The European Parliament has voted to urge the creation of a standardized, consent-based definition of rape across all EU member states. This move aims to harmonize legal approaches to sexual violence within the bloc.
A shooter has been charged with attempted murder of President Trump following an incident at a Washington correspondents' dinner. Witnesses described panic after gunshots were fired during the event.
EU member states have until June 7, 2026, to implement the directive on pay transparency, with Poland having already introduced some provisions in late 2025 and expecting further changes this year to empower employees.
The Baltic states and Poland have signed a joint declaration calling for increased EU budget funding for the region, aiming to strengthen the financial capabilities of eastern EU member states to respond to geopolitical threats.
EU member states have agreed to release a €90 billion ($106 billion) financial package for Ukraine and adopt new sanctions on Russia, following Hungary's decision to drop its months-long opposition.
Twenty out of 27 EU member states are currently providing financial assistance to consumers to help with rising oil and gas bills, but these support measures are reportedly having unwanted side effects.
Cyprus's Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades stated that Cyprus is committed to a fair European transport policy and aims to help shape a strong and safe maritime policy that addresses the specific needs of all EU member states, especially islands.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged EU member states to reconsider the possibility of introducing qualified majority voting for European decisions related to foreign policy. She presented this initiative as a way to enhance the bloc's decision-making efficiency.
Starting April 10, 2026, EU member states will fully implement the Entry/Exit System (EES) at Schengen borders, transitioning to exclusively digital recording of external border crossings.
Several EU member states, influenced by their agricultural lobbies, are demanding the repeal of the recently introduced CO2 border adjustment mechanism for nitrogen fertilizers, arguing it would not significantly impact prices but delay necessary reforms.
A group of EU member states, led by Germany and Sweden, is advocating for significant changes to EU diplomacy, including limiting or completely abolishing the national veto.
Five EU member states have called for a tax on the excess profits of energy companies to alleviate the financial burden on consumers, which has been exacerbated by the war in the Middle East and rising inflation.
The European Commission has called upon the 27 EU member states to prepare for "prolonged disruption" in energy markets and to act in a "coordinated manner" to address potential challenges.
A leading European civil liberties organization has warned that governments in five EU member states, including Croatia, are 'consistently and deliberately' undermining the rule of law, with democratic standards deteriorating in six other countries.
The European Commission is engaging with EU member states to explore unified solutions for the status of Ukrainians residing in the EU after March 2027, including the potential extension of their temporary protection.
Italy may need to reinstate the crime of abuse of office after the European Parliament approved an anti-corruption directive requiring EU member states to classify certain corruption cases as felonies.
The European Commission is urging EU member states to prepare for winter as energy experts, including the IEA boss, warn that the Iran crisis's impact on the energy market could lead to a much costlier heating season, potentially surpassing the 1970s energy shocks. This comes as the narrative around oil prices shifts to an expectation of them remaining 'higher for longer'.
With EU gas reserves at 28.48%, the European Commission is calling on member states to store gas, emphasizing the importance of timely and coordinated preparations to ensure adequate replenishment before the upcoming winter.
The European Commission has called on EU member states to lower their natural gas storage targets for the coming months. This measure aims to alleviate pressures on the gas market.
Leaders from nine EU member states, including Romania, have urged a re-evaluation of the European Green Deal legislation to alleviate pressure on industrial sectors, sending a letter to the heads of the European Commission and Council.
EU member states are individually tackling rising fuel prices, with Austria temporarily reducing fuel excise tax to help households and businesses cope with price surges due to the Gulf War.
EU member states are calling on Brussels to recover a rudderless Russian tanker, warning of a potential 'ecological catastrophe' if it is not addressed.
EU member states and the European Parliament have reached an impasse in their efforts to agree on temporary regulations aimed at combating child abuse online, specifically regarding "chat control."
Latvian experts are discussing the possibility of cutting economic ties with Russia by the end of the year, though they caution that unilateral action without other EU member states would be ineffective.
