The EU should play its Russian assets card

The European Union (EU) is preparing to announce a plan aimed at reducing its dependency on raw materials sourced from China, reflecting increasing concerns over reliance on Chinese imports. This initiative is expected to address the bloc's vulnerabilities in supply chains amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Dan Driscoll, the US Army Secretary, has emerged as a key figure in the ongoing negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv, reflecting a significant shift in diplomatic engagement regarding Ukraine. His role highlights the increasing importance of military leadership in foreign policy discussions.

EU member states are advocating for safeguards in the ongoing tariff negotiations with the US, aiming to protect their industries from potential adverse impacts of the deal. This comes as the EU and US prepare to resume discussions to address unresolved issues from a previous tariff agreement made in July.

Ukraine faces a critical juncture as Kyiv grapples with choices that present immediate challenges and potential long-term consequences, reflecting a Catch-22 situation where decisions made now could lead to worse outcomes later. The ongoing conflict with Russia exacerbates these dilemmas, particularly in the context of financial stability and international support.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to request the European Union to reconsider the 2035 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, aiming to protect the struggling automotive industry. He plans to send a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, advocating for exemptions to keep technological options available for car manufacturers.

The European Union (EU) is set to unveil a plan aimed at reducing its reliance on raw materials sourced from China, a move that reflects growing concerns over the bloc's dependency on Chinese imports. This initiative comes amid increasing competition and market dominance by China, as highlighted by the European Central Bank's chief economist.

Greece and Belgium are set to compete for the presidency of the Eurogroup, a significant economic decision-making body within Europe. This contest highlights the ongoing political dynamics within the Eurozone as both nations aim to influence economic policies at a crucial time.