EU nations must recognise gay marriages recorded in member states, court rules

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed readiness to advance discussions on a U.S. peace plan regarding the ongoing conflict with Russia, indicating a willingness to address sensitive issues with former President Donald Trump. This comes amid ongoing negotiations involving European allies aimed at securing a resolution to the war in Ukraine.

Salomé Zourabichvili, the fifth president of Georgia, discussed her departure from the presidential palace nearly a year ago and her ongoing efforts to support her constituents and the country's aspirations for EU membership. Following elections perceived as fraudulent and significant protests, she remained committed to advocating for a pro-European agenda, addressing issues such as the war in Ukraine and the need to pivot away from Russian influence.

Experts have criticized the US state department's designation of certain anti-fascist groups from Italy, Germany, and Greece as foreign terrorist organizations, stating that these groups barely exist and do not pose an active threat to Americans. Heidi Beirich, co-founder of the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, described the situation as 'ridiculous.'

Seven alleged members of the far-left militant group Antifa Ost are on trial in Germany, facing accusations of assaults on rightwing extremists, which have led to their designation as the Hammer Gang. This trial follows the recent classification of Antifa Ost as a terrorist organization by the United States, reflecting heightened scrutiny of far-left groups in Europe.

European and African leaders are convening in Angola for a summit aimed at strengthening economic and security ties, marking a significant moment in the 25-year diplomatic relationship between the EU and AU. This gathering also provides an opportunity for discussions on the ongoing situation in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of collective action in a time of increasing American unilateralism.

The European Union's antitrust chief, Teresa Ribera, has stated that there will be no negotiations on loosening regulations for US technology companies during ongoing trade talks with the United States. This declaration follows US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's suggestion that easing tech regulations could be linked to a reduction in US tariffs.

The EU's highest court has ruled that same-sex marriages must be recognized across the entire bloc, specifically rebuking Poland for its refusal to acknowledge a marriage between two Polish citizens that occurred in Germany. The court found that Poland's actions impeded the couple's right to a 'normal family life.'

Germany has lifted its arms embargo on Israel, which had been partially paused during the Israeli ground offensive in Gaza City, citing a ceasefire as the reason for resuming arms sales. This decision has drawn criticism from human rights groups, labeling it as reckless given the ongoing violence in the region.