The EU fined Apple and Meta – but failed to really hold them to account. Was that to appease Trump? | Alexander Hurst

This article discusses the UK defence industry and its evolving relationship with Europe, highlighting the boost in military orders due to the war in Ukraine and increased government spending. A new defence pact between the UK and the EU is anticipated to be announced on May 19, which could allow British firms access to EU procurement funds, significantly benefiting the UK’s £9.5bn defence export market. The article emphasizes the necessity of collaboration post-Brexit to enhance...

The message emphasizes a pragmatic approach to strengthening partnerships with EU allies, aiming to enhance safety, security, and prosperity for British citizens through reduced trade barriers and economic growth. The UK government, under the leadership of Nick Thomas-Symonds, is confident in its political stability and capacity to attract global investment, as evidenced by Universal's recent multi-billion-pound investment that will create 28,000 jobs. The focus is on moving beyond past debates to ensure long-term stability and...

SummaryAn English-speaking country once failed economically due to protectionist policies, leading Ireland to embrace foreign investment with low corporate taxes from the 1960s, resulting in a trade surplus with the US. Donald Trump's tariffs threaten Ireland's economy, which relies heavily on US pharmaceutical companies, accounting for a significant portion of its exports and tax revenues. While Ireland's low corporate tax rate remains, its recent fiscal success is unsustainable, and Trump's potential tariff actions could jeopardize...

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...

Donald Trump’s demand for Ukraine to recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea as part of a peace deal has put European nations in a difficult position, forcing them to choose between supporting Kyiv or aligning with Washington. The Trump administration's proposed deal heavily favors Moscow, leading to fears among European officials that it could undermine transatlantic security and disrupt an upcoming NATO summit. While Kyiv remains unwilling to concede territory, European leaders have affirmed their commitment...

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...