Moldova, situated between Romania and Ukraine, experienced significant power outages due to Russian military strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Infrastructure minister Andrei Spinu warned that future bombings by Russia on Ukrainian power plants could lead to similar disruptions. The article highlights Moldova as an often overlooked victim of the ongoing conflict.

Italy is considering a law to criminalize surrogacy for its citizens abroad, with severe penalties, seen as an attack on LGBTI families. This move is supported by Prime Minister Georgia Meloni. Meanwhile, Spain's far-right party is targeting the rainbow flag, reflecting a broader trend of far-right politics challenging LGBTI rights in both countries.

The European Parliament is set to vote on a draft resolution questioning Hungary's ability to credibly fulfill the EU's rotating presidency in 2024 due to concerns over its compliance with EU law and values. The resolution highlights issues related to the principle of sincere cooperation as enshrined in Article 2 of the EU treaty.

Viktor Orban has announced the formation of a new central European political group called 'Patriots for Europe,' which includes Austria's FPÖ and the Czech Republic's ANO. This group aims to target the European Council rather than the European Parliament and could potentially become a significant pool of nationalist, sovereigntist parties in government, further fragmenting the radical right in European politics.

The war in Ukraine has highlighted vulnerabilities in global food security, affecting countries dependent on Ukrainian and Russian cereals such as Egypt, Turkey, and the Middle East. Russian propaganda has exploited these shortages to challenge Western sanctions. While the primary impact has been outside Europe, there is growing concern within the EU about the affordability of food.

Attention shifts to Madrid as Spain assumes the EU presidency amidst its election campaign. The Spanish presidency will be crucial in advancing the EU's legislative agenda before the European Parliament elections next year. The EU Commission will release its annual rule-of-law report, and the civil liberties committee will decide on penalties for violating EU sanctions. Discussions will also cover the recent migrant boat shipwreck near Greece and new EU taxonomy criteria for environmental objectives. Additionally, EU and UK lawmakers will meet to discuss Brexit arrangements, support for Ukraine, and trade cooperation.

EU leaders will convene for a two-day summit, preceded by a lunch with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg to discuss Ukraine's aspirations to join the alliance and enhance cooperation. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky is slated to participate via video conference, with EU leaders anticipated to reaffirm their commitment to financial and military support for Ukraine.

EU countries have not reached an agreement on the European Parliament's proposals to reform the European elections, including the introduction of transnational lists and the Spitzenkandidat process. Most member states remain skeptical about these changes, leading to a lack of consensus ahead of the 2024 elections.

EU leaders will focus on the recent turmoil in Russia and migration issues during their summit in Brussels on 29-30 June. The discussions will also dominate the foreign ministers' meeting in Luxembourg on 26 June. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted that the challenge to Russian President Vladimir Putin by Wagner mercenaries might continue for weeks or months.

The EU Commission has requested an additional €65.8bn to bolster the EU's long-term budget, which has been strained by multiple crises and rising inflation. EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the necessity of the proposal, while EU budget commissioner Johannes Hahn highlighted the need for budget consolidation similar to that of member states.

EU leaders are set to discuss the prosecution of the crime of aggression, the use of Russian frozen assets, defense, the economy, and migration at a Brussels summit. Poland opposes an EU migrant relocation plan, with PiS party leader Jarosław Kaczyński proposing a national referendum. MEPs from the civil liberties committee will visit Warsaw, Italy, and Malta. EU affairs ministers will meet in Stockholm to prepare the leaders' agenda. EU budget commissioner Johannes Hahn is expected to launch a revision of the EU's long-term budget and propose new revenue sources. EU energy ministers will discuss electricity market design reform, and environment ministers will agree on a position on the nature restoration proposal.

MEP Van Brempt warns that the EU is still unprepared for a future pandemic, despite the European Parliament's special Covid-19 committee's efforts to analyze the EU's response to the pandemic. The committee's draft report, which includes recommendations such as not closing national parliaments during pandemics and keeping some schools open, was adopted with 23 votes in favor. It highlights the unequal access to vaccines, particularly for the global south, and expresses concern over the spread of fake news. The committee did not receive cooperation from Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla and EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, nor access to unredacted vaccine contracts. Other proposals include investing in healthcare, introducing surveillance plans, and developing an EU strategy to tackle 'long Covid'. The report urges for increased international investment and coordination for vaccine production and a constructive solution on intellectual property protection.

