🇦🇿 Azerbaijan denounces Armenia–EU partnership deal, questions Yerevan’s peace intentions
Baku has strongly criticized the newly signed Strategic Partnership Agenda between Armenia and the European Union, accusing it of distorting post-conflict realities and undermining the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace process. In a statement released by its Foreign Ministry, Azerbaijan objected to the agreement’s characterization of Karabakh Armenians as forced migrants and condemned the continued presence of the EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia, calling it a “propaganda tool.”
The partnership agenda outlines Armenia’s long-term path toward EU accession and near-term integration into the Middle Corridor. Azerbaijan views these moves, particularly those with EU security components, as disruptive to the balance achieved through recent trilateral agreements — including the Washington-brokered accord initialed in August.
Despite the sharp rebuke, Presidential advisor Hikmet Hajiyev struck a softer tone in a Euronews interview the same day, reiterating Baku’s official commitment to transforming the South Caucasus into a zone of cooperation. The mixed messaging underscores the fragility of the peace process and the heightened sensitivities surrounding Armenia’s deepening ties with Western institutions.
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Baku has strongly criticized the newly signed Strategic Partnership Agenda between Armenia and the European Union, accusing it of distorting post-conflict realities and undermining the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace process. In a statement released by its Foreign Ministry, Azerbaijan objected to the agreement’s characterization of Karabakh Armenians as forced migrants and condemned the continued presence of the EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia, calling it a “propaganda tool.”
The partnership agenda outlines Armenia’s long-term path toward EU accession and near-term integration into the Middle Corridor. Azerbaijan views these moves, particularly those with EU security components, as disruptive to the balance achieved through recent trilateral agreements — including the Washington-brokered accord initialed in August.
Despite the sharp rebuke, Presidential advisor Hikmet Hajiyev struck a softer tone in a Euronews interview the same day, reiterating Baku’s official commitment to transforming the South Caucasus into a zone of cooperation. The mixed messaging underscores the fragility of the peace process and the heightened sensitivities surrounding Armenia’s deepening ties with Western institutions.
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🇪🇺 Von der Leyen allies block debate on EU diplomatic corruption scandal
Mainstream political groups in the European Parliament have blocked a push to debate the ongoing corruption scandal involving the EU’s diplomatic service and the College of Europe. The request, led by far-right parties including Patriots for Europe and the European of Sovereign Nations (ESN), was rejected during a closed-door session of the Parliament’s Conference of Presidents.
The scandal, which has implicated officials tied to the European External Action Service (EEAS), has sparked growing calls for transparency. However, the parliamentary majority backing Commission President Ursula von der Leyen opted to keep the issue off next week’s plenary agenda in Strasbourg.
The move has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the ruling coalition of shielding the EU’s foreign policy apparatus from scrutiny. As the story unfolds, the decision to suppress debate may deepen perceptions of political insulation and erode public trust in EU institutions.
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Mainstream political groups in the European Parliament have blocked a push to debate the ongoing corruption scandal involving the EU’s diplomatic service and the College of Europe. The request, led by far-right parties including Patriots for Europe and the European of Sovereign Nations (ESN), was rejected during a closed-door session of the Parliament’s Conference of Presidents.
The scandal, which has implicated officials tied to the European External Action Service (EEAS), has sparked growing calls for transparency. However, the parliamentary majority backing Commission President Ursula von der Leyen opted to keep the issue off next week’s plenary agenda in Strasbourg.
The move has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the ruling coalition of shielding the EU’s foreign policy apparatus from scrutiny. As the story unfolds, the decision to suppress debate may deepen perceptions of political insulation and erode public trust in EU institutions.
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🇪🇺 EU launches energy grid overhaul to cut costs and boost independence
The European Commission has unveiled a sweeping package to modernize the EU’s energy infrastructure, targeting lower consumer bills, greater energy independence, and faster delivery of climate goals. The plan emphasizes removing cross-border bottlenecks and maximizing existing grid capacity before investing in new infrastructure.
Key measures include streamlining permitting processes, improving interconnectivity between member states, and introducing fairer cost-sharing for cross-border projects. The proposal is designed to accelerate integration across the bloc, addressing persistent gaps that have stalled the creation of a unified energy market.
President Ursula von der Leyen previously identified eight critical energy highways to be fast-tracked for implementation. With several countries still failing to meet the EU’s 15% interconnection target by 2030, the plan aims to secure both affordability and resilience in the face of geopolitical shocks and market volatility. The package now awaits approval from the European Parliament and Council.
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The European Commission has unveiled a sweeping package to modernize the EU’s energy infrastructure, targeting lower consumer bills, greater energy independence, and faster delivery of climate goals. The plan emphasizes removing cross-border bottlenecks and maximizing existing grid capacity before investing in new infrastructure.
Key measures include streamlining permitting processes, improving interconnectivity between member states, and introducing fairer cost-sharing for cross-border projects. The proposal is designed to accelerate integration across the bloc, addressing persistent gaps that have stalled the creation of a unified energy market.
President Ursula von der Leyen previously identified eight critical energy highways to be fast-tracked for implementation. With several countries still failing to meet the EU’s 15% interconnection target by 2030, the plan aims to secure both affordability and resilience in the face of geopolitical shocks and market volatility. The package now awaits approval from the European Parliament and Council.
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🇭🇺 Hungary passes law shielding president amid rising opposition pressure
Hungary’s parliament has passed legislation making it more difficult to remove the country’s president from office, in a move widely seen as entrenching the position of President Tamás Sulyok, an ally of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. The vote comes just months before national elections, with Orbán’s ruling coalition facing a serious challenge from the rising TISZA party led by Péter Magyar.