New Eurobarometer findings reveal that 90 percent of people in Cyprus believe the European Union should play a greater role in protecting the public from global crises. This represents the highest level of support among all EU member states.
The Portuguese Minister of Energy stated that consumers will be protected if gas prices rise by 70%, explaining that EU member states do not need new legislation as the European Parliament has already prepared for potential energy crises.
EU member states want to ban artificial intelligence services that create fake sexual or nude images of real people after the scandal related to Grok,...
Minić strongly condemned the attacks and insults directed at Marković, stating that 'freedom of speech' should not tolerate models unacceptable in EU member states that directly violate human rights.
The European Union Court of Justice has ruled that EU member states must issue identity documents to transgender individuals that reflect their chosen gender, ensuring they can live in any bloc country without discrimination.
Cyprus has hosted 24,230 displaced Ukrainians under temporary protection as of January 31, placing the island fourth among EU member states in terms of beneficiaries relative to its population, according to Eurostat data.
Andres Ritter has been selected by EU member states to be the new European Chief Prosecutor, taking office on November 1st. He will succeed Laura Kövesi, the first head of the European Public Prosecutor's Office, which investigates crimes related to EU funds.
Bloomberg reports growing concern among international capitals over the increasing use of missiles and drones in Ukraine and the Gulf, leading to a dangerous depletion of air defense missile interceptor stocks.
Representatives from EU member states and the European Parliament have reached an agreement on a proposal that would ban product names like 'vegetarian steak' if approved. The regulation aims to prevent misleading consumers.
Norway's Minister of Digitalization, Karianne O. Tung, wants to implement EU regulations for internet companies as quickly as possible to ensure Norway has the same oversight and remedies as EU member states.
Cyprus’s Foreign Ministry described the regional situation on Tuesday as difficult, requiring organisation, patience and cooperation, as diplomatic efforts continue in the wake of US and Israeli strikes against Iran. Foreign Ministry sources said diplomatic contacts had continued over the past 48 hours with EU member states, EU institutions and third countries, with ongoing analysis […]
EU member states are reportedly divided on the role and continuation of a peace council proposed by Donald Trump, with Finland's participation still undecided.
A new report from the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism (ICCT) indicates that Russia continues kinetic activities against Europe, particularly through sponsoring and developing plans within EU member states, identifying new perpetrators, including Serbs.
Brussels has decided that EU member states will be able to draw funds from the European Social Fund to assist women seeking abortions, marking a victory for women's rights.
(ANSA) - ROMA, 26 FEB - The Italian Ambassador to Yerevan, Alessandro Ferranti, visited the headquarters of the Public TV Company of Armenia (Amptv), the public television broadcaster of the Republic of Armenia.
The visit took place in the presence of the company's Executive Director, Hovhannes Movsisyan, and was attended by the Head of the European Union Delegation, promoter of the initiative, as well as other Ambassadors of EU Member States accredited in the country.
During the meeting, the...
Responsibility for the suspension of Russian oil transit to Europe via the Druzhba pipeline lies with Russia, whose attacks damaged it, and ultimatums and political pressure on Ukraine from some EU member states over the issue are unacceptable.
A Portuguese article highlights low productivity as the primary structural issue, impacting dignified wages, social state sustainability, and convergence with other EU member states.
EU member states have reportedly threatened the European Commission with legal proceedings over additional powers being granted to the European Parliament, according to a leaked letter.
EU countries are threatening legal action over the European Parliament's increased powers, according to a letter seen by Politico, with the final text expected soon.
Several EU member states are reportedly threatening legal action against the European Commission for granting more powers to the European Parliament, according to a letter obtained by Politico.
EU member states will most likely not reach an agreement today on the proposed new package of sanctions against Russia, stated the head of European diplomacy, Kaja Kallas.
A Greek newspaper reports on the perceived lack of political will to support the country's industry, noting that other EU member states are already utilizing new opportunities for their industrial sectors.
