EU
🏛️ ECB holds rates at 2% amid softening inflation (0.92)
The European Central Bank (ECB) has decided to maintain its deposit rate at 2% for the fifth consecutive meeting, as Eurozone inflation fell to 1.7% in January, its lowest since September 2024. This decision reflects a cautious approach amid ongoing global uncertainties. Banks are tightening credit access for businesses and households, with 7% reporting stricter lending standards. The ECB's focus remains on monitoring economic indicators, particularly the euro's strength against the dollar, which could influence future policy decisions. read →
⚖️🇪🇺 EU investigates Madrid-Seville rail funding after deadly accident (0.9)🎁
The EU is investigating the management of over €200 million in funds allocated for the renovation of the Madrid-Seville high-speed rail line after a deadly accident on January 18. The Partido Popular has raised concerns that essential maintenance work was not completed, despite the line being deemed 'at the end of its useful life.' The investigation will assess whether safety standards were compromised and the adequacy of the Spanish government's communication with EU institutions regarding the infrastructure's condition. Delays in the renovation project have also raised alarms about the overall safety of the rail system. read → 🎁 today's freebie
🏛️📉 Rise of far-right alliances in the European Parliament (0.88)
Recent investigations reveal that the European People's Party (EPP) has formed a pre-arranged majority with far-right factions in the European Parliament to weaken the Supply Chain Directive. This collaboration was evident during a vote on 13 November 2025, despite EPP leader Manfred Weber's claims of no structured cooperation. Additionally, a summit in the Parliament showcased the growing influence of far-right leaders, signaling a shift in political power. Lobbyists from major corporations have also been implicated in supporting this right-wing majority, raising concerns about the future of democratic processes in the EU. read →
🏛️ EU plans strategic stockpiles for critical raw materials (0.87)
The EU is moving forward with plans to stockpile critical materials, led by Italy, France, and Germany, to reduce dependence on China. Italy is shortlisted to host one of the first strategic storage centers, emphasizing the need for European strategic autonomy amid geopolitical tensions. The initiative aims to secure essential raw materials for industries and bolster economic resilience against supply chain disruptions caused by China's export controls. read →
⚖️🇪🇺 EU warns Spain on social media regulations amid proposed CEO accountability measures (0.86)
The European Commission has warned Spain against implementing additional social media regulations that conflict with the Digital Services Act (DSA). Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's proposal to ban under-16s from social media and hold CEOs criminally liable for illegal content has raised significant concerns in Brussels. The Commission emphasizes that accountability lies with platforms, not individual executives, under the DSA framework. As several EU countries consider similar measures, the need for a coordinated approach becomes increasingly apparent. read →
🛡️🇪🇺 EU lawmakers call for TikTok investigation over censorship concerns (0.85)
European lawmakers have called for an investigation into TikTok over allegations of censorship favoring right-leaning narratives, particularly concerning the Epstein files and U.S. border protests. A group of 32 lawmakers urged the European Commission to assess whether TikTok poses a systemic risk to freedom of expression. TikTok attributed reported issues to technical problems, while it is already under scrutiny for compliance with the Digital Services Act. The investigation could impact TikTok's operations in Europe significantly. read →
🏛️ EU Parliament resumes ratification process for US tariff agreement (0.84)
The European Parliament has resumed the ratification process for the EU-U.S. tariff agreement, with a committee vote set for 24 February and a plenary vote on 11 March. Despite this progress, divisions remain among lawmakers regarding tariff removals and protective clauses. The failure to reach a consensus in previous meetings has raised concerns about the EU's ability to implement the agreement effectively, potentially straining relations with Washington. read →
🇪🇺 Eurobarometer: Security and unity top public concerns in the EU (0.82)
A recent Eurobarometer survey reveals that 86% of EU citizens support a stronger international voice for the EU, with significant concerns about wars, terrorism, and climate change. Notably, 83% of Italians express heightened pro-European sentiment despite their nationalist government. The survey indicates a strong public mandate for the EU to enhance its role in global security and unity, with 76% of Europeans optimistic about their personal futures. read →
⚖️🇪🇺 EU glass recycling standards threaten Italian bottles (0.81)
Proposed EU glass recycling standards could classify traditional Italian bottles as non-recyclable, threatening the wine sector, particularly prosecco producers. Industry leaders argue that current optical sorting technologies can effectively recycle opaque glass, contradicting the proposed transmittance-based threshold. The outcome of ongoing discussions within EU institutions will significantly impact Italy's glass and wine industries. read →
World
🏛️💶 EU finalizes €90 billion loan framework for Ukraine (0.92)