Sulyok, a former head of Hungary’s constitutional court, was installed earlier this year and is set to serve until 2030. The timing and content of the law have fueled concerns that Orbán’s government is seeking to shield loyal figures from future accountability as political momentum shifts.
With opposition parties gaining traction and public discontent growing, the amendment raises the stakes in Hungary’s political battle over institutional control and democratic norms.
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Hungary’s parliament has passed legislation making it more difficult to remove the country’s president from office, in a move widely seen as entrenching the position of President Tamás Sulyok, an ally of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. The vote comes just months before national elections, with Orbán’s ruling coalition facing a serious challenge from the rising TISZA party led by Péter Magyar.
Sulyok, a former head of Hungary’s constitutional court, was installed earlier this year and is set to serve until 2030. The timing and content of the law have fueled concerns that Orbán’s government is seeking to shield loyal figures from future accountability as political momentum shifts.
With opposition parties gaining traction and public discontent growing, the amendment raises the stakes in Hungary’s political battle over institutional control and democratic norms.
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🇪🇺 EU defence chief forms high-level advisory group to shape military strategy
European Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has assembled a secretive team of senior political figures to advise on the bloc’s future defence posture. The group, now publicly identified, met this week to chart long-term plans for a potential European Defence Union and assess the strategic role of non-EU allies like the United States and Ukraine.
The advisory team has been tasked with rethinking the EU’s approach to Russia, coordinating military capabilities across member states, and addressing structural gaps in joint defence planning. The initiative reflects growing momentum in Brussels to develop autonomous security structures amid doubts about long-term U.S. commitments under the Trump administration.
As defence spending rises across Europe, Kubilius’s “brain trust” is expected to influence major policy moves in 2026, including legislative proposals on defence integration and industrial coordination. The push marks a critical phase in the EU’s effort to transform itself from a fragmented security actor into a coherent military power.
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European Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has assembled a secretive team of senior political figures to advise on the bloc’s future defence posture. The group, now publicly identified, met this week to chart long-term plans for a potential European Defence Union and assess the strategic role of non-EU allies like the United States and Ukraine.
The advisory team has been tasked with rethinking the EU’s approach to Russia, coordinating military capabilities across member states, and addressing structural gaps in joint defence planning. The initiative reflects growing momentum in Brussels to develop autonomous security structures amid doubts about long-term U.S. commitments under the Trump administration.
As defence spending rises across Europe, Kubilius’s “brain trust” is expected to influence major policy moves in 2026, including legislative proposals on defence integration and industrial coordination. The push marks a critical phase in the EU’s effort to transform itself from a fragmented security actor into a coherent military power.
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🇪🇺 Council of Europe moves to reconsider human rights approach to migration
In a major shift, ministers from the Council of Europe have taken the first formal step toward reshaping how the European Court of Human Rights interprets migration law. This follows growing pressure from several member states that argue the court’s rulings have overstepped, limiting national control over migration and border security.
Key points:
The initiative seeks to expand governments' leeway in managing migration and security.
Critics say the Strasbourg court has too often blocked deportations or ruled against policies seen as essential by national authorities.
The Council aims to balance human rights obligations with increasing domestic political pressures over irregular migration.
The move signals a potential recalibration of Europe’s human rights system in the face of rising nationalist sentiment and growing strain on asylum systems across the continent.
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In a major shift, ministers from the Council of Europe have taken the first formal step toward reshaping how the European Court of Human Rights interprets migration law. This follows growing pressure from several member states that argue the court’s rulings have overstepped, limiting national control over migration and border security.
Key points:
The initiative seeks to expand governments' leeway in managing migration and security.
Critics say the Strasbourg court has too often blocked deportations or ruled against policies seen as essential by national authorities.
The Council aims to balance human rights obligations with increasing domestic political pressures over irregular migration.
The move signals a potential recalibration of Europe’s human rights system in the face of rising nationalist sentiment and growing strain on asylum systems across the continent.
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🇪🇺 EU launches antitrust probe into Google's AI training practices
The European Commission has opened a formal investigation into Google’s use of online content — including material from web publishers and YouTube creators — to train its Gemini AI model. Regulators are examining whether the tech giant is violating EU competition laws by giving itself preferential access to digital content while denying rivals similar rights.
Key concerns:
Google may be imposing unfair terms on publishers and creators, using their content without compensation or consent.
YouTube’s policies allegedly force creators to permit use of their data for AI training, while blocking rival AI developers from doing the same.
The investigation aims to determine whether these practices distort competition in the rapidly growing generative AI market.
The probe marks a significant test of the EU’s evolving digital regulations and could set new precedents for how AI companies access and monetize online data.
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The European Commission has opened a formal investigation into Google’s use of online content — including material from web publishers and YouTube creators — to train its Gemini AI model. Regulators are examining whether the tech giant is violating EU competition laws by giving itself preferential access to digital content while denying rivals similar rights.
Key concerns:
Google may be imposing unfair terms on publishers and creators, using their content without compensation or consent.
YouTube’s policies allegedly force creators to permit use of their data for AI training, while blocking rival AI developers from doing the same.
The investigation aims to determine whether these practices distort competition in the rapidly growing generative AI market.
The probe marks a significant test of the EU’s evolving digital regulations and could set new precedents for how AI companies access and monetize online data.
