Newsflash

Macron calls on EU to 'defend European interests' in US tariff talks

U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with two of the country's largest trading partners by announcing a 30% tariff on imports from Mexico and the European Union, set to take effect on August 1. This move comes amidst already strained negotiations, with the EU expressing strong disapproval and preparing potential countermeasures. French President Emmanuel Macron, backed by the European Commission, has called for intensified negotiations to reach a mutually acceptable agreement by the deadline, emphasizing the need for respect and fair treatment between trading partners. The EU remains committed to avoiding the tariffs through diplomatic efforts, but is also readying a response in case negotiations fail. 🇺🇸🇪🇺💥

Trump says US will send Patriot air defence missiles to Ukraine

In a significant shift, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States will send Patriot air defense missiles to Ukraine. This decision comes amid escalating tensions and intensified Russian attacks, which have persisted for over three years. Trump emphasized the need for these advanced defense systems to protect Ukraine from Russian aggression, noting that while Russian President Vladimir Putin may appear conciliatory, his actions speak otherwise.

The announcement follows a previous U.S. decision to pause some arms deliveries to Kyiv, which has since been reversed. Under the new deal, NATO will reimburse the United States for the cost of the weapons, making it a financially neutral transaction for the U.S. The specific number of Patriot systems to be sent has not been disclosed, but Trump confirmed that Ukraine will receive some of these crucial defense systems.

This move coincides with a flurry of diplomatic activity, including a visit by the U.S. special envoy to Ukraine and a meeting between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Additionally, bipartisan support in the U.S. Senate is growing for a bill that would impose severe sanctions on Russia and its allies, aiming to cripple the Russian economy and end the war. This legislation would also allow the U.S. to impose hefty tariffs on countries that support Russia, further isolating Moscow on the global stage. 🇺🇸🇷🇺💥

Germany urges tough EU response if 'fair deal' cannot be reached on US tariffs

Germany has called for a robust EU response if a "fair deal" cannot be reached with the United States over impending trade tariffs. Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasized the need for "decisive countermeasures" to safeguard European jobs and businesses, stating that the EU must be prepared to act if negotiations fail. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose 30% tariffs on the EU, citing trade imbalances, a move that could severely impact Germany's economy as it recovers from a recent recession. Chancellor Friedrich Merz echoed Klingbeil's sentiments, warning that the tariffs would undermine economic recovery efforts and urged intensive engagement to find a solution. Both leaders stressed the importance of a united European front and the preparation of credible countermeasures, with Merz noting that past tariff threats had been resolved through negotiations. 🇪🇺🇺🇸💼

Several hurt in anti-migrant unrest in Spanish town

In the town of Torre Pacheco, Spain, tensions escalated into violence after a 68-year-old man reported being assaulted by three youths of North African origin. The incident, which was filmed and shared on social media, sparked unrest and anti-migrant sentiment. Despite a significant police presence, armed groups roamed the streets targeting individuals of foreign origin, leading to injuries and at least one arrest. A planned peaceful demonstration organized by the town hall was marred by far-right elements shouting anti-migrant slogans, with groups like "Deport Them Now" calling for further attacks.

Spanish authorities, including the regional government and local officials, appealed for calm and condemned the violence. The head of the Murcian regional government, Fernando López Miras, urged residents to return to normalcy, emphasizing that frustration does not justify violence. Similarly, the mayor of Torre Pacheco, Pedro Ángel Roca Torne, called for tranquility. Spain's Youth Minister, Sira Rego, blamed the "ultra-right" for the unrest and condemned the violence against migrants. The situation highlights the volatile atmosphere and the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining peace and security amidst rising tensions. 🇪🇸💥

Police to get overhaul in communications system

The Hellenic Police (ELAS) is set to overhaul its communications infrastructure, replacing the outdated 2004-era system currently used by security forces, including the Fire Service and emergency services. This modernization effort, led by the ministries of Digital Governance and Citizen Protection, will introduce three key upgrades: full encryption of communications, nationwide coverage, and enhanced interoperability between agencies.

