructure. The EU's support is aimed at bolstering Moldova's cybersecurity capabilities and resilience in the face of these ongoing digital threats.

Locally-acquired cases of the mosquito-borne virus chikungunya have been reported in popular holiday destinations in the South of France, according to a report in The Telegraph. Most of the cases appear to be clustered around the towns of Toulon and Saint-Tropez, which are near Marseille.

Friedrich Merz, the leader of Germany's main opposition party, the CDU, is urging the EU to conclude a trade agreement with the United States "within days," as per a report in Politico. This call for a rapid deal has prompted apprehension among EU officials, who are concerned that prioritizing speed could result in an unfavorable agreement that undermines European standards or economic interests. Merz's statement reflects his party's pro-business stance but comes from an opposition perspective, as the European Commission holds the mandate to negotiate trade deals on behalf of all 27 member states, a process that is typically complex and lengthy.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier stated that Berlin should “avoid testing” international law in relation to potential International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Politico says in a report. The statement from Germany's head of state highlights the ongoing debate within the country about balancing its historical commitment to Israel's security with its obligations to uphold international legal frameworks. This discussion follows the ICC prosecutor's application in May 2024 for arrest warrants against Israeli and Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government is pursuing a 'law and order' agenda with proposals for tougher sentencing that would lead to a higher prison population, according to a report in Politico. This policy push directly confronts Italy's chronic and severe prison overcrowding, a systemic issue that has resulted in repeated condemnations from the European Court of Human Rights for inhumane conditions. The government's platform aims to fulfill campaign promises on security, but faces the significant challenge of an already strained penitentiary system operating at a critical capacity.

An estimated 10% of Ukraine's military personnel are from the LGBTQ+ community, serving on the front lines despite facing a lack of legal equality in their home country, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. While social tolerance is reportedly improving, Ukraine does not yet legally recognize civil partnerships or offer comprehensive anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Many of these soldiers are motivated by the hope that their visible service and sacrifice will help accelerate legal and social reforms, particularly as Ukraine seeks to align with European Union human rights standards for its membership bid.

Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico is expected to survive after being shot five times in an attack that officials have described as a politically motivated assassination attempt, as per a report in CNN. The incident occurs amid a period of intense political polarization in Slovakia, which has heightened since Fico's government returned to power in 2023. His administration has pursued controversial reforms and shifted the country's foreign policy, notably by halting state military aid to Ukraine.

UEFA, the governing body for European football, has fined Chelsea a total of €31 million ($36.5 million) and Barcelona €15 million ($17.7 million) for breaking its financial monitoring rules, AP said in a report. The penalty against Chelsea is a record sum for a European club sanctioned in a single season. Both clubs were penalized over their financial accounts, with Barcelona specifically cited for reporting excessive losses under UEFA's regulations, which are designed to promote financial stability among clubs participating in European competitions.

A video review lasting over four minutes was required to decide against awarding a penalty to Denmark in their Women's European Championship game against Sweden on Friday, according to a report in AP. The referee, Edina Alves, reviewed the incident on a fieldside monitor amid jeers from the crowd before ultimately awarding a free kick to Sweden. Play resumed in the 11th minute, approximately five minutes after the initial incident occurred.

The 112th edition of the Tour de France is set to take place entirely within France, a departure from recent years, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. This marks the first time in five years that the prestigious cycling race will not include stages in neighboring European countries. The decision for an exclusively French route comes after several editions featured international segments, a common practice that often highlights cross-border cooperation.

An estimated 10% of soldiers in the Ukrainian armed forces identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, serving in the military despite a lack of legal equality in the country, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. While social tolerance towards the community is reportedly improving, Ukraine has not yet passed legislation to legally recognize same-sex partnerships, such as civil unions or marriage. Furthermore, comprehensive anti-discrimination and hate crime laws that explicitly protect individuals based on sexual orientation and gender identity are not yet in place, though legislative efforts on issues like civil partnerships are ongoing.

Germany's government is calling for a summit with other European nations to discuss stricter asylum and migration rules, according to a report in Politico. The initiative signals a potential shift in Germany's approach to migration and aims to build a consensus for tougher policies across the continent. This move comes amid ongoing EU-wide negotiations on its asylum framework and follows increased irregular migration and intensified domestic political debate on the issue in Germany and other member states.

Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain are set to compete against German club Bayern Munich in the quarterfinals of the FIFA Club World Cup, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The match features two of Europe's most prominent football teams in the global tournament.

The United States has threatened to impose a 17% tariff on food exports from the European Union, delivering the warning to the EU's trade commissioner during meetings in Washington, according to a report in the Financial Times. The potential tariff represents a significant escalation in ongoing transatlantic trade disputes. Such a high tariff could severely impact the EU's agricultural sector by making its food products uncompetitive in the US market, potentially leading to a loss of market share and revenue for European producers.

Hungary's former Justice Minister, Judit Varga, has publicly accused her ex-husband, opposition leader Péter Magyar, of "betrayal" and stated she will not return to public life until he pays for his actions, according to a report in Euronews. Breaking her silence amid a heated political campaign, Varga's statement targets Magyar, a former government insider who has recently gained significant support as a critic of the ruling Fidesz party. Varga resigned from her ministerial post in early 2024 following a political scandal.

EU Ombudswoman Teresa Anjinho, who began her five-year mandate in February, stated her goal is to make her office the "reference point for integrity issues," according to a report in France 24. The independent office, established in the early 1990s, investigates complaints about poor administration by EU institutions and bodies. Anjinho's priorities include enhancing transparency and access to documents, particularly in response to recent scandals such as "Pfizergate," "Qatargate," and "Huaweigate."

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has told unauthorized far-right vigilante groups patrolling the Polish-German border to go home, as per a report in Politico. The move is part of an effort by Tusk's government to reassert state control over the nation's borders amid pressure from irregular migration. These self-proclaimed 'patriot' groups, driven by anti-immigrant views, have been conducting their own patrols, challenging state authority. Tusk's action comes as he also navigates the complexities of his broad and diverse governing coalition.

For the first time, Poland generated more electricity from renewable sources than from coal over a full month, a significant milestone for the country's energy transition, according to a report in Euronews. This development occurred even as the country's consumption of oil and gas has risen, offsetting some of the climate benefits from reduced coal use. Despite this progress in the power sector, Poland remains one of the European Union's highest-emitting economies.

The European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, is preparing a paper with five potential options for action against Israel concerning the situation in Gaza, according to a report in Euronews. This follows a mandate from the 27 EU leaders at their Council summit last week, who requested a follow-up to address concerns over what the EU has termed "Israeli human rights breaches." The proposed options are intended to provide the EU with a range of possible responses should the humanitarian situation in Gaza not improve.

Italian oil company Eni is facing accusations from environmental groups of using defamation lawsuits as an intimidation tactic to silence critics, according to a report in The Guardian. The company has reportedly filed at least six defamation suits against journalists and NGOs since 2019. In a recent development, Eni initiated criminal defamation proceedings against Antonio Tricarico, the director of the Italian environmental NGO ReCommon, over statements he made in a television interview, an action that followed a legal challenge Tricarico's organization had filed against the oil firm.

England's preparations to defend its Women's European Championship title have received a boost as manager Sarina Wiegman hinted that key player Lauren James could start the opening match against France on Saturday, AP says in a report. James, who had been a doubt for the tournament, returned to action for the first time since April by playing as a substitute in a pre-tournament friendly. Wiegman's comments suggest the player is nearing full fitness ahead of the Euro 2025 kick-off.

The 59th edition of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Czech Republic began Friday, honoring American actor Peter Sarsgaard and Luxembourgish actress Vicky Krieps with the Festival President’s Award, as per a report in AP. As part of the tribute, the festival will screen the 2003 film “Shattered Glass,” for which Sarsgaard received a Golden Globe nomination. Krieps is also being honored for her work, which includes a European Film Award for best actress.

The parent company of Nigeria's Guaranty Trust, the nation's most valuable bank, plans a secondary listing in London to seek international capital, according to a report in the Financial Times. The move is intended to allow the bank to access a deeper pool of international capital amid foreign exchange scarcity challenges in Nigeria. This development occurs as the UK continues its post-Brexit 'Global Britain' strategy and competes with EU financial hubs for international business.