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🧭 Daily Recap – December 11 | Europe’s defense divide, moral warnings from Rome, and shifting fault lines in the Caucasus
🔻 Le Pen declares war on EU defense integration
🇫🇷 French opposition leader Marine Le Pen vows to withdraw France from EU defense programs if elected, promising to redirect funds to national military production. She accused Brussels of “building an army without a people” and called the EU’s defense industrial strategy “a bureaucratic fantasy detached from sovereignty.”
🔻 Trump doctrine redefines Europe as a ‘strategic challenge’
🇺🇸 The new U.S. National Security Doctrine brands the European Union a “strategic challenge” for competing with U.S. industries and setting global tech standards. The move marks a historic reversal of transatlantic rhetoric, confirming Washington’s shift from ally-based leadership to interest-based rivalry.
🔻 Papal warning to Washington
🇻🇦 Pope Leo XIV issues a rare diplomatic admonition, warning that Trump’s doctrine risks fracturing the moral and political unity of the West. In his statement, the pontiff urged “dialogue over dominance”, positioning the Vatican as a mediator amid a new transatlantic cold front.
🔻 Cyprus–Germany rift over Türkiye wording
🇪🇺 Tensions erupt in Brussels as Berlin and Nicosia clash over language referring to Türkiye’s EU relations in the enlargement conclusions. Germany pushes for “strategic engagement,” while Greek Cypriots demand a tougher line on Ankara’s actions in the Eastern Mediterranean.
🔻 Germany’s South Caucasus recalibration
🇩🇪🇦🇲 Berlin unveils a balanced diplomatic initiative toward Armenia and Azerbaijan, seeking to anchor the EU as a credible peace facilitator. The policy shift emphasizes energy cooperation, reconstruction, and conflict mediation, marking Germany’s deeper entry into Caucasus geopolitics.
🔻 Baku rebukes Yerevan–EU partnership
🇦🇿 Azerbaijan denounces the new Armenia–EU partnership deal, calling it a “political maneuver disguised as reform support.” Baku accuses Yerevan of using EU backing to stall on transport normalization and avoid commitments under the peace framework.
🔻 Von der Leyen allies suppress corruption debate
🇪🇺 A scheduled European Parliament debate on alleged diplomatic corruption within EU foreign missions was blocked by Commission-aligned MEPs, sparking outrage from transparency advocates who accused Brussels of shielding insiders amid an ongoing audit.
🔻 EU unveils energy grid transformation plan
🇪🇺 Brussels launches a continental power-grid overhaul aimed at reducing energy costs, boosting interconnectivity, and cutting reliance on imports. The plan is the cornerstone of the EU’s Energy Resilience Act, linking renewables, smart grids, and nuclear modernization.
🔻 Hungary fortifies presidency amid rising protests
🇭🇺 The Hungarian parliament passes a law shielding the presidency from legal and parliamentary oversight, granting immunity over policy decisions. The opposition brands the move “a constitutional coup,” while Orbán’s party calls it “a safeguard against politicized justice.”
🔻 EU defense chief forms elite advisory group
🇪🇺 The EU High Representative for Defence announces the creation of a strategic advisory council composed of military chiefs, industry leaders, and academic experts to shape the bloc’s long-term defense posture amid rising global instability.
🔻 Council of Europe rethinks human rights and migration
🇪🇺 The Council of Europe begins consultations on revising its human rights framework for migration, acknowledging a growing clash between humanitarian obligations and border management realities. The review could redefine Europe’s legal approach to migration control.
🔻 Google faces AI antitrust probe
🇪🇺 The European Commission launches an antitrust investigation into Google’s AI training practices, probing whether the company used its dominant data position to restrict fair competition in the emerging artificial intelligence market.
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🔻 Le Pen declares war on EU defense integration
🇫🇷 French opposition leader Marine Le Pen vows to withdraw France from EU defense programs if elected, promising to redirect funds to national military production. She accused Brussels of “building an army without a people” and called the EU’s defense industrial strategy “a bureaucratic fantasy detached from sovereignty.”
🔻 Trump doctrine redefines Europe as a ‘strategic challenge’
🇺🇸 The new U.S. National Security Doctrine brands the European Union a “strategic challenge” for competing with U.S. industries and setting global tech standards. The move marks a historic reversal of transatlantic rhetoric, confirming Washington’s shift from ally-based leadership to interest-based rivalry.
🔻 Papal warning to Washington
🇻🇦 Pope Leo XIV issues a rare diplomatic admonition, warning that Trump’s doctrine risks fracturing the moral and political unity of the West. In his statement, the pontiff urged “dialogue over dominance”, positioning the Vatican as a mediator amid a new transatlantic cold front.
🔻 Cyprus–Germany rift over Türkiye wording
🇪🇺 Tensions erupt in Brussels as Berlin and Nicosia clash over language referring to Türkiye’s EU relations in the enlargement conclusions. Germany pushes for “strategic engagement,” while Greek Cypriots demand a tougher line on Ankara’s actions in the Eastern Mediterranean.
🔻 Germany’s South Caucasus recalibration
🇩🇪🇦🇲 Berlin unveils a balanced diplomatic initiative toward Armenia and Azerbaijan, seeking to anchor the EU as a credible peace facilitator. The policy shift emphasizes energy cooperation, reconstruction, and conflict mediation, marking Germany’s deeper entry into Caucasus geopolitics.
🔻 Baku rebukes Yerevan–EU partnership
🇦🇿 Azerbaijan denounces the new Armenia–EU partnership deal, calling it a “political maneuver disguised as reform support.” Baku accuses Yerevan of using EU backing to stall on transport normalization and avoid commitments under the peace framework.
