Lib Dems to force vote on creating new customs union with EU

The U.S. plan to create joint investment funds involving Russian frozen assets has raised concerns in Brussels, casting doubt on the European Union's financial support for Ukraine. This unexpected move by the Trump administration has blindsided EU officials, who are now reassessing their strategies regarding aid to Ukraine amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Christine Lagarde, president of the European Central Bank (ECB), warned that Europe's economy is increasingly vulnerable due to its reliance on international trade and third countries for security. She emphasized the need for reforms within the EU to stimulate growth, as the bloc's major trading partners have shifted away from the trade that has historically benefited its exporters.

The EU trade chief is focusing on increasing investment in Australian resources projects. This initiative aims to strengthen economic ties between the European Union and Australia, particularly in the resource sector, which is vital for both regions' economic growth.

The European Union (EU) is currently in communication with X regarding the presence of hate speech content on the platform Grok. This engagement highlights the EU's ongoing efforts to address online hate speech and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

South Africa and the European Union (EU) have signed a significant agreement focused on critical minerals, emphasizing their commitment to multilateralism. This deal aims to enhance cooperation in the procurement and management of essential minerals necessary for various industries, particularly in the context of the global clean energy transition.

The UK may ban the use of terms like veggie 'burgers' and 'sausages' for plant-based products under new EU food labeling rules, following a trade agreement. This comes as the Labour government secured a sanitary and phytosanitary agreement with the EU, allowing British businesses to sell certain products in the EU for the first time since Brexit.

The European Union's efforts to regulate artificial intelligence have faced significant challenges, raising questions about its ability to balance regulatory frameworks with the need to attract investment. As Brussels seeks to establish guidelines for technology, concerns about the potential impact on innovation and competitiveness have emerged.