‘Her day starts and ends with Russia’ – Kallas critics to Foreign Policy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is pushing for Ukraine's EU membership before 2030, emphasizing the sacrifices of his people in the ongoing conflict. However, the process faces challenges, including a rise in far-right sentiments and budgetary concerns among EU member states, with some countries potentially using Hungary's veto as a shield against enlargement.

The UK government has rejected an EU request to contribute billions towards a military scheme designed to counter a perceived threat from Russia. This decision highlights ongoing tensions between the UK and EU regarding defense strategies and responses to geopolitical challenges.

In September 2025, Eurostat reported a significant increase in the number of Ukrainian males granted temporary protection in the European Union, with a rise of nearly 50% compared to the previous month. This surge reflects the ongoing impact of the conflict in Ukraine, prompting many men to seek refuge in EU countries. The increase in temporary protection highlights the EU's response to humanitarian needs and the challenges faced by those fleeing war. Understanding these trends is crucial for policymakers and humanitarian organizations as they navigate the complexities of migration and support for displaced individuals.

The Dutch government's takeover of Nexperia, a Chinese-owned chip factory, nearly halted the European car industry, highlighting the tensions in EU-China relations. Experts warn that China is using its control over vital chip and mineral supplies as leverage against Europe, which they describe as a 'sword of Damocles.' Recently, Beijing announced it would ease restrictions on automotive chip supplies to the EU, alleviating immediate concerns for car manufacturers. This situation underscores the complexities of global supply chains and the geopolitical implications of dependency on Chinese resources.