🔻 Von der Leyen allies suppress corruption debate
🇪🇺 A scheduled European Parliament debate on alleged diplomatic corruption within EU foreign missions was blocked by Commission-aligned MEPs, sparking outrage from transparency advocates who accused Brussels of shielding insiders amid an ongoing audit.
🔻 EU unveils energy grid transformation plan
🇪🇺 Brussels launches a continental power-grid overhaul aimed at reducing energy costs, boosting interconnectivity, and cutting reliance on imports. The plan is the cornerstone of the EU’s Energy Resilience Act, linking renewables, smart grids, and nuclear modernization.
🔻 Hungary fortifies presidency amid rising protests
🇭🇺 The Hungarian parliament passes a law shielding the presidency from legal and parliamentary oversight, granting immunity over policy decisions. The opposition brands the move “a constitutional coup,” while Orbán’s party calls it “a safeguard against politicized justice.”
🔻 EU defense chief forms elite advisory group
🇪🇺 The EU High Representative for Defence announces the creation of a strategic advisory council composed of military chiefs, industry leaders, and academic experts to shape the bloc’s long-term defense posture amid rising global instability.
🔻 Council of Europe rethinks human rights and migration
🇪🇺 The Council of Europe begins consultations on revising its human rights framework for migration, acknowledging a growing clash between humanitarian obligations and border management realities. The review could redefine Europe’s legal approach to migration control.
🔻 Google faces AI antitrust probe
🇪🇺 The European Commission launches an antitrust investigation into Google’s AI training practices, probing whether the company used its dominant data position to restrict fair competition in the emerging artificial intelligence market.
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🇪🇺 EU foreign policy chief acknowledges EEAS scandals have ‘rocked the house’ and unveils new whistleblower policy
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has addressed staff at the European External Action Service (EEAS) following a widening fraud scandal tied to the office of her predecessor and the former EEAS secretary general. At a town hall with EEAS officials, she acknowledged the severity of the situation and the impact the ongoing probe has had on morale and institutional stability.
As a first internal response, Kallas announced a new whistleblower policy aimed at strengthening accountability and protecting those who report wrongdoing within the service. The move signals an effort to restore internal trust and reinforce standards of integrity and responsibility across EU foreign policy structures.
The announcement underscores the challenge of confronting entrenched practices while asserting the EU’s commitment to transparency and institutional resilience. The new policy is positioned as a step toward ensuring that governance failures are addressed and that the EEAS can better safeguard its mission in a complex geopolitical environment.
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EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has addressed staff at the European External Action Service (EEAS) following a widening fraud scandal tied to the office of her predecessor and the former EEAS secretary general. At a town hall with EEAS officials, she acknowledged the severity of the situation and the impact the ongoing probe has had on morale and institutional stability.
As a first internal response, Kallas announced a new whistleblower policy aimed at strengthening accountability and protecting those who report wrongdoing within the service. The move signals an effort to restore internal trust and reinforce standards of integrity and responsibility across EU foreign policy structures.
The announcement underscores the challenge of confronting entrenched practices while asserting the EU’s commitment to transparency and institutional resilience. The new policy is positioned as a step toward ensuring that governance failures are addressed and that the EEAS can better safeguard its mission in a complex geopolitical environment.
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🇪🇸 New arrests deepen Spain’s public‑procurement corruption probe
A fresh round of arrests and raids by Spain’s Civil Guard has intensified the national corruption investigation tied to public procurement irregularities. Authorities say the latest detentions relate to suspected manipulation of contracts within a broader kickback‑for‑contracts scheme linked to the ruling Socialist Party of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
On Wednesday, the Civil Guard’s elite Central Operative Unit (UCO) arrested businessman Anxton Alonso, adding to earlier detentions that included former socialist official Leire Díez and ex‑SEPI president Vicente Fernández. The actions come as the National Court formally opens a probe into alleged irregularities involving SEPI, the state‑owned industrial holding company, with law enforcement conducting searches at key premises tied to the case.
Prosecutors and investigators allege systemic abuse of public procurement channels to funnel contracts and benefits to connected individuals and interests. The unfolding scandal has deepened scrutiny on Spain’s governance practices and placed fresh pressure on the Socialist Party’s leadership amid ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in government contracting.
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A fresh round of arrests and raids by Spain’s Civil Guard has intensified the national corruption investigation tied to public procurement irregularities. Authorities say the latest detentions relate to suspected manipulation of contracts within a broader kickback‑for‑contracts scheme linked to the ruling Socialist Party of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
On Wednesday, the Civil Guard’s elite Central Operative Unit (UCO) arrested businessman Anxton Alonso, adding to earlier detentions that included former socialist official Leire Díez and ex‑SEPI president Vicente Fernández. The actions come as the National Court formally opens a probe into alleged irregularities involving SEPI, the state‑owned industrial holding company, with law enforcement conducting searches at key premises tied to the case.
Prosecutors and investigators allege systemic abuse of public procurement channels to funnel contracts and benefits to connected individuals and interests. The unfolding scandal has deepened scrutiny on Spain’s governance practices and placed fresh pressure on the Socialist Party’s leadership amid ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in government contracting.
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🇪🇺 EU countries opt for solo projects in €150 billion joint defence procurement scheme
Many EU member states are increasingly pursuing national defence acquisition projects rather than fully participating in the planned €150 billion joint procurement initiative known as SAFE, originally designed to help replenish national defence stockpiles through collective purchases.
