EU
🏛️ EU adopts stricter asylum rules with safe countries list (0.83)
The European Parliament has approved new asylum regulations, including a list of 'safe countries' such as Tunisia and Egypt, aimed at expediting asylum processes and facilitating deportations. The changes, supported by right-wing parties, are set to take effect by June 2026, pending final approval from EU member states. Critics warn that these measures could undermine asylum rights and lead to human rights violations, particularly for those from designated safe countries. The decision reflects a growing trend towards stricter immigration policies in Europe. read →
🛡️🇪🇺 EU launches comprehensive counter-drone action plan (0.81)🎁
The European Commission has launched a new action plan to counter drone threats, mandating registration for all drones over 100 grams and establishing a Counter-Drone Centre of Excellence. The plan leverages 5G networks and AI for real-time detection and includes annual large-scale exercises to enhance civil-military cooperation. A comprehensive security package is expected by the end of 2026, further detailing operational guidelines and registration requirements. read → 🎁 today's freebie
🏛️ EU leaders discuss competitiveness and single market reforms (0.79)
EU leaders are meeting to discuss enhancing competitiveness and addressing the 'Terrible Ten' barriers to the single market. Key proposals include a roadmap for market reforms and the potential for a two-speed Europe to expedite decision-making. Germany and Italy advocate for deregulation, while France pushes for eurobonds to finance strategic projects. The summit aims to find common ground amid diverging national interests as the EU seeks to strengthen its economic position against global competition. read →
🏛️💶 EU leaders debate eurobonds and banking consolidation amid economic challenges (0.77)
EU leaders are debating the issuance of eurobonds and banking consolidation amid economic challenges. French President Macron's proposal for common debt has been rejected by Germany, emphasizing productivity issues. Spain faces legal action from the EU over its veto power on bank mergers. Meanwhile, Bundesbank President Nagel supports joint EU debt to enhance market liquidity, while Commission President von der Leyen calls for economic reforms to unify the fragmented financial market. These discussions will shape the EU's economic future as leaders meet at an informal summit. read →
🏛️ EU introduces 'Buy European' procurement measures to boost local industry (0.76)
The EU is set to introduce new procurement rules prioritizing EU-made and low-carbon goods, as outlined by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Antwerp on February 11, 2026. These measures, part of the upcoming Industrial Accelerator Act, aim to protect local industries from foreign competition and enhance public procurement, which accounts for 14% of the EU's GDP. The proposals will require a minimum level of European production for state aid eligibility, fostering investment and innovation within the EU. read →
✈️🇪🇺 EU Entry/Exit System rollout raises airport wait time concerns (0.74)
The EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to cause significant delays at airports this summer, with airline groups warning of potential wait times exceeding four hours. The system, which began rollout in October 2025 and will continue until April 2026, aims to enhance border security for non-EU travelers. Major aviation organizations are calling for an immediate review to address these concerns as the peak travel season approaches. read →
🏛️💶 European Parliament endorses digital euro for EU sovereignty (0.73)
The European Parliament has approved two key amendments supporting the digital euro, aimed at enhancing EU monetary sovereignty and reducing reliance on third countries. The amendments received broad political backing, with 438 votes in favor of the sovereignty amendment. The digital euro project, which has been in development since 2000, is set to enter a testing phase with a target launch in 2029. This initiative is seen as crucial for maintaining financial independence amid global economic challenges. read →
World
🏛️🇪🇺 European Parliament approves €90 billion loan to Ukraine (1)
The European Parliament has approved a €90 billion loan to Ukraine, with €60 billion allocated for defense and €30 billion for macro-financial support. The loan, financed through EU debt, will only require repayment once Russia pays war reparations. It emphasizes procurement from EU suppliers and mandates ongoing democratic reforms in Ukraine. The decision reflects a strong consensus among EU member states to support Ukraine amid reduced U.S. military aid. read →
🏛️🇬🇧 UK commits £150 million to NATO's arms-buying scheme for Ukraine (0.95)
The UK has committed £150 million to NATO's Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) to purchase American weapons for Ukraine. This move aims to enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities amid reduced U.S. military aid. Currently, three-quarters of NATO members have joined the initiative, with further discussions on aid planned during the upcoming NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels. read →
🏛️🤝 EU and Australia finalize defence and trade pact negotiations (0.95)
