🏛️ ECB keeps interest rates unchanged at 2% amid stable inflation (0.88)

The European Central Bank (ECB) has kept its key interest rates unchanged at 2% for the fifth consecutive meeting, reflecting a cautious approach amid improving inflation data. Eurozone inflation fell to 1.7% in January, below the ECB's target. Despite a resilient economic outlook, ongoing geopolitical tensions and a strong euro raise concerns about future inflation. Following the announcement, European stock markets declined, with significant drops in banking stocks. The ECB's next meeting will be closely monitored for potential shifts in monetary policy. read →

🌍⚖️ EU court upholds Italy's ban on GMO corn cultivation (0.84)🎁

The EU Court of Justice has upheld Italy's ban on the cultivation of genetically modified maize, ruling that member states can prohibit GMOs without justification if the authorisation holder does not object. This decision stems from a case involving an Italian farmer fined €50,000 for violating the ban. The ruling reinforces member states' rights to regulate GMO cultivation, potentially influencing future agricultural policies across the EU. read → 🎁 today's freebie

⚖️🇪🇺 CJEU annuls European Parliament's immunity withdrawals for Puigdemont and others (0.82)

The CJEU has annulled the European Parliament's 2021 decision to lift the immunity of Carles Puigdemont, Toni Comín, and Clara Ponsatí, citing impartiality concerns regarding the rapporteur's appointment. The ruling, issued on 5 February 2026, highlights procedural flaws linked to the Vox party, which initiated criminal proceedings against the politicians. While the ruling reinstates their immunity, it has no practical effect as none currently hold MEP status. The European Parliament is ordered to cover the legal costs incurred by the three during the proceedings. read →

🏛️💶 EIB and EU front-load €3 billion for carbon market transition (0.81)

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has front-loaded €3 billion to EU member states to mitigate the impact of an upcoming carbon price on heating and transport fuels, set for 2028. This funding, part of a total of €7 billion available, aims to support low- and middle-income households in transitioning to cleaner technologies. The decision responds to concerns from several member states about rising energy costs. While the funding is a step towards easing the transition, opposition remains from countries like Poland and the Czech Republic, which argue they are unprepared for the new carbon pricing system. read →

🏛️ EU accelerates push for a digital euro amid political divisions (0.79)

The European Parliament is set to debate and vote on amendments aimed at reviving the stalled digital euro regulation. Supported by 47 MEPs from various parties, the amendments emphasize the digital euro's role in European monetary sovereignty. The ECB anticipates that, if approved promptly, the digital euro could be adopted by 2029. However, political divisions have delayed progress, raising concerns about meeting upcoming deadlines for agreement and negotiation. read →

💶🇪🇺 EU approves €90 billion loan to support Ukraine (0.92)

The EU has approved a €90 billion loan package for Ukraine, aimed at supporting its defense and public services over the next two years. Of this amount, €60 billion will be allocated for military needs, while €30 billion will help maintain essential public services. Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic have secured exemptions from financial contributions. The European Parliament is expected to fast-track the approval process, reflecting the urgent financial needs of Ukraine amid ongoing conflict. read →

🌍🚀 Ukraine blocks Starlink access for Russian forces (0.9)

Ukraine has successfully blocked access to Starlink terminals used by Russian forces, leading to significant disruptions in their military operations. Ukrainian officials report that the blockade has complicated Russian command and control, with some operations halted. The measures follow Ukraine's collaboration with SpaceX, which now requires registration for terminal access, ensuring that only authorized systems are operational. Defence Minister Mijailo Fedorov praised the initiative as a critical step in managing satellite technology in the conflict. read →

🏛️ Venezuela approves hydrocarbons law to attract investment (0.88)

Venezuela's National Assembly has approved a new hydrocarbons law aimed at attracting foreign investment and facilitating crude oil exports. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez met with representatives from Repsol and Maurel & Prom to discuss investment opportunities following the law's approval. The legislation is expected to enhance legal security for foreign companies and boost Venezuela's oil production, positioning the country as a potential energy power. read →

🏛️ Argentina requests Nicolás Maduro's extradition from the U.S. (0.86)

Argentina's federal judge Sebastián Ramos has formally requested the extradition of Nicolás Maduro from the United States, citing allegations of crimes against humanity. This request follows Maduro's capture by U.S. forces on January 3, 2026, and is based on the principle of universal jurisdiction. The case against Maduro began in 2023 after a complaint from the Foro Argentino para la Defensa de la Democracia. Prosecutor Carlos Stornelli has urged the initiation of the extradition process to bring Maduro to Argentina for trial. read →

🕊️🤝 US-brokered talks in Abu Dhabi secure prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia (0.84)