European Commissioner Michael McGrath is set to launch the European Centre for Democratic Resilience, a key initiative under the European Democracy Shield, providing a framework for EU member states and institutions.
A report claims that bookmakers taking bets on lottery results are diverting €289 million annually from the National Lottery, prompting calls for government intervention as the practice is banned in most EU member states.
Greek Minister of National Economy and Finance, Kyriakos Pierrakakis, highlighted the critical importance of cooperation among EU member states during a period of increasing challenges. His remarks were made at an event co-organized by his ministry and the Bank of Greece.
EU member states are preparing to test their mutual protection clause in times of crisis and war, with plans to develop clear instructions on its implementation.
Brussels has updated travel regulations for domestic pets, stipulating that dogs, cats, and ferrets can travel with their owners to other EU member states or from third countries, with a maximum of five animals per vehicle.
EU member states have agreed on a loan of 90 billion euros for Ukraine and a 20th package of sanctions against Russia, which Hungary had previously blocked, the Cypriot presidency announced.
The European Court of Justice has ruled that Bavarian family benefits violate EU law, stating that family benefits cannot generally be tiered according to living costs in EU member states. Bavaria is pushing for a change in EU law.
HELMEPA is offering scholarships for full-time Master's degree studies, lasting one to two years, at universities in Greece, other EU member states, or abroad.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that member states must coordinate on energy prices, citing a €22 billion increase in fossil fuel bills since the start of the Iran conflict.
The Finnish government is seeking to mandate streaming services operating in Finland or other EU member states to contribute funding towards the production of local series and films.
European gas storage managers are calling for EU member states to begin filling their gas reserves as early as April and continue until November to ensure adequate levels for the upcoming winter.
Brussels has warned that it has not received any official communication from Spain regarding its plan for the mass regularization of immigrants, emphasizing that such a process could have significant consequences for other EU member states and the EU as a whole.
The European Commission has urged EU member states and politicians to significantly accelerate work on new rules related to the fight against child sexual abuse material online.
The European Commission has warned that EU member states must increase efforts to prevent terrorists from entering the EU from the Middle East and to protect critical infrastructure, citing growing terrorist threats.
The European Commission has urged EU Member States to act immediately and in a coordinated manner to ensure the security of oil and oil product supplies. This comes as the EU prepares for a prolonged energy crisis amid renewed energy turmoil.
The European Commission has called on EU member states to prepare in a timely and coordinated manner to ensure a secure oil supply and avoid measures that could increase fuel consumption.
A leading European civil liberties group has released an exclusive report finding that five EU member states—Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, and Slovakia—are consistently and intentionally eroding the rule of law through regressive policies.
The Slovenian government has confirmed that there was an attempt at foreign influence in its elections, drawing attention to potential challenges to democratic processes in other EU member states.
EU Commissioner Marta Kos outlined three potential scenarios for Moldova's accession to the European Union, stating that two of these options currently lack support from EU member states.
A new study reveals that the financial situation of municipalities in Austria is significantly worse than the EU average, primarily due to considerably lower revenues compared to other EU member states.
The European Commission has recommended that EU member states begin storing gas earlier for the upcoming winter, citing volatility in the energy market caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The European startup community has expressed mixed reactions to the European Commission's "EU Inc." project, which aims to simplify the launch of European companies across EU member states.
Several EU member states are reportedly planning serious discussions on how to deal with Hungary if Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's conservative Fidesz party wins the upcoming parliamentary elections in April, potentially leading to increased EU pressure.
The Czech Republic has joined an initiative by several EU member states to tighten entry conditions for current and former Russian military personnel into the Schengen area, citing potential security threats to Europeans.
France expects that the EU €90 billion loan for Ukraine will be implemented in line with agreements among EU member states, and that energy security concerns of Hungary and Slovakia will be resolved through an EU technical mission aimed at accelerating repair work on the Druzhba oil pipeline.
Some EU member states, including Germany, believe Ukraine's European integration reforms must demonstrate irreversibility for 10-20 years before accession, a timeline Ukraine considers too long.