A severe heatwave in Eastern Europe is causing widespread issues, including straining electricity systems as residents increase their use of air conditioning, according to a report in The New York Times. The exceptionally high temperatures have also been linked to fires and significant fish deaths in the region. These environmental and infrastructure challenges are occurring amid pre-existing social grievances, with the heatwave reportedly fueling tensions over protests. Many residents lack access to air conditioning, highlighting socio-economic disparities in the face of the extreme weather.

A study commissioned by the Dutch government found that national guidelines recommending a ban on smartphones in schools have led to an improved learning environment, according to a report in The Guardian. The guidelines, introduced in January 2024, have been adopted by nearly all schools, with students reportedly being more focused and having better social interactions. Most secondary schools require pupils to leave phones at home or in lockers, while some collect them at the beginning of lessons.

Current Arsenal footballer Thomas Partey has been charged by London police with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, Al Jazeera said in a report.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on governments globally, including those across Europe, to implement or increase taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks, according to a report in Euronews. The international health body estimates that such tax hikes could prevent as many as 50 million premature deaths worldwide over the next half-century.

Greece has passed a wide-reaching law that introduces potential jail time for selling alcohol or tobacco to minors, according to a report in Euronews. The legislation, which defines minors as individuals under 18, applies to all types of vendors, including supermarkets, kiosks, and bars. The new penalties, which can also include significant fines and license revocation, represent a substantial escalation from previous measures that were considered insufficient deterrents. This move aligns with broader EU public health initiatives aimed at protecting young people from harmful substances.

A significant power outage has affected parts of the Czech Republic, including the capital, Prague, causing a shutdown of the city's metro and tram systems, according to a report in Euronews. The widespread outage has also impacted train services. Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has stated that authorities are actively investigating the cause of the disruption, which remains unknown.

Eurostar will now permit passengers to board trains at London's St Pancras station 30 minutes earlier than previously allowed in an effort to manage overcrowding, Euronews says in a report. The change is part of a broader strategy to increase capacity at the international terminal amid increased demand for international rail travel.

More than a dozen EU countries and a European Parliament committee have urged the European Commission not to withdraw a proposed bill aimed at strengthening equal treatment at work, as per a report in Politico. The pushback comes as the Commission considers axing the legislation, a move that aligns with its 'better regulation' agenda to reduce administrative burdens. The situation highlights tensions between the EU's main institutions, with the Parliament and a significant group of member states in the Council opposing a potential unilateral decision by the Commission to scrap the proposal.

A new study examining the economic toll of climate-related events in Europe since 1980 has found that Germany, Italy, France, and Spain have suffered the highest financial losses from natural hazards during the 21st century, according to a report in Euronews. The findings were highlighted as another heatwave currently impacts the continent, underscoring the significant economic consequences of such extreme weather phenomena.

NATO's new chief of military operations has asserted that current threats are "no match" for the alliance's strength, according to a report in Euronews. The statement from the new Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) aims to project unity and confidence amid heightened security challenges, including the ongoing war in Ukraine. The SACEUR is responsible for all NATO military operations, a position historically held by a US general since 1951, and the declaration comes as many European members increase their defense spending.

Lewis Hamilton led Lando Norris during Friday practice for the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, where high expectations are fueling hopes for a breakthrough home victory for Norris, AP says in a report. Large crowds of fans, many wearing McLaren's orange colors and Norris's signature yellow, gathered at the newly designated 'Landostand' at the Stowe corner to watch the session.

German opposition leader Friedrich Merz plans to travel to the United Kingdom later this month to sign a wide-ranging pact between the two nations, as per a report in Politico. The trip is intended to seal the new Anglo-German treaty, which is described as a comprehensive agreement.

Major European stock markets fell in early trading on Friday amid concerns over an approaching US tariff deadline set by President Donald Trump, according to a report in AP. Germany's DAX declined by 0.8%, the CAC 40 in Paris dropped 1.1%, and Britain's FTSE 100 was down 0.4%. The downturn in European markets occurred as the clock ticks on a July 9 tariff deadline, even as US stocks had recently climbed to record heights.

As Denmark assumes the six-month rotating presidency of the EU Council from Poland, it is breaking with a recent informal tradition by opting not to release a national Spotify playlist, according to a report in Euronews. The move to pause what has been described as a tradition by some marks a stylistic shift for the presidency. Each member state sets its own style and agenda during its term at the helm of the Council, with this decision reflecting Denmark's pragmatic approach.