The EU and Australia have concluded negotiations on a defence and security pact, allowing Australian firms access to the EU's €60 billion arms fund. This agreement is expected to be announced alongside ongoing free trade talks, which face challenges over beef import quotas. The pact aims to enhance trade relations and ease tariffs, marking a significant step in EU-Australia cooperation. read →
⚓️🇺🇸 US considers military escalation against Iran amid nuclear negotiations (0.85)
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran are rising as President Trump considers deploying a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East if nuclear negotiations fail. Recent military movements at Al Udeid Air Base indicate heightened readiness, while discussions in Oman aim to address nuclear issues. The U.S. is also contemplating seizing Iranian oil tankers, though concerns about retaliation and global oil market impacts are causing hesitation. Trump's administration emphasizes the need for a robust agreement with Iran, warning of potential military action if talks collapse. read →
🏛️ EU maintains tariffs on China-made EVs while allowing model exemptions (0.85)
The European Commission has upheld additional duties on Chinese electric vehicles while allowing case-by-case tariff exemptions for specific models. On February 11, 2026, Volkswagen's Cupra brand received the first exemption for its Tavascan SUV, which is manufactured in China. This move opens the door for other Chinese manufacturers to seek similar exemptions, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in the EU EV market. Tariff rates vary widely among manufacturers, with BYD facing a 17% duty and SAIC Group a 35.3% duty. read →
🏝️✈️ Cuba faces tourism collapse amid fuel crisis and US sanctions (0.85)
Cuba is facing a severe fuel crisis that has led to Air Canada suspending flights to the island, significantly impacting tourism. The situation is exacerbated by U.S. sanctions, which have restricted fuel supplies, leading to widespread blackouts and economic strain. With tourism revenues plummeting to their lowest levels in nearly two decades, the Cuban economy is on the brink of collapse, raising concerns about the regime's stability. read →
🛡️🤝 Netanyahu presses Trump for tougher Iran stance during Washington visit (0.85)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. President Donald Trump on February 11, 2026, to advocate for a tougher U.S. stance in negotiations with Iran. Netanyahu is pressing for broader discussions that include limits on Iran's ballistic missile program and its support for regional militias. The meeting comes amid renewed U.S.-Iran talks and heightened military tensions, with Netanyahu concerned that a limited agreement could legitimize Iran's regime. This visit is politically significant for Netanyahu as he approaches upcoming elections in Israel. read →
🌍🏛️ EU adopts protective measures in Mercosur trade agreement (0.85)
On 10 February 2026, the European Parliament approved protective measures in the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, allowing for the temporary suspension of trade preferences to shield EU farmers, particularly in the poultry and beef sectors. This decision has sparked widespread protests across Spain and other EU countries, with farmers demanding stronger safeguards. Additionally, the EU is negotiating a separate trade deal with Australia, which has faced its own challenges over tariff-rate quotas. read →
🛡️🇪🇺 EU launches anti-drone alliance with Ukraine (0.85)
The European Commission has launched a drone alliance with Ukraine to enhance security against drone threats. The initiative, part of a broader defense roadmap, aims to unite manufacturers and start-ups to leverage Ukraine's industrial expertise. Key measures include establishing no-fly zones over sensitive sites and fostering public-private partnerships. The Drone Alliance will coordinate actions among EU member states to ensure a unified response to drone security challenges. read →
🏛️ UK to double troop numbers in Norway amid rising Russian threats (0.85)
The UK will double its troop presence in Norway from 1,000 to 2,000 over three years to enhance Arctic defence against Russian threats. Defence Secretary John Healey announced the increase during a visit to Camp Viking, citing Russia as the greatest threat to Arctic security since the Cold War. The UK will also participate in NATO's Arctic Sentry mission and increase joint military exercises with allies. This move is part of a broader strategy to bolster regional security amid rising concerns over Russian military activity. read →
France
🏛️ Amélie de Montchalin appointed head of the Court of Auditors (0.9)
Amélie de Montchalin has been appointed by President Macron to lead the Court of Auditors, effective 23 February 2026. Her appointment has faced criticism from opposition parties over potential conflicts of interest, as she will oversee budgetary decisions she was involved in as Minister for Public Accounts. Government officials defend her selection, citing the Court's collegial decision-making process. De Montchalin will be the first woman to head the institution, marking a significant milestone in its 200-year history. read →
🏛️ France plans stronger controls on social contribution fraud (0.85)
Labour Minister Jean-Pierre Farandou has announced plans for stronger controls against social contribution fraud, focusing on corporate offenders. A legislative debate is set for 24 February 2025, with social fraud estimated at €14 billion for 2025. Farandou emphasized that half of this fraud is committed by companies and ruled out intrusive tracking methods like phone calls. The government aims to enhance resources for compliance verification without burdening compliant citizens. read →
