The European Union fined Apple €500 million and Meta €200 million for violating the Digital Markets Act, which aims to prevent tech giants from abusing their market dominance. Apple restricted app developers’ communication with customers, while Meta forced users to consent to data use or pay for ad-free services. This reflects a transatlantic consensus on regulating big tech, despite ongoing U.S.-EU trade tensions. In the U.S., Google, Meta, Amazon, and Apple face antitrust challenges. The Trump administration’s response to these EU penalties remains uncertain. Sophia Prescott 23/04/2025 11:30 am
The European Union’s commitment to the “rules-based international order” is questioned due to its selective application of standards, particularly regarding the International Criminal Court (ICC). While the EU encourages nations to support the ICC, its response to Hungary’s announcement of withdrawal, amid an ICC arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has been muted. Hungary’s withdrawal, if ratified, could take months, but it currently has an obligation to arrest Netanyahu. The EU’s reaction has been limited to expressing “deep regret” over Hungary’s potential exit. Penelope Kingsley 05/04/2025 10:00 am
The European Union remains committed to supporting Ukraine against Russia’s invasion, increasing humanitarian aid, and enhancing global cooperation. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, addressing the U.N. Security Council, indirectly criticized the Trump administration’s stance on Europe and aid cutbacks. Meanwhile, the U.S. announced it would resume military aid to Ukraine, contingent on Moscow’s agreement to a proposed 30-day ceasefire. Kallas highlighted the U.N.’s foundational challenges, citing violations of the U.N. Charter and threats to peace and human rights. Ava Sinclair 12/03/2025 5:00 am
The European Union is in crisis talks to enhance its defense capabilities amid concerns over Moscow’s aggression and President Trump’s shifting alliances and aid withdrawal from Ukraine. French President Macron emphasized Europe’s need for autonomy from U.S. influence. EU leaders are advocating for a significant military buildup, with proposals for up to 800 billion euros in defense spending. Germany is easing borrowing controls, and France may extend its nuclear deterrent to allies. The EU faces challenges adapting to a more militarized global landscape. Penelope Kingsley 06/03/2025 12:30 pm
The European Union has warned U.S. President Donald Trump of retaliation if he imposes tariffs on EU goods. The European Commission expressed regret over Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, and noted the significant trade relationship between the EU and the U.S. A Commission spokesperson emphasized that tariffs cause economic disruption and inflation. The EU is prepared to respond firmly to any unfair tariffs. France’s Industry Minister Marc Ferracci called for a strong response from Brussels, which handles trade for the EU’s 27 members. Noah Prescott 02/02/2025 9:00 pm
Hila Weisz-Gut, the only Jew in OÅ›wiÄ™cim, Poland, lives near Auschwitz, where her grandmother survived. She moved there in 2023 with her Polish husband, despite her family’s tragic history. While facing skepticism from Jews and Israelis, her local community has been welcoming. Weisz-Gut emphasizes the importance of maintaining a Jewish presence amid rising antisemitism in Europe, exacerbated by Middle East tensions and far-right political gains. The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights reports a significant increase in antisemitic incidents following recent Middle East conflicts. Penelope Kingsley 26/01/2025 1:00 pm
The European Union and Trump share similar migration policies, despite differing rhetoric. EU countries have tightened migration controls due to rising support for anti-immigrant parties. EU leaders discussed migrant processing centers, deportations, and security threats. Since 2015, the EU has shifted from welcoming migrants to imposing border restrictions. In 2023, fewer migrants reached Europe, with countries like Poland and Germany implementing stricter controls. Analysts suggest a Trump return could bolster EU countries favoring restrictive migration policies, influencing future EU decisions. Ava Sinclair 18/10/2024 4:00 am
Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary, known for his “illiberal democracy” stance, has often criticized the European Union. In response, progressive members of the European Parliament sang “Bella Ciao” after his speech, a move halted by Parliament President Roberta Metsola, who urged respect for the chamber’s dignity. Orban’s right-wing nationalist policies, including his views on minority rights and immigration, have long clashed with the EU, and he remains a vocal internal critic, particularly regarding his perceived sympathies for Russia’s President Putin. Penelope Kingsley 10/10/2024 2:00 pm
The European Union has voted to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, despite Germany’s opposition. Chinese EV production and exports have surged, offering competitive prices that challenge European manufacturers. The EU accuses China of market flooding and unfair subsidies. Tariffs will range from 7.8% to 35.3%, lower than the U.S.’s recent 100% tariff. Germany, with its significant auto industry, opposed the tariffs but failed to gather enough support to overturn the decision, needing 15 countries and 65% of the EU population. Liam Harrington 05/10/2024 7:30 am
The European Union voted to impose higher tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, aiming to protect its auto industry while risking trade tensions. The decision highlights internal EU divisions, with some members viewing China as a partner and others as a competitor. The tariffs, up to 45%, are lower than U.S. and Canadian duties, reflecting Europe’s attempt to align with Washington without fully alienating China. The move signals a growing consensus for stronger economic pushback against China, though negotiations continue to address EU concerns about Chinese automakers’ advantages. Liam Harrington 04/10/2024 5:30 pm