The EU has finalized a €90 billion loan framework to support Ukraine's defense against Russia. The agreement, backed by 24 member states, allocates €60 billion for military procurement and €30 billion for macroeconomic assistance. Ukraine must meet strict conditions, including adherence to the rule of law, to access these funds. The European Parliament will review the legal text, with hopes of disbursing the first tranche by the end of March. read →
🏛️🌍 US launches Project Vault to secure critical minerals supply chains (0.92)
The US has launched Project Vault, a $10 billion initiative aimed at securing critical minerals supply chains and reducing reliance on China. Over 50 countries are participating in talks to enhance access to these vital resources. Ivanhoe Mines is negotiating to supply zinc from the Democratic Republic of Congo to the US under this initiative, which aims to bolster supply chains for semiconductors and clean energy applications. read →
🌍 Human Rights Watch warns of global human rights setbacks in 2026 report (0.85)
Human Rights Watch's 2026 report highlights severe global setbacks in human rights, particularly in Africa, where systematic repression and violence against opposition figures are on the rise. Italy's immigration policies are criticized for their repressive nature, including detaining individuals in Albania and obstructing humanitarian efforts. The report calls for urgent international action to address these issues and protect fundamental rights. read →
🏛️ Ursula von der Leyen plans Australia trip to clinch EU security and trade deal (0.8)
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen plans to visit Australia this month to finalize a long-stalled security and trade deal. The trip follows a meeting between EU and Australian trade officials aimed at reviving negotiations that collapsed in 2023 over agricultural quotas for beef and lamb. The agreement is expected to enhance EU access to Australia's strategic mineral resources, but may face pushback due to its agricultural implications. read →
🌍🇺🇸 U.S. reactivates AGOA preferential trade access (0.8)
The U.S. has reactivated the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), allowing about 30 sub-Saharan African countries to export products duty-free until 31 December 2026, retroactive to 30 September 2025. This decision, part of a legislative package signed by President Trump, follows a previous expiration of the agreement. AGOA, which began in 2000, requires beneficiary countries to meet conditions related to political pluralism and human rights. The reactivation aims to strengthen U.S.-Africa trade relations and support economic growth across the continent. read →
⚓️🇪🇪 Estonia detains cargo ship over smuggling suspicions (0.8)
Estonian authorities have detained a Bahamas-flagged cargo ship suspected of smuggling from Ecuador to Russia. The operation, involving the Tax and Customs Authority, Police, and Navy, took place in Estonian waters. The vessel, not part of the sanctioned 'ghost fleet', is currently under inspection. This action highlights Estonia's commitment to border security and combating smuggling. read →
🏛️ EU investigates Chinese wind turbine maker Goldwind amid competition concerns (0.8)
The European Commission has opened an investigation into Chinese wind turbine maker Goldwind, suspecting unfair competition due to Beijing's subsidies. This move aims to protect the struggling European wind industry, which has seen major companies like Vestas and Ørsted cut back operations. China has criticized the probe as protectionist, potentially undermining investment confidence. The EU is facing significant challenges in boosting its renewable energy capacity, with current investments falling short of ambitious targets. read →
🛥️⚖️ US shoots down Iranian drone amid nuclear talks shift to Oman (0.8)
The U.S. military shot down an Iranian drone approaching the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea on February 3, 2026. This incident heightens tensions as Iran requests to move nuclear talks with the U.S. from Turkey to Oman, focusing solely on nuclear issues. The talks are scheduled for February 6, 2026. Concurrently, Iranian boats threatened a U.S.-flagged tanker, prompting U.S. naval intervention. President Trump has warned of severe consequences if a nuclear deal is not reached, underscoring the urgency of the negotiations. read →
⚖️🌍 Panama court annuls port contracts amid China tensions (0.8)
Panama's Supreme Court has annulled contracts held by Hong Kong firm CK Hutchison for two ports on the Panama Canal, prompting the company to initiate international arbitration. China condemned the ruling, warning of political and economic consequences for Panama amid U.S. pressure regarding Chinese influence in the region. The Danish firm Maersk will temporarily take over operations at the affected ports. This dispute highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding the canal, a vital trade route. read →
France
🏛️ France suspends 2023 pension reform in 2026 law (0.78)
France has suspended the 2023 pension reform as part of the 2026 Social Security Financing Law, freezing the retirement age at 62 years and 9 months until January 2028. This change will benefit approximately 64,000 individuals, allowing them to retire earlier than previously scheduled. The Info-Retraite simulator has been updated to reflect these changes, providing future retirees with necessary estimates. The suspension is expected to impact fewer than one in ten pensions awarded in 2026. read →
🏛️💉 France maintains cancer plan funding and lung screening push (0.76)