The current system is plagued by vulnerabilities to interception and technical failures, prompting the need for a more secure and reliable solution. The new system will provide encrypted voice, image, and data transmission in real-time, integrating digital, LTE/5G, and satellite networks under a unified "communications umbrella." This upgrade will ensure that even the most remote areas have access to reliable signals, thanks to the installation of new antennas. Moreover, interoperability will enable direct communication between agencies like the police and Fire Service during emergencies, bypassing the need for command center routing.

The primary goals of this overhaul are to bolster internal security and enhance public safety by facilitating faster, more coordinated emergency responses. This initiative will significantly improve the effectiveness of Greece's emergency services, ensuring that they can communicate seamlessly and securely in critical situations. 📡🚨

Athens rethinks southern sea strategy

Greece is reassessing its maritime strategy in the southern zone near Crete and Gavdos, as migrant flows from Libya persist despite the deployment of three Greek Navy frigates. Smuggling networks have intensified their operations, utilizing large fishing vessels that can transport up to 500 passengers. A recent incident saw 515 migrants arriving in Lavrio port via southern Crete. In response, Greek authorities have bolstered their presence in the region, increasing assets from one to eight, including various vessels and aerial patrols.

The Greek Navy patrols 10 nautical miles off the Libyan coast, using radar to monitor smuggler activity and coordinating with the Coast Guard for rescue operations. However, officials acknowledge that deterrence strategies used in the eastern Aegean are impractical in this context. The Coast Guard lacks the capacity to operate far offshore, and effective deterrence would require cooperation from Libyan authorities, which is currently lacking. There are discussions about potential agreements with Benghazi’s government, which could involve training or equipping Libya’s coast guard to better manage the situation. 🇬🇷🌊

Libya files UN complaint over Greek maritime zones

The Libyan government in Tripoli has filed a diplomatic protest with the United Nations, contesting Greece's delineation of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) south of Crete. Libya argues that the Greek EEZ map, published in the Official Journal of the European Union, infringes upon its maritime zones and violates its sovereign rights. The Libyan government asserts that Greece lacks the authority to grant hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation rights in the disputed area, describing the Greek action as a unilateral and legally baseless measure.

In response, Greek diplomatic sources have dismissed Libya's objections, stating that they are based on the Turkey-Libya maritime memorandum, which Athens does not recognize. Greece maintains that it will submit an official response to the United Nations, reaffirming its stance that the disputed agreements lack a valid foundation in international maritime law. The dispute highlights the ongoing tensions and competing claims over maritime boundaries and resources in the Eastern Mediterranean. 🌊🇱🇾🇬🇷

French deal on New Caledonia 'state' hits early criticism

Following deadly protests in New Caledonia last year, French President Emmanuel Macron initiated talks to address the stalemate between pro-independence and pro-France factions. After a 10-day negotiation near Paris, representatives from both sides agreed to establish a "State of New Caledonia" within the French Republic. This agreement, pending French parliamentary approval and a local referendum in February 2026, introduces a Caledonian nationality and a shared power structure. However, the deal has faced significant backlash in the archipelago.

Critics argue that the agreement lacks ambition and vision, failing to address the concerns of the youth who led the May 2024 uprising. Joel Kasarerhou, president of the civil society group Construire Autrement, described the agreement as "stillborn," warning of potential future unrest. Pro-France figures, such as Philippe Blaise, the first vice-president of the Southern Province government, also distanced themselves from the accord, viewing it as a threat to French unity. Meanwhile, pro-independence leaders expressed outrage, with some labeling the agreement a "betrayal" and asserting that it was signed without proper consultation or mandate from their base. The path forward remains uncertain as both sides grapple with the implications of the proposed changes. 🌴🇫🇷

House supply keeps declining

The housing market in central Athens is experiencing a significant decline in supply, coupled with rising prices, despite a drop in transaction volumes. The average cost of acquiring an apartment up to 80 square meters in the city center has surged to nearly €2,590 per square meter, with a 9.4% decrease in available properties and an 8.3% increase in asking prices in the first half of 2025. This trend is partly driven by the "My Home" subsidy program, which has reduced the supply of small, affordable apartments.