US-brokered talks in Abu Dhabi have led to an agreement between Ukraine and Russia to exchange 314 prisoners of war, the first such swap in five months. US special envoy Steve Witkoff described the negotiations as 'detailed and productive,' with further discussions anticipated. The talks also resulted in the resumption of high-level military dialogue between the US and Russia, aimed at enhancing stability and preventing escalation. Despite these developments, significant challenges remain, particularly regarding territorial disputes in the Donbas region. read →

🌍 UN warns of humanitarian collapse in Cuba amid US oil blockade (0.79)

The UN has warned of a potential humanitarian collapse in Cuba due to severe fuel shortages exacerbated by US sanctions blocking oil supplies. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the deteriorating situation, which has led to widespread blackouts and rising prices. The US has threatened tariffs on nations supplying oil to Cuba, prompting Mexico to seek diplomatic solutions to continue its oil shipments. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the US actions as a "genocidal blockade" and declared an international emergency. read →

🏛️ Poland's PM Tusk visits Kyiv to bolster reconstruction and military support (0.76)

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk visited Kyiv on 5 February 2026, to discuss Ukraine's reconstruction and military support amid ongoing Russian aggression. Tusk announced further military aid, including potential transfers of MiG-29 fighter jets, and emphasized the economic opportunities for Polish companies in Ukraine's reconstruction, estimated at $800 billion. A letter of intent for joint production of military equipment was signed, marking a significant step in defense cooperation. Tusk reiterated Poland's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and security. read →

⚖️🌍 Panama court ruling sparks China-Panama ports dispute (0.7)

Panama's Supreme Court has annulled the concession of CK Hutchison for two ports at the Panama Canal, citing unconstitutionality. In retaliation, China has threatened Panama with severe political and economic consequences. CK Hutchison has initiated arbitration proceedings against Panama, claiming serious harm. The U.S. supports Panama's decision, emphasizing its historical control over the canal, which adds another layer to the ongoing geopolitical tensions. read →

⚖️🌍 New START treaty expiration raises nuclear arms race fears (0.66)

The New START treaty, the last nuclear arms control agreement between the US and Russia, expired on 5 February 2026, removing limits on their nuclear arsenals. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned this marks a grave moment for global peace, as both nations are now free to expand their nuclear capabilities. Russia has declared it no longer feels bound by treaty obligations, while China expressed regret over the expiration but refuses to join disarmament talks. The situation raises fears of a new arms race and increased global instability. read →

⚖️📦 France escalates legal action against Shein amid e-commerce regulation efforts (0.92)

France is escalating its legal action against Shein, appealing a court ruling that rejected a suspension of the ultra-fast-fashion platform. Commerce Minister Serge Papin is advocating for new legislation to strengthen import controls and allow the government to block online platforms without judicial approval. A €2 tax on small parcels will be introduced from 1 March, with an additional EU customs duty starting in July. Papin emphasizes the need for fair competition between online and physical retailers as the government declares 2026 the "Year of Resistance" against unfair e-commerce practices. read →

🏛️🔧 MaPrimeRénov' scheme to reopen as 2026 budget is approved (0.92)

The French government will fully reopen the MaPrimeRénov' energy renovation aid scheme once the 2026 budget is approved, allocating €3.6 billion for the initiative. This reopening, announced by Housing Minister Vincent Jeanbrun, aims to support all households after previous restrictions. Meanwhile, the heat pump market has suffered from political instability, with sales declining significantly in 2025. New measures are being introduced to stabilize the market and promote local manufacturing, offering cautious optimism for recovery in 2026. read →

🏛️ France's energy strategy faces scrutiny as renewables slow down (0.83)

France's Multiannual Energy Programming (PPE) is set to slow down onshore wind and solar ambitions, with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu meeting sector representatives on February 6, 2026. Concerns are rising over potential mass layoffs in the renewable sector as the government shifts focus towards nuclear energy investments. The PPE, delayed for over two years, is expected to be published soon, alongside a plan for electrification in various sectors. read →

🏛️📈 Government unveils national plan to combat infertility (0.83)

The French government has launched a national plan to combat infertility, introducing measures to raise awareness and improve access to reproductive health services. Key initiatives include sending informational messages to citizens on their 29th birthday and expanding access to egg freezing. A communication campaign on reproductive health is set to launch by the end of 2026. The plan addresses infertility, which affects over three million people in France, and aims to improve care for related medical conditions. read →

🏛️ Lyon court approves sale of ACI Group subsidiaries amid judicial recovery (0.67)

The Lyon Economic Affairs Court has approved the sale of several subsidiaries of ACI Group, a subcontractor in the defence and aerospace sectors, amid ongoing judicial recovery proceedings. The court also ordered the liquidation of MPR, affecting around 50 employees. ACI has been under judicial reorganisation since September 2025, with concerns raised over the leadership of Philippe Rivière, who faces allegations of mismanagement. The court will consider offers for additional subsidiaries on 24 February and 10 March 2026. read →

