Europe

EU leaders failed to agree on the next long-term budget at their first face-to-face talks, with deep divisions between frugal states and cohesion countries.

Bernd Lange, head of the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee, suggested a ‘Switzerland plus’ model for UK-EU relations during a London panel, saying the EU’s doors are open.

MEPs have delayed a vote on a proposal to extend pesticide approvals after scientists and UN experts raised concerns.

Cyprus has completed all technical requirements to join the Schengen area, but political obstacles linked to the island’s division and the presence of British military bases are delaying its accession.

The EU’s 2026 rule-of-law report has been criticised for failing to trigger real action, with only 4% of recommendations fully implemented, according to human rights watchdog Liberties.

Indonesian sailor Fredi Seprizal testified at the European Parliament about working 16-20 hours a day on a Chinese vessel, as EU officials and stakeholders debated stronger labour protections for fishers.

French finance minister Roland Lescure invites the UK to rejoin the EU, saying ‘come back, anytime,’ amid renewed debate over Brexit following UK PM Andy Burnham’s comments on exploring closer ties.

The EU withdrew sponsorship from Disinfo2026 in Lithuania, citing discomfort with discussion framing, after reports of US pressure.

Green MEPs call for an EU-wide tax on oil and gas windfall profits linked to the Iran crisis, citing national levies and past solidarity measures.

The European Commission has proposed reforms to accelerate EU enlargement, including qualified majority voting, gradual integration, and safeguards against democratic backsliding.