EU
🌍🏛️ EU approves 90% emissions cut by 2040 (0.92)
The European Parliament has approved a binding agreement to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040, with a vote of 413 in favor. The agreement allows for the use of international carbon credits and postpones the ETS2 system for buildings and transport by one year. Periodic assessments by the European Commission will enable potential revisions of the target, ensuring adaptability to changing circumstances. This decision is a key step towards the EU's goal of climate neutrality by 2050. read →
🏛️ EU Parliament approves safe countries list and migrant hubs (0.92)🎁
The European Parliament has approved a new list of safe countries, including Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, Kosovo, India, Morocco, and Tunisia, which will expedite asylum procedures for applicants from these nations. The amendments allow EU member states to process asylum claims on-site in third countries and require applicants to prove why the expedited process should not apply to them. The new regulations are set to take effect following formal adoption by the Council. read → 🎁 today's freebie
🏛️💶 European Parliament votes on digital euro amid ECB appeals (0.87)
The European Parliament is set to vote on two resolutions regarding the digital euro on 10 February 2026. ECB President Christine Lagarde has urged MEPs to support the proposal, emphasizing its importance for EU sovereignty. Approval of the resolutions could accelerate the digital euro's implementation, while rejection may delay it. The political landscape is polarized, with over 1,500 amendments submitted, reflecting differing views on the digital euro's role in the EU's financial system. read →
🏛️🌍 European Parliament approves safeguards for farmers in EU-Mercosur agreement (0.87)
The European Parliament has approved safeguard measures to protect EU farmers under the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, with 483 votes in favor. The measures allow the European Commission to investigate import increases of sensitive agricultural products and adopt provisional measures within 14 days. Despite the approval, skepticism remains among farming organizations regarding the enforceability of these safeguards. The regulation also includes quarterly monitoring to ensure compliance with EU standards. This vote follows a referral of the Mercosur agreement to the Court of Justice of the EU for a compatibility review. read →
⚖️📱 EU court allows WhatsApp to challenge €225 million privacy fine (0.8)
The CJEU has ruled that WhatsApp can challenge a €225 million fine imposed by the Irish Data Protection Commission, allowing the company to contest decisions made by the European Data Protection Board. This ruling, issued on February 10, 2026, opens a pathway for companies to appeal EDPB decisions, potentially reshaping data protection enforcement in the EU. The case will return to the EU General Court for further examination of the fine and WhatsApp's compliance with GDPR regulations. read →
🏛️ Macron advocates for eurobonds amid EU investment debate (0.8)
French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed the establishment of eurobonds to finance strategic investments in defense and artificial intelligence, arguing that Europe must enhance its competitiveness against the U.S. and China. However, Germany has swiftly rejected this proposal, emphasizing the need to focus on productivity and budget reforms. Meanwhile, the European Parliament is set to vote on a €90 billion loan to support Ukraine's war effort, highlighting the EU's urgent financial needs. The upcoming informal summit will address these issues and the broader economic strategy for the bloc. read →
🌍🏛️ EU announces integrated climate resilience framework and wildfire strategy (0.8)
The EU is set to launch an integrated climate resilience framework aimed at improving preparedness for climate impacts, as announced by Commissioner Hadja Lahbib on 10 February 2026. The framework will include support measures for member states, enhance cooperation, and clarify responsibilities in disaster management. A streamlined legislative proposal will accompany the framework, ensuring better responses to climate-related emergencies. Existing EU tools will also be utilized to support affected regions. read →
🏛️ EU leaders push for competitiveness reforms ahead of summit (0.8)
The EU is set to implement significant competitiveness reforms by the end of 2026, backed by Germany, Italy, and Belgium. A proposal for 'enhanced cooperation' among member states aims to expedite decision-making on key issues like labor mobility and capital markets. A discussion paper outlines the urgency of completing the Single Market and reducing bureaucracy, with discussions scheduled for an upcoming summit in Belgium. The goal is to finalize strategies and ensure full implementation of these reforms by the end of 2026. read →
World
🏛️🤝 France and Ukraine agree on joint defense production (0.92)