European Commissioner Roxana Mînzatu notes a trend of increasingly weaker PISA test results among 15-year-old students in nearly all EU member states, especially when compared to peers in the US and Asian countries.
European Union member states have reached a common position on simplifying artificial intelligence regulations, adopting an amendment that includes a ban on the creation of sexually explicit AI-generated content.
Montenegro's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Ervin Ibrahimović, stated that there have been no official reactions or diplomatic communications from EU member states regarding a message displayed on an airplane.
The European Court of Justice has ruled that EU member states must adapt gender entries in identification documents to reflect the rights of transgender individuals, making everyday activities like travel and package collection less uncomfortable.
The governments of 14 European Union member states have issued a joint statement emphasizing the need for the 'development and utilization of nuclear energy,' fully respecting each member state's right to determine its own energy mix.
EU member states are being encouraged to lower energy taxes where feasible, as oil and gas prices have surged across the bloc due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The Eurogroup convened to discuss the Middle East crisis and its potential economic repercussions for EU member states, with Greek Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis emphasizing the need to be prepared for prolonged instability.
Spain's 'no' to war is not leading to isolation but rather deepening differences among EU member states, positioning Pedro Sánchez as a key European critic of Donald Trump.
Portugal has activated a mechanism to repatriate its citizens from Iran, requesting a flight and offering seats to other EU member states, as the conflict intensifies.
During a working dinner on Wednesday evening, ambassadors of EU member states meeting in the COREPER II format made it clear to a representative of the European Commission that they do not support a fast-track format for Ukraine’s accession to the European Union.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine will be technically ready to join the European Union by 2027 and is prepared to open all negotiation clusters within days, despite some EU member states blocking the process.
Montenegro's Ministry of Health announced that the country's healthcare system has progressed in rare disease diagnostics, reaching the level of EU member states.
The European Commission reports a general increase in cancer rates across EU member states, with a 2.3 percent rise in 2022 compared to 2020, highlighting inequalities in public health systems.
EU member states along the eastern border carry a responsibility that goes beyond our territory, said Prime Minister Kristen Michal in the opening speech of the Eastern Border Regions High-Level Conference in Brussels on Thursday.
The European Commission has announced that EU member states can use social funds to help citizens access safe abortions, a decision hailed as a 'victory for women'. This includes supporting women in countries with near-total bans to access services in other states.
The European Commission is launching a new initiative, EastInvest, to provide nearly 30 billion euros in loan support to EU member states bordering Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, with Romania among the
Some EU member states are reportedly distancing themselves from the proposed 'digital omnibus' initiative, which aims to simplify regulations but is perceived by some as a rollback of existing rules.
The United Kingdom has made a paid digital entry permit mandatory for visitors from 85 countries, including EU member states, to enhance border security. The transitional period for European nationals ends in April 2025.
A group of EU member states is threatening to take the European Commission to the EU Court of Justice over a framework agreement that enhances the European Parliament's role in the legislative process, testing the balance of power within the Union.
EU member states have threatened to initiate legal proceedings over the extent of powers being granted to the European Parliament, according to a letter obtained by Politico, indicating escalating rivalry.
EU member states in the Council are reportedly threatening to sue the European Commission over an agreement that grants greater powers to the European Parliament, arguing it violates the Union's founding treaties.
EU member states are unlikely to reach an agreement today on the proposed new package of sanctions against Russia, with Hungary's blockade making approval improbable, according to EU diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas.
Iran has declared the naval and air forces of EU member states as terrorist organizations, in response to the EU's 'illegal and unjustified' decision to list the IRGC as a terrorist entity.
Iran's Foreign Ministry announced that it has designated the naval and air forces of all EU member states as terrorist organizations, in retaliation for the EU's decision to add the IRGC to its terror list.
The crisis stemming from a war in Iran has prompted the activation of solidarity mechanisms among EU member states, with Cyprus partially activating the clause bilaterally, while Turkish maneuvering is also noted.