🌍⚖️ Government rejects Duplomb law to reauthorize acetamiprid (0.83)
The French government has decided not to support Senator Laurent Duplomb's new bill to reintroduce acetamiprid, a banned pesticide, following a petition that gathered over 2 million signatures. The Constitutional Council previously struck down provisions of the Duplomb law for lacking environmental safeguards. Despite this, Duplomb plans to submit a revised bill, but government backing is unlikely amid strong public opposition. read →
🏛️📈 France proposes major reforms to boost declining birth rates (0.81)
France is proposing a major overhaul of its family policy to address declining birth rates, which have reached a historic low. Key proposals include a universal birth leave of 9-12 months at 80% salary and a monthly payment of €250 per child. Additionally, a zero-interest loan of up to €100,000 for families declaring a pregnancy is suggested to ease housing challenges. The reforms aim to simplify existing policies and provide better support for families, with some measures potentially implemented by 2027. read →
🚧🏛️ France's transport framework law aims to revitalize infrastructure through highway revenues (0.79)
The French government has unveiled a transport framework law aimed at revitalizing infrastructure by tapping into highway revenues. The proposal seeks to generate €1.5 billion annually for rail and road renovations, with a goal of reaching €4.5 billion by 2028. It encourages private sector involvement through public-private partnerships for major rail projects. Additionally, the law suggests potential fare increases for public transport to improve funding, although the government has clarified there are no plans to double fares. The framework law consists of 19 articles addressing urgent infrastructure needs. read →
📈🇫🇷 Rising unemployment in France, especially among youth (0.66)
France's unemployment rate has risen to 7.9%, the highest in five years, with youth unemployment increasing by 2.8 percentage points. The government faces criticism for failing to meet full-employment promises made by President Macron in 2022. Proposals to introduce a new employment contract for young people have been rejected, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current strategies to combat rising unemployment. read →
🏛️ Senate adopts bill tightening rules on Traveller settlements (0.64)
On 11 February 2026, the French Senate passed a bill aimed at reforming regulations on illegal Traveller encampments, with 235 votes in favor and 101 against. The legislation seeks to update the 2000 'Besson II' framework, expanding mayors' powers and increasing penalties for illegal settlements. While the government expressed general support, concerns were raised about provisions for forced evictions. The bill now moves to the National Assembly, where its future is uncertain amid criticism from left-wing parties. read →
🌍🥩 Government publishes food-climate strategy urging meat limitation (0.62)
The French government has published the National Strategy for Food, Nutrition and Climate (Snanc), recommending a limitation on meat and processed meat consumption to meet 2030 climate goals. This strategy, which emerged from two years of discussions, aims to reduce the carbon footprint of food, which accounts for nearly a quarter of France's emissions. Internal debates led to the final choice of 'limitation' over 'reduction' in meat consumption, emphasizing increased intake of fruits and vegetables while reducing imported meat consumption. read →
Spain
🚆⚖️ Sánchez addresses Adamuz rail disaster in Congress amid political tensions (0.88)
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez addressed Congress on 11 February 2026 regarding the Adamuz rail disaster that killed 46 people. He promised a thorough investigation and significant investments in rail safety, while the Public Prosecutor's Office ruled that Transport Minister Óscar Puente cannot be investigated by the National Court. Opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo accused Sánchez of negligence, calling the accident avoidable. The government plans to enhance safety protocols and increase funding for rail maintenance, but the investigation into the accident's causes remains ongoing. read →
🌧️🏛️ Spain declares disaster zones and activates emergency response amid severe flooding (0.87)
Spain has declared disaster zones in Córdoba and Castilla-La Mancha due to severe flooding from recent storms. The government activated emergency aid mechanisms to support recovery for affected individuals and infrastructure. The Military Emergency Unit (UME) has been deployed in Castilla-La Mancha to assist with the crisis. Regional governments are seeking additional support from the central government and the EU for long-term recovery efforts. read →
⚖️🏛️ Prosecutor and State Attorney support Puigdemont's amnesty appeal (0.85)
The Public Prosecutor’s Office and State Attorney's Office have requested the Constitutional Court to support Carles Puigdemont's appeal against the Supreme Court's refusal to apply the amnesty law to embezzlement charges. They argue that the Supreme Court's interpretation was unreasonable and violated Puigdemont's judicial rights. The Constitutional Court's decision is pending, influenced by an upcoming ruling from the EU Court of Justice. Meanwhile, Puigdemont remains unable to return to Spain due to an active arrest warrant. read →
