The EU's return regulation is nearing adoption, allowing offshore migration processing hubs despite human rights concerns. Countries like Austria, Denmark, and Germany are poised to establish these centers, raising alarms due to past failures in Australia, Israel, and the US. Critics urge strict human rights safeguards before implementation.
International efforts to establish a global surrogacy convention have stalled due to deep divisions among member states, increasing the risk of statelessness and legal limbo for babies born abroad. Experts warn of exploitation and "limping parentage," while campaigners call for a global ban amidst rising demand.
Representatives from CSTO member countries met in Russia to finalize details for the Interaction 2026, Search 2026, and Echelon 2026 military exercises, including logistics and reconnaissance.
NATO's summit in Ankara adopted the "Strategy for Industry-NATO Cooperation," aiming for a new, deeper relationship with industry. This unprecedented document allows NATO to coordinate weapons production across member states from development to testing and orders, despite industrial policy remaining a national prerogative.
A NATO summit in Ankara has committed 70 billion euro for weaponry to Ukraine in 2026 and an equivalent level for 2027. TASS outlines the history of military support, detailing coordination mechanisms, thematic coalitions, and major suppliers like the US, Germany, and the UK.
US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment with NATO allies for not supporting the US military operation in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz. He also stated that the US would consider selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey.
Nato member states launched new defence initiatives at the Ankara summit to enhance weapons development and supply chains, addressing security challenges from Russia and China. A multinational project involving 12 nations will focus on acquiring, storing, and managing defence-critical raw materials.
NATO leaders and partners convene in Ankara, Turkey, July 7-8, to assess progress on defense spending commitments made at the 2025 Hague summit and discuss future objectives amid ongoing conflicts.
Nato leaders convene in Ankara facing pressure from Donald Trump to increase defense spending. Allies aim to present concrete plans and new arms contracts to mollify Trump, who has criticized European "free-riding." A symbolic €70bn in aid for Ukraine is expected, but the summit's success hinges on avoiding "angry outbursts" and reaffirming alliance unity.
NATO member states will sign defense contracts totaling tens of billions of dollars at the summit in Ankara on July 7-8. Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that new contracts with European and North American companies will be announced, alongside investments in key technologies to address current and future security demands.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte acknowledged that the alliance cannot fully meet Ukraine's air defense needs due to limitations on interceptors, but assured that efforts are being made to supply equipment, including through the US-led PURL framework.
European Commissioner Piotr Serafin argued that a 'frugal' EU budget might not be cheaper for taxpayers, warning against cuts that could hinder modernization and strategic investments. He spoke at a budget conference in Brussels amidst ongoing negotiations for the 2028-2034 long-term budget.
Ratification of EAEU Customs Code amendments for cross-border e-commerce continues, with implementation delayed from July 1, 2026, due to member states' preparations. The duty-free import threshold is set at 200 euros, with a 5% duty for exceeding it.
EU leaders confront urgent China policy challenges, highlighted by Volkswagen's reported 100,000 job cuts due to Chinese competition. EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic met Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Brussels to launch a new trade consultation platform amidst spiraling tensions.
Asean foreign ministers are shifting their Myanmar strategy, moving from collective pressure to bilateral engagement with Naypyidaw. This recalibration acknowledges the five-point consensus's limitations and explores direct talks, potentially including Myanmar's contested government in future discussions.
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated Armenia must make a strategic choice between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the European Union, citing risks to EAEU economic security from Yerevan's EU rapprochement and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's evasive statements.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy gave Belarus one week to remove Russian military equipment used in attacks on Ukraine, threatening to do so himself. He also highlighted Belarus's role in supplying Russia's oil refining industry and the Russian army. Meanwhile, EU leaders discussed diplomatic channels with Russia, and Poland's president threatened to revoke an honor for Zelenskyy over renaming a military unit.
Binance's potential rejection for a crypto license in Greece under MiCA has led to speculation about the European Central Bank's informal influence, despite national regulators holding licensing authority. The ECB's stance on stablecoins may be a factor.
Philippine Undersecretary of Trade and Industry Allan Gepty stated that the dialogue between Russia and ASEAN member states is proactively evolving and becoming more intensive. He noted an increase in trade performance and tourism between the regions, highlighting numerous opportunities.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that European countries aim to achieve combat readiness against Russia by 2030, planning to "buy time by whatever means available" until then. He noted significant investments in Ukraine and increased military budgets.
European Council President António Costa's chief of staff, Pedro Lourtie, secretly contacted Moscow officials twice to restart Ukraine peace talks, sparking anger among EU governments unaware of the initiative. The Baltic states were particularly furious, while Germany's prior knowledge is disputed.
Kalashnikov Concern suggests a unified competence center for UAVs and licensed drone production within CSTO member states. The initiative aims to standardize drone fleets, reduce costs, and create jobs, offering comprehensive reconnaissance and strike systems.
Russia and ASEAN have agreed to expand cooperation in cultural workforce training, including educational programs and support for creative startups. The joint declaration also covers promoting intercultural dialogue and fostering collaboration in various arts and media fields.
EU leaders are meeting in Brussels to discuss a new China policy, facing internal divisions and trepidation over Beijing's potential retaliation. Despite avoiding the topic on the official agenda, a united front is sought to address global macroeconomic imbalances.
