Dozens of European leaders are expected in Yerevan for two summits – the European Political Community and an EU-Armenia summit – aimed at strengthening ties with Europe and fostering independence from Moscow.

An opinion piece from Naftemporiki critically examines the perceived illusions held by current European leaders. It questions their understanding and approach to governance.

Finland and China are increasing their cooperation, with recent visits by European leaders to Beijing highlighting the importance of their relationship. Political and business figures are advocating for closer coordination in trade, climate policy, and technology.

European leaders believe it is too early to consider lifting sanctions against Iran, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Amnesty International's Secretary General has criticized European leaders, calling them "cowards" for not daring to oppose the world's new "predators," in connection with the NGO's annual report.

European political figures like Meloni, Starmer, and Merz, who once sought proximity to former US President Trump, are now openly criticizing him, recognizing his toxic image among many voters.

A Portuguese opinion piece compares Pedro Sánchez to Churchill, commending his perceived strong stance against appeasement in Europe, particularly in the context of a recent event in Hungary. The author argues Sánchez understands that appeasement will not restore Europe's authority.

European leaders are warning of a potential crisis comparable in scale to the COVID-19 pandemic or the start of the war in Ukraine, prompting the European Commission to recommend austerity measures to citizens.

European leaders are facing a 'guns vs. butter' dilemma, struggling to pivot from domestic to military spending after decades of prioritization, a challenge exacerbated by the ongoing war in Iran.

Philippine Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro Jr. told European defense leaders that countries relying on Filipino workers for essential services have a duty to help protect them.

Europe is increasingly focusing on China due to policies under Donald Trump, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visiting a robotics exhibition and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez scheduled for his fourth official visit to Beijing in April.

US President Donald Trump has criticized European leaders for their reluctance to aid in unblocking the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Finland's President Alexander Stubb has condemned Iran's attacks in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, declaring his country's readiness to support initiatives to unblock the vital waterway.

European leaders are reportedly seeking a de-escalation of ongoing attacks, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions to reduce tensions.

European leaders are convening at a summit to find solutions and mitigate the consequences of the ongoing energy crisis, which has been exacerbated by the conflict in the Middle East, causing energy prices to rise across Europe.

Nikos Androulakis, from Brussels, emphasized the need for European leadership to take initiatives to end the war in Iran and avoid acting as subordinates to Trump.

European leaders are meeting in Brussels to discuss how to contain soaring energy prices, illustrating how the US president’s actions continue to dominate the agenda

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, initially seen as a pro-European, is now in open conflict with the EU less than a year into his chancellorship, notably remaining silent when Donald Trump verbally attacked European leaders.

An opinion piece from Portugal criticizes recent events as revealing a culture increasingly subservient to hypocritical conservatism and demagogic leaders, within a Europe struggling with its civilizational role.

Sali Berisha, leader of the Democratic Party, has departed for Brussels to attend the 50th anniversary of the European People's Party (EPP), where he is expected to hold intensive meetings with European leaders.

Another headline features European leaders rejecting demands by the US President, Donald Trump, for help to clear the Strait of Hormuz, as foreign ministers from the European Union gathered in…

Volodymyr Zelenskyy's patience appears to be wearing thin, as evidenced by his intensified rhetoric towards both critics and allies in recent weeks, including rebuking European leaders for their actions, which could affect Ukraine's relationship with its partners.

Leaders from 41 countries, including Bulgaria, discussed the role of nuclear energy in carbon-free electricity production, innovations, and financing to ensure European independence and industrial competitiveness.

The governments of Italy, Germany, and Belgium have organized a video conference meeting for European leaders to discuss EU simplification and the energy situation, particularly in light of rising prices due to the ongoing conflict.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has urged European leaders to abandon bloc politics and instead “join the gym” of the China market to build muscle and competitiveness. Speaking to the press in Beijing on Sunday, Wang characterised China-Europe economic and trade ties as complementary advantages, saying that “a dynamic balance is entirely within reach amid growing ties”. “Building fences and barriers will only lead to self-isolation,” he cautioned. “We would be happy to see our European frien...

With French elections approaching next year, European leaders are preparing for the possibility of a far-right president and adapting policies to limit the National Rally's potential power.

Dutch prime minister Rob Jetten has held his first meetings with European leaders in Brussels on Tuesday, discussing plans to...

European leaders are reportedly facing difficulties in presenting a unified stance regarding the ongoing situation with Iran.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán reportedly linked the conflict in Iran to the war in Ukraine, while other European leaders expressed concern about escalation.

It’s been a week that began in silence in Independence Square, where European leaders laid flowers for Ukraine’s war dead — even as the fighting grinds on in the east, across vast drone-dominated…

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova continued her criticism of Europe, stating that 'no one invited' European leaders.