⚖️🏛️ Judicial probe into Alicante social housing allocations (0.84)
A judge in Alicante has opened a preliminary investigation into the allocation of publicly protected housing, following allegations of corruption involving municipal officials and their relatives. The inquiry, initiated on 11 February 2026, targets nine individuals, including former city officials. Mayor Luis Barcala has ruled out resigning despite opposition calls for his departure, emphasizing his commitment to addressing the situation. The investigation follows complaints of administrative malfeasance and insider trading, raising significant concerns about the integrity of local governance. read →
🚜🇪🇺 Farmers protest in Madrid against Mercosur and CAP cuts (0.83)
On 11 February 2026, around 500 tractors and over 10,000 farmers protested in Madrid against the EU-Mercosur trade agreement and proposed cuts to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Organized by Unión de Uniones and Unaspi, the demonstration highlighted concerns over food sovereignty and competition from imports. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez supported the agreement but promised compensation for affected farmers. The protest reflects growing discontent within the agricultural sector regarding EU policies. read →
⚖️💼 Allegations of commission in Plus Ultra bailout raise integrity concerns (0.81)
Allegations have surfaced regarding a potential 1% commission contract held by Julio Martínez related to the €53 million bailout of Plus Ultra, a Spanish airline. Despite claiming financial distress, Plus Ultra hired Martínez's firm, Análisis Relevante, raising questions about its financial management. Opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo has criticized the government’s spending practices, suggesting a lack of integrity in handling public funds. The case is currently under investigation for potential money laundering and conflicts of interest. read →
🏛️ Political deadlock in Extremadura as Guardiola faces investiture vote (0.75)
María Guardiola of the Popular Party is set to face an investiture vote on 3 March 2026, amid a political deadlock with no support from the Socialist Party or Vox. Vox has declared it will vote against her, demanding key ministries, while the PSOE has ruled out abstention. Local leaders suggest negotiations could occur if the investiture fails, raising the risk of repeat elections if no agreement is reached. The situation remains tense as the deadline approaches. read →
Portugal
🏛️ Maria Lúcia Amaral resigns as Portugal's Interior Minister amid storm response criticism (0.92)
Maria Lúcia Amaral has resigned as Portugal's Minister of Internal Administration, with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa accepting her resignation amid criticism of the government's response to recent storms. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro will temporarily assume her responsibilities. The resignation highlights significant political accountability issues, as various parties call for hearings and potential cabinet reshuffles in light of the government's handling of the crisis. read →
🏛️🚨 Mass evacuations ordered in Coimbra due to Mondego dike risk (0.85)
Local authorities in Coimbra, Portugal, have ordered the evacuation of approximately 3,600 residents from Coimbra, Montemor-o-Velho, and Soure due to the risk of a breach in the Mondego River dikes. All schools in affected areas are closed, and heavy rainfall is expected to worsen the situation. The evacuations are being coordinated by local officials and the Civil Protection agency, with ongoing assessments from the Prime Minister and President. read →
🏛️ Carlos Moedas secures absolute majority in Lisbon council (0.83)
Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas has achieved an absolute majority in the City Council by appointing independent councillor Ana Simões Silva, a former Chega member, to a full-time role. This change, announced on 11 February 2026, increases the coalition's seats to nine out of 17. Silva will oversee Health and Food Waste, enhancing governance stability for the 2025–2029 term. Her departure from Chega was due to political incompatibilities, allowing her to take a more active role in the council. read →
🏛️🌍 EMER 2030 appoints nursing graduate as coordinator amid controversy (0.78)
Fábio Alves Teixeira, a nursing graduate, has been appointed as the coordinator of EMER 2030, the body responsible for licensing renewable energy projects in Portugal. The decision, made by EMER president Manuel Nina, has raised concerns due to Teixeira's lack of relevant qualifications in the renewable energy sector. Nina defended the appointment, stating it complied with legal and technical criteria. EMER 2030, created to expedite project licensing, is set to dissolve by the end of 2026, but has expanded its team to meet ongoing project demands. read →
🌧️🏛️ Postponement of biweekly debate with Prime Minister due to flooding risks (0.68)
The biweekly debate with Prime Minister Luís Montenegro may be postponed due to severe flooding risks in Coimbra. José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, president of the Assembly, is consulting parliamentary leaders, with feedback due by noon today. The Liberal Initiative has requested the delay, and the PSD has consented. An alternative date for the debate is being considered for Friday. read →