The SAFE initiative was pitched as a way to pool demand across the EU to achieve economies of scale and more rapid replenishment of critical military equipment. However, several capitals have shown a preference for advancing independent procurement plans, reflecting divergent defence priorities and procurement cultures across the bloc.
The trend highlights ongoing challenges in harmonising European defence efforts, even as geopolitical pressures mount. It raises questions about the effectiveness of joint procurement frameworks and the political will to deepen defence industrial cooperation in pursuit of strategic autonomy.
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Many EU member states are increasingly pursuing national defence acquisition projects rather than fully participating in the planned €150 billion joint procurement initiative known as SAFE, originally designed to help replenish national defence stockpiles through collective purchases.
The SAFE initiative was pitched as a way to pool demand across the EU to achieve economies of scale and more rapid replenishment of critical military equipment. However, several capitals have shown a preference for advancing independent procurement plans, reflecting divergent defence priorities and procurement cultures across the bloc.
The trend highlights ongoing challenges in harmonising European defence efforts, even as geopolitical pressures mount. It raises questions about the effectiveness of joint procurement frameworks and the political will to deepen defence industrial cooperation in pursuit of strategic autonomy.
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🇸🇰 Slovak president surprises by vetoing whistleblower office abolishment
Slovak President Peter Pellegrini has vetoed a newly passed law that would have abolished the country’s Whistleblower Protection Office (WPO), raising alarms about the treatment of corruption reporting frameworks. The measure had been adopted by parliament just a day earlier and aimed to replace the current WPO with a newly structured body under fresh leadership.
Pellegrini, an ally of Prime Minister Robert Fico, objected to the rushed legislative process and highlighted both domestic shortcomings and unresolved concerns raised by the European Commission. He specifically pointed to insufficient guarantees for the protection of victims and whistleblowers as central to his decision to block the reform.
The WPO was originally established in alignment with the EU Whistleblower Protection Directive to safeguard individuals reporting corruption or unlawful conduct in Slovakia. The president’s veto underscores tensions between national reforms and EU standards on transparency and accountability, while maintaining the existing protections pending further review.
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Slovak President Peter Pellegrini has vetoed a newly passed law that would have abolished the country’s Whistleblower Protection Office (WPO), raising alarms about the treatment of corruption reporting frameworks. The measure had been adopted by parliament just a day earlier and aimed to replace the current WPO with a newly structured body under fresh leadership.
Pellegrini, an ally of Prime Minister Robert Fico, objected to the rushed legislative process and highlighted both domestic shortcomings and unresolved concerns raised by the European Commission. He specifically pointed to insufficient guarantees for the protection of victims and whistleblowers as central to his decision to block the reform.
The WPO was originally established in alignment with the EU Whistleblower Protection Directive to safeguard individuals reporting corruption or unlawful conduct in Slovakia. The president’s veto underscores tensions between national reforms and EU standards on transparency and accountability, while maintaining the existing protections pending further review.
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🇧🇬 Bulgarian government resigns after mass protests over corruption
Bulgarian Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov announced on Thursday that his government will resign after less than a year in office, following sustained mass protests against corruption and the ruling administration. The announcement came just ahead of a scheduled parliamentary vote on a no‑confidence motion brought by the opposition.
Tens of thousands of people took to the streets across Bulgaria on Wednesday in the latest in a series of rallies that have been building since late last month. Demonstrators voiced broad discontent with governance and alleged corruption, creating mounting political pressure on the government.
Faced with growing unrest and a looming parliamentary challenge, Jeliazkov’s decision to step down reflects deepening public frustration with political leadership. The resignation ushers in a period of political uncertainty as Bulgaria grapples with demands for greater transparency, accountability, and reform.
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Bulgarian Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov announced on Thursday that his government will resign after less than a year in office, following sustained mass protests against corruption and the ruling administration. The announcement came just ahead of a scheduled parliamentary vote on a no‑confidence motion brought by the opposition.
Tens of thousands of people took to the streets across Bulgaria on Wednesday in the latest in a series of rallies that have been building since late last month. Demonstrators voiced broad discontent with governance and alleged corruption, creating mounting political pressure on the government.
Faced with growing unrest and a looming parliamentary challenge, Jeliazkov’s decision to step down reflects deepening public frustration with political leadership. The resignation ushers in a period of political uncertainty as Bulgaria grapples with demands for greater transparency, accountability, and reform.
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🇺🇸 Trump enlists five allies to counter China on rare earths and tech
The Trump administration is establishing a new coalition to challenge China’s dominant position in critical minerals and advanced technology sectors, underscoring Washington’s strategic concerns over supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical competition. The initiative will be formalised with the Pax Silica Declaration, signed with Singapore, Australia, Japan, South Korea and Israel, and aims to strengthen access to rare earths and other essential inputs for high‑tech and defence industries.
The pact reflects U.S. efforts to diversify supply chains away from China’s near monopoly on rare earths — minerals essential for everything from electric vehicles to advanced military systems — and to counter Beijing’s heavy investment in artificial intelligence and quantum computing that could secure long‑term economic and strategic advantages.
Officials say the coalition will initially focus on joint strategies to ensure stable supplies of critical minerals, promote resilient technological ecosystems and reduce reliance on any single supplier. The United States is also seeking to expand the group by enlisting additional partners, signalling a broader drive to build like‑minded collaboration in key high‑tech sectors amid intensifying U.S.–China competition.