European leaders are increasingly engaging with China's Xi Jinping, acknowledging China's pervasive influence across the continent, according to reports from Berlin and Beijing correspondents.

While European leaders promise support for Ukraine, Viktor Orban blocks sanctions and credit, and the EC chief avoids promising Ukraine a membership date.

As European leaders visit Beijing, a Hong Kong activist warns that Europe misunderstands China's methods and risks dependence, while China's embassy in Denmark strongly refutes the criticism.

European leaders traveled to Ukraine to mark the anniversary of the Russian invasion, showing solidarity with the country.

Selenskij rief zu einem gerechten und nachhaltigen Frieden auf. Der Kreml will an den Zielen seiner „Spezialoperation“ festhalten. Friedensgespräche könnten diese Woche weitergehen.

European leaders vow support for Ukraine as war grinds into fifth year  Reuters

European leaders, increasingly alarmed about threats from a nuclear-armed Russia and uncertainty surrounding U.S. security guarantees, are intensifying debates over the continent’s...

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has criticized the West's strategy in Ukraine, claiming European leaders desire continued war for reparations and comparing them to historical figures like Napoleon and Hitler.

Futures, Global Markets Rise With US Markets Closed For President's Day Stocks gained, bitcoin tumbled and bonds steadied after Friday's cool CPI data reinforced expectations that the Fed will cut interest rates on multiple occasions this year. With US markets closed for the Presidents’ Day holiday and mainland China’s markets closed for Lunar New Year holidays, trading was muted on Monday. As of 9:00am ET, futures on the S&P 500 added 0.4% and Europe’s Stoxx 600 index rose 0.4% as banking shares rebounded from a sharp decline last week. German bunds and Treasury futures were steady after US yields touched the lowest since December on Friday. The path of US interest rates remains in focus following Friday’s slower-than-expected US inflation print as traders fully price a Fed cut in July and the strong chance of a move in June.   “The backdrop for equities is positive post CPI,” said Andrea Gabellone, head of global equities at KBC Securities. At the same time, there could be “more dispersion ahead as sentiment around key AI-exposed sectors is still very critical,” he added.  That sentiment was echoed by other strategists seeking to distinguish between AI losers and winners. A JPMorgan Chase & Co. team led by Mislav Matejka urged caution on stocks at risk of AI-driven “cannibalization,” including software, business services and media companies. Meanwhile, banks are developing baskets to capitalize on the divergence: as we first reported last Thursday, Goldman launched a new basket of software stocks that goes long firms that will benefit from AI adoption, while shorting the companies whose workflows could be replaced. With AI disruption rippling through markets, a lot will come down to earnings resilience, in particular in the US.  “When you look at the current earnings season, the companies are showing 13% of growth,” Nataliia Lipikhina, head of EMEA equity strategy at JPMorgan, told Bloomberg TV. “Overall, this is the reason why we continue to be positive on the S&P.” Later this week, traders will be watching for ADP private payrolls numbers on Tuesday and the minutes from the Fed’s January meeting on Wednesday for a fresh read on the economy. European stocks gained with bank shares rebounding, after posting their biggest weekly decline since April on worries about disruption from artificial intelligence. The basic resources sector lags, with Norsk Hydro among Europe’s worst performers as both Goldman Sachs and RBC downgrade the stock. Stoxx 600 rises 0.4% to 620.26 with 253 members down, 336 up, and 11 unchanged. Here are some of the biggest movers on Monday:  NatWest shares rise as much as 4%, the most since October, as Citi analyst Andrew Coombs raises his price target on the UK bank to a Street-high. Seraphim Space shares rise as much as 9.2%, briefly hitting a new all-time high, after the space tech investment firm said the valuations of its four largest holdings increased over the final months of 2025. AECI shares rally as much as 6.1%, the most since July, after the South African commercial-explosives maker shared improved 2025 headline earnings per share guidance. Orsted shares rise as much as 3.8% after analysts at Kepler raise the recommendation to buy from hold over the Danish renewable energy firm’s outlook, despite ongoing uncertainty for the industry in the US. Norsk Hydro shares fall as much as 4.4%, extending Friday’s 5.9% earnings-triggered drop, after being downgraded at Goldman Sachs and RBC over disappointments and pricing pressures in the Norwegian aluminum company’s downstream business. Galderma shares slip as much as 2.2% after naming Luigi La Corte as its new chief financial officer following the news back in July that Thomas Dittrich was departing. Pinewood Technologies shares tumble as much as 32%, the most since April 2024, after Apax Partners said on Friday it will not proceed with a possible cash offer for the car dealership software provider. FlatexDEGIRO shares drop as much as 7.2% after BNP Paribas downgraded the online brokerage firm to neutral from outperform, saying the price reflects too much optimism about its market position in Germany. Maurel & Prom shares slump as much as 12%, pulling back after ending last week at a 2015-high, after announcing it is not currently authorized to resume oil and gas operations in Venezuela. Barratt Redrow shares fall as much as 3.7%, leading a drop in British homebuilders after Rightmove said house prices are stalling. Asian stocks slipped for a second day, led by declines in Japan as traders booked profits after last week’s post-election rally. Several markets were closed or held shortened trading sessions for the Lunar New Year holiday. The MSCI Asia Pacific Index was down 0.1%. Japan’s Topix Index fell 0.8%, with Mizuho Financial Group Inc. and Toyota Motor Corp. among the companies contributing to the index’s losses.In Hong Kong, AI model developer Minimax Group Inc. surged as much as 30% to more than four times its original listing price, while competitor Knowledge Atlas JSC Ltd. ended 4.7% higher. The market will be closed until Thursday. As investors across the region begin to reevaluate their bets on its artificial-intelligence-driven rally, traders in Japan cashed in gains driven by expectations of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s proactive spending policies last week.Trading in Singapore ended early Monday and will be shut until Wednesday. Equity markets in mainland China, South Korea, Indonesia and Vietnam were closed.  