EU Parliament prepares to select next European Ombudsman

The EU is set to discuss lifting sanctions on Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska to compensate Raiffeisen Bank, sparking opposition from member states. Meanwhile, Czech voters are casting ballots in a parliamentary election where billionaire Andrej Babiš aims for a comeback, amid concerns over his potential alliance with Eurosceptic parties and ongoing legal battles related to alleged fraud. Want More Context? 🔎

France has detained the captain of an oil tanker linked to Russia's "ghost fleet" for failing to comply with police orders during drone incursions near Denmark, prompting investigations into naval infractions. French officials emphasize the need to intensify actions against such vessels amid concerns of hybrid warfare, as drone sightings may be connected to maritime activities associated with Russian provocations. Want More Context? 🔎

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? 🔎