Ukraine and France have signed a letter of intent to begin joint arms production, marking a significant step in their defense collaboration. The agreement includes plans for the production of drones and munitions, accelerated aircraft deliveries, and new air-defense systems. Additionally, the Brave1 military innovation cluster will be operational by March 2026 to enhance technological cooperation. Ukraine also plans to open ten export centers for its domestically produced weapons across Europe in 2026, aiming to leverage its wartime technological advancements. read →
🏛️ NATO transfers key command positions to European control (0.84)
NATO has agreed to transfer two senior command positions from the U.S. to European leadership, marking a significant shift towards greater European autonomy in defense. The decision, announced on 10 February 2026, includes the Joint Force Command in Norfolk and Naples, allowing European allies to take on more prominent military leadership roles. This restructuring aims to enhance European defensive capabilities while maintaining strong transatlantic ties, reflecting a broader strategy for shared responsibility in regional security. read →
🏛️ EU proposes concessions and sanctions for Ukraine peace negotiations (0.82)
The EU is drafting a list of concessions to demand from Russia as part of peace negotiations for Ukraine, according to foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. Concurrently, the EU plans to expand sanctions to include ports in Georgia and Indonesia that handle Russian oil. Additionally, there are proposals for expedited EU membership for Ukraine, potentially allowing partial membership by 2027. Kallas emphasized that conditions for peace should be placed on Russia, not Ukraine, highlighting the EU's critical role in the negotiations. read →
🏛️ International backlash against Israel's West Bank control expansion (0.8)
Israel's security cabinet has approved measures to expand control over 40% of the West Bank, raising international concerns about potential annexation. The new rules facilitate land purchases for settlers and increase military authority in Palestinian areas. The UN and EU have condemned the actions as illegal under international law, warning that they jeopardize the two-state solution. Thousands of Palestinians are already affected, with reports of significant displacement due to increased settler activity. The situation remains tense as Netanyahu prepares for discussions with U.S. President Trump. read →
🏛️ Ethiopia hosts secret camp to train Sudan's RSF fighters (0.78)
Ethiopia is reportedly hosting a secret training camp for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) involved in Sudan's civil war, with satellite imagery confirming its existence. The camp, financed by the UAE, can accommodate up to 10,000 fighters, with 4,300 currently in training. This development raises concerns about regional stability as the conflict in Sudan escalates, potentially drawing in neighboring countries. read →
🛩️🇨🇺 Cuba faces fuel crisis as airlines suspend flights amid US sanctions (0.76)
Cuba is facing a severe fuel crisis, leading Air Canada to suspend flights to the island as of February 9, 2026. The crisis is exacerbated by US sanctions that have halted oil imports from Venezuela. In response, Mexico has sent humanitarian aid, while the Kremlin has criticized US actions and offered support to Cuba. The Cuban government has implemented emergency measures, including a four-day workweek, to cope with the situation. read →
⚓️🇺🇸 US boards Venezuela-linked oil tanker in Indian Ocean (0.74)
The US military has boarded the Aquila II, a Panama-flagged tanker linked to Venezuela, in the Indian Ocean after tracking it from the Caribbean. This operation is part of the US's strategy to enforce sanctions on Venezuelan oil and disrupt smuggling networks. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the tanker was intercepted for defying the oil blockade established by the Trump administration. The vessel is currently detained while the US decides its final disposition. read →
⚖️🛥️ US airstrikes on suspected drug trafficker boats raise legal concerns (0.68)
The US has conducted airstrikes against suspected drug trafficker boats in the Pacific, resulting in at least two deaths in the latest attack. Since September 2025, around 130 people have died in these operations, which have raised significant legal and ethical concerns. UN experts argue that the strikes may violate international law, as the US has not provided evidence linking the targeted vessels to drug trafficking. This campaign is part of a broader strategy against drug cartels, including the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. read →
🇪🇺 Macron calls for European sovereignty and strategic unity (0.66)