The Brussels heatwave preludes the EU's summer political break, with the June European Council summit being one of the final acts. MEPs are set to question top officials from the EU Commission and the Council on Wednesday, outlining their demands for the summit discussions. EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen is also expected to play a significant role in the upcoming events.

A poll conducted in 11 EU countries reveals that most Europeans view China as a necessary partner and do not align with the U.S. 'democracy versus autocracy' narrative. While 70% see Russia and China as global partners, 64% increasingly view Russia as an adversary. Europeans are wary of Chinese ownership of key infrastructure and tech companies. The majority believe Europe cannot always rely on the US for security, and the re-election of Donald Trump is seen as potentially weakening EU-US relations. The ECFR report suggests EU leaders should communicate the risks of dependence on China and prepare the public for geopolitical scenarios and difficult decisions.

The Qatargate corruption allegations have not significantly impacted the European Parliament's image, according to a Eurobarometer survey. Despite the scandal, only half of the voters are aware of the upcoming EU elections. Jaume Duch Guillot, the parliament's spokesperson, noted the absence of a 'Qatargate effect' in the survey results.

The European Court of Justice ruled that Poland's 2019 judicial reform violated EU law, marking another legal setback for the Warsaw government. The reform, which included a disciplinary chamber for judges critical of the ruling nationalist Law and Justice party, faced mass protests and has now been legally challenged by the EU's top court.

MEPs have passed a non-binding resolution questioning Hungary's suitability to hold the EU presidency in the latter half of 2024 due to ongoing concerns about the country's adherence to democratic principles. The resolution received broad support across the political spectrum, passing with 442 votes in favor, 144 against, and 33 abstentions.

The EU Commission is set to unveil long-awaited proposals for establishing an EU ethics body, with commission vice-president Vĕra Jourová presenting the plans. The European Parliament, which had previously voted in favor of an independent ethics body, is concerned that the new proposals may not meet earlier commitments. Commission president Ursula von der Leyen had promised to support the creation of such a body in 2019.

Germany has expressed doubts about Hungary's ability to hold the EU presidency in 2024, citing serious rule of law issues. Anna Lührmann, Germany's state minister for Europe, highlighted Hungary's isolation within the EU. The European Parliament is set to vote on prime minister Viktor Orbán's eligibility for the presidency.

The EU Commission has advised member states to end measures designed to offset the energy price shock by the end of the year, provided that energy prices remain lower. Economy commissioner Paolo Gentiloni emphasized the need to reduce fiscal measures in response to the energy crisis, as part of the commission's annual recommendations to coordinate European economic policies.

European voters will head to the polls from 6-9 June next year to choose the next European Parliament, selecting around 705 MEPs to serve from 2024-2029. The shake-up could affect the EU Commission if alliances among European parties shift.

MEPs responsible for overseeing EU funds expressed significant concerns about Hungary's management of these funds and urged Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government to implement necessary reforms to release suspended EU funds. German centre-right MEP Monika Hohlmeier emphasized that the goal is to ensure the funds are properly spent in Hungary.

Politicians and policy-makers are focusing on the upcoming G7 summit in Japan, scheduled for May 19-20. This follows the significant presidential election in Turkey, where voters cast their ballots on Sunday. Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the main challenger, is a key figure in the Turkish elections. The article highlights the geopolitical dynamics, particularly in relation to China.

MEPs express deep concerns that the new revenue proposed by the EU Commission will be insufficient to cover the borrowing costs of the €800bn Covid-19 recovery fund. European lawmakers call for new revenue sources to be agreed upon, highlighting the need for financial sustainability in the recovery efforts.

The EU Commission has proposed new rules to harmonise and tighten anti-corruption measures across member states, aiming to combat crossborder graft and protect democratic institutions. EU commissioner Věra Jourová emphasized the detrimental impact of corruption on democracy and public trust. The proposed rules would set minimum requirements for member states to follow.