In FX, the yen is the notable mover in currencies, weakening 0.5% against the dollar and pushing USD/JPY back above 153. The offshore yuan is one of the better performers against the greenback. The Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index rises 0.1%. There is no cash trading in Treasuries due to the Presidents’ Day holiday. European government bonds are little changed In commdities, gold dipped below $5,000 an ounce, as traders booked profits from a gain in the previous session. Bitcoin tried anf ailed to stage a modest rebound; it last traded around $68,275 after posting its fourth consecutive weekly loss, with the cryptocurrency struggling to find clear direction as a weekend rally fizzled once the momentum ignition algos emerged.  WTI crude futures tread water near $62.90 a barrel.  Top Headlines President Trump said there will be voter ID rules in the mid-term elections this year, whether Congress approves it or not, and they will present a legal argument in an Executive Order. Furthermore, Trump said he has searched the depths of legal arguments not yet articulated nor vetted on this subject, and they will be presenting an irrefutable one in the very near future. Iran says potential energy, mining and aircraft deals on table in talks with US: RTRS Pentagon threatened to cut its ties with Anthropic over the company’s insistence that some limitations are kept on how the military uses its AI models: RTRS UK eyes rapid ban on social media for under 16s, curbs to AI chatbots: RTRS Rampant AI Demand for Memory Is Fueling a Growing Chip Crisis: BBG Warner Bros. Weighs Reopening Sale Negotiations With Paramount: BBG Companies Are Replacing CEOs in Record Numbers—and They’re Getting Younger: WSJ Europe aims to rely less on US defence after Trump's Greenland push: RTRS DOJ Tells Lawmakers Epstein File Redactions Complied With LawL BBG For College Applicants, Pressure to Make Summers Count Has Gotten Even Worse: WSJ Fed's Goolsbee (2027 voter) said on Friday that they are still seeing pretty high services inflation, and he hopes they have seen the peak impact of tariffs, while he added that the job market has been steady, with only modest cooling.  The Break Is Over. Companies Are Jacking Up Prices Again: WSJ Trade/Tariffs USTR Greer said the US and Ecuador expect to sign a trade agreement in the coming weeks. China will waive import value-added taxes on selected seeds, genetic resources, and police dogs through to 2030 to increase agricultural competitiveness and breeding capacity. It was also reported that China will grant zero-tariff access to 53 African nations from May 1st, according to Bloomberg. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his French and German counterparts that China and the EU are partners, not rivals, while he added that China and the EU should manage differences, deepen practical cooperation and work together on global challenges. A more detailed look at global markets courtesy of Newsquawk APAC stocks began the week in the green but with gains limited following a lack of major fresh catalysts from over the weekend and amid thinned conditions owing to holiday closures in the region and North America. ASX 200 traded marginally higher with upside led by tech, although gains are capped by underperformance in the utilities, mining, materials and resources sectors, while participants also digested a slew of earnings releases. Nikkei 225 traded indecisively with the index constrained by disappointing Japanese preliminary Q4 GDP data, which showed the economy returned to growth but failed to meet expectations with GDP Q/Q at 0.1% (exp. 0.4%), and annualised GDP at 0.2% (exp. 1.6%). Hang Seng finished higher in a shortened trading session on Chinese New Year's Eve but with upside limited by tech weakness amid some confusion after the Pentagon added several companies including Baidu, Cosco, BYD, Huawei, Nio, SMIC, Tencent, and more to a list of Chinese firms aiding the military on Friday, but then withdrew the updated list shortly after it was posted. Furthermore, price action was also restricted by the closure of mainland markets and the absence of stock connect flows, which will remain shut for more than a week. US equity futures kept afloat in quiet trade amid the absence of drivers and participants. European equity futures indicate a mildly positive cash market open with Euro Stoxx 50 futures up 0.1% after the cash market closed with losses of 0.4% on Friday. Asian Headlines Chinese President Xi called for the anchoring of economic growth around domestic demand as its main driver, in a speech during a key policy meeting late last year that was released on Sunday. China is to establish a permanent financial support framework to promote rural revitalisation and prevent a slide back into poverty, which represents a shift from transitional aid to long-term support. China’s market regulator summoned major online platform companies on Friday, including Alibaba, Douyin and Meituan, while it directed them to comply with laws and regulations, and rein in promotional practices, according to Bloomberg. US Secretary of State Rubio and Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral ties. Disney (DIS) sent a ‘cease and desist’ letter to ByteDance over Seedance 2.0 and alleged that ByteDance has been infringing on its IP to train and develop an AI video generation model without compensation, according to Axios. It was later reported that ByteDance said it would curb its AI video app following Disney's legal threats, according to the BBC. RBI tightened rules for loans provided to brokers and proprietary firms in an effort to reduce market speculation FX DXY eked slight gains in rangebound trade after a lack of major catalysts and with US participants away on Monday. EUR/USD was little changed amid the absence of any major macro catalysts and with light newsflow from the bloc, while comments from ECB President Lagarde and news that the ECB is to make its repo backstop available to other central banks across the world, did little to spur price action. GBP/USD held on to most of Friday's spoils but with price action contained by resistance around 1.3650 and following comments from BoE's Mann that the UK economy is sluggish and tepid, with consumers spending less due to being scarred by high inflation. USD/JPY edged higher and returned to above the 153.00 level in the aftermath of the weaker-than-expected preliminary Q4 GDP data for Japan. Antipodeans were mixed with little fresh macro drivers and a lack of tier-1 data from either side of the Tasman. Fixed Income 10yr UST futures traded little changed and held on to last week's spoils after returning