The rental market in central Athens is also struggling, with a double-digit percentage decrease in available properties. This decline is exacerbated by tax incentives for renting out closed apartments and the prohibition of new short-term rental accommodations since the beginning of 2025. In contrast, Thessaloniki presents a more optimistic picture, with a 7.8% increase in the supply of homes for sale up to 80 square meters, although prices have risen by 9% to €2,640 per square meter. The rental market in Thessaloniki has also seen a 12.5% increase in supply, despite a 17.6% year-on-year increase in asking prices. 🏠📉

Over 70 arrested in UK at protests in support of banned Palestine Action group

Protests erupted across the UK over the government's decision to ban the pro-Palestinian activist group Palestine Action, with over 70 individuals arrested in London, Manchester, and Cardiff. The group was proscribed under the Terrorism Act 2000 following a break-in and vandalism at a Royal Air Force base, where activists caused significant damage to protest the UK's military support for Israel. The designation makes supporting the group a criminal offense, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Demonstrators gathered in Parliament Square, displaying signs and symbols of support, leading to arrests for showing allegiance to the proscribed organization. The protests mark a growing tension between activists and authorities over the UK's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict. 🇬🇧🇵🇸🚔

Impact of US tariffs varies across European Union

The European Union faces significant economic risks due to its substantial trade surplus with the United States, which amounted to $235.6 billion in the previous year. Germany, the EU's largest economy, is particularly vulnerable due to its heavy reliance on exports, with a $84.8 billion surplus driven by its robust automobile, chemical, steel, and machine industries. The U.S. market accounts for 23% of Mercedes-Benz's revenue, making it susceptible to any retaliatory tariffs. The Federation of German Industries has urged swift resolution to avoid escalation.

Ireland, known for its major pharmaceutical industry, is also on the frontline, with the largest surplus among EU members at $86.7 billion. This is largely due to the presence of American pharmaceutical giants like Pfizer, Eli Lilly, and Johnson & Johnson, which benefit from Ireland's favorable 12.5% corporate tax rate. These companies host their patents in Ireland and sell to the U.S. market, where drug prices are higher. Additionally, Ireland hosts European headquarters for tech giants like Apple, Google, and Meta, attracted by the same tax advantages.

Italy and France, with surpluses of $44 billion and $16.4 billion respectively, are less exposed overall but have vulnerable sectors. The food, wine, aeronautics, and luxury goods industries in these countries are particularly at risk. A 30% tariff could devastate the French wine and spirits sector, and similarly impact Italian food producers and the automotive industry, with Franco-Italian manufacturer Stellantis suspending its forecasts due to uncertainties. France's aerospace industry, largely represented by Airbus, and luxury goods sector, led by LVMH, are also heavily exposed. Austria and Sweden, with surpluses of $13.1 billion and $9.8 billion respectively, are also affected.

The potential imposition of tariffs by the U.S. poses a significant threat to these European economies, highlighting the need for diplomatic efforts to mitigate the risks and find mutually beneficial solutions. The pharmaceutical sector, in particular, plays a crucial role in the EU's trade dynamics with the U.S., with many major players announcing significant investments in the American market. 💊💸

Share of tenants is growing

The housing crisis in Greece is intensifying, reflecting broader trends across Europe, despite other countries not experiencing the same economic turmoil as Greece over the past decade. Greece has seen significant increases in both rental and sales prices, particularly since 2018. By the end of the first quarter of this year, house prices nationwide were 9.1% higher than in early 2010, with Attica seeing an even steeper increase of 14.8%. However, rental prices remain 11% lower than in 2010 when adjusted for inflation, though this disparity is less pronounced in major cities like Attica and Thessaloniki, where rents have surpassed 2010 levels.

This housing market dynamic has led to a growing share of tenants in the population. The proportion of tenants has risen from 25% in 2015 to 30.3% by the end of 2024, as more people find it challenging to afford homeownership amidst rising prices and stagnant wages. 🏠📈

Sex-abuse priest's promotion draws attacks on French Catholic Church

The Catholic Church in France is facing intense backlash over the appointment of Dominique Spina, a priest convicted of raping a 16-year-old boy in 2006, to a high-ranking position within the diocese of Toulouse. Spina, who was sentenced to five years in prison, was named diocesan chancellor by Archbishop Guy de Kerimel, a move that has sparked outrage from victim support groups, traditionalists, and the media. The archbishop defended the appointment, citing "mercy" and arguing that Spina's administrative role posed no risk. However, critics argue that the decision undermines the Church's efforts to address and compensate for widespread sexual abuse scandals. The appointment has been widely condemned, with some bishops and Catholic media outlets calling for the Vatican to intervene. The controversy highlights the ongoing struggle within the Church to balance compassion with accountability and justice for victims.