EU budget commissioner Johannes Hahn will visit Budapest as part of his EU-27 tour, focusing on negotiations to unlock billions of EU funds. The funds are currently held up due to concerns over judicial independence. The Hungarian government, led by prime minister Viktor Orbán, is expected to submit key judicial reforms to parliament to address these concerns.

Annual inflation in the eurozone increased to seven percent in April, marking the first rise after a five-month decline. This uptick, up from 6.9 percent in March, is based on data from Eurostat and may influence the European Central Bank's decision on interest rate hikes. The ECB has been raising rates since July last year to control inflation, with analysts anticipating further increases.

The European Commission has introduced proposals to reduce medicine prices and ensure new drugs are available across all 27 EU countries. This overhaul, the first in 20 years, aims to address disparities in access and pricing among member states, driven by lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic. The initiative seeks to improve access to new treatments and create a more equitable healthcare system within the EU.

Five parties in the European Parliament, representing 530 MEPs, have urged the European Commission to withhold subsidies for Viktor Orbán's government in Hungary due to concerns over LGBTI rights and democratic backsliding. A new Hungarian law allowing anonymous reporting of individuals challenging traditional family roles has been approved by Hungary's parliament but not yet signed into law by the president. EU justice commissioner Dider Reynders and Hungary's justice minister Judit Varga met to discuss judicial reforms, a prerequisite for releasing €5.8bn of EU funds. Hungary's president Katalin Novák showed dissent by sending the controversial law back to parliament.

Efforts to balance military support for Ukraine with mitigating the negative price impact of grain imports to the EU will continue this week. MEPs on the trade committee are set to vote on a proposal to extend the suspension of EU import duties on Ukrainian exports, which currently concludes at the end of June.

The EU Commission plans to restrict Ukraine grain imports to transit and export purposes only for neighboring EU countries, following Bulgaria's temporary ban to protect domestic farmers. Additionally, the commission is preparing a €100m support package for farmers in five neighboring countries, supplementing the previously agreed €56m from the EU budget to assist Poland, Bulgaria, and Romania in coping with increased grain imports.

Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel criticized Hungary's government, led by Viktor Orbán, for introducing legislation targeting LGBTI people. Bettel, one of the EU's openly gay leaders, expressed shame over colleagues who seek votes at the expense of minorities, drawing historical parallels. The statements were made during a European Parliament plenary session.

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde, speaking at the European Parliament plenary and the Council on Foreign Relations, expressed concern over the fragmentation of the global economy due to US-China rivalry, which could lead to inflation and threaten the dominance of the US dollar and euro. She emphasized the importance of stable global trade and warned that central banks will need government support to manage inflation. EU officials, including EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, discussed the need for Europe to balance its relationship with China, avoiding a new cold war while addressing strategic dependencies and advocating for a distinct European approach. The EU's reliance on China for rare earths and the US for critical materials was highlighted, as well as the potential for currency wars with the rise of alternative currencies.

The EU Commission declared that it is 'not possible' under EU trade rules for Poland and Hungary to unilaterally ban Ukrainian grain and other agricultural products. This statement comes after Poland and Hungary announced temporary bans to protect their farming sectors from cheap imports. Slovakia has also joined in halting imports. The EU is working on measures to address collapsing prices in EU countries bordering Ukraine.

The article describes the return of Christians to the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Hamdaniya, Iraq, following its liberation from the Islamic State. The church and town have suffered extensive damage, and the local Christian community is grappling with the destruction of their heritage and the challenges of rebuilding. The town, also known as Qaraqosh or Bakhdida, was once home to 50,000 people, mostly from ancient Christian sects. The Islamic State's invasion in 2014 forced most residents to flee. With the recent military campaign to retake Mosul, Hamdaniya has been liberated, and Christians are returning to their ruined hometown. The article highlights the fragile state of Iraqi society, the sectarian conflicts, and the Christians' desire for security and recognition of their suffering. Khalis Ayshon, a former Iraqi legislator and Chaldean Christian, has founded Shlomo, an NGO documenting violence against Christians, and advocates for an autonomous Christian province within Iraq. The article also touches on the broader impact of the U.S.-led invasion in 2003 and the subsequent sectarian violence that has drastically reduced the Christian population in Iraq.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping called for peace talks over Ukraine, emphasizing the need to accommodate the 'legitimate security concerns of all parties,' a stance that aligns with Moscow's arguments. During a visit to Beijing, EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and French president Emmanuel Macron urged Xi to leverage his influence to bring Russia to the negotiating table. Xi did not indicate whether he would take such action.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky commemorates the one-year anniversary of the Bucha massacre, vowing to punish those responsible for the war crimes. Despite European politicians' pledges, the establishment of a special international tribunal to prosecute Russia faces significant challenges and risks. The article discusses the complexities and the slim chances of Western powers successfully setting up such a tribunal.

EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen expressed optimism about resolving a trade dispute with the US over clean technology subsidies. She announced plans for simpler state-aid schemes, tax breaks, and flexible use of EU funds to support EU industries in response to US president Joe Biden's $369bn Inflation Reduction Act aimed at boosting domestic green tech.

British prime minister Rishi Sunak visited Northern Ireland to garner support for the 'Windsor Framework,' a new EU-UK agreement on post-Brexit trade arrangements. The deal, announced after three years of negotiations, aims to restore political balance in Northern Ireland. The agreement still requires approval.

A group of EU ministers responsible for biodiversity have called on the EU Commission to maintain the protection status of wolves in Europe. In a letter to EU environment commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius, ministers from twelve countries, including Slovakia, Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Spain, Ireland, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Austria, Portugal, Romania, and Slovenia, expressed their support for the legal protection of the grey wolf.

The Schuman Show, a political satire and live comedy show about the EU, has gained popularity in Brussels with its sold-out performances. Co-founded by Greek American improv teacher Kelly Agathos, the show aims to reform EU storytelling and combat misinformation and apathy, thereby bolstering European democracy.

In 2022, the EU demonstrated a significant shift by standing up for the rule of law, a change that had been a decade in the making. The introduction and effective implementation of the 'conditionality mechanism' allowed the EU to link funds to rule of law compliance, marking a notable development in the council of member states and the EU's top court.

In 2019, the Dutch tax authority's use of self-learning algorithms to create risk profiles aimed at detecting fraud in child-care benefits led to a scandal. The algorithms disproportionately targeted families from ethnic-minority communities, resulting in a political scandal that caused the government of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to resign.

Most people in the central European Visegrad countries support welcoming Ukrainian refugees, but their support is largely influenced by who they blame for the war. A majority in Czechia, Hungary, and Poland are open to hosting Ukrainian refugees, according to a survey by the Bratislava-based think tank Globsec.

Energy ministers will attempt to finalize an EU deal on a gas price-cap this week. Member states are divided, with Germany worried about energy security and countries like Poland, Romania, Croatia, and Bulgaria favoring aggressive intervention. EU leaders encouraged progress at their summit but have not agreed on a price level.

European Parliament president Roberta Metsola announced plans for a comprehensive reform package to be unveiled in January, following the institution's most severe corruption scandal in decades. The reforms aim to enhance whistleblower protection, ban unofficial parliamentary friendship groups, review the enforcement of the code of conduct for MEPs, and establish new rules for interactions with non-EU officials.

The EU has suspended 55 percent of cohesion funds to Hungary due to rule-of-law and corruption concerns while approving pandemic recovery subsidies with strict conditions. This move unblocked Hungary's veto on a global minimum tax and joint EU aid to Ukraine. The decision marks the first use of the EU's conditionality mechanism linking funds to rule of law. Hungary's economy faces significant pressure, with high inflation and internal criticism of government policies. Both the EU and Hungary claim partial victories in this complex negotiation.

This week, EU officials in Brussels and Strasbourg are set to finalize critical deals on a price-cap, Russia sanctions, Ukraine aid, and Hungary's funding. The EU leaders' meeting on Thursday will focus on Russia, the economy, and internal tensions due to Hungary's increasing use of vetoes.

EU countries agreed to admit Croatia into the passport-free Schengen zone while keeping Bulgaria and Romania out due to Austria's objections over migration concerns. Austria cited fears of increased migration as the reason for blocking the two eastern European countries from joining the Schengen zone.

The EU has initiated legal proceedings against China at the World Trade Organization, accusing Beijing of imposing restrictions on Lithuanian exports. The EU Commission estimates an 80 percent reduction in trade from Lithuania after it allowed a Taiwanese office to use the name Taiwan, breaking diplomatic custom.