European Union member states are required to implement EU regulations, with new member states typically receiving temporary exemptions. These exemptions are primarily time-limited.
European Union leaders rejected Germany's proposal to relax sanctions against Iran, amidst broader discussions on the Middle East conflict and continued aid for Ukraine.
EU member states and the EU Parliament have reached an unexpected agreement on a sensitive issue, which could prove costly for Luxembourg as it will now have to pay more for unemployed cross-border commuters.
Ireland's Minister for Foreign Affairs stated there is a "substantial shift" among EU member states regarding Israel, adding that the government is making progress on the Occupied Territories Bill.
EU member states have the right to prohibit foreign online gambling operators without national licenses, even if they are licensed elsewhere in the EU, allowing players to claim back money lost in such games.
Portugal has expressed its opposition to the creation of a separate European army, taking a different stance from Spain on the matter. The debate over a unified European defense force continues among EU member states.
Hristijan Mickoski emphasized the need for strong action from Brussels and larger EU member states to influence Bulgaria's position, arguing that the government's consistent policy and arguments are being confirmed on the international stage.
A discussion is underway regarding whether Iceland, one of the world's richest countries, should join the European Union, given that many EU member states face poverty and economic difficulties.
Starting April 10, 2026, EU member states will fully implement the Entry/Exit System (EES), transitioning to exclusively digital recording of border crossings for non-EU citizens and ending passport stamping.
A Lithuanian colonel stated that Europe needs to establish a reliable defense system through conscription in EU member states and by expanding the capacity of the defense industry, warning that the current absence of conscription poses a threat to the EU's defense capabilities.
Montenegro's Foreign Minister, Ervin Ibrahimović, stated that a special emphasis will be placed on strengthening relations with the strongest EU member states, recognizing their crucial role in shaping common Union decisions.
Foreign ministers from 26 out of 27 EU member states, led by the EU's diplomacy chief, have signed a declaration reaffirming their commitment to ensuring full accountability for war crimes and other atrocities in Ukraine, with Hungary notably absent.
A leading European civil rights group has accused the governments of Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, and Slovakia of actively implementing regressive policies and continuously undermining the rule of law, with democratic standards worsening in six other countries.
Cypriot Ambassador Andreas Fotiou stated that there is no specific numerical threshold of chapters Montenegro must close for the EU accession treaty working group to begin its work, noting broad recognition of Montenegro's progress among EU member states.
Cyprus was among 23 EU member states that joined a coordinated consumer protection sweep, which found that 30% of online traders screened during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales referenced discounts incorrectly, according to results released by the EU.
A record 10,415 Russian citizens were issued orders to leave EU member states in 2025, according to Eurostat data, marking a significant increase in expulsions.
Energy experts are warning that the Iran crisis's impact on the energy market could surpass previous oil and gas shocks, prompting the European Commission to recommend that EU member states begin gas storage earlier for the upcoming winter amidst ongoing Middle East tensions. The EU is specifically urging early gas storage refills in member states as the Middle East war ripples through the energy market.
The European Commission has called on EU member states to lower natural gas storage filling targets in the coming months to alleviate price pressures exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
A new initiative proposes allowing universities across different EU Member States to issue a Joint European Degree, aiming to facilitate student mobility throughout the Union.
A criminal group involved in smuggling luxury vehicles stolen from EU member states has been dismantled in Moldova. Four men are suspected of fraudulently leasing luxury cars from Belgium, importing them illegally into Moldova, and attempting to sell them.
EU member states and the Parliament failed to reach a compromise on allowing messaging services and online platforms to voluntarily check private communications for child pornography, potentially ending the practice.
Ambassadors from EU member states are meeting in Brussels to discuss a memorandum on critical minerals with the United States, aiming to reduce reliance on China.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has urged EU member states to grant the European Union a mandate to negotiate with Russia for peace in Ukraine, stating that the EU is currently unable to compel Moscow to end the war.