above the 113.00 level in the aftermath of the softer US inflation data, while price action was contained to start the week by the closure of US cash markets for Washington's Birthday. Bund futures lacked demand in the absence of any major catalysts and with light newsflow from the bloc. 10yr JGB futures were marginally higher following disappointing preliminary GDP data for Q4, but with gains limited after failing to sustain a brief reclaim of the 132.00 level. Commodities Crude futures were rangebound amid light energy-specific newsflow from over the weekend and after last Friday's indecisive performance, where attention was on a source report that noted OPEC+ is leaning towards resuming oil output hikes from April, but with no decision made. Slovak PM Fico said he has information that the Druzhba pipeline has been fixed after damage in Ukraine, although he believes that supplies to Hungary and Slovakia have become a part of political blackmail. Spot gold took a breather after edging higher in the aftermath of the recent softer-than-expected US inflation data, with price action also contained by the holiday closures across Asia and North America. Copper futures were subdued, with their largest buyer away for more than a week due to the Chinese New Year/Spring Festival holiday. Texas venture-backed startup Hertha Metal vowed mass production of steel with 25% cost savings, which could reduce US reliance on imports. Geopolitics: Middle East US military is preparing for potential operations against Iran that could last for weeks if US President Trump orders an attack and the US fully expects Iran to retaliate, according to sources cited by Reuters. US President Trump told Israeli PM Netanyahu during a meeting in December that he would support Israel striking Iran’s ballistic missile program if the US and Iran are not able to reach a deal, according to CBS. Iran confirmed that indirect talks between the US and Iran will resume in Geneva on Tuesday under the mediation of Oman, while Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi left for Geneva on Sunday. Iranian diplomat said Iran is open to nuclear deal compromises if the US discusses lifting sanctions, while it was also reported that Iran said potential energy, mining and aircraft deals are on the table in talks with the US. Israel’s cabinet approved the proposal to register West Bank lands as ‘state property’, while Palestinians condemned the ‘de facto annexation’ which Peace Now said likely amounts to a ‘mega land grab’. Geopolitics: Ukraine US President Trump said on Friday that Ukrainian President Zelensky is going to have to get moving and that Russia wants to get a deal. US Secretary of State Rubio said they don’t know if Russia is serious about finding an end to the war in Ukraine and will continue to test it, while it was reported that he met with Ukrainian President Zelensky on security and deepening defence and economic partnerships. Ukrainian drones targeted Russia’s Taman seaport and fuel tanks in the Black Sea region. UK and European allies were reported on Friday to be weighing seizing Russian shadow fleet ships and tightening curbs on Russia's economy. French Foreign Minister Barrot said some G7 nations have expressed a willingness to proceed with a maritime services ban on Russian oil, which they hope to include in the 20th sanctions package that they are actively preparing. Geopolitics: Other European Commission President von der Leyen said that they face the very distinct threat of outside forces trying to weaken their union, while she added that mutual defence is not an optional task for the European Union; it is an obligation within their own treaty, and it is their collective commitment to stand by each other in case of aggression. Pentagon said the US military struck an alleged drug cartel boat in the Caribbean, which killed three people. DB's Jim Reid concludes the overnigt wrap I hope you all had a good weekend. To stay in Winter Olympics mood the family watched "Cool Runnings" last night. I haven't seen it for 32 years. Please don't tell anyone but I had a few tears in my eyes at the end. I blamed it on the hay fever that has now started. There will be a lot of tears out there in markets for other reasons at the moment. Just two weeks ago, the idea of AI-driven disruption still felt like an abstract, almost academic thought experiment—something we could safely revisit once we had clearer evidence of how AI would be deployed and integrated across the economy. Fast forward 14 days, and markets have wiped out well over a trillion dollars of global equity value on the fear that AI could fundamentally reshape business models and compress profitability across a wide range of industries, including software, legal services, IT consulting, wealth management, logistics, insurance, real estate brokerage and commercial real estate. Some of the sell off in “old economy” sectors feels overdone to me. But as I argued in our 2026 World Outlook back in November, the real challenge is that even by the end of this year we still won’t have enough evidence to identify the structural winners and losers with confidence. That leaves plenty of room for investors’ imaginations—both optimistic and pessimistic—to run wild. As such big sentiment swings will continue to be the order of the day. My instinct is that the reaction in things like commercial real estate, for example, has been particularly exaggerated. Markets seem to be extrapolating a scenario in which vast numbers of white collar workers are made redundant almost overnight, leading to a dramatic collapse in office demand. If that view turns out to be correct, we’ll be facing societal challenges far larger than anything currently being priced into equities. While trying to catch a falling knife may be too risky for many, beginning to cushion the descent could be sensible in many old economy sectors. Markets can’t sustain a disruption narrative across multiple sectors for months or quarters without concrete evidence — and that evidence is likely to take much longer to emerge. Fascinating times. As for this week, today is a US holiday but inflation will remain in the spotlight at a global level after Friday's slightly softer US CPI which helped contribute to a decent rates rally to end the week. Prints are due in the US (PCE - Friday), the UK (Wednesday), Canada (Tuesday) and Japan (Friday). Other economic highlights will include the FOMC minutes (Wednesday), Q4 GDP in the US (Friday), as well as the global flash PMIs (Friday). Earnings reports will feature Walmart (Thursday), Nestlé (Thursday) and BHP (today). It's the earnings calm before next week's Nvidia storm. In the US, this holiday shortened week (President's Day today) features a data