Impact of US tariffs varies across European Union

The European Union faces significant economic challenges due to its substantial trade surplus with the United States, which amounted to $235.6 billion in 2023, second only to China. Germany, the EU's largest economy, is particularly vulnerable due to its heavy reliance on exports, with a $84.8 billion surplus driven by its robust automotive, chemical, steel, and machine industries. The U.S. market is crucial for German giants like Mercedes-Benz, which generates 23% of its revenue there. The Federation of German Industries has urged swift resolution to avoid escalating trade tensions.

Italy and France, with surpluses of $44 billion and $16.4 billion respectively, also face sector-specific risks. France's wine and spirits industry, along with its aeronautics and luxury goods sectors, are heavily exposed. A 30% tariff could devastate French wine exports, according to industry experts. Italy's food and wine sectors, as well as its automotive industry, are similarly at risk. Stellantis, a major Franco-Italian automaker, has suspended its annual forecasts due to trade uncertainties.

Ireland stands out with the largest EU surplus, at $86.7 billion, primarily due to its attractive corporate tax rates, which have drawn major U.S. pharmaceutical and tech companies. These firms leverage Ireland's low tax rates to host patents and sell to the U.S. market, where drug prices are higher. Ireland's economy is deeply intertwined with U.S. interests, making it a critical player in any potential trade disputes. The pharmaceutical sector alone accounts for 22.5% of EU exports to the U.S., highlighting the interconnected nature of these economies. 🇪🇺🇺🇸💊

Macron to raise French defence targets, citing Russia threat

In anticipation of a significant address to the armed forces on the eve of France's Bastille Day, officials from the Élysée Palace have emphasized the urgent need for enhanced defense efforts amidst a deteriorating global security landscape. Despite France's challenging fiscal situation, the president's announcements are expected to be substantial. Chief of the Defence Staff, Thierry Burkhard, has highlighted Russia as a persistent threat to Europe, with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine shaping the continent's future. Burkhard also cautioned about the potential consequences of reduced U.S. commitment to Europe, along with cyber threats, disinformation, and terrorism.

Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu has underscored the necessity for France to bolster its defense capabilities to ensure independence and security. France's defense budget has seen a notable increase since President Macron took office, rising from €32.2 billion in 2017 to €50.5 billion currently, with projections to reach €67 billion by 2030. Prime Minister François Bayrou has declared the defense budget "sacrosanct," exempt from budgetary cuts, despite the financial strain of servicing France's debt. Several NATO countries, including Britain, Germany, and Poland, are also increasing their military spending, with targets ranging from 2.5% to 4.7% of GDP.

President Macron has called for a revision of France's defense programming and strategy in response to evolving risks. Lecornu has identified critical needs such as ground-to-air defenses, ammunition, electronic warfare, and space capabilities. Additionally, France is concerned about falling behind in disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum technology. Beyond budget increases, the French government aims to foster national cohesion through potential mobilization efforts, offering young people opportunities to serve. 🇫🇷💥

Finland records hottest day of the summer as temperatures break heat threshold

Finland is experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented summer highs. On Sunday, the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) recorded the season's highest temperature at 31.5 degrees Celsius in Kaskinen's Sälgrund. This surpassed the previous high of 30.3 degrees, set just a day earlier in Joensuu's Linnunlahti. Other locations, including Hyvinkää, Salo, and Vantaa, also saw temperatures exceeding 29 degrees. The heatwave has prompted the FMI to issue expanded warnings for nearly the entire country, with the hot weather expected to persist into the coming week.