The EU and Hungary are in a standoff over €14bn in EU funding to Budapest, with Hungary vetoing the bloc's joint financial aid to Ukraine. Economy ministers in Brussels also delayed a decision on adopting the global minimum corporate tax, which Hungary has threatened to block.

Hungary will be a focal point as EU governments debate suspending EU funds to prime minister Viktor Orbán's government due to rule of law concerns. EU finance ministers in Brussels are expected to discuss this suspension while also considering the approval of the recovery fund with conditions and reaching a consensus on a joint scheme to assist Ukraine.

This week is expected to be significant for EU politics, with finance and economy ministers discussing several highly political issues, particularly focusing on Hungary. Key topics include the global minimum tax agreement and other intertwined political matters, with a slow and vague possibility of compromise.

The EU Commission has proposed suspending €7.5bn of EU funds and freezing an additional €5.8bn of recovery subsidies to Hungary due to long-standing rule-of-law concerns. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government must implement 27 measures fully and correctly before any payment from the €5.8bn recovery fund can be made. The EU Commission emphasized that no funds will be released until these essential milestones are properly implemented.

Nato allies reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine's potential future membership in the alliance, with Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasizing that Russia does not have a veto over Nato's decisions. This statement comes ahead of a two-day meeting of Nato foreign ministers in Bucharest, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical tensions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Legal scholars highlight the challenges of prosecuting Russian aggression against Ukraine without UN General Assembly support. EU member states and the EU Commission are exploring options, but current international law is deemed insufficient for establishing a tribunal. The issue will be further discussed by EU leaders in December.

The EU Commission is considering suspending €7.5bn in cohesion funds from Hungary due to corruption concerns, with a decision required by EU governments by 19 December. Hungary agreed to 17 anti-corruption measures but must deliver 27 'super milestones' to receive €5.8bn from its recovery plan. The European Parliament argues Hungary hasn't met the measures, and MEPs call for more action to restore democracy and rule of law. Hungary has threatened to veto EU priorities if funds are suspended.

The EU has adopted legislation to increase the number of women on the boards of large companies, aiming for at least 40 percent of non-executive director posts or one-third of all director posts to be filled by women by July 2026. This legislation, which took a decade to finalize, is part of the EU's efforts to combat gender discrimination.

Hungary and the EU are nearing a critical deadline concerning rule-of-law measures, with significant financial stakes and EU policies, including financial aid to Ukraine, hanging in the balance. Hungary must implement 17 measures by November 19 to avoid the suspension of €7.5bn from the long-term EU budget due to corruption and rule-of-law concerns. The EU Commission will assess Hungary's compliance with these measures.

Women are disproportionately affected by the energy crisis compared to men, primarily due to their lower average income, as highlighted by a Eurofound survey on the cost-of-living crisis. This is further exacerbated by the 13 percent average gender pay gap in Europe, according to the European Trade Union Confederation, which commented on the issue in light of the EU's Equal Pay Day.

European Court of Auditors found significant differences in the incorporation of key priorities into the EU's 2021-2027 budget, with gender equality included to a much lesser extent compared to climate and biodiversity. Only 11 of 47 programs declared contributions to gender equality, totaling €12bn or five percent of commitments. The commission has begun tracking gender equality spending and was advised to refine its methodology and incorporate gender equality into future legislative proposals. Previous reports indicated the commission paid little attention to gender analysis and lacked transparency on the budget's impact on gender equality.

Russian disinformation efforts in Germany aim to divide public opinion, boost anti-Western sentiment, and exploit political debates over sanctions and inflation. These efforts involve pro-Kremlin narratives using fake or stolen Facebook profiles targeting broadcast and tabloid media, according to a report by Budapest-based Political Capital.

The EU Commission has proposed new fiscal rules for the European Union, aiming to address the economic challenges posed by energy and price hikes. The new rules, inspired by the Covid-19 recovery fund structure, would involve governments negotiating a four-year debt reduction path with the commission, subject to approval by EU ministers. This marks a shift from a decade of austerity policies.