calendar dominated by releases that were pushed back by last year’s government shutdown. The most consequential updates will land on Friday, when the advance estimate of Q4 GDP arrives alongside December’s personal income and consumption figures—key inputs for shaping expectations for the early part of this year. For markets assessing the underlying pulse of demand heading into 2026, private final sales to domestic purchasers (PFDP) will carry more weight than the headline GDP print. This indicator—closely monitored by Fed Chair Powell—is expected by our economists to slow to 2.0% from 2.9% in Q3, though risks appear tilted upward. One swing factor: Wednesday’s durable goods report, where modest gains outside of transportation could soften the deceleration. On the consumer front, real PCE growth is expected to cool to 2.5% after two quarters of outsized strength but should still signal ample momentum heading into the new year. Friday’s income and spending report will also offer the latest reading on core PCE, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge. Our economists expect another 0.4% monthly increase for December, lifting the year over year rate to 2.9%. Updated seasonal factors from last week’s CPI release suggest some mild downward pressure on inflation trends in the second half of 2025. Still, January’s CPI data, although softer than we anticipated, do not translate into equivalent relief for core PCE—in fact, our team currently sees another 0.4% gain for January's release (delayed until March 13th). Depending on the strength of medical services, airfare, and portfolio management components in the upcoming PPI report, a 0.5% monthly rise cannot be ruled out, which would push the year over year rate toward 3.1%. So don't get too excited about the softer CPI last week and the huge rates rally. Additional releases this week will help clarify whether recent severe winter weather has disrupted factory sector activity. January industrial production, due Wednesday, should benefit from a jump in utility output, while weather effects may weigh on the Empire State Survey tomorrow and the Philadelphia Fed survey on Thursday. Labor market data will also be in focus, particularly Thursday’s jobless claims, which line up with the survey week for the February employment report. As our economists have pointed out, private nonfarm job gains have averaged 103k over the past three months, slightly above the pace at this point in 2025 and matching the start of 2024. See their latest US employment chartbook here. This week will also feature a dense lineup of Federal Reserve speakers which you can see alongside all the key global data in the day-by-day week ahead calendar at the end as usual. Moving away from the US, inflation will also be in focus in Japan (Friday) and Canada (tomorrow). For the former, our Chief Japan Economist sees the January nationwide CPI showing a slowdown in both core CPI inflation ex. fresh food to 2.1% YoY (+2.4% in December) and core-core CPI inflation ex. fresh food and energy to 2.7% (+2.9%). Also important will be the global flash PMIs due on Friday as a health check on global growth. In Europe, the spotlight will be on UK inflation (Wednesday), with labour market data due tomorrow and retail sales on Friday. Our UK economist expects headline CPI inflation to drop to 3.0% YoY (3.4% in December) and core CPI also landing at 3.0% YoY (3.2% YoY). See more in his full preview here. In terms of key rate decisions, the RBNZ are expected to remain on hold on Wednesday. Finally, the Munich Security Conference wrapped up over the weekend, where key topics included Ukraine, Russia, and the fate of Greenland. And while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s speech was nothing like Vice President JD Vance’s at last year’s conference, which triggered a “wake-up” call for European leaders, Rubio reiterated the administration’s view that Europe needed to leave behind its focus on energy policies, trade and mass migration. Recapping last week now, the tech volatility that has dogged markets since the start of the month broadened into a far more indiscriminate sell-off. The trough came on Thursday, marked by a sharp drop in software stocks, but the weakness extended well beyond tech. Companies across wealth management, real estate and financials suffered double digit declines, underscoring how widespread the pullback has become. Market breadth confirmed this shift as the equal weighted S&P 500 fell -1.37% on Thursday, though it managed to finish the week up +0.29% (+1.04% on Friday). Ultimately, the sell-off left the major US indices on the back foot: the S&P 500 slipped -1.39% (+0.05% on Friday), the Nasdaq lost -2.10% (-0.22% on Friday), and the Magnificent 7 slid -3.24% (-1.11% on Friday). Although the AI scare dominated sentiment, a heavy slate of US data also shaped the market narrative. Early in the week, softer prints—including flat December retail sales, a dovish Q4 Employment Cost Index, and slower Q4 growth expectations from the Atlanta Fed—pushed Treasury yields lower across the curve. That picture shifted midweek after a stronger than expected January jobs report, which delivered the largest gain in nonfarm payrolls (+130k vs. +65k expected) since December 2024 and reinforced confidence that the US economy carried solid momentum into 2026. Then on Friday, January CPI came in below expectations, adding another dovish note. Although the data offered mixed signals at times, the overall takeaway was sufficiently dovish for traders to increase the number of expected rate cuts by December 2026 to 63.4bps (+7.7bps on the week). This helped drive the largest weekly drop in the 10 year Treasury yield since August 2025, down -15.8bps (-5.0bps on Friday) to 4.05%. The 2 year yield also moved sharply lower, falling -8.9bps to 3.41% (-4.8bps on Friday), its lowest level since 2022. European markets, meanwhile, delivered a comparatively resilient performance. The STOXX 600 (+0.09%, -0.13% Friday), DAX (+0.78%, +0.25% Friday) and FTSE 100 (+0.74%, +0.42% Friday) all posted modest gains for the week. European sovereign bonds rallied as well, with the 10 year bund yield dropping -8.7bps—its steepest weekly decline since April 2025. That move was outpaced by gilts, which fell -9.8bps (-3.6bps on Friday) despite a sharp early week sell-off triggered by renewed questions surrounding Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s position. Elsewhere, performance was mixed. Brent crude edged down -0.44% (+0.34% on Friday), while gold extended its upward run, rising +1.56% (+2.43% on Friday). Will London’s half term week finally give us a quiet week in 2026? You’d probably have to guess at ‘unlikely’. Tyler Durden Mon, 02/16/2026 - 09:40

