Catch up with the most important stories from around Europe and beyond this May 14th, 2026 - latest news, breaking news, World, Business, Entertainment, Politics, Culture, Travel.
Marine Le Pen awaits a Paris court ruling on Tuesday that will determine if she can run for French president in 2027 or faces a five-year ban. The decision could impact her party's chances, with party president Jordan Bardella being a potential substitute.
MEP Rima Hassan faces trial for allegedly glorifying terrorism by sharing a quote attributed to a militant. Hassan claims it's a political case to silence pro-Palestinian voices and a platform to discuss resistance.
Marine Le Pen awaits a verdict on her appeal against an embezzlement conviction and a ban from public office. The ruling at 1:30 p.m. will determine if she can run for French president, with party leader Jordan Bardella as a potential 'Plan B'.
Jordan Bardella, Marine Le Pen's chosen successor, is under legal scrutiny as police investigate irregular expenses within the National Rally's former European Parliament group. The probe into alleged misuse of €4.3 million and nearly €280,000 in new group spending could impact the party's image ahead of the 2027 French presidential election.
Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken stated Europe requires US defense support for another decade and leaders should avoid alienating Donald Trump. However, he cautioned against Trump's attacks on Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, calling her the 'queen of center-right in Europe'. Francken emphasized the EU's need for continued US help while it builds its own military capabilities.
Belgium's Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot announced his Cabinet is moving toward recognizing Palestinian statehood, a key prerequisite being Hamas's dissolution of its Gaza governing body. This follows similar moves by Spain, Ireland, and Norway, amid growing European support driven by the Gaza war.
