Von der Leyen tells Xi EU-China ties are at ‘inflection point’

Moldovans are voting in a pivotal parliamentary election, deciding between further EU integration or aligning with Russia, amid accusations of Russian interference. President Maia Sandu's Action and Solidarity party seeks to maintain its majority against a pro-Russian coalition led by Igor Dodon, with potential instability looming post-election as Dodon calls for protests to defend a possible victory. Want More Context? 🔎

Denmark experienced a "systematic" hybrid attack as unauthorized drones were spotted at multiple airports, including Aalborg, prompting airport closures and raising security concerns. The Danish government, while investigating possible Russian involvement, acknowledged its lack of drone defense capabilities and plans to empower critical infrastructure owners to counter such threats. Want More Context? 🔎

In September, business activity in the euro area rose to its fastest pace in 16 months, driven by growth in Germany, while France experienced its sharpest contraction since April due to political instability. The HCOB flash Eurozone Purchasing Managers’ index increased to 51.2, with Germany showing solid output growth and France facing weak demand and hiring challenges amid ongoing political deadlock. Want More Context? 🔎

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has appointed Evelyn Palla as the first female chief of Deutsche Bahn and Martin Blessing as Germany's first investment commissioner to boost the economy and attract international investments. With over €1 trillion allocated for military and infrastructure improvements, Merz aims to address chronic under-investment, particularly in the rail sector, where delays are rampant due to an aging network. Want More Context? 🔎

Brussels is exploring options to utilize Russia’s frozen assets to provide €170bn in "reparation loans" to Ukraine, potentially transforming its financial situation. While the plan involves using Russian central bank assets held at Euroclear to purchase EU bonds, concerns about legality and the impact on EU currency confidence persist, alongside warnings from Moscow of repercussions. Want More Context? 🔎

Germany's cabinet has approved a voluntary military service plan to recruit up to 40,000 teenagers annually, driven by concerns over Russia's aggression and personnel shortages in the armed forces. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized the need for a larger military, while the bill, which still requires Bundestag approval, faces opposition from some coalition members who demand a more robust approach, including potential reinstatement of conscription. Want More Context? 🔎