French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that Europe risks being "swept away in five years" without decisive action to assert its sovereignty. In interviews, he emphasized the need for a "European preference" in strategic sectors and called for joint financing through Eurobonds to support investments in defense and green technologies. Macron criticized the strategy of yielding to US pressure, advocating for a robust European response to external challenges. He also reaffirmed commitment to the Franco-German FCAS fighter jet project and expressed a desire for dialogue with Russia, stressing the importance of a unified European approach. read →
France
🏛️ Macron appoints Amélie de Montchalin as head of Court of Auditors amid conflict-of-interest concerns (0.92)
President Emmanuel Macron has nominated Amélie de Montchalin as the first female president of the Court of Auditors, sparking controversy over potential conflicts of interest. Critics argue that de Montchalin, who authored the 2026 budget, cannot impartially review it. The appointment, which guarantees her position until the age of 68, raises concerns about the politicization of the independent auditing body and its implications for future presidential appointments. read →
🏭🇫🇷 ArcelorMittal announces €1.3 billion electric furnace investment in Dunkirk (0.85)
ArcelorMittal has announced a €1.3 billion investment to build a new electric arc furnace at its Dunkirk plant, set to begin operations by 2029. This facility aims to reduce CO2 emissions by two-thirds compared to traditional methods. The project is supported by state funding and energy savings certificates, but has faced criticism from unions for lacking social conditions and being delayed. The investment is seen as crucial for the future of low-emission steel production in Europe. read →
🏛️ Jack Lang resigns amid Epstein investigation fallout (0.8)
Jack Lang resigned as president of the Arab World Institute on 7 February 2026, following revelations of his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. A preliminary investigation into tax fraud and money laundering has been launched against Lang and his daughter. National Assembly President Yaël Braun-Pivet opposed calls for a parliamentary inquiry, emphasizing respect for the judiciary. The situation has sparked significant political debate about accountability and the integrity of public life in France. read →
🏛️ New bill in France targets online sexual exploitation (0.74)
The French Senate is reviewing a bill aimed at criminalizing online sexual exploitation, particularly targeting agents of adult content creators on platforms like OnlyFans and Mym. Proposed by Senator Marie Mercier, the legislation seeks to establish a new offence punishable by up to seven years in prison and €150,000 fines. It aims to protect minors and curb exploitative practices in the digital sex work industry. The bill must pass through the National Assembly after its committee examination to become law. read →
📉🇫🇷 France's unemployment rate rises to 7.9% in Q4 2025 (0.66)
France's unemployment rate rose to 7.9% in Q4 2025, the highest since 2021, with youth unemployment surging to 21.5%. Economy Minister Roland Lescure described the rise as a "warning" and emphasized the need for continued efforts to stimulate growth and support young job seekers. The increase challenges President Macron's pledge for full employment, as the country faces broader economic implications and remains above the eurozone average. read →
Spain
🏛️🌧️ Government declares disaster zones amid severe storm damage in Andalusia (0.92)
The Spanish government has declared disaster zones in municipalities affected by severe storms, with damage estimates in Andalusia exceeding €500 million. Over 11,000 residents have been evacuated, and emergency services are deployed across 30 municipalities. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has promised aid but has not provided specific figures, leading to criticism from local leaders. The Diputación de Cádiz estimates that repairs could cost between €15 million and €20 million and may take up to three years. Local authorities are calling for urgent assistance and clarity on the aid process. read →
⚖️🏛️ Congress denies Ábalos' compensation claim amid Koldo García trial developments (0.83)
The Congress of Deputies has denied former minister José Luis Ábalos' severance payment request, citing his suspension from rights due to pretrial detention in the Koldo García case. This decision follows Ábalos' resignation on January 28, 2026. Meanwhile, Koldo García's defense has requested the Supreme Court to transfer his trial over mask purchase irregularities to the Audiencia Nacional, arguing that the court no longer has jurisdiction after Ábalos lost parliamentary immunity. These developments reflect ongoing judicial challenges linked to corruption allegations in Spain. read →
🚆🛠️ Railway accidents spur safety crisis and Senate inquiry (0.81)
The Popular Party (PP) is set to establish a Senate inquiry into railway management and safety following recent fatal accidents, including the Adamuz tragedy that left 45 dead. The inquiry will focus on the Ministry of Transport and Adif's management since 2018, examining safety investments and operational pressures. Public confidence in rail travel has significantly declined, with many users considering alternative transport options. The inquiry aims to address these concerns and restore trust in Spain's rail system. read →
