EU
🏛️ EU leaders gather at Alden Biesen to address competitiveness challenges (0.88)
EU leaders met at Alden Biesen Castle on February 12, 2026, to discuss strategies for enhancing competitiveness against global rivals. Key topics included the 'Buy European' policy, energy costs, and regulatory simplifications. Tensions arose between France and Germany over economic strategies, particularly regarding eurobonds. Leaders emphasized the urgency of completing the single market by 2028 and reducing bureaucratic barriers. The discussions will continue at the upcoming European Council meeting in March. read →
🏛️ EU approves new rules to combat unfair trading in agri-food sector (0.83)🎁
The European Parliament has approved new regulations to combat unfair trading practices in the agri-food sector, with 555 votes in favor. The legislation allows national authorities to act without formal complaints from producers and requires non-EU buyers to designate EU contact persons for investigations. The new rules will take effect 18 months after publication in the Official Journal of the EU, enhancing protections for farmers and small agricultural entrepreneurs. read → 🎁 today's freebie
🏛️ EU Parliament commits to eradicating poverty by 2035 (0.78)
The European Parliament has adopted a resolution to eradicate poverty by 2035, recognizing it as a violation of human dignity. The resolution calls for a €20 billion allocation for the European Child Guarantee to ensure access to essential services for children in need. It also urges Member States to allocate 5% of European Social Fund+ resources to combat child poverty and emphasizes the importance of full employment and social protection in economic policies. read →
🏛️⚖️ CJEU rules on benchmark transparency for banks (0.78)
The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has ruled that banks are not required to disclose detailed methodologies for regulated benchmark indices like WIBOR used in variable-rate mortgages. This decision, stemming from a case involving a Polish consumer, confirms that while the Directive on Unfair Terms applies, transparency obligations do not extend to detailed calculations. The ruling has been celebrated by the banking sector as a significant win, but consumer rights advocates express concerns over reduced transparency and potential risks for borrowers. read →
🏛️🔍 EPPO raids European Commission over property sale investigation (0.73)
Belgian police raided the European Commission's offices on 12 February 2026 as part of an investigation by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) into possible irregularities in a €900 million property sale to the Belgian state. The sale involved 23 buildings and aimed to modernize Brussels's European quarter. The Commission has pledged full cooperation with the investigation, asserting that the sale complied with established procedures. The EPPO is currently gathering evidence as part of its inquiry. read →
⚖️🇪🇺 EU court adviser calls for annulment of €10.2 billion payment to Hungary (0.73)
Advocate General Tamara Ćapeta has recommended that the CJEU annul the European Commission's decision to unfreeze €10.2 billion in funds for Hungary, citing unmet rule-of-law conditions. This recommendation follows a challenge from the European Parliament, which argues the Commission acted under political pressure. If upheld, Hungary may need to repay disbursed funds, impacting its financial relationship with the EU. The final court ruling is expected in the coming months, ahead of Hungary's parliamentary elections. read →
🏛️ Spain protests exclusion from EU pre-summit meeting (0.57)
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has protested his exclusion from a pre-summit meeting organized by Italy and Germany, attended by 19 other EU leaders. He criticized the format, arguing it undermines EU principles of inclusivity. The meeting focused on economic competitiveness and regulatory simplification, highlighting Spain's diminishing influence in EU decision-making. Sánchez's absence raises concerns about the implications of exclusive gatherings on EU cohesion and the need for more collaborative frameworks. read →
World
🏛️ European Parliament calls for sanctions on Iran's regime (0.92)
The European Parliament has passed a resolution condemning the Iranian regime's repression, calling for expanded sanctions against officials responsible for human rights abuses. With 524 votes in favor, the resolution urges asset freezes and travel bans, while also advocating for humanitarian assistance and internet access restoration in Iran. President Roberta Metsola emphasized the need for strict sanctions against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, asserting that the EU stands with the Iranian people in their struggle for freedom. read →
🏛️🤝 US–Venezuela energy thaw: Oil embargo 'essentially over' (0.89)