The warm air mass has also triggered intense thunderstorms across southern Finland, accompanied by frequent lightning and heavy rain. Weather warnings for severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall remain in effect for southern and central regions. The FMI continues to monitor the situation, as the heatwave and associated storms impact much of the country. Finland's all-time temperature record stands at 37.2 degrees, measured in Liperi at Joensuu Airport in July 2010. 🌡️🌩️

Two missing as heavy rains hit Spain's Catalonia

Intense rainfall struck Spain, particularly around Barcelona, with approximately 10 centimeters (four inches) falling in a short period. The severe weather led to significant disruptions, including a search for two individuals reportedly swept away by a river in Cubelles, a town about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Barcelona. In response to the hazardous conditions, Spain's Renfe train company temporarily suspended all train services throughout Catalonia as a precautionary measure. The storm also caused a hospital in Barcelona to flood, forcing it to turn away patients, and roads were blocked due to the heavy downpour. Additionally, a plane departing from Barcelona to the United States had to return after its nose was damaged by hail. The storm's impact extended to other northern regions, including Aragon. This event serves as a stark reminder of the devastating potential of heavy rainfall, following last October's torrential rains in Valencia, which resulted in the deaths of 225 people and extensive destruction, marking Spain's deadliest flood in decades. 🌧️🛬️🏨

On the agenda: What’s happening in Italy this week

Upcoming Transport Disruptions and Events in Italy

Monday, July 14th: - Sicily: Public transport services in Enna, Palermo, and Catania will be disrupted by a four-hour strike from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM, affecting operators Segesta, Autolinee Russo, Etna Trasporti, and Interbus. Travelers are advised to check service status and allow extra time for journeys. - Palermo: The city will celebrate its patron saint, Santa Rosalia, with the Festino di Santa Rosalia. A statue of the saint will be paraded through the city's main streets, accompanied by music, singing, and a fireworks display at sea.

Tuesday, July 15th: - Rome-Munich Night Train: The night train service between Rome and Munich will resume, with daily departures from Roma Tiburtina at 6:10 PM and from Munich’s Central Station at 8:08 PM.

Wednesday, July 16th: - Florence: A 24-hour taxi strike is planned, potentially limiting cab services. Travelers should consider alternative transportation methods.

Saturday, July 19th: - Venice: The Festa del Redentore begins, commemorating the end of a historic plague. Celebrations include the construction of a floating walkway and a fireworks display over the lagoon at around 11:30 PM.

Sunday, July 20th: - Piedmont and Valle d’Aosta: A rail strike by Trenitalia staff will affect regional and commuter routes from 3:00 AM to 2:00 AM on Monday, July 21st. Interregional and long-distance journeys should remain unaffected. 🚇🎆🚂

Medical plane crashes after takeoff at London Southend Airport

A medical transport plane, a Beechcraft B200, crashed shortly after takeoff from London Southend Airport on Sunday afternoon. The incident occurred around 4 p.m. local time, just minutes after the aircraft departed. All flights at the airport were temporarily grounded to allow emergency services to respond to the crash and extinguish the resulting fire. The plane, which had arrived from Croatia, was en route to Lelystad in the Netherlands, but it remains unclear whether any patients were on board at the time of the crash. Witnesses reported seeing the plane bank sharply to the left before inverting and crashing, resulting in a large fireball. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service responded to the scene, and the airport is working with local authorities to investigate the cause of the crash. No details have been released about casualties or the number of people on board. 🛩️🔥🚨

Rainy start to summer brings early mushroom boom in southern Finland

This summer in Finland has brought a mix of weather conditions, with the cool and rainy start proving beneficial for mushroom foragers. The abundant rainfall, particularly in the southern regions, has led to an early and bountiful mushroom season. Expert Tuija Biskop, head of the Central and Southern Ostrobothnia branch of the Martha Organisation, reports an unusually early appearance of mushrooms, with chanterelles, porcini, and brittlegills already making their presence known. There is even a possibility of two porcini harvests this year, along with the early emergence of slippery jacks, which are edible despite their name.

However, Biskop cautions that the season's success is not yet guaranteed. Prolonged dry periods could still impact the final yield, and steady rainfall throughout the autumn will be crucial for a sustained mushroom harvest. While many regions have experienced persistent rain, others, such as parts of North Karelia and Lapland, have remained relatively dry. This variability means that mushroom availability can differ significantly even within the same region. Despite these uncertainties, mushroom enthusiasts have reason to be optimistic about the season ahead. 🍄🌧️