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The Trump administration is establishing a new coalition to challenge China’s dominant position in critical minerals and advanced technology sectors, underscoring Washington’s strategic concerns over supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical competition. The initiative will be formalised with the Pax Silica Declaration, signed with Singapore, Australia, Japan, South Korea and Israel, and aims to strengthen access to rare earths and other essential inputs for high‑tech and defence industries.
The pact reflects U.S. efforts to diversify supply chains away from China’s near monopoly on rare earths — minerals essential for everything from electric vehicles to advanced military systems — and to counter Beijing’s heavy investment in artificial intelligence and quantum computing that could secure long‑term economic and strategic advantages.
Officials say the coalition will initially focus on joint strategies to ensure stable supplies of critical minerals, promote resilient technological ecosystems and reduce reliance on any single supplier. The United States is also seeking to expand the group by enlisting additional partners, signalling a broader drive to build like‑minded collaboration in key high‑tech sectors amid intensifying U.S.–China competition.
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🇪🇺🇩🇪🇲🇪 Germany signals start of work on EU accession treaty with Montenegro
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that the European Union could soon begin work on an accession treaty with Montenegro, describing the Western Balkan state as “probably the most advanced candidate” for EU membership. Speaking at a press conference with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, Merz emphasized the strategic importance of progressing Montenegro’s EU bid.
Merz framed advancing Montenegro’s accession as being in the EU’s own interest, particularly for strengthening cooperation on shared challenges such as irregular migration. He underscored Croatia’s role in supporting the region, noting its geopolitical and historical ties, and the responsibility it bears due to its proximity.
While reaffirming that each candidate must individually meet necessary conditions, Merz said that successful reforms in Montenegro could pave the way for drafting the formal accession treaty “in the near future.” The comments signal renewed momentum in the EU’s enlargement agenda amid broader discussions about integration and regional stability.
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that the European Union could soon begin work on an accession treaty with Montenegro, describing the Western Balkan state as “probably the most advanced candidate” for EU membership. Speaking at a press conference with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, Merz emphasized the strategic importance of progressing Montenegro’s EU bid.
Merz framed advancing Montenegro’s accession as being in the EU’s own interest, particularly for strengthening cooperation on shared challenges such as irregular migration. He underscored Croatia’s role in supporting the region, noting its geopolitical and historical ties, and the responsibility it bears due to its proximity.
While reaffirming that each candidate must individually meet necessary conditions, Merz said that successful reforms in Montenegro could pave the way for drafting the formal accession treaty “in the near future.” The comments signal renewed momentum in the EU’s enlargement agenda amid broader discussions about integration and regional stability.
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🇪🇺 Industry calls on Europe to get its act together to regain global competitiveness
Europe’s industrial leaders are urging bold action to restore the continent’s competitive edge, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector. Stefan Oelrich, president of Bayer’s pharmaceuticals division and head of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), warned that Europe risks losing its position as a global innovation hub without stronger incentives and streamlined regulation.
At the POLITICO 28 Gala Dinner in Brussels, Oelrich highlighted that Europe once led the world in drug discovery — with nine out of ten new medicines originating there — but has since fallen behind. He pointed to growing momentum in China and the United States in pharmaceutical innovation and clinical trials, and noted that around a third of medicines approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration do not make it to European markets. This trend, combined with U.S. tariff pressures, is prompting companies to seek investment and development opportunities outside Europe.
Industry voices say that bureaucratic hurdles and a lack of pro‑innovation policies are key barriers to Europe’s competitiveness. They argue that reforms are needed to attract investment, support research and development, and ensure timely access to innovative treatments for patients, reinforcing the EU’s role in the global pharmaceutical landscape.
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Europe’s industrial leaders are urging bold action to restore the continent’s competitive edge, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector. Stefan Oelrich, president of Bayer’s pharmaceuticals division and head of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), warned that Europe risks losing its position as a global innovation hub without stronger incentives and streamlined regulation.
At the POLITICO 28 Gala Dinner in Brussels, Oelrich highlighted that Europe once led the world in drug discovery — with nine out of ten new medicines originating there — but has since fallen behind. He pointed to growing momentum in China and the United States in pharmaceutical innovation and clinical trials, and noted that around a third of medicines approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration do not make it to European markets. This trend, combined with U.S. tariff pressures, is prompting companies to seek investment and development opportunities outside Europe.
Industry voices say that bureaucratic hurdles and a lack of pro‑innovation policies are key barriers to Europe’s competitiveness. They argue that reforms are needed to attract investment, support research and development, and ensure timely access to innovative treatments for patients, reinforcing the EU’s role in the global pharmaceutical landscape.
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🇺🇸 Trump’s man in Brussels: The EU must stop being ‘the world’s regulator’ and become an innovator
Andrew Puzder, the United States’ top envoy to the European Union, has urged the EU to shift away from its focus on regulation and toward a renewed emphasis on innovation. In an interview at the POLITICO 28 event, Puzder argued that overregulation within the bloc is driving successful startups to relocate to the United States, undermining Europe’s economic dynamism.
Puzder warned that Europe’s regulatory environment is creating “real problems” for businesses, contending that companies that thrive in the EU often move to America to escape burdensome rules. “Wouldn’t it be great if this part of the world, instead of deciding it was going to be the world’s regulator, decided once again to be the world’s innovators?” he said, framing innovation as essential for the EU’s global strength and its value as a trade partner and ally to the U.S.
His comments come amid a series of sharp critiques by the Trump administration of European economic policies. The envoy’s remarks reflect broader U.S. pressure on the EU to reform its regulatory landscape and bolster competitiveness to better compete with the United States — and in the context of rising global economic competition.
