EU
🏛️🇪🇺 EU grants budget flexibility to Portugal for storm recovery efforts (0.92)
The European Commission has approved budgetary flexibility for Portugal, allowing the government to classify storm-related recovery spending as 'one-off'. This decision enables Portugal to allocate approximately €2.5 billion for reconstruction efforts, including direct aid for housing and support for affected businesses. Finance Minister Joaquim Miranda Sarmento emphasized the importance of maintaining compliance with EU fiscal rules, stating that these expenditures will not impact the country's net primary expenditure. The government is currently assessing the full extent of the damages caused by recent storms to inform further requests for European support. read →
⚖️ EU launches investigation into Shein for illegal products and addictive design (0.89)🎁
The European Commission has launched a formal investigation into Shein, focusing on the sale of illegal products, including child-like sex dolls and weapons, as well as concerns over the platform's addictive design and opaque recommendation systems. If violations are confirmed, Shein could face fines of up to 6% of its global annual turnover under the Digital Services Act. The investigation aims to ensure compliance with EU laws and protect consumer safety. read → 🎁 today's freebie
🏛️💶 EU and ECB push to strengthen euro's international role (0.76)
The EU and ECB are intensifying efforts to enhance the euro's international role amid geopolitical tensions. Key initiatives include proposals for deeper capital markets integration and potential joint euro debt sales. Currently, euro reserves account for 20% of global reserves, while euro-denominated bond issuance has surged by 40% in 2024. However, concerns remain about the impact of a stronger euro on export competitiveness. The coming months will be crucial for advancing these proposals. read →
⚖️🇪🇺 EU investigates X's Grok AI over sexual deepfakes (0.65)
Ireland's Data Protection Commission has launched a formal investigation into X's Grok AI for generating non-consensual sexual deepfakes. The inquiry will assess compliance with GDPR, focusing on the processing of personal data related to these images. Grok reportedly produced over 3 million sexualized images in 11 days, raising significant concerns. Violations could lead to fines of up to 4% of X's global revenue, while a separate EU investigation may impose fines of 6%. This scrutiny reflects growing regulatory pressure on US tech firms amid rising tensions between the EU and the US. read →
World
🏛️ EU intensifies push for sanctions on Russian steel and maritime services (5)
The EU is intensifying its push for sanctions against Russia, focusing on a full ban on Russian steel imports and maritime services for Russian tankers. Negotiations are set to finalize the 20th sanctions package by 24 February, coinciding with the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The European Parliament is advocating for a complete ban on Russian steel, while the EU Economy Commissioner stated that a maritime services ban could proceed independently of G7 negotiations. Additionally, the EU plans to activate an Anti-Circumvention Tool to prevent re-exports to Russia through countries like Kyrgyzstan. read →
🏛️📜 Israel resumes West Bank land registration amid international outcry (4.75)
Israel has resumed land registration in the West Bank as 'state property', a move seen as a step towards annexation. This decision, approved on February 15, 2026, has drawn widespread condemnation from international leaders and organizations, including the UN. In 2025, over 37,000 Palestinians were displaced due to military actions and settler violence, raising significant concerns about human rights and international law violations. The situation remains tense as Israeli forces increase their presence in the region. read →
🇪🇸🤝 Spain approves humanitarian aid package to Cuba (4.75)
Spain has approved a €1 million humanitarian aid package for Cuba, aimed at providing food and medical supplies in response to the tightening U.S. embargo. The aid will be channeled through UN agencies, including the World Food Programme and the Pan American Health Organization. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares emphasized Spain's commitment to supporting the Cuban people amid their ongoing economic crisis, which has been exacerbated by fuel shortages and blackouts. read →
🇫🇷✈️ Macron visits India to finalize Rafale deal and boost AI collaboration (4.75)
French President Emmanuel Macron is in India from 16 to 19 February 2026 to finalize a significant deal for 114 Rafale fighter jets, valued at €30 billion. This purchase, approved by India's Defence Acquisition Council, aims to enhance the Indian Air Force's capabilities. Macron's visit also focuses on strengthening defense and AI collaboration, as well as expanding trade ties between France and India, which currently amount to €15 billion. The discussions come amid efforts to reduce reliance on traditional defense suppliers and counter China's influence in the region. read →
⚖️🌍 International calls for investigation into Navalny's death intensify (4.5)
⚖️🛡️ US-Iran nuclear talks resume amid military tensions (4.5)
