EU unveils €3bn strategy to cut dependency on China for raw materials

The European Union has launched a $3.5 billion package aimed at enhancing the supply of raw materials within the bloc. This initiative includes the establishment of a center to monitor mineral supplies and promote joint investments among member states.

Production has been halted at a Chinese factory that manufactures sex dolls with a childlike appearance, following Shein's announcement of a global ban on such products. This decision has drawn significant attention due to the controversial nature of these items, which have raised ethical concerns worldwide.

The European Commission has announced a proposal to fund Ukraine through a loan backed by frozen Russian assets, a move that has sparked significant debate within the EU. This initiative aims to address Ukraine's budget shortfall amid ongoing conflict, with an alternative option for an EU loan based on common borrowing introduced to appease concerns from Belgium, which holds a substantial portion of these assets.

Former EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini has been detained as part of a police investigation into alleged fraud concerning EU-funded training programs for junior diplomats. The inquiry focuses on accusations of favoritism in the allocation of funds to a school she heads.

Belgium has rejected a European Union proposal to use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's economy and war efforts, citing potential financial and legal risks associated with the plan. This decision comes as the EU seeks ways to assist Ukraine amid ongoing conflict and significant budget shortfalls.

The European Union has reached an agreement to ban all imports of Russian gas by the fall of 2027, with specific deadlines for liquefied natural gas and short-term supply contracts set for earlier phase-out. This decision reflects the EU's commitment to reducing reliance on Russian energy sources amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

French President Emmanuel Macron is on his fourth visit to China, where he is set to engage in discussions with President Xi Jinping. The visit commenced with a tour of the Forbidden City’s gardens and will include a bilateral meeting focused on enhancing business and economic ties, addressing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as peace talks progress.

Former EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini has been charged with fraud and corruption related to EU-funded training contracts for future diplomats. She was detained following police raids at the EU diplomatic service and the College of Europe, where two other senior officials were also questioned. The investigation is ongoing as all three have been formally notified of the accusations.