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright announced on February 11, 2026, that the U.S. embargo on Venezuelan oil is "essentially over," during a historic visit to Caracas. This marks a significant shift in U.S.-Venezuela relations following the capture of Nicolás Maduro. A long-term energy agreement aims to boost oil production and attract foreign investment, facilitated by recent reforms to Venezuela's Hydrocarbons Law. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez emphasized the importance of diplomatic dialogue and cooperation, as both countries seek to enhance their energy partnership. read →
⚓️🇪🇺 European efforts to combat Russian shadow fleet evading sanctions (0.87)
European nations are ramping up efforts to combat the Russian shadow fleet, which is evading sanctions by sailing under false or no flags. An investigation revealed that nearly one in three of these vessels lack valid flags, affecting over 500 tankers. Belgium is adapting its legal frameworks to intercept these ships, while Danish authorities reported 292 movements of sanctioned tankers in their waters in 2025. The situation raises significant security concerns, prompting calls for a coordinated international response. read →
📱⚖️ WhatsApp denounces Kremlin's blockade efforts in Russia (0.85)
WhatsApp has condemned the Russian government's efforts to block its service, claiming the move aims to force users to switch to a state-controlled app, Max. The Kremlin has removed WhatsApp's domains from the national DNS, citing compliance with Russian laws. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for President Putin, stated that WhatsApp could be unblocked if Meta engages in dialogue with authorities. The crackdown raises significant concerns over digital freedom and user privacy for millions in Russia. read →
🏛️ Germany nominates Carsten Breuer for NATO Military Committee chair (0.78)
Germany has nominated Inspector General Carsten Breuer for the chair of NATO's Military Committee, as announced by Defence Minister Boris Pistorius during a NATO meeting in Brussels. The election is scheduled for September 2026, with Breuer expected to take office in summer 2027. Breuer, who has been Inspector General since March 2023, is recognized for his analytical skills and contributions to Germany's defense capabilities. This nomination signifies Germany's intent to assume a more prominent role within NATO's leadership structure. read →
🛒🇨🇳 China imposes tariffs on EU dairy products (0.74)
China will impose tariffs of 7.4% to 11.7% on EU dairy products starting 13 February 2026, following an 18-month investigation into EU subsidies. The new rates are significantly lower than the provisional tariffs of up to 42.7% imposed in December 2025. Major EU exporters affected include France, Italy, Denmark, and the Netherlands, with the total value of imports under investigation at approximately $589 million in 2024. This decision reflects ongoing trade tensions between China and the EU, particularly related to electric vehicles. read →
🏛️ NATO strengthens Arctic defense and shifts command structure amid Ukraine support (0.72)
NATO has launched the Arctic Sentry mission to enhance military presence in the Arctic, responding to geopolitical tensions. The alliance has also restructured its command hierarchy to emphasize European leadership. The UK confirmed £500 million in military aid to Ukraine, while Spain announced it has met NATO's 2% GDP defense spending target for 2025. These developments reflect NATO's commitment to collective defense and regional stability. read →
🏛️🇺🇸 U.S. House votes to nullify Trump's tariffs on Canada (0.7)
On February 12, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 219 to 211 to repeal tariffs imposed by President Trump on Canadian imports. This bipartisan resolution saw six Republicans join Democrats, marking a rare instance of dissent against Trump within the GOP. However, the measure is largely symbolic and is expected to be vetoed by the president. The resolution will now move to the Senate, where a similar outcome is anticipated. read →
🏛️ Zelenskyy demands specific date for Ukraine's EU membership amid ongoing conflict (0.68)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for a specific date for Ukraine's EU accession, targeting 2027, as part of any peace agreement with Russia. He emphasized that elections in Ukraine are contingent on security guarantees, stating they cannot occur under current martial law. This demand follows the European Parliament's approval of a €90 billion aid package for Ukraine. Meanwhile, NATO defense ministers are meeting to discuss ongoing support amid rising Russian casualties. read →
💥🏛️ Massive Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure (0.66)
On 12 February 2026, Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, targeting Kyiv, Odesa, and Dnipro with 24 missiles and 219 drones. The strikes left over 2,600 buildings in Kyiv without heating and nearly 300,000 residents in Odesa without power or water. At least two fatalities have been reported. Ukrainian officials emphasized the urgent need for enhanced air defense systems as the humanitarian crisis deepens amid harsh winter conditions. read →