The Czech EU presidency prioritizes the swift approval of a new €18bn EU financial assistance package for Ukraine for 2023, aiming to disburse the remaining €3bn from previous pledges by January. This urgent political push comes as the EU prepares to finalize the new package despite delays in transferring already agreed funds to Ukraine.

As Europe faces winter with mild temperatures but high inflation, concerns rise over the political cost of economic measures against Russian president Vladimir Putin. Despite some stabilization in gas prices, Europe is on the brink of recession, with debates on whether the European Central Bank's actions are excessive. Europeans remain divided on long-term objectives regarding Russia.

EU energy ministers will attempt to resolve the deadlock on a potential gas price cap during their council meeting on Tuesday, following directives from EU leaders. A compromise is anticipated in a likely extraordinary meeting in November. The technically challenging task of controlling gas prices remains a key issue for the ministers.

The struggle to create a European political arena and increase voter turnout for European Parliament elections continues. Despite a slight increase in voter turnout from 42.6 percent in 2014 to 50.66 percent in 2019, the idea of joint election rules remains contentious. Some view it as a logical step towards European integration, while others see it as an overreach by the European Parliament.

EU leaders, including Slovenia's Robert Golob, Ireland's Michael Martin, France's Emmanuel Macron, and the Netherlands' Mark Rutte, have expressed the need for political stability in the UK amidst the geopolitical tensions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The UK's political turmoil, partly attributed to Brexit and its economic implications, has been a topic of concern, with the EU and UK still in negotiations over post-Brexit trade in Northern Ireland. Former EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier highlighted the difficulties Brexit has introduced.

EU leaders will meet to discuss emergency measures to tackle the energy crisis, with the European Commission proposing a temporary dynamic price cap for gas transactions, joint purchases, and solidarity requirements in emergencies. Divisions among leaders are expected to pose challenges.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya addressed MEPs, stating that a free Belarus is crucial for Ukraine's and Europe's security, and would act as a strong sanction against Putin's Russia.

The EU Commission recommended granting Bosnia and Herzegovina candidate status for EU membership, contingent on numerous reforms in areas such as corruption, organized crime, judicial freedom, media freedom, asylum rules, electoral law, and the constitution. The recommendation is part of the commission's annual assessment of countries aspiring to join the EU. Serbia received a warning, highlighting the EU's strategic interests in the region.

Following a show of unity by 44 European countries in Prague against Russian aggression, the EU will shift its focus back to the enlargement process. The EU Commission is set to release its annual assessment on Wednesday, evaluating the progress of candidate countries in meeting membership criteria.

Josep Borrell, the EU foreign affairs chief, addressed EU ambassadors on Monday, urging them to be bolder, faster, and more assertive in communicating the EU's narrative. His speech, initially overlooked, gained attention for its directness and the scolding tone towards diplomats.

Germany's €200bn stimulus package to shield its economy from rising energy prices faces criticism from several EU leaders at the European Political Community meeting in Prague. Concerns are expected to intensify during the EU leaders' meeting, where German chancellor Olaf Scholz will detail the plan. The criticism centers on the domestic protectionist nature of the fund and its potential impact on EU solidarity.

MEPs criticized the EU Commission for being too lenient on Hungary by potentially giving it more time to implement anti-corruption measures, despite Hungary adopting key laws to unlock EU funds. The commission's approach has been seen as an easy way out for Hungary in the ongoing rule-of-law dispute.

The EU showed a lukewarm response to Bosnia and Herzegovina's international envoy's decision to change the constitution and election law shortly after polls closed. The election law has been a contentious issue for over a decade, with numerous failed negotiations among the country's ethnic groups. Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country of 3.3 million, has a tripartite presidency and a complex power-sharing system.

Elections in Latvia and another EU country this weekend will highlight the strained relationships with Russia, particularly in light of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. In Latvia, the election may reveal a growing divide between the Latvian majority and the Russian-speaking minority, with national identity becoming a central issue. Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins' center-right coalition government is a key player in this context.

Russian disinformation campaigns aim to undermine European support for Ukraine amid rising energy prices and inflation, according to several MEPs. French MEP Raphaël Glucksmann warned that Russian president Vladimir Putin, unable to win the military war in Ukraine, will attempt to win politically by subverting public debate and