At this year's Munich Security Conference, Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has urged European leaders to help Iranians topple the Iranian regime. But does Europe have any leverage to deliver o

The European Congress of Ukrainians, alongside Ukrainian communities abroad, appealed to European leaders and EU institutions to strengthen support for Ukraine's European future.

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Websites associated with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico are reportedly promoting various conspiracy theories, including claims about the US developing viruses in Ukraine and European leaders being controlled by 'dark forces'.

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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban stated that Central European countries "must reorganize their relationship with Russia" to achieve success, while also accusing European leaders of "destroying" relations.

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Alexander Andreev's weekly newsletter offers a subjective overview of events in Bulgaria and worldwide, highlighting topics such as Radev's fight against oligarchy and geopolitical dynamics involving ayatollahs, the BBC, NATO, and European leaders.

European leaders confirmed at a meeting in Brussels that their countries do not wish to join military operations by the United States and Israel in the Middle East.

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The head of the latest Dutch coalition government has told European leaders to 'stop complaining' and 'maybe just do a better job,' signaling that the liberal Netherlands will play an active role in the EU.

As Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky meets with European leaders, including Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Eve Irvine is pleased to welcome Eduard Soler i Lecha, Associate Professor of…

The Irish premier defended Starmer and conveyed to Donald Trump that he believes Trump can collaborate with European leaders regarding the situation in Iran.