France
⚡️🏛️ France unveils energy strategy for 2035 with nuclear focus (0.88)
On 12 February 2026, France's government unveiled its Multiannual Energy Programme (PPE) for 2025–2035, emphasizing a revival of nuclear energy while scaling back targets for solar and onshore wind. The plan aims to reduce fossil fuel consumption from 60% to 40% by 2030 and includes the construction of six new nuclear reactors. Political reactions have been mixed, with right-wing leaders criticizing the focus on nuclear, while some left-wing politicians welcomed the guidance for the renewable sector. The PPE will be published in the Journal officiel, setting the framework for France's energy policy over the next decade. read →
⚖️🇪🇺 Ruling on Le Pen's EU funds misappropriation case set for July (0.86)
The Paris Court of Appeal will rule on 7 July 2026 in the case against Marine Le Pen, accused of misappropriating EU funds. Le Pen faces a potential four-year prison sentence and five-year disqualification from public office. The ruling could significantly impact her candidacy for the 2027 presidential election, as prosecutors allege €4.4 million was embezzled from European Parliament allowances. Le Pen's defense argues that any irregularities were unintentional, emphasizing the political stakes of the court's decision. read →
🏛️ Assembly extends whistleblower protection against drug trafficking (0.84)
On 12 February 2026, the French National Assembly unanimously passed a bill extending legal protections for whistleblowers involved in drug trafficking. The legislation, introduced by Green MP Sandra Regol, broadens existing protections to include individuals not involved in judicial proceedings. While the bill received support from left-leaning parties, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez expressed concerns about its potential to weaken existing protections. The bill aims to enhance safety measures for those exposing drug-related crimes, amid ongoing violence in the country. read →
🛒📊 Familles Rurales calls for inquiry into supermarket pricing practices (0.8)
Familles Rurales has requested a sector inquiry from France's Competition Authority into supermarket pricing practices, particularly focusing on 'margin equalization' that affects access to healthy food. The group highlights that from 2021 to 2023, producers received €12 billion for fruits and vegetables, while consumers paid €23 billion. With over 11 million people facing food insecurity, the association emphasizes the need for transparency and fairness in pricing. Despite a slight decline in prices for fresh produce, the financial burden on families remains significant. read →
🌍🥩 France's national food strategy urges limitation on meat consumption (0.73)
France's National Strategy for Food, Nutrition and Climate, published on 11 February 2026, recommends limiting meat and processed meat consumption to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With per-capita meat consumption at 85 kilograms, significantly higher than in Germany, the strategy promotes increased intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Internal disputes delayed the publication, reflecting differing views on the necessity of explicit reductions. While some public support exists, critics argue for clearer targets and regulations to ensure the strategy's effectiveness. read →
Spain
🌧️🏛️ Andalusia storms prompt emergency response and funding appeals (0.92)
Severe storms in Andalusia have led to over 11,000 evacuations and significant infrastructure damage, prompting the Junta de Andalucía to allocate an unprecedented budget for recovery, estimated at €500 million. President Juanma Moreno emphasized the importance of anticipation in saving lives. Meanwhile, Alberto Núñez Feijóo called for a national water plan to address future droughts and floods, urging the central government to expedite aid. Both leaders are focused on restoring normalcy in the region ahead of the Holy Week tourism season. read →
⚖️🇪🇺 State legal services support amnesty for Puigdemont (0.87)
The State Attorney’s Office and the Public Prosecutor’s Office have submitted reports to the Constitutional Court supporting Carles Puigdemont's application for amnesty. They argue that the Supreme Court's refusal to apply the amnesty law violated Puigdemont's rights. The reports criticize the Supreme Court's interpretation as unreasonable and highlight contradictions in its ruling. The Constitutional Court will consider these arguments alongside a pending ruling from the Court of Justice of the European Union, which could significantly impact Puigdemont's legal situation and the political normalization in Catalonia. read →
🏛️💶 Government restructures ICO to launch €10.5 billion sovereign fund (0.83)
