European

“You might call it a sad opportunity,” remarked Yasmine Belkaid, the esteemed director of the Pasteur Institute in Paris. Photograph by Romuald Meigneux/Sipa/Rex/Shutterstock. The ad was unlike any other, draped in language like "censorship" and "political interference". Originating from Belgium, it seemed designed to reach across the ocean to researchers in the United States, perhaps hinting at a desire to leave behind funding freezes, budget cuts, and new ideological hurdles reportedly initiated by the Trump…

Europe's Bold Defence Initiative: A Response to New Threats Europe is setting forth on a significant spending initiative, reminiscent of the nearly trillion-euro response crafted during the Covid pandemic. As we navigate this new phase, the rhetoric surrounding this endeavor evokes the existential threat the pandemic once posed. This time, however, the looming threat comes from Russia. "There is an intelligence assessment that Russia will test EU defences within three to five years," remarked a senior EU…

According to a French Member of the European Parliament, France should reclaim the Statue of Liberty, asserting that the United States has drifted away from the very values that inspired France to gift the statue in the first place. 'Give us back the Statue of Liberty,' proclaimed Raphael Glucksmann, a centre-left politician, during a recent convention for his Place Publique movement. He passionately addressed a supportive audience, stating, 'We're going to say to the Americans who have chosen to side with the tyrants, to…

Today, a significant meeting of European defense ministers is set to take place, aiming to discuss the establishment of a peacekeeping force. This initiative could be a crucial component of the security guarantees that Ukraine has stated are essential to deter any future Russian aggression following a potential ceasefire. As President Emmanuel Macron remarked, "In unity, we find strength," emphasizing the collaborative effort required for peace. Defense ministers from Europe's five primary military powers—France, Britain,…

LONDON — In an unpredictable world, where geopolitical tides can shift overnight, European leaders gathered on Sunday, resolute in their mission to bolster support for Ukraine. This gathering was not just another meeting but a response to the recent clash between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, an encounter that unfolded publicly in the Oval Office, and has left a ripple effect on international relations. The embattled spirit of President Zelensky was met with palpable warmth as…

In the heart of London, a pivotal defence summit commenced, marking what British Prime Minister Keir Starmer describes as a "once in a generation moment" for the security landscape of Europe. As leaders from various nations gathered at Lancaster House, the atmosphere was charged with urgency and determination. Mr. Starmer implored his fellow leaders to “step up,” emphasizing that achieving a favorable outcome for Ukraine is not just essential for that nation, but for the security of every country in attendance. It’s a…

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris, participated in a crucial gathering of EU foreign ministers alongside Kaja Kallas, the EU's foreign policy chief, during the G20 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. This was no ordinary meeting, rather, it was a platform where voices united to address pressing global issues. During this assembly, Mr. Harris reiterated Ireland's stance against Russia's ongoing aggression, firmly condemning the illegal war and the relentless onslaught on Ukrainian civilians. He…

In a historic move signaling a new era for energy independence, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania proudly announced their successful synchronization to the European continental power grid. This monumental achievement came just a day after the Baltic nations severed long-standing energy connections with Russia and Belarus, a shift that culminated years of meticulous planning and preparation. Envisioned as a strategic pivot away from the energy dependencies of the Soviet era, this transition aims to weave the Baltic states more…

In a significant move, the three Baltic states—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—have successfully severed their electricity systems from Russia's power grid. This landmark decision, communicated by regional operators, is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing their integration with the European Union and bolstering regional security. With the disconnection from the IPS/UPS joint network complete, these nations are poised to synchronize with the EU's electricity grid by midday tomorrow, pending final confirmation from…

In a significant display of unity, European Union leaders convened yesterday in Brussels with a renewed commitment to enhancing defense expenditures. This decision stems from the pressing challenges posed by Russia's aggressive posturing and the evident need to fill critical voids in military capabilities. Yet, the backdrop of this meeting was far from tranquil. The air was thick with tension following U.S. President Donald Trump's provocative remarks about a potential trade war against the EU, purportedly as a response to…