🏛️⚖️ Basque Government grants semi-liberty to former ETA leader Txeroki amid judicial scrutiny (0.79)
The Basque Government has granted semi-liberty to former ETA leader Garikoitz Aspiazu 'Txeroki', allowing him daily prison leave despite ongoing judicial scrutiny. The National Court has requested additional reports on the decision, which has drawn condemnation from political leaders and victims' groups. Txeroki, sentenced for serious crimes, remains under investigation for further allegations. The decision raises significant concerns regarding public safety and the handling of ETA-related prisoners. read →
🏛️📋 Draft law prioritizes public health management in Spain (0.76)
The Spanish government has approved a draft law to prioritize public health management, repealing the 1997 Law 15/1997 that allowed profit-driven healthcare models. Health Minister Mónica García emphasized the need for direct public management and introduced strict regulations for any exceptional indirect management. The law has faced criticism from regional leaders, particularly in Madrid, who argue it is politically motivated. The government aims to implement the new regulations swiftly, focusing on transparency and accountability in healthcare. read →
🏛️ Government approves sustainable development strategy with universal childcare benefit (0.73)
On 10 February 2026, Spain's Council of Ministers approved a Sustainable Development Strategy featuring over 100 objectives, including a universal parenting allowance of €200 per month aimed at reducing child poverty. This initiative, proposed by the Ministry of Social Rights, could lift over 500,000 children out of poverty. The strategy also includes goals to reduce the gender pay gap, increase public investment in housing, and promote renewable energy. Implementation details and costs for the childcare benefit remain unspecified. read →
🏛️🗳️ Leftist parties unite for elections, excluding Podemos (0.66)
Four leftist parties in Spain—Izquierda Unida, Más Madrid, Comuns, and Movimiento Sumar—will launch a new coalition on 21 February 2026, aiming to unite the transformative left ahead of the general elections. The coalition seeks to create a long-term alliance while excluding Podemos, which has distanced itself from the initiative, citing internal disagreements. The launch event will take place at the Círculo de Bellas Artes in Madrid, marking a significant step in reshaping the left's political landscape. read →
🚜🌧️ Farmers protest in Seville over EU-Mercosur deal and storm damage (0.63)
On 10 February 2026, thousands of farmers protested in Seville against the EU-Mercosur trade agreement and cuts to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The demonstration followed severe storms that caused agricultural losses estimated between €2.5 and €3 billion in Andalusia. Political representatives from various parties joined the protest, highlighting the significance of rural issues in the upcoming elections. Organizers criticized unfair competition from Mercosur producers and called for better protections for local farmers. read →
Portugal
🏛️ Storm Kristin emergency aid and political fallout (0.85)
The Portuguese government has declared a state of calamity due to Storm Kristin, which has caused 15 deaths and extensive damage. Emergency support measures include up to €10,000 for home reconstruction, with payments expedited to assist affected homeowners. Criticism of the government's response has led to calls for the resignation of Interior Minister Maria Lúcia Amaral. The state of calamity has been extended until 15 February for 68 municipalities, with a total recovery budget of €2.5 billion. read →
⚖️ Audit reveals irregularities in Portugal's defence contracts (0.65)
The Tribunal de Contas has rejected the 2022 accounts of idD - Portugal Defence, citing significant irregularities in contracts executed between 2020 and 2022. The audit revealed that €1.8 million in loans were made without the necessary approval from the Ministry of Finance. Former chairman Marco Capitão Ferreira is under scrutiny for compliance failures during his tenure. The findings raise serious concerns about public procurement practices in state-owned defence holdings, prompting calls for greater accountability in public spending. read →
🏛️ António José Seguro's decisive election victory and transition plans (0.55)
António José Seguro has been elected as Portugal's new President, winning nearly 67% of the vote in the recent runoff. His victory marks a significant shift in the political landscape, as he prepares to appoint a transition team focused on key areas like Health and Justice. The election occurred under emergency conditions due to Storm Kristin, leading to increased voter abstention. The African diaspora in Portugal expressed relief and optimism, viewing Seguro as a moderate leader who promotes inclusion and stability. His presidency officially begins on 9 March. read →