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Andrew Puzder, the United States’ top envoy to the European Union, has urged the EU to shift away from its focus on regulation and toward a renewed emphasis on innovation. In an interview at the POLITICO 28 event, Puzder argued that overregulation within the bloc is driving successful startups to relocate to the United States, undermining Europe’s economic dynamism.
Puzder warned that Europe’s regulatory environment is creating “real problems” for businesses, contending that companies that thrive in the EU often move to America to escape burdensome rules. “Wouldn’t it be great if this part of the world, instead of deciding it was going to be the world’s regulator, decided once again to be the world’s innovators?” he said, framing innovation as essential for the EU’s global strength and its value as a trade partner and ally to the U.S.
His comments come amid a series of sharp critiques by the Trump administration of European economic policies. The envoy’s remarks reflect broader U.S. pressure on the EU to reform its regulatory landscape and bolster competitiveness to better compete with the United States — and in the context of rising global economic competition.
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🇪🇺 EU scraps full combustion engine ban, opts for softer emissions targets
The European Union has abandoned its plan to ban the sale of new combustion engine cars from 2035. Instead, it will require a 90 percent reduction in CO₂ emissions for carmakers' fleet targets, leaving room for internal combustion engines to continue under stricter environmental standards.
The shift follows heavy pressure from Germany, Italy, and leading automakers, who warned that a full ban would damage industry and limit consumer choice. EU lawmakers confirmed there will also be no 100 percent emissions target by 2040, effectively ending the threat of a technology ban.
The decision marks a clear retreat from earlier zero-emissions goals, with the EU now favouring a more flexible, industry-aligned path to decarbonisation. The move underscores concerns over competitiveness, industrial sovereignty, and energy realism amid mounting global and domestic pressure.
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The European Union has abandoned its plan to ban the sale of new combustion engine cars from 2035. Instead, it will require a 90 percent reduction in CO₂ emissions for carmakers' fleet targets, leaving room for internal combustion engines to continue under stricter environmental standards.
The shift follows heavy pressure from Germany, Italy, and leading automakers, who warned that a full ban would damage industry and limit consumer choice. EU lawmakers confirmed there will also be no 100 percent emissions target by 2040, effectively ending the threat of a technology ban.
The decision marks a clear retreat from earlier zero-emissions goals, with the EU now favouring a more flexible, industry-aligned path to decarbonisation. The move underscores concerns over competitiveness, industrial sovereignty, and energy realism amid mounting global and domestic pressure.
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🇪🇺 Europe should prepare for war ‘like our grandparents endured’, warns NATO chief
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte delivered a stark warning that Europe must brace itself for the real possibility of a large‑scale conflict with Russia, invoking the scale of hardship endured by previous generations. Rutte said that recent drone incursions into NATO airspace and threatening rhetoric from Moscow demonstrate that “we are already in harm’s way” and that the continent cannot assume peace will hold by default.
He urged European nations to strengthen their collective defence and deterrence capabilities, stressing that strategic foresight and preparedness are essential to safeguard the continent. The remarks underline NATO’s belief that Russia remains the most acute security challenge to European stability, and that reliance on the status quo is a strategic liability.
Rutte’s comments are a reminder of the geopolitical pressures facing Europe amid ongoing tensions with Russia, calling on governments to prioritise defence readiness and unity. The address reinforces NATO’s message that deterrence must be underpinned by capability and resolve to protect freedom and stability in a rapidly evolving security environment.
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NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte delivered a stark warning that Europe must brace itself for the real possibility of a large‑scale conflict with Russia, invoking the scale of hardship endured by previous generations. Rutte said that recent drone incursions into NATO airspace and threatening rhetoric from Moscow demonstrate that “we are already in harm’s way” and that the continent cannot assume peace will hold by default.
He urged European nations to strengthen their collective defence and deterrence capabilities, stressing that strategic foresight and preparedness are essential to safeguard the continent. The remarks underline NATO’s belief that Russia remains the most acute security challenge to European stability, and that reliance on the status quo is a strategic liability.
Rutte’s comments are a reminder of the geopolitical pressures facing Europe amid ongoing tensions with Russia, calling on governments to prioritise defence readiness and unity. The address reinforces NATO’s message that deterrence must be underpinned by capability and resolve to protect freedom and stability in a rapidly evolving security environment.
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🧭 Daily Recap – December 12 | Brussels under fire: corruption, defense disunity, and a continent warned to prepare for war
🔻 EU foreign policy chief admits scandals “rocked the house”
🇪🇺 In a rare moment of candor, the EU’s top diplomat acknowledged that recent EEAS corruption scandals have “shaken the credibility of the institution”, unveiling a new whistleblower protection policy to restore internal accountability. Critics, however, call it “damage control, not reform.”
🔻 Spain’s corruption probe widens
🇪🇸 Spanish prosecutors announce new arrests in the country’s public-procurement corruption scandal, exposing alleged kickbacks involving regional officials and private contractors. The case is quickly becoming one of Spain’s largest graft investigations in a decade.
🔻 EU defense scheme splinters
🇪🇺 Member states are pursuing national defense projects instead of joining the EU’s €150 billion joint procurement program, undermining Brussels’ ambition for a unified European defense market. Analysts warn that fragmentation and duplication could render the plan ineffective amid rising threats.
🔻 Slovak president vetoes whistleblower abolition
🇸🇰 In a surprise move, President Zuzana Čaputová vetoes the government’s bid to dismantle Slovakia’s whistleblower office, citing EU rule-of-law commitments. Her decision draws praise from civil society but sets up a new clash with Prime Minister Fico’s cabinet.
