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

EU countries approve long-awaited Mercosur trade deal, despite farmer protests; Brussels offers concessions, including a €45 billion budget shift, to secure approval; farmers, despite being a shrinking sector, hold significant political power, forcing changes through tractor blockades and protests; deal marks a U-turn from earlier plans to redirect farm subsidies to defense or climate goals, with most farm spending remaining ring-fenced; farm groups express concerns about the rushed process and vow to maintain pressure on EU governance.

Europes new border system, the Entry Exit System (EES), is causing significant delays at airports across the Schengen area. The EES, which requires non-EU visitors to register fingerprints and facial scans, is set to fully roll out by April 10th. While the European Commission claims the system has run smoothly, airport leaders warn of massive discomfort and long processing times, with peak waits hitting three hours. The systems impact on summer travel remains to be seen.

Italys influential power couple, Chiara Ferragni and Fedez, face a scandal over charity pandoro bread promotion. Ferragni, a fashion influencer, is on trial for allegedly misleading fans, while Fedez, a rapper turned political figure, has distanced himself amid the controversy. Their fall from grace highlights the challenges of blending activism and business, and the importance of transparency in charity partnerships.

Marine Le Pens legal battle for French presidency: A court appeal in Paris could clear her to run in 2027, but her protégé Jordan Bardella might lead the party instead. The appeal, expected to wrap in a month, could reshape French politics and spark backlash if Le Pens ban holds. Bardellas rising popularity and a low-key strategy from Le Pens team add to the intrigue.

In a world of escalating tensions, Europe faces challenges from Russia, China, and even the U.S., as leaders grapple with weak governments and public unrest. Ukraine, backed by European funding, stands firm against Russian advances, while Hungarys election sees a challenge to populist leader Viktor Orbán. As hybrid threats grow and far-right parties gain ground, Europe must strengthen its defenses and economy to secure its future.

European Union Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius advocates for a significant overhaul of Europes defense strategy, proposing a standing military force of one hundred thousand troops and a new European Security Council. He emphasizes the need for unity amidst growing concerns over Russian aggression and the U.S.s shifting focus, criticizing the current fragmented national defenses.

Denmarks Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warns of a diplomatic clash with the US over Greenland, as President Trump reiterates his interest in taking control of the Arctic island. Frederiksen emphasizes the importance of defending Denmarks values, international law, and self-determination in the Arctic. Sweden and Germany express support for Denmark, with Swedens PM criticizing US threatening rhetoric. NATOs top general assures no immediate threat to alliance territory, but highlights the Arctics growing significance. European leaders sign a letter affirming Denmark and Greenlands right to decide the islands fate, amidst strong local opposition to a US takeover.

President Trump considers targeted strikes and cyber attacks against Iran, following massive protests and a violent crackdown. The administration aims for precise military actions, avoiding civilian casualties, and may provide satellite internet access to protesters. Trump warns of involvement if Iran continues killing civilians, with supporters hoping for game-changing action and critics warning of potential backlash. The protests, sparked by a collapsing currency, pose the biggest challenge to Irans government since 2022. As Trump weighs his options, the world awaits his response to support Irans protesters.