🏛️ Pedro Sánchez's migrant regularisation decree faces administrative challenges (0.87)

Pedro Sánchez's decree to regularise over half a million undocumented migrants has led to overwhelming demand at consulates and municipal offices, causing significant administrative challenges. The process, set to begin in April 2026, requires extensive documentation, and many individuals are already queuing to prepare. In an op-ed, Sánchez defended the policy as a moral and pragmatic necessity for Spain's economy, emphasizing the need for a welcoming society. However, concerns have been raised about the government's preparedness to handle the influx of applications. read →

🌧️🚨 Storm Leonardo triggers mass evacuations and emergency response in Córdoba (0.85)

Storm Leonardo has prompted mass evacuations in Córdoba, with authorities warning of severe flooding similar to that of 2010. Approximately 400 homes are affected, displacing over 1,500 residents. The UME has deployed 400 personnel to assist with emergency measures, and two reception centers have been established for evacuees. Peak water levels from the Guadalquivir River are expected this weekend, raising concerns for additional flooding in surrounding municipalities. read →

🚗💼 Spain allocates €40 million for electric vehicle grants to SMEs and self-employed (0.79)

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a €40 million aid package to support the purchase of electric vehicles for self-employed individuals and small businesses. Grants of up to €7,500 will be available, as part of the broader Auto+ initiative aimed at promoting electric mobility and industrial decarbonisation. The program is expected to enhance competitiveness and support job creation in the green economy. read →

🏛️📱 Spain's government moves to regulate social media for minors amid backlash from tech leaders (0.77)

Spain's government has approved a proposal to ban social media access for users under 16, aiming to protect minors from harmful online content. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized the need for regulation, stating that the state must safeguard democracy and children from the negative impacts of social networks. The initiative has faced backlash from tech leaders like Elon Musk and Pavel Durov, who claim it threatens freedoms. The government plans to hold platform executives criminally liable for failing to remove illegal content as part of this regulatory package. read →

🏛️ Senate committee hears testimony in Koldo case amid harassment allegations (0.71)

Francisco Salazar testified before the Senate committee investigating the Koldo García Izaguirre affair on February 5, 2026. He denied allegations of sexual harassment, claiming his resignation from the PSOE was for family reasons. The inquiry, prompted by the Popular Party, focuses on government contracts linked to García Izaguirre. Salazar's testimony has raised questions about the PSOE's internal culture and accountability regarding misconduct. read →

⚖️ Móstoles harassment allegations spark political turmoil in PP (0.67)

Allegations of sexual and workplace harassment against Móstoles Mayor Manuel Bautista have ignited a political crisis within the People's Party (PP). A former councillor claims the party pressured her to suppress her complaints. While the PP denies any wrongdoing, opposition parties are demanding accountability. The situation raises serious questions about the party's internal handling of harassment claims and the implications for women's rights in politics. read →

🏛️ PP amends Castilla-La Mancha Statute to limit deputies amid political tensions (0.61)

The Popular Party (PP) has proposed amendments to the Statute of Autonomy in Castilla-La Mancha to prevent an increase in the number of deputies in the regional parliament. This move has drawn criticism from the Socialist Party (PSOE), which accuses the PP of breaking a prior agreement to raise the number of seats from 33 to 55. The PP justifies its change in stance by claiming that misinformation from Vox about deputy numbers necessitated this action. The situation highlights escalating political tensions in the region. read →

🏛️ Storm Kristin: National emergency response and recovery efforts underway (0.92)

The Portuguese government has announced a €2.5 billion aid package for families affected by Storm Kristin, which caused extensive damage across central regions. The Energy Services Regulatory Authority has banned power cuts for non-payment in calamity-declared areas. Estimated repair costs exceed €4 billion, with insurers expecting compensation claims to reach €500 million. To address labor shortages for reconstruction, the government is considering allowing more immigrants to enter the country. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has called for swift action to ensure aid reaches those in need. read →

🌧️🗳️ Presidential elections postponed in Alcácer do Sal amid severe weather conditions (0.77)

Presidential elections in Alcácer do Sal have been postponed due to severe flooding from storms Kristin and Leonardo, affecting over 60 municipalities. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa stated that local authorities must assess the situation, with the decision to postpone lying with the mayors. Polling indicates António José Seguro leads with 65.4% voting intentions against André Ventura's 30.3%. Meanwhile, high abstention rates among emigrants highlight ongoing barriers to voting. Provisional results will be announced on February 8, but final results may be delayed if significant polling stations are postponed. read →