Von der Leyen

Putin Faces Global Criticism for Skipping Peace Talks with Zelenskyj

The pressure must increase on the President of Russia – who has made "a great mistake" and "does not want peace". World leaders are pouring criticism over Vladimir Putin for skipping a high-level peace meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart in Turkey.

EU Targets Russian Shadow Fleet with New Sanctions Package

More boats in the Russian "shadow fleet" are being punished as EU countries have now agreed on their 17th package following Russia's large-scale invasion of Ukraine. "We're keeping the pressure up," claims Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Merz Proposes Ending EU Sustainability Requirements

Waived sustainability requirements in the EU are desired by Germany's new Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz on a visit to Brussels. A more active Germany is promised in the EU.

Trump Praises EU's von der Leyen as Fantastic

EU Considers New Tariffs on US Goods Including Horses and Golf Balls

Multi-billion import from USA may be affected when EU prepares for next response, if trade war continues. On the new list, there are everything from horses to pulp and novelty items.

EU Greenlights Retaliatory Tariffs on US Goods Starting April 15

The EU member states say a resounding yes to responding to the US tariffs - but open up for stopping the trade war "at any time". "Tariffs can start being collected from April 15", announces the EU Commission.

Trump Dismisses EU's Zero Tariff Offer, Cites Unfair Trade Practices

The EU's proposal from February on zero tariffs on American industrial goods, including cars, is rejected by the US President Donald Trump. The European Union has behaved very, very badly towards us, he says.

EU Prepares to Vote on Retaliatory Tariffs Against US on Wednesday

The EU wants to negotiate with the USA – but is preparing for countermeasures. On Wednesday, a first list of retaliatory tariffs will be voted on.

EU gears up – but Hungary vetoes Ukraine

All EU countries are backing the multi-billion plan for upgrading. But only 26 are in agreement on continued strong support to Ukraine. Hungary refuses to participate, says Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.

EU Unveils Bold Plan to Boost Defense Spending Across Europe

The EU Commission hopes to release nearly 9,000 billion kronor for defence investments. Member states are to be exempt from budget rules to build up.

Trump's New World Order: Might Makes Right

Donald Trump's USA is threatening to take over territories, severing ties to UN agencies, shutting out negotiating partners and intimidating with punitive tariffs. Much suggests that we are heading into a new, transactional world order where the strong have advantages.

Trump's New World Order: Might is Right

Donald Trump's USA is threatening to take over territories, severing ties to UN agencies and intimidating with punitive tariffs. Much suggests that we are heading into a new, transactional world order where the strong have advantages.

EU leaders on Trump's tariff threats: We're ready

The EU promises to respond "with firmness" if the US threatens with tariffs and trade war. We are ready, says Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

EU on the Environment: Must Become More Flexible

The EU sets the direction towards better competitiveness and less bureaucracy - but still promises a continued investment in the climate. However, we must be flexible, says Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The EU base on Trump: We defend our interests

The EU is ready to quickly discuss and negotiate with the new US President Donald Trump, but without giving up its own interests, assures EU chief Ursula von der Leyen. And she firmly stands behind the fight against climate change.

Agreement with South America finalized – worrying Europe's farmers

The EU and Mercosur countries in South America are politically agreed on their major free trade agreement. But will enough reluctant European countries sign on?

Mercosur agreement near – EU base on site

The EU's large and drawn-out trade agreement with Latin America is getting closer - despite France still saying no. Signing is expected at the summit in Montevideo.

Kallas and Costa - EU's New Stars

An Estonian foreign minister and a Portuguese top meeting general will be two of the EU's foremost faces outward until 2029. Kaja Kallas and António Costa kick off the new mandate period with a trip to Ukraine, and are two of the EU's new poster names to keep an eye on.

EU: Hope for good relations with Trump

Countries demand answers after disputed election in Georgia

A number of Western countries are questioning the weekend's election in Georgia, which ended with the pro-Russian ruling party Georgian Dream proclaiming victory. Sweden's Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard (The Moderate Party) says she is "seriously concerned".

EU proposal to get more migrants out promised

The EU Commission is to present legislative proposals that will increase the pressure on migrants who are not allowed to stay in the EU to return. And return centers in locations outside the EU will be re-examined.

EU billions for light and warmth in Ukraine

The EU is promising fresh support to Ukraine to help the country with protection and warmth ahead of yet another war winter.

The EU historically weak as heavyweights are in crisis

Crisis in Berlin and crisis in Paris create a crisis for Brussels as well. Weak and unpopular governments in both Germany and France are causing the EU to stall.

New EU Commission in a week

The new EU Commission, the union's "government", cannot be announced until at least next week, announces the EU Parliament. Next Tuesday, Chairperson Ursula von der Leyen will meet with the parliament's group leaders.