Inside the illegal eel trade: is there a way to stop Europe’s biggest wildlife crime before it’s too late?

As Giorgia Meloni marks three years as Italy's prime minister, her administration has made notable strides in reducing the public deficit and lowering unemployment. However, the Italian economy still faces significant challenges, including sluggish growth and structural issues exacerbated by an aging population. Additionally, tensions surrounding the Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia and the Dutch government are raising alarms in Europe's manufacturing sector, highlighting the interconnectedness of global economies and the potential impact on Italy's economic landscape.

Sweden and Ukraine have signed a significant cooperation deal that will allow Sweden to purchase fighter jets from its domestic company Saab and subsequently export them to Ukraine. This agreement highlights the growing commitment among European nations to strengthen Ukraine's defenses amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. By enhancing military support, this partnership not only bolsters Ukraine's capabilities but also reinforces the solidarity of European countries in addressing security challenges in the region.

In a significant development, European leaders have expressed support for former President Trump's proposal to freeze the frontline in the ongoing conflict, but Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has firmly rejected this idea. This disagreement highlights the ongoing tensions and complexities in international relations, as efforts for peace face substantial obstacles. The situation remains critical, and how these dynamics unfold could have far-reaching implications for stability in the region.

The recent editorial from The Guardian highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in navigating peace talks with the U.S. under President Trump. It emphasizes that Trump's approach fails to recognize the fundamental dynamics of aggressor versus victim, which undermines the possibility of a fair agreement. This matters because it reflects the ongoing struggle for Ukraine's sovereignty and the need for European support to ensure Zelenskyy can effectively resist external pressures.

Supreme, the owner of Typhoo tea, has acquired SlimFast's UK and European business for £20.1 million from Glanbia, an Irish nutrition and food firm. This move comes as SlimFast has struggled to compete with the rising popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs. The acquisition highlights the ongoing shifts in the weight management market and Supreme's strategy to expand its portfolio in this competitive landscape.

Oil prices have surged following the US sanctions on Russia's Rosneft and Lukoil, indicating a significant shift in the energy market. This development is crucial as it not only affects global oil supply but also reflects the ongoing geopolitical tensions. Additionally, the weaker-than-expected UK inflation report has led to speculation about potential interest rate cuts by the Bank of England, which could further influence economic conditions. The interplay between these factors highlights the complexities of the current financial landscape.

In the second men's one-day international match between Australia and India at Adelaide Oval, Australia is chasing a target of 265 runs to secure a victory. The match is currently underway, with India starting cautiously against Australia's Josh Hazlewood, who has previously troubled their top order. This game is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of both teams and could influence their standings in the series.

Volkswagen is grappling with a significant chip crisis following the Dutch government's seizure of semiconductor producer Nexperia, which occurred under pressure from the US. This situation is critical as it highlights the ongoing global semiconductor shortage that has been affecting the automotive industry, leading to production delays and potential financial losses for major car manufacturers like Volkswagen. The implications of this crisis could ripple through the supply chain, affecting not just Volkswagen but the entire automotive sector.

The final T20 match between New Zealand and England is underway in Auckland, with England aiming for a series victory. The match has started with some exciting plays, including a strong opening from Tim Seifert. This game is significant as it not only determines the series winner but also showcases the talents of both teams in a thrilling format of cricket.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the recent sanctions imposed on Russian oil and gas by the EU and the US, highlighting their importance in supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict. These measures aim to weaken Russia's economic power and could play a crucial role in the broader strategy to restore peace in the region. As discussions continue on utilizing frozen assets for Ukraine's benefit, the international community's commitment to standing against aggression is more vital than ever.

A recent discovery at the Dounreay nuclear power plant near Thurso has revealed a waste particle that is considered the most radioactive found in the last three years. This finding is significant as it highlights ongoing monitoring efforts and the importance of safety in nuclear waste management.