French gendarmes were seen using knives to slash a small inflatable boat packed with men, women, and children on a beach in France, preventing its departure for the UK, as per a report in BBC. The incident, witnessed by a journalist, is part of ongoing enforcement efforts by French authorities to prevent migrant crossings in the English Channel.

Amid widespread speculation about his health, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov has been noticeably absent from public view, The New York Times said in a report. This has led to the Russian region bracing for a potential succession, as the Kremlin-allied leader has simultaneously been seen grooming his teenage son for a future role. Kadyrov's potential incapacitation raises questions about the future stability of Chechnya, a region he has ruled with significant autonomy under an arrangement with Moscow.

Russia has significantly increased its use of banned chemical weapons in Ukraine, according to European intelligence assessments cited in a Politico report. The warning was amplified by Dutch defense chief General Onno Eichelsheim, who accused the Kremlin of a 'normalized and widespread' deployment of the banned armaments. The use of such weapons in warfare is a violation of the international Chemical Weapons Convention, to which Russia is a signatory.

French President Emmanuel Macron intends to introduce a new law that would increase the culling of wolves in the country, Politico says in a report. The proposal comes after the European Union recently downgraded the wolf's protection status from 'strictly protected' to 'protected,' which allows member states more flexibility to manage wolf populations. The planned French legislation is a response to demands from farmers for greater ability to kill animals that threaten their herds.

The European Parliament will explore a legislative proposal to ban Russian gas imports by an accelerated deadline of 2026, according to a report in Politico. The initiative represents a faster timeline than the bloc's previous goal under the REPowerEU plan to end reliance on Russian fossil fuels well before 2030. Ville Niinistö, the Member of European Parliament (MEP) leading the bill, has also stated a desire to explore including a ban on Russian oil as part of the proposed legislation, which would expand upon existing EU sanctions against Russian energy.

The United Kingdom will host a meeting next week for the 'coalition of the willing,' an informal partnership of Western countries pledging support for Ukraine, Politico says in a report. The meeting is scheduled to take place on the sidelines of a French-British summit on Thursday. According to a French official, some leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, will participate remotely from Rome.

China has imposed anti-dumping duties on brandy from the European Union, a move widely viewed as retaliation for the EU's own anti-subsidy investigations into Chinese products like electric vehicles, according to a report in Politico. While the duties signal escalating trade tensions, major cognac producers were reportedly not hit with the most severe tariffs. The development comes just before a high-level EU-China economic summit scheduled for July 24-25 in Beijing, where trade issues are expected to dominate discussions.

Dutch lawmakers have passed new legislation to tighten the country's asylum rules, according to a report in Euronews. The bills include a highly controversial last-minute amendment that criminalizes providing assistance to undocumented migrants. This specific provision prompted the Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) party to withdraw its support, highlighting deep political divisions on the issue. The legislative action is noted as being in line with a broader European trend toward more restrictive migration policies and follows the collapse of the previous Dutch government in 2023 over asylum disagreements.

Nobel prize-winning physicist Andre Geim has recently learned he is no longer a citizen of the Netherlands, an automatic consequence of him acquiring British citizenship 13 years ago, according to a report in The New York Times. The loss of his Dutch nationality was not a targeted action but an application of Dutch law, which generally restricts dual citizenship for adults who voluntarily acquire another nationality. The issue came to light long after Geim became a British citizen to accept a knighthood.

Spain winger Nico Williams has agreed to a new long-term deal that will keep him at Athletic Bilbao through 2035, AP said in a report. Williams, who was a standout performer at the 2024 European Championship, will sign an eight-year extension to his current contract, which was set to expire in 2027. The agreement comes amid reported interest in the player from other clubs, including Barcelona.

Air France-KLM has announced it will acquire a majority stake in the Scandinavian airline SAS, a move aimed at consolidating its market position against European competitors, according to a report in Euronews. The acquisition follows SAS's restructuring efforts after it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States in July 2022. This deal marks a significant shift for SAS, which was historically co-owned by the governments of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, and represents a strategic expansion for Air France-KLM, in which the French and Dutch governments hold significant stakes. The merger is part of a broader trend of consolidation in the European airline industry and will be subject to regulatory approval by EU competition authorities.