On February 4, 2026, President Macron confirmed a €1.7 billion budget for France's national cancer plan through 2030, focusing on prevention and treatment improvements. Health Minister Stéphanie Rist announced a pilot program for lung cancer screenings, targeting 20,000 individuals starting in March, with a goal of universal screening by 2030. The initiative aims to enhance early detection and reduce mortality rates from lung cancer, which remains the deadliest form of cancer in the country. read →
⚖️🇪🇺 Prosecutors seek five-year ban on Marine Le Pen amid EU funds misuse appeal (0.73)
French prosecutors have requested a five-year ban on Marine Le Pen from public office due to her conviction for misappropriating EU funds. They also seek a four-year prison sentence, with one year under electronic monitoring. The court's decision, expected by summer 2026, could impact her ability to run in the 2027 presidential election. Le Pen's defense claims she acted in good faith, while prosecutors argue she was the instigator of a fraudulent scheme. The lack of immediate enforcement of the ban may allow her to remain a candidate, complicating her political future. read →
⚖️🖥️ Paris prosecutor raids X France over AI content compliance (0.7)
On 3 February 2026, the Paris prosecutor's office, with Europol's assistance, raided X France's headquarters as part of a criminal investigation into compliance with French law regarding AI-generated content. Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino have been summoned for voluntary hearings on 20 April 2026. The investigation focuses on serious allegations, including the dissemination of harmful content. X has condemned the raid as politically motivated and an abuse of judicial power, asserting that the allegations are unfounded. read →
🏛️ End-of-life bill advances in French National Assembly (0.7)
The French National Assembly has approved the creation of a 'right to assistance in dying' during a committee review on 4 February 2026, following Senate rejection. The bill aims for final adoption before summer 2026, with ongoing debates over terminology. The government seeks to conclude discussions ahead of the presidential election, reflecting the contentious nature of assisted dying legislation in France. read →
🗳️🇫🇷 Key details for France's 2026 municipal elections (0.66)
France's municipal elections will occur on 15 and 22 March 2026. Voter registration is crucial, with online registration closing on 4 February and in-person registration until 6 February. Eligible voters must be at least 18 years old and either French or EU citizens. Proxy voting is available, and candidates must meet specific criteria to run. Voters are encouraged to check their registration status and understand the voting process ahead of the elections. read →
🏛️ France appoints coordinators for Crans-Montana fire victims (0.63)
On February 4, 2026, France appointed two national coordinators, Dominique Ferrière and Emmanuel Douhaire, to assist victims of the Crans-Montana bar fire that occurred on New Year’s Eve. The coordinators will manage support measures, liaise with Swiss authorities, and oversee compensation efforts for the 41 victims, including nine French nationals who died. A 'mirror' investigation has also been opened to provide judicial support to affected families and prevent further victimization. read →
Spain
🚆⚖️ Senate censure of Transport Minister amid railway crisis and accidents (0.92)
The Spanish Senate has censured Transport Minister Óscar Puente for his handling of the rail crisis following the Adamuz and Gelida accidents, demanding his resignation. Unions have announced strikes on 9, 10, and 11 February due to unresolved safety issues. Renfe has paused plans to purchase new high-speed trains to focus on recovery efforts. Investigations into the derailment continue, with calls for urgent reforms to improve rail safety and accountability. read →
🌧️🚨 Storm Leonardo triggers severe flooding and mass evacuations in Andalucía (0.9)
Storm Leonardo has led to severe flooding and mass evacuations in Andalucía, with over 3,500 individuals displaced. The Military Emergency Unit has deployed more than 250 personnel to assist in emergency operations, including building containment walls. A red alert for torrential rains has been issued, particularly in Cádiz and Málaga, prompting road closures and the suspension of classes. Authorities are closely monitoring river levels and advising residents to remain cautious as the storm continues. read →
🏛️📚 Sánchez announces royal decree to regulate private vocational training centres (0.84)
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced a royal decree on February 4, 2026, to regulate private vocational training centres lacking quality guarantees. The decree will undergo public consultation in the next two months. Additionally, ten new Centres of Excellence will be established in 2026 to enhance vocational training. The move comes amid a surge in private vocational training enrolment, raising concerns about quality and equity in access to education. read →
🏛️ Spain to ban social media for under-16s amid age verification challenges (0.8)
Spain will ban social media access for individuals under 16, as announced by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. This measure aims to enhance child protection online and includes a 'hate and polarization footprint' ranking for digital platforms. However, the proposal faces significant challenges, including effective age verification methods and political disagreements that have delayed the legislative process for two years. Critics warn that the measures could infringe on freedom of expression and raise concerns about government overreach in regulating digital content. read →
