Attempting to rejoin EU customs union 'complete fuel for Reform', Starmer warned

The European Commission is expected to announce a significant reduction in the scope of its 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars, according to a senior Member of the European Parliament. This decision has sparked concerns among environmental campaigners, who argue that it undermines the EU's green deal and its commitment to combating climate change.

Germany has summoned the Russian ambassador following accusations that Russian-linked groups have conducted cyberattacks on its air traffic control system and attempted to influence the upcoming 2024 general election. These actions have been characterized by Berlin as hybrid attacks, prompting plans for coordinated countermeasures with EU partners.

The United States has proposed a plan that envisions Ukraine joining the European Union by January 2027, as stated by a senior official amid intensified diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia. Concurrently, Ukraine has reported regaining control of two settlements in the Kharkiv region and pushing back Russian forces in Kupiansk, a strategic railway hub.

As the United States pressures Ukraine to accept a peace plan favoring Russia, President Zelensky is seeking support from European allies. The UK, France, and Germany are spearheading the 'Coalition of the Willing' to provide military backing and counterbalance U.S. influence, while the EU is advocating for the release of €200 billion in frozen Russian assets to bolster Ukraine's defense.

EU regulators have conducted a raid on Temu's Dublin headquarters as part of an investigation into potential violations of foreign subsidy regulations. This action follows ongoing scrutiny of the Chinese online retailer, which has faced allegations regarding the sale of illegal content on its platform.

The European Union has initiated an in-depth investigation into Nuctech, a Chinese company, over potential foreign subsidies that may have enhanced its competitive edge in the European market. The probe focuses on grants, tax benefits, and loans that could have been received by Nuctech, raising concerns about fair competition.

European ministers are convening to discuss stricter migration policies, including measures against smuggling and deportations, amid rising influence from far-right parties and criticism from Donald Trump. The EU is also preparing a significant overhaul of its asylum system, which has sparked debates about human rights implications.

During Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs), Keir Starmer dismissed the label of 'caretaker PM' as suggested by Kemi Badenoch, who criticized the government's record. Starmer emphasized the importance of his leadership amidst ongoing political scrutiny.