European leaders are reportedly sending strong messages to the US government, indicating that the Middle East conflict and its consequences are now primarily a US problem.

The US decision to relax some sanctions on Russian oil sales has drawn a chorus of criticism from European leaders.

European leaders are reportedly planning measures to crack down on price gouging practices across the continent.

Iranian energy strikes are reportedly affecting Europe, drawing comparisons to 2022, a year marked by significant security implications for European leaders following a full-scale Russian invasion.

An opinion piece from Finland criticizes European leaders for their rhetoric, suggesting they need to move from words to concrete actions.

A former Chinese envoy suggests that China's growing international influence and economic stability are shifting its relationship with Europe from rivalry to increased cooperation, with European leaders frequently visiting Beijing.

Cyprus faces the threat of Iranian missiles, prompting French President Macron to coordinate military deployment capacities on the island with Italian Prime Minister Meloni and Greek leader Mitsotakis.

Prime Ministers from Romania, Moldova, and Albania, along with high-ranking European officials and business leaders, are convening in Bucharest for the Economist Romania Government Roundtable to discuss Europe's future and security.

French, German, and British leaders expressed dismay at Iran's 'indiscriminate and disproportionate missile attacks' in response to the US-Israeli offensive, indicating readiness for defensive military actions in the region.

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa reported a 'great openness' from the European Union to understand Portugal's reality and explore ways to help the country after meeting with several European leaders.

European leaders are exploring options to allow Viktor Orbán a symbolic victory to save face before elections, enabling him to lift his block on Ukrainian aid without triggering a legal dispute.

Writer Erri De Luca, who has delivered aid to Ukraine, states that European leaders are more empathetic than their populations and criticizes Italy's 'partisan pacifism,' arguing that the aggressed country cannot be asked to surrender.

On the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion, European leaders reiterated their unwavering support for Kyiv, both in person and remotely.

President Alexander Stubb said Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has become a “complete strategic failure” for President Vladimir Putin as European leaders gathered in Kyiv to mark four years since the full-scale assault began. Speaking at a press conference in the Ukrainian capital on Tuesday, Stubb said Ukraine stands in a stronger position than a year ago. “Ukraine is on the front foot,” he said. “This has been a complete strategic failure for the Russian president.”

European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, visited Kyiv on the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion to reaffirm support for Ukraine, remembering destroyed communities and abducted children.

European leaders in Ukraine for the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion  The Brussels Times

European leaders visit Ukraine on anniversary of Russian invasion  Naharnet

While European leaders cautiously welcomed a softer tone from the US at the Munich Security Conference, American independence and the "Trumpian narrative" remained top of mind for Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright warns European leaders to abandon their green agenda or face economic catastrophe, blasting "net zero" policies as unrealistic.

An analysis suggests that African countries should resist Europe's assertive migration diplomacy, noting that while European leaders distance themselves from Trump's hardline tactics, their approaches may not be significantly different.

While European leaders cautiously welcomed a softer tone from the US at the Munich Security Conference, American independence and the "Trumpian narrative" remained top of mind for Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

European leaders, particularly at the Munich conference, expressed concerns over US unpredictability and discussed "de-risking" from the US, exploring options like a European nuclear deterrent and greater unity on the global stage.

Irish Taoiseach Martin stated that Ireland should 'seriously consider' the nuclear power option and 'explore all avenues' as European leaders gather in Armenia for energy and security discussions.

Following a recent 'gamechanger' attack, European leaders are preparing to make their own defense clause operational, which French President Macron believes is stronger than NATO's Article 5.

Romania's Foreign Minister Oana Ţoiu announced discussions with European leaders for a common position on the EU budget, aiming to secure funding for Romanian localities near the Ukrainian border and strengthen the Eastern Flank's defense.

European leaders and President Zelenskyy held an informal summit in Cyprus to review steps for EU enlargement, discuss sanctions, and coordinate military support for Ukraine.

The President of Confindustria, Carlo Bonomi, suggested that Europe might need a change in leadership, stating that a recession in the EU is inevitable without negotiations in the Gulf.

European leaders, including Greek PM Mitsotakis, held a teleconference to discuss protecting minors online and establishing a pan-European age limit for social media access.

Revealed communications between Hungary and Russia have angered several European leaders, painting a grim picture of their relationship.

Fuel prices in the Czech Republic have reached record highs, with Natural 95 gasoline at an average of 41.60 CZK per liter and diesel at 48.30 CZK, as experts suggest European leaders cannot influence global oil prices.

After decades of prioritizing domestic consumption over military expenditure, European leaders are attempting to shift course towards increased defense spending, a move that is straining budgets and risking voter dissatisfaction.

European leaders are facing criticism for their lack of a long-term strategy regarding the Iran war, with calls for them to address their own policy shortcomings rather than solely blaming the US.