🏛️ Spain approves immigrant regularisation decree amid concerns over administrative strain (0.76)
Spain's government has approved a decree allowing certain immigrants to regularize their status through a self-declaration of no criminal record. Critics warn this could lead to increased crime and administrative overload, with the Central Sindical Independiente y de Funcionarios (CSIF) reporting a 25% rise in immigration files. The government plans to open new offices to manage the workload, while political opposition raises concerns about potential pull factors for illegal immigration. read →
🏛️ Alicante investigates public housing awards linked to officials (0.7)
The Alicante City Council has launched an investigation into potential conflicts of interest in the allocation of Publicly Protected Housing (VPP) after internal reports revealed links between beneficiaries and municipal officials. A formal complaint was filed with the Provincial Prosecutor's Office, highlighting concerns about possible irregularities in the allocation process. While two internal reports concluded that implicated officials did not have decision-making power, unresolved questions remain regarding compliance with eligibility criteria. The investigation is ongoing, with significant implications for public trust in the housing allocation process. read →
🏛️📈 AIReF calls for enhanced oversight of sick leave amid rising costs (0.66)
AIReF has called for enhanced oversight of sick leave in Spain, reporting a 60% increase in temporary incapacity since 2017, with costs reaching €16.5 billion in 2024. The authority recommends that the National Social Security Institute (INSS) intervene earlier in the sick leave process to prevent prolonged absences. Regulatory changes since 2018, including expanded economic protections, have contributed to this rise. AIReF emphasizes the need for better coordination among employers, healthcare providers, and Social Security to manage sick leave effectively. read →
🏛️ Government's social shield and eviction moratorium face political hurdles (0.63)
The Spanish government has approved a new social shield decree to protect vulnerable tenants from eviction, splitting it from a pension increase to secure parliamentary support. The decree limits eviction protections to landlords with more than two properties, a move criticized by Junts and the PP, who argue it unfairly burdens small landlords. The PNV supports the decree after negotiating safeguards for small property owners, but tensions with left-wing parties like Podemos persist. The government now faces the challenge of securing enough votes in Congress to pass the social shield. read →
Portugal
🏛️💶 Government unveils comprehensive relief package for Storm Kristin recovery (0.92)
The Portuguese government has launched a relief package for those affected by Storm Kristin, including up to €1,075 in financial support for families and €459 million in state-backed credit lines for over 120,000 businesses. A simplified layoff scheme will ensure 100% gross salary for affected workers, capped at €2,760. Additionally, a new Mission Structure will oversee recovery efforts until 2027. However, housing support is limited to primary residences and requires proof of insurance activation. read →
🏛️ Government proposes housing tax package with VAT and IRC adjustments (0.83)
The Portuguese government is proposing a housing tax package that includes reducing VAT on construction from 23% to 6% and extending IRC tax benefits for rental income to individual entrepreneurs. Secretary of State Cláudia Reis Duarte announced these measures on February 4, 2026, aiming to stimulate affordable housing amid a supply shortage. However, researchers warn that these tax breaks may primarily benefit property owners without improving affordability for renters. The government is open to refining the proposals during parliamentary discussions. read →
🗳️🚍 Complaint filed over voter transport and snacks for Paris election (0.83)
A complaint has been filed with Portugal's National Elections Commission (CNE) regarding free transport and snacks offered to voters in Paris by La Lusitanie. Paulo Pisco, a representative for presidential candidate António José Seguro, claims this initiative may violate electoral laws aimed at ensuring free and fair voting. The CNE is expected to investigate the allegations ahead of the presidential election's second round on 8 February 2026. read →
🌧️📉 Storm Kristin may halve Portugal's 2026 growth (0.73)
Storm Kristin has caused an estimated €2.5 billion in damages in Portugal, particularly affecting the Centro region. This could reduce the country's GDP growth forecast for 2026 from 2.3% to 1.3%. The government has initiated a reconstruction mission, led by Paulo Fernandes, to coordinate recovery efforts. Key industries, especially glass and ceramics, face significant disruptions, with many factories halted and exports at risk. The long-term economic impact remains uncertain as recovery efforts begin. read →
📉 Unemployment falls to 6% in 2025, lowest since 2011 (0.73)
Portugal's unemployment rate has fallen to 6% in 2025, the lowest since 2011, surpassing government and EU forecasts. The employed population reached a record high of 5.3 million, with youth unemployment dropping to 19.5%. The data, released by the Instituto Nacional de Estatística, indicates a robust labor market, with overall unemployment decreasing by 4% compared to the previous year. read →