An explosion at a gas station in Rome has resulted in several injuries, The New York Times said in a report. Officials have confirmed that among the injured are eight police officers and one firefighter. The cause of the blast remains under investigation and has not yet been determined by authorities.

Members of Parliament in the United Kingdom have voted to proscribe the activist group Palestine Action as a terrorist organization, according to a report in Al Jazeera. The ban, initiated by the Home Secretary under the Terrorism Act 2000, follows a campaign of direct action by the group aimed at shutting down UK-based companies involved in Israel's arms trade, most notably Elbit Systems. Palestine Action's tactics have included property damage, occupations, and blockades, which the government argues meet the legal threshold for terrorism. The decision has raised concerns among civil liberties advocates regarding the right to protest and the broad application of counter-terrorism laws to groups that do not engage in violence against people.

A senior leader from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) on Wednesday accused some members of the Turkish government of "seeking to sabotage" the ongoing disarmament process, France 24 said in a report. The accusation comes less than two months after the Kurdish group began a historic withdrawal and disarmament plan intended to end its decades-long conflict with the Turkish state.

A Ukrainian chef, who previously appeared on television cooking shows, has joined the army and now prepares meals like borscht for soldiers on the front line, according to a report in The New York Times. He enlisted after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, trading cooking show judges for troops.

British men's No. 1 tennis player Jack Draper was knocked out of Wimbledon by Croatian veteran Marin Cilic on Thursday, The Guardian says in a report. Draper lost the match with scores of 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 4-6. The defeat ends Draper's run in the tournament, while Cilic, who was a Wimbledon finalist in 2017, advances.

For the first time since the world chess body FIDE began publishing its official rating lists in 1971, there are no Russian players in the classical world top 10, according to a report in The Guardian. The development, which followed a poor performance by Ian Nepomniachtchi, marks a significant shift from the historical dominance of the Soviet and later Russian chess schools. In the past, players like Anatoly Karpov and Garry Kasparov consistently held top rankings after Bobby Fischer's reign, making the current absence of Russian players from the top tier a notable milestone.

A European Cup tie between Northern Ireland's Glenavon FC and the German club Erzgebirge Aue, which was cancelled 65 years ago due to Cold War political tensions, will finally be played this Saturday, according to a report in The Guardian. The match is the second leg of a tie originally scheduled for the 1960-61 season when Erzgebirge Aue was part of the former East Germany. The upcoming game will take place at Glenavon's Mourneview Park stadium in Lurgan, County Armagh, finally completing the fixture after more than six decades.

An archaeological excavation in Gloucestershire, prompted by a metal detectorist's find of two rare Roman cavalry swords, has uncovered a site with two distinct historical periods, The Guardian says in a report. Professional archaeologists and volunteers working at the location have determined that the swords were likely buried within the grounds of a large Roman villa. Further investigation revealed that this villa was constructed on the site of an even older Iron Age settlement.

French clothing manufacturer Saint James has suspended shipments to the United States, warehousing its inventory of striped shirts and sweaters in a direct response to tariffs imposed by the administration of President Donald Trump, according to a report in The New York Times. The company's decision to hold inventory originally intended for American retailers stems from the economic impact of the current US tariffs on European goods.

Protesters in Serbia have shifted their tactics from large-scale rallies to a campaign of civil disobedience, calling for actions like roadblocks to pressure the government, according to a report in BBC News. This escalation follows months of demonstrations led by the 'Serbia Against Violence' opposition coalition, which alleges widespread fraud and irregularities in the December 2023 parliamentary and local elections. The government, led by President Aleksandar Vučić, has rejected the demands for new elections and an investigation into the alleged fraud.

England manager Sarina Wiegman stated she is taking a more relaxed approach as the Lionesses prepare to begin their European Championship title defence against France on Saturday, according to a report in The Guardian. Wiegman, who has led teams to four consecutive major tournament finals, acknowledged she has adapted her management style since taking the England job four years ago. She noted there are now fewer rules in the team camp and more responsibility is given to the players, explaining that while her core values remain, she adapts to what is best for the team in new situations. This marks a change from the approach that led England to their Euro 2022 victory.

The European Union has not implemented a ban on airline fees for carry-on luggage, despite misleading reports to the contrary, Euronews says in a report. The European Parliament recently passed a resolution supporting the standardization of cabin baggage rules and the elimination of fees for reasonably sized carry-on bags. However, this vote is a political signal and the first step in a longer legislative process; it is not a binding law. For the measure to be enacted, the European Commission must first draft a formal legislative proposal, which would then need to be approved by both the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union.

