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EUs Gasoline Car Ban Overturned: Germanys Influence Prevails The European Unions ambitious plan to ban new gasoline-powered cars by 2035 has been thwarted, marking a significant shift in the EUs approach to automotive emissions. The reversal, largely due to pressure from Germany and the European Peoples Party, replaces the ban with a new target: a 90% reduction in emissions for all cars sold after 2035. This change allows for the continued sale of traditional combustion engines and plug-in hybrids, provided they meet certain emission standards. Germanys influence in challenging the proposed ban was pivotal, as the country is home to Europes largest car industry and is a key member of the pro-business political group.

An American AI company, Interaction, created a viral ad showcasing an American students study abroad experience in Paris, guided by their AI assistant. The ad highlights the dream of Americans experiencing Europe with AI as a wise friend. However, the company was founded by German transplants, reflecting a trend of European AI talent migrating to the US due to regulatory differences and the Bay Areas libertarian ethos. Despite Europes efforts to boost its AI sector, the US remains dominant, with 80% of AI investment and 40 notable AI models in 2023-2024.

Hundreds of children in Brussels face disruption as the European School systems youngest students are moved to a temporary location due to severe overcrowding. The new site in Evere is a stopgap until a fifth campus in Neder-Over-Heembeek is built, but construction has faced continuous delays with no clear timeline. Parents are worried about the uncertainty and the Evere campuss security infrastructure and poor air quality. The European Schools network, funded by the European Commission, offers free tuition but faces challenges in finding clear accountability and solutions to these ongoing structural problems.

The European Peoples Party (EPP) celebrates policy victories, including changes to environmental regulations and deportation efforts, with German leaders Manfred Weber and Friedrich Merz at the forefront. They successfully reversed a planned ban on combustion engines, a move publicly celebrated by both leaders, causing controversy among liberal and center-left politicians.

EU leaders gather in Brussels for a pivotal summit, debating the use of frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraines recovery. The decision sparks divisions, with the US, under Trump, reportedly influencing European policy. Ukraines President Zelenskyy emphasizes the urgent need for funds, while EU officials contemplate a nuclear option to push the deal through. The summits outcome will impact Ukraines financial future and the EUs unity.

Spains Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, is sounding the alarm on Europes affordable housing crisis, with home and rental prices skyrocketing and many families spending over seventy percent of their income on rent. The issue stems from a long-standing shortage of new homes, exacerbated by the financial crisis and the pandemic. The European Commissions new Affordable Housing Plan aims to boost supply and allow for local responses, including potential restrictions on short-term rentals.

Indias trade dynamics are evolving, with the UK securing a free trade agreement advantage, benefiting Indias textile industry. However, EU negotiations face hurdles due to demands for agriculture sector access and carbon tax, along with protectionist measures. Despite challenges, potential concessions from the EU and Indias need for foreign investment could pave the way for a stronger trade relationship.

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.