The Spanish government will launch a major restructuring of the Instituto de Crédito Oficial (ICO) on 23 February, transforming it into the sixth largest bank in the country with a €10.5 billion capital injection. This initiative aims to mobilize €60 billion in private investment for key sectors. However, the opposition Popular Party (PP) has raised concerns about the fund's feasibility, citing past failures in fund allocation and warning of potential fiscal risks. The ICO's internal restructuring has also unsettled current staff, raising questions about the future effectiveness of the institution. read →
🏛️ PSOE files complaint over €71 million debt forgiveness in Madrid healthcare scandal (0.79)
The Socialist Party of Madrid (PSOE-M) has filed a complaint with the Court of Auditors over the Comunidad de Madrid's forgiveness of €71.65 million owed by private healthcare providers Quirón and Ribera Salud. The complaint alleges improper accounting and diversion of funds intended for care homes, with financial discrepancies exceeding €11 million in 2023 alone. The regional government has defended its actions, stating that the allegations stem from misinterpretations of internal documents. An investigation into public procurement practices has been initiated in response to these claims. read →
⚖️🛑 Supreme Court pre-trial in 'Mascarillas' case against Ábalos (0.79)
The Supreme Court of Spain is conducting a pre-trial hearing in the 'Mascarillas' case involving former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos and his aide Koldo García. The court has dismissed multiple challenges to the trial panel's composition and rejected a request for EU court clarification on jurisdiction. The defendants face serious corruption charges, with the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office seeking lengthy prison sentences. Additionally, former PSOE secretary Santos Cerdán has been barred from participating in the proceedings. read →
🏛️🤝 Government and ERC agree to create 180 new judges in Catalonia (0.79)
The Spanish Government and Esquerra Republicana (ERC) have agreed to create 180 new judicial posts in Catalonia over the next two years, addressing a significant judicial backlog. The plan includes 91 positions in 2026 and 90 in 2027, raising the total number of judges from 870 to 1,050. ERC will abstain from voting on a related repeat-offender law, emphasizing the need for adequate judicial resources to support any punitive measures. read →
🏛️ Congress approves law toughening penalties for repeat offenders (0.79)
The Spanish Congress has approved a law increasing penalties for repeat offenders of minor crimes, including theft and digital fraud, with 302 votes in favor. The PSOE allied with right-wing parties, causing a rift with left-wing partners who opposed the measure, labeling it as punitive and harmful to vulnerable populations. The law allows for prison sentences of up to three years for repeat offenders and prohibits them from entering certain areas. The legislation now moves to the Senate for further consideration. read →
🚆⚖️ Adamuz train accident: service delays and political fallout deepen (0.73)
The Adamuz train accident's aftermath continues to impact Spain's rail system and political landscape. The reopening of the Madrid–Andalusia AVE line has been delayed to 17 February, with Transport Minister Óscar Puente facing censure for his handling of the crisis. Judicial proceedings have opened separate cases for each of the 46 victims, enhancing accountability. Additionally, the Senate plans to challenge Prime Minister Sánchez for evading parliamentary oversight, marking a significant constitutional conflict. read →
🏛️💶 Zarzuela adjusts budgets as royal allowances rise 1.5% (0.73)
King Felipe VI's salary will rise by 1.5% to €290,000 in 2026, aligning with public servant salary increases. The Royal Household's budget remains frozen at €8.43 million since 2021, with personnel expenses decreasing by 22.18% to €3.80 million. In contrast, the investment budget has surged by 132.35% to €728,493, reflecting new project commitments. The transparency of the Royal Household's budget continues to be a focus under King Felipe VI's reign. read →
Portugal
🏛️🌧️ Government response to Storm Kristin: Ministerial reshuffle and infrastructure challenges (0.75)
The Portuguese government is responding to the aftermath of Storm Kristin, with Prime Minister Luís Montenegro temporarily taking over the Ministry of Internal Administration following the resignation of Maria Lúcia Amaral. Infrastructure repairs on the A1 motorway in Coimbra are expected to take weeks, while a simplified lay-off scheme for affected companies has been announced, though clarity on worker payments remains uncertain. The government has also postponed the biweekly parliamentary debate due to worsening weather conditions, drawing criticism from opposition leaders. A state of calamity has been extended for 68 municipalities, with support measures estimated at up to €2.5 billion. read →