Hungary is reportedly blocking a 90-billion-euro aid package, leading to growing dissatisfaction among EU member states ahead of an upcoming summit, with Brussels being described as a 'hostage' to Orbán's 'sabotage'.
Ambassadors of EU member states approved the common EU position for Chapter 21 (Trans-European Transport Networks) at a meeting, paving the way for the temporary closure of this chapter at an intergovernmental conference.
Since the introduction of mandatory travel notification in January, fewer than ten Russian diplomats accredited in other EU member states have announced their travel to the Czech Republic, according to Foreign Minister Petr Macinka.
The European Parliament has greenlighted updated rules on package travel, strengthening consumer protections on refunds, vouchers and cancellations, with legislators drawing on lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic and high-profile tour operator bankruptcies. The directive, already provisionally agreed with EU member states, was adopted on Thursday by 537 votes in favour and two against, with 24 […]
Financially struggling Ukraine could receive up to 30 billion euros in direct loans from individual EU member states, a proposal currently under discussion as Hungary and Slovakia pressure Kyiv to resume gas supplies.
The Hungarian parliament has passed a resolution opposing Ukraine's accession to the European Union and further financing of its military needs at the expense of EU member states.
The European Commission announced that EU member states have sufficient oil and gas reserves despite supply chain disruptions from the Middle East conflict, but warned that high costs remain a significant problem, with oil potentially reaching $150 per barrel.
Defence minister Vasilis Palmas assured on Friday that Cyprus’ operational readiness remains high, yet cautioned that that no nation can guarantee absolute protection amid escalating regional tensions. Speaking on Sigma TV, Palmas said the republic relies on strong alliances, particularly with Greece and other EU member states. “Absolute protection does not exist, even in Israel, […]
Several European Union member states are reluctant to support proposals for the rapid accession of Ukraine and other candidates without fulfilling necessary conditions, as discussed in a recent European Commission meeting.
Željko Komšić, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, held discussions with ambassadors from EU member states accredited in BiH, following an invitation from the head of the EU delegation.
Key EU member states are reportedly hindering Ukraine's accelerated entry into the European Union, despite President Zelensky's desire for a 2027 date as part of a peace settlement.
The foreign ministers of the EU member states concluded that they would soon convene an extraordinary meeting together with their counterparts from the Gulf states.
Official Eurostat data for 2024 shows that Romania and Luxembourg are the only EU member states where the number of immigrants from other EU countries was higher than the number of immigrants from outside the EU.
Russia continues kinetic activities against Europe, especially through sponsoring and developing plans on the territory of EU member states, according to this week's latest report from the International...
A proposed 'Made in Europe' law is facing difficulties due to disagreements among EU member states, particularly concerning the criteria for countries to utilize its privileges.
The European Commission has decided that EU member states can use the EU social fund to provide free abortions for women who travel to their countries due to limited access to safe abortion in their home countries.
An MEP highlights that NATO military maneuvers are hampered by administrative barriers within EU member states, such as permits taking 46 days, and insufficiently prepared transport infrastructure, jeopardizing rapid defense response.
Starting today, visitors from over 80 countries, including Romania and other EU member states, the United States, and Canada, will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the UK.
EU member states have reportedly threatened the European Commission with legal action over additional powers granted to the European Parliament, according to a letter seen by Politico.
A debate is ongoing in Germany regarding age limits for social media, with discussions highlighting that the scope for EU member states is limited and the issue requires a European solution.
Portugal's Minister of Agriculture, José Manuel Fernandes, is pushing for accessible insurance for all farmers to ensure immediate support, a stance he says is backed by other EU member states and the European Commission.
Brussels is warning against excessive Chinese influence in European ports and is drafting a new strategy that would allow EU member states to take control of ports in emergencies, according to an exclusive report.
The Iranian government has declared the air force and navy of every European Union member state as terrorist organizations in retaliation for EU actions.
Leaders from the Balkans and Turkey lauded Donald Trump's Peace Board at its inaugural ceremony in Washington, though the attendance of an EU Commissioner from Croatia drew criticism from some EU member states.