The US and Iran have begun a second round of nuclear talks in Geneva, mediated by Oman, amid rising military tensions. Iran has proposed pausing its uranium enrichment and transferring stockpiles to a third country. Concurrently, the US has increased its military presence in the region, deploying two aircraft carriers. Iran has also partially closed the Strait of Hormuz for military exercises, highlighting the ongoing complexities in negotiations. read →
🕊️🇺🇦 Russia and Ukraine resume negotiations in Geneva amid ongoing conflict (4.5)
Negotiations between Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. resumed in Geneva on 17 February 2026, focusing on territorial issues and security guarantees amid ongoing conflict. Just hours before the talks, Russia launched a significant missile and drone attack on Ukraine, complicating the diplomatic efforts. Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasized the need for strong security guarantees before considering any territorial concessions. Despite the urgency, both sides have low expectations for significant progress in the negotiations, which are set to continue until 18 February. read →
France
🏛️ Government bans political meetings in universities after activist's death (0.92)
The French government has banned political meetings in universities deemed risky for public order following the death of activist Quentin Deranque during a protest at Sciences Po Lyon. Higher Education Minister Philippe Baptiste announced the directive, emphasizing that university presidents will ultimately decide on event cancellations. The ban has faced criticism from La France Insoumise, with MEP Manuel Bompard calling it a threat to democratic debate. The situation highlights rising political tensions and concerns over violence in France. read →
🌧️💧 Storm Nils causes severe flooding in western France (0.89)
Storm Nils has caused severe flooding in western France, particularly in Gironde and Lot-et-Garonne, leading to nearly 1,600 evacuations. Insurers estimate around 250,000 claims, with costs potentially reaching €1 billion. A joint mission has been launched to expedite compensation for affected residents, as the number of claims continues to rise significantly. read →
🏛️ Retailers boycott trade negotiations over food prices (0.83)
Tensions have escalated in France's trade negotiations as major retailers, including Leclerc and Carrefour, announced a boycott of the monitoring committee following critical remarks from Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard. The negotiations, which began on 1 December and are set to conclude on 1 March, are crucial for determining food prices. Retailers accuse the minister of unfairly blaming them for challenges in the agri-food sector, while manufacturers express concerns over pricing pressures. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the French agri-food landscape. read →
📉💳 Surge in youth over-indebtedness linked to microloans (0.83)
The Banque de France has reported a 36% rise in over-indebtedness cases among individuals under 30 in 2025, with a staggering 65% increase for those aged 18-25. Economic pressures, including high rents and inflation, have exacerbated financial vulnerabilities, particularly among women and the unemployed. The total household debt related to over-indebtedness reached €5 billion, highlighting the urgent need for support and awareness of available financial assistance. read →
📉💼 Confirmed slowdown in salary increases in France (0.68)
In 2026, average salary increases in France are expected to slow to 1.73%, down from 2.27% in 2025, according to a study by Groupe Alpha. Ongoing negotiations in companies like Orange and Airbus reflect this trend, which is attributed to post-inflation normalization. The annual mandatory negotiations (NAO) are currently underway, with some companies having already concluded their discussions. read →
Spain
🏛️💶 Government approves €7 billion aid package for storm recovery in Andalucía and Extremadura (0.88)
The Spanish government has approved a €7 billion aid package for recovery efforts in Andalucía and Extremadura following Storm Leonardo. Key measures include direct compensation for evacuees, a temporary cap on hotel prices in 14 municipalities, and a €50 million employment plan to support job creation. Additionally, Andalucía has initiated a separate recovery plan worth €1.78 billion for local infrastructure and agriculture. The government aims to mobilize resources for both immediate relief and long-term resilience against climate-related disasters. read →
🚄🏛️ High-speed rail services resume on Madrid-Andalusia line after Adamuz accident (0.87)
High-speed rail services between Madrid and Andalusia resumed on February 17, 2026, after repairs following the Adamuz accident that killed 46 people. Renfe and Iryo are operating regular schedules, but the Madrid-Málaga line will remain disrupted until early March. Punctuality has significantly declined, with only 22% of AVE trains arriving on time in late January. Passengers affected by service interruptions can change tickets or request refunds at no extra cost. read →
🏛️⚖️ Alicante public housing allocation under anti-corruption probe (0.82)
The Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office is investigating the allocation of 140 protected housing units in Alicante, revealing potential misconduct among local officials. The scandal has led to the resignation of key figures in the People's Party, including former urban planning councillor Rocío Gómez. Two beneficiaries have renounced their apartments amid scrutiny, while the mayor calls for transparency and accountability. The investigation underscores the need for reforms to ensure fair access to public housing, with over 5,400 families still waiting for assistance. read →
🏛️ Congress debates burka and niqab ban amid mixed political support (0.8)
The Spanish Congress is set to vote on a proposal from Vox to ban the burka and niqab in public spaces, with the Popular Party (PP) supporting the initiative. The government and PSOE oppose the ban, citing concerns over religious freedom. Junts has registered its own bill but will not back Vox's proposal. The debate reflects broader tensions in Spain regarding cultural integration and individual rights, as legal precedents complicate the legislative landscape. read →
🏛️📈 Spain approves 3.1% minimum wage increase for 2026 (0.79)
Spain's government has approved a 3.1% increase in the Minimum Interprofessional Wage (SMI) for 2026, raising it to €1,221 per month. The increase, effective from January 2026, was agreed with unions but opposed by employers' association CEOE. Approximately 2.5 million workers are expected to benefit. However, the government has yet to clarify regulations regarding payroll supplements, leading to uncertainty for employers. The increase aims to address rising living costs, but tax implications remain a concern for workers. read →
🏛️ Spain launches 'España Crece' fund to tackle housing crisis and boost economy (0.77)
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has launched the 'España Crece' fund, aiming to mobilize €120 billion for housing, energy, and technology. The fund includes €13.3 billion from EU resources, with €23 billion allocated for affordable housing construction, targeting 15,000 homes annually. A proposal for a 30% loan write-off for builders is also in the works. The opposition has called for transparency regarding the fund's operations, while the government simultaneously announced a 3.1% increase in the minimum wage to support economic growth. read →
⚖️🛡️ Spanish government requests probe into AI child pornography (0.75)
The Spanish government has requested an investigation into X, Meta, and TikTok for potentially creating and distributing child pornography using AI. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized the need to end the impunity of major tech platforms, stating that they undermine children's rights. This action follows alarming statistics indicating that one in five young people in Spain have experienced the dissemination of fake nudes created with AI. The government aims to implement measures to hold these companies accountable and protect minors online. read →
⚖️🗳️ Lawsuit against Móstoles mayor for harassment allegations (0.71)
A former councillor in Móstoles has filed a criminal complaint against Mayor Manuel Bautista, alleging sexual and workplace harassment, coercion, and unlawful disclosure of secrets. The complaint, supported by substantial evidence, names 11 potential witnesses, including prominent figures from the Partido Popular (PP). Political fallout has ensued, with left-wing parties supporting the complainant while the PP remains silent. The case highlights failures in internal party mechanisms to address harassment claims and will proceed to a conciliation hearing. read →
Portugal
🌧️💶 Storm recovery aid: nearly €1 billion in claims and support for uninsured farmers (0.88)
The Portuguese government is responding to severe storm damage with nearly €1 billion in claims from over 4,000 companies and support for more than 11,000 housing applications. Agriculture Minister José Manuel Fernandes confirmed that uninsured farmers will also receive aid. Former Finance Minister Fernando Medina advocates for direct public funding over EU resources to expedite recovery efforts. Payments have already begun through regional authorities, with a structured recovery plan expected soon. read →
🌍⚡ Government launches study to adapt power grid to climate change (0.8)
The Portuguese Government has launched a study to adapt the national electric system to climate change, following disruptions from Storm Kristin. The six-month study will assess risks from rural fires and extreme weather, evaluating solutions like burying power lines and reinforcing overhead structures. It aims to provide a cost-benefit analysis, investment estimates, and a phased implementation plan, with support from the European Commission for necessary infrastructure investments. read →
🏛️ Labour law discussions proceed without CGTP union (0.74)
The Portuguese Minister of Labour will meet on 18 February 2026 to discuss labour law reforms, notably excluding the General Confederation of the Portuguese Workers (CGTP). The meeting will include the General Union of Workers (UGT) and four employer confederations. Proposed changes under the draft "Trabalho XXI" include significant adjustments to working hours and contracts, which have faced opposition from trade unions. UGT has submitted counterproposals, highlighting unacceptable measures, while CGTP's absence raises concerns about worker representation in the discussions. read →