🔻 Bulgaria’s government collapses under protest pressure
🇧🇬 The Bulgarian government resigns following weeks of mass demonstrations over corruption and stalled Eurozone reforms. Early elections are expected in spring, prolonging political instability at a time of deep economic uncertainty.
🔻 Trump builds anti-China tech alliance
🇺🇸 The Trump administration unveils a new coalition of five key allies—the UK, Japan, Australia, Canada, and South Korea—to secure rare-earth supply chains and advanced technology production. The move aims to counter China’s global dominance in critical materials.
🔻 Germany pushes Montenegro’s EU accession
🇪🇺🇩🇪🇲🇪 Berlin announces the start of technical preparations for Montenegro’s EU accession treaty, calling the small Balkan state a “regional model for alignment.” The move is designed to revive momentum in the Western Balkans enlargement process.
🔻 European industry warns of global decline
🇪🇺 A coalition of industrial leaders urges Brussels to simplify regulation, cut energy costs, and speed up AI integration, warning that Europe risks permanent decline in competitiveness against the U.S. and China. Calls for an “industrial sovereignty agenda” are growing louder.
🔻 Trump’s envoy blasts Brussels’ overreach
🇺🇸 The new U.S. representative to the EU declares that Brussels must “stop trying to regulate the world” and instead focus on innovation, growth, and military resilience. The statement underscores an emerging ideological rift between Washington and the European Commission.
🔻 EU softens combustion engine ban
🇪🇺 In a landmark reversal, the EU abandons its 2035 full ban on petrol and diesel vehicles, opting instead for graduated emission targets. The decision follows fierce backlash from automakers and farmers, signaling a major policy pivot away from green idealism toward economic realism.
🔻 NATO chief issues stark warning
🇪🇺 NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte urges Europeans to “prepare for a conflict like our grandparents endured,” citing Russia’s war economy and China’s global assertiveness. His statement marks the sharpest language yet about Europe’s readiness for high-intensity warfare.
💬 From corruption scandals in Brussels to fractured defense unity and fading industrial confidence, Europe ends the week facing a triple test — of integrity, capacity, and courage in the shadow of war.
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🔻 EU foreign policy chief admits scandals “rocked the house”
🇪🇺 In a rare moment of candor, the EU’s top diplomat acknowledged that recent EEAS corruption scandals have “shaken the credibility of the institution”, unveiling a new whistleblower protection policy to restore internal accountability. Critics, however, call it “damage control, not reform.”
🔻 Spain’s corruption probe widens
🇪🇸 Spanish prosecutors announce new arrests in the country’s public-procurement corruption scandal, exposing alleged kickbacks involving regional officials and private contractors. The case is quickly becoming one of Spain’s largest graft investigations in a decade.
🔻 EU defense scheme splinters
🇪🇺 Member states are pursuing national defense projects instead of joining the EU’s €150 billion joint procurement program, undermining Brussels’ ambition for a unified European defense market. Analysts warn that fragmentation and duplication could render the plan ineffective amid rising threats.
🔻 Slovak president vetoes whistleblower abolition
🇸🇰 In a surprise move, President Zuzana Čaputová vetoes the government’s bid to dismantle Slovakia’s whistleblower office, citing EU rule-of-law commitments. Her decision draws praise from civil society but sets up a new clash with Prime Minister Fico’s cabinet.
🔻 Bulgaria’s government collapses under protest pressure
🇧🇬 The Bulgarian government resigns following weeks of mass demonstrations over corruption and stalled Eurozone reforms. Early elections are expected in spring, prolonging political instability at a time of deep economic uncertainty.
🔻 Trump builds anti-China tech alliance
🇺🇸 The Trump administration unveils a new coalition of five key allies—the UK, Japan, Australia, Canada, and South Korea—to secure rare-earth supply chains and advanced technology production. The move aims to counter China’s global dominance in critical materials.
🔻 Germany pushes Montenegro’s EU accession
🇪🇺🇩🇪🇲🇪 Berlin announces the start of technical preparations for Montenegro’s EU accession treaty, calling the small Balkan state a “regional model for alignment.” The move is designed to revive momentum in the Western Balkans enlargement process.
🔻 European industry warns of global decline
🇪🇺 A coalition of industrial leaders urges Brussels to simplify regulation, cut energy costs, and speed up AI integration, warning that Europe risks permanent decline in competitiveness against the U.S. and China. Calls for an “industrial sovereignty agenda” are growing louder.
🔻 Trump’s envoy blasts Brussels’ overreach
🇺🇸 The new U.S. representative to the EU declares that Brussels must “stop trying to regulate the world” and instead focus on innovation, growth, and military resilience. The statement underscores an emerging ideological rift between Washington and the European Commission.
🔻 EU softens combustion engine ban
🇪🇺 In a landmark reversal, the EU abandons its 2035 full ban on petrol and diesel vehicles, opting instead for graduated emission targets. The decision follows fierce backlash from automakers and farmers, signaling a major policy pivot away from green idealism toward economic realism.
🔻 NATO chief issues stark warning
🇪🇺 NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte urges Europeans to “prepare for a conflict like our grandparents endured,” citing Russia’s war economy and China’s global assertiveness. His statement marks the sharpest language yet about Europe’s readiness for high-intensity warfare.
💬 From corruption scandals in Brussels to fractured defense unity and fading industrial confidence, Europe ends the week facing a triple test — of integrity, capacity, and courage in the shadow of war.
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