A study has found that faith in democracy is declining among young Europeans, with only half of those in France and Spain believing it is the best form of government, as per a report in The Guardian. Overall, 57% of Europe's Generation Z prefer democracy, but support varies significantly by country, dropping to 48% in Poland and around 51-52% in France and Spain. Germany showed the highest support at 71%. The poll also found that 21% of young Europeans would back authoritarian rule under certain circumstances.

German automotive and arms manufacturer Rheinmetall is expanding into the aviation sector and increasing its US presence through a new partnership with the American builder of F-35 fighter jets, according to a report in The New York Times. This strategic move allows the diversified German company to leverage the increased demand for defense equipment following Germany's 'Zeitenwende' policy shift, which significantly boosted defense spending. The partnership involves producing components for the F-35, a program Germany recently joined, and is seen as strengthening the transatlantic defense industrial base and enhancing interoperability within NATO.

At least 14 people were injured in an overnight Russian drone attack on Kyiv that also set buildings and cars on fire, according to a report in The Guardian. The city's mayor stated that railway infrastructure was also damaged in the assault, which is described as the latest in a series of intensifying Russian airstrikes on the Ukrainian capital in recent weeks. Separately, explosions were also reported in a city near Moscow.

The European Ombudsman has issued a warning to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, stating that the use of urgent procedures to implement deregulation and cut red tape risks eroding public trust, according to a report in the Financial Times. The watchdog's concern is that such a fast-tracked approach may bypass necessary public consultations and proper scrutiny, undermining principles of transparency and good governance. This warning comes as the Commission faces pressure to show results on reducing bureaucracy, a key theme for von der Leyen.

German businesses are warning that reintroducing military conscription would exacerbate the country's severe worker shortages, according to a report in the Financial Times. The concerns are being raised amid a political debate over reinstating some form of compulsory service, which was suspended in 2011, as part of Germany's "Zeitenwende" policy to bolster its defense capabilities. Business groups argue that removing young people from the labor pool would deepen a structural worker shortage driven by demographics, making it more difficult for companies to recruit and potentially harming the economy.

The number of EU Blue Cards issued to highly qualified non-EU workers has grown rapidly in recent years, but the overall uptake remains relatively low, according to a report in Euronews. This discrepancy is largely because many member states continue to rely on their own parallel national schemes for attracting skilled labor, which are often perceived as more flexible or tailored to specific domestic needs. The Blue Card, designed as an EU-wide permit to address labor shortages driven by demographic challenges, has not yet achieved its full potential in making Europe a top destination for global talent compared to other countries.

The European summer transfer window has seen a major development with former Bayer Leverkusen player Florian Wirtz moving to Liverpool in a significant, big-money deal, Euronews says in a report. The transfer of the German player is one of the first major transactions since the window officially re-opened.

Edinburgh's arts festivals are facing a significant funding crisis, cutting performances by a fifth and struggling to attract new corporate sponsors, according to a report in the Financial Times. The difficulties follow the withdrawal of major sponsor Baillie Gifford, an investment firm that pulled its funding after being targeted by a boycott from climate activists over its investments in fossil fuel companies. Despite a subsequent emergency cash injection from the government, the festivals have been unable to fully cover the financial shortfall, leading to a reduction in their programming.

US food company Mondelez is calling on the European Union to delay the implementation of its landmark deforestation regulation, the Financial Times says in a report. This move signals a broader trend of US chocolate makers reducing their support for the environmental rule, reportedly under pressure from the US government. The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) requires companies selling goods like cocoa, coffee, and palm oil in the EU to prove their supply chains are not linked to deforestation.

The German town of Schwedt faces significant economic uncertainty and fears of mass layoffs centered on its PCK oil refinery, Politico says in a report. The refinery, a primary employer in the region, was historically dependent on Russian crude from the Druzhba pipeline. Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Germany voluntarily halted these imports at the start of 2023. Despite the German government placing the refinery under state trusteeship in 2022 and seeking alternative supplies via ports in Rostock and Poland, the facility is struggling to maintain full capacity, creating a dilemma for residents between supporting sanctions and ensuring their economic survival.