Europe News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now

Russias Justice Ministry adds Deutsche Welle to undesirable organizations list, drawing criticism for press freedom restrictions. Despite challenges, Deutsche Welles Russian-language service reaches millions, with Director General vowing to continue operations.

Nineteen EU countries urge stricter migration policies, advocating for a more comprehensive EU strategy on the external dimension of migration. They emphasize the need for increased cooperation with non-EU nations and the use of innovative solutions, such as return hubs, to prevent migrants from reaching the EU. The ministers also call for clearer funding pathways and expanded roles for EU agencies like Frontex. This issue is expected to be a major topic at an upcoming EU summit.

Lithuanias National Emergency: From Hybrid Warfare to Cigarette Smuggling Lithuanian authorities have uncovered a large-scale cigarette smuggling operation, initially thought to be a national security threat. The culprits used GPS-equipped balloons to transport illegal cigarettes from Belarus, causing a nationwide state of emergency and border closure. Twenty-one suspects were arrested, revealing a highly organized network with direct Belarusian accomplices. This incident highlights the complex challenges faced by Eastern European countries, from national security concerns to sophisticated criminal enterprises.

Thousands in Slovakia protest against Ficos government, opposing plans to dismantle an independent office protecting whistleblowers and changes to criminal laws. Protesters demand President Pellegrini veto new laws, fearing a shift towards Hungarys model under Orbán.

Former President Donald Trumps defamation lawsuit against the BBC, seeking $10 billion, has led to the resignation of two senior leaders. The lawsuit revolves around a controversial edit of Trumps January 6, 2021 speech. Meanwhile, GB News, a right-wing rival, is gaining traction, aligning with Trumps MAGA movement. GB News, featuring Trump ally Nigel Farage, has been steadily growing its audience and securing major political interviews, including a Trump interview secured by a host critical of the UK government. This shift in the media landscape is seen as a blow to the BBCs traditional authority, legitimizing channels like GB News as valid news sources.

EU reconsiders gasoline and diesel car ban, considering a more flexible approach to balance climate goals with market realities. Germanys Chancellor Friedrich Merz influences the decision, emphasizing the need for openness to different technologies and greater flexibility. The new proposal allows up to ten percent of emissions from 2021 levels, potentially including plug-in hybrids, range extenders, and mild hybrids. Volkswagen supports the move, but environmental groups criticize it as a capitulation to combustion-engine companies.

Belgiums legal concerns over using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine may be unfounded. Despite Prime Minister Bart De Wevers worries about potential lawsuits from Moscow, two independent legal opinions suggest that the risk is low. Both Covington and Burling law firm and a group of international legal scholars argue that Russia would struggle to find a court willing to hear a case against Belgium or enforce a judgment. They also note that any ruling from a Russian court would not be recognized in the EU or UK due to public policy reasons. Furthermore, the bilateral investment treaty between Belgium and Russia would not apply to sovereign assets, meaning it would not expose Brussels to legal risk. The scholars conclude that the most significant legal risks were already overcome when the assets were frozen, and using them for reparations would not create substantial new risks.

The European Commission introduces its first Affordable Housing Plan, aiming to address the housing crisis across Europe. The plan includes updating state aid rules to allow public funds for middle-class housing, gathering public and private money for new projects, simplifying building permits, modernizing the construction industry, tackling housing market speculation, and empowering local authorities to manage short-term rentals. The Commission also plans to help vulnerable groups, such as young people and students, by funding new student housing and supporting homeless Europeans.

Eight EU nations bordering Russia urge Brussels to expedite defense plans, including counter-drone technology and border defenses, ahead of a major summit. Despite some opposition, these countries aim to fund ground combat, drone defense, border protection, and military movement across the bloc.