Europeans fear growing rift with US over Ukraine talks

Germany has revised its growth forecast for 2025 to zero, down from a previous prediction of 0.3 percent, largely due to the impact of US President Donald Trump's trade wars on its export-driven manufacturing sector. The country is experiencing its longest economic slump since World War II, with GDP contracting by 0.2 percent last year and 0.3 percent in 2023. Incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to stimulate the economy through increased debt-funded spending and tax...

The European Commission's recent €700 million fine against tech giants Apple and Meta has been criticized as insufficient, described as merely a "slap on the wrist." Under the Digital Markets Act, designated "gatekeepers" like Apple and Meta face obligations to ensure fair competition; Apple was penalized for restricting developers' ability to bypass its App Store fees, while Meta was fined for coercing users into consenting to data usage or paying to avoid ads. This situation...

The spokesperson for the Tory leader emphasizes the need to unite centre-right voters, while independent MP Rosie Duffield criticizes Keir Starmer for his lack of leadership, suggesting he is more of a manager than a leader. Duffield's comments stem from her perception that Starmer's shift on trans issues reflects a failure to take a firm stance. Additionally, Nigel Farage's assertion that the UK can achieve gas self-sufficiency is dismissed as unrealistic, citing geological limits on...

Factories in China are experiencing production slowdowns and worker furloughs due to the U.S.-China trade war, which has led to tariffs of at least 145% on most Chinese goods. With approximately 15% of Chinese exports going to the U.S., many factory owners report canceled or suspended orders, prompting them to halt production for weeks. The Shenzhen Cross-Border E-Commerce Association indicates that anxiety among merchants is rising, with factories cutting overtime and considering layoffs as they...

This article discusses the complexities European leaders face in supporting Ukraine amid U.S. pressure, highlighted by President Trump's criticism of Ukraine's stance on Crimea. Ursula von der Leyen's visit to London aims to address energy security and finalize a post-Brexit strategic alliance with UK Premier Keir Starmer, amid ongoing challenges in energy trading post-Brexit. Additionally, Portugal has requested the European Commission to activate a clause for increased defense spending, responding to NATO's targets, with neighboring...

SummarySir Keir Starmer and Ursula von der Leyen are set to finalize a UK/EU defence pact and a fishing rights agreement, laying the groundwork for broader economic negotiations at a summit on May 19. The defence deal aims to enhance trust amid Russian aggression and facilitate discussions on youth mobility, energy cooperation, and trade barriers. While fishing quotas for EU vessels will continue for at least two years, significant negotiations remain on dynamic alignment with...