Telefónica's president, Murtra, announced that the company has met its 2025 objectives and reiterated a commitment to financial discipline for 2026, aiming for European leadership by 2030 and global leadership by 2035.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is reportedly taking criticism on behalf of other European leaders who may secretly agree with his positions.

Rheinmetall, Germany's largest defense company, opened a new ammunition factory in Unterlüss, near Hanover, with attendees including the NATO Secretary General, two German ministers, and the President of Bulgaria.

Several European leaders, including former Slovak Prime Minister Eduard Heger, Switzerland’s Marc Jost, and Austria’s Gudrun Kugler-Lang, have committed to supporting Nigeria's initiatives to combat violence in its northern regions.

European leaders, including Dan Jørgensen, are exploring limited tools and a swift end to the Iran war to mitigate the energy crisis, though some factions demand more comprehensive solutions.

Nikos Androulakis, from Brussels, emphasized the necessity for European leadership to take initiatives to end the war in Iran and insisted that leaders should fight for the respect of international law, rather than acting as Trump's subordinates.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda will participate in a two-day informal European Council meeting in Brussels to discuss the situation in the Middle East with other European leaders.

European leaders have rejected direct involvement in U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran, wary of getting sucked into an unpredictable conflict.

Dr. Iryna Mudra, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, states that Ukraine's struggle extends beyond its borders, serving as a 'Shield for Europe' as President Zelenskyy seeks to strengthen alliances with European leaders.

Britain and Ukraine will agree a military-industrial partnership to develop and export drone technology during a visit to London by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Tuesday, as European leaders push…

European leaders are hesitant to help Trump secure the Strait of Hormuz, but they know inaction on the Iran war is not really an option.

Prime Ministers and leaders from eight European countries, including Estonia, Finland, and Germany, have sent a joint letter to the EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, advocating for denying visas to Russian soldiers.

European leaders have strongly criticized the Trump administration's decision to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian oil to reduce rising energy prices, linking the move to US and Israeli attacks on Iran.

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, during a teleconference with other European leaders, warned that current developments in the Middle East would directly affect the EU's competitiveness and economy.

The governments of Italy, Germany, and Belgium have held a video conference meeting of European leaders to discuss EU simplification and the energy situation, addressing price rises caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

A French chronicle highlights France's success in controlling inflation, positioning it as a European leader in this economic policy area.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez became the only European leader to openly reject the demands of US President Donald Trump and refuse to grant permission to use two joint bases for an attack...

When German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Beijing for his first visit to China last week, it came at a moment of heightened geopolitical attention. With US President Donald Trump expected to visit Beijing in late March or early April, European leaders are watching closely for possible shifts in transatlantic relations and trade policy. Against this anxious backdrop, Merz’s meetings with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing offered something the global stage has been dee...

European countries say they want better cooperation, but they have different priorities.

Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez refuses US use of bases, drawing threats of retaliation from Donald Trump. Meanwhile, former Italian leader Veltroni warns of a choice between Trump's autocracy and the EU, and scholar Anne Applebaum discusses the decline of international law.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a series of telephone conversations with American, Gulf, and European leaders amidst a drastic escalation in the Middle East, following attacks by the USA and Israel…

Reactions from European leaders vary. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom express sympathy with their allies, while Norway and Spain are explicitly critical.

Nobel laureate Giorgio Parisi advocates for Europe to establish a major AI research center, akin to CERN, to prevent dependency on foreign AI models and secure AI as a strategic technology.

Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan meets on Thursday in Brussels with Ursula von der Leyen and other European leaders to unblock the 231 million euros from PNRR. The agenda also includes priorities

German leader Friedrich Merz visits China to strengthen ties, following similar visits by other European leaders, as the EU aims to shore up relationships with Beijing.

European leaders travel to Kyiv to mark the war's fourth anniversary and pledge continued support for Ukraine.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is reportedly on a mission to persuade both Donald Trump and European leaders to improve their relationship and foster friendship.

President Stubb commemorates the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in Kyiv. An array of events take place around Finland on Tuesday as well.

European leaders, including the Polish Foreign Minister, have sharply criticized Hungary's decision to block a 90 billion euro loan for Ukraine, calling it 'shocking' given Hungary's own historical experiences.

European leaders are increasingly visiting China, seeking a balance between economic interests and conscience, amidst rising US-China tensions. Experts note this as Europe's response to changing US policies.

Maria Kolesnikova, a Belarusian opposition figure, has called on European leaders to reopen diplomatic channels with Alexander Lukashenko, stating it seems the only way to ease tensions.

European leaders are beginning the process of selecting the next President of the European Central Bank as Christine Lagarde's term approaches its end.

Canada plans to shift its military spending away from American suppliers, while European leaders at the Munich Security Conference discussed reducing their security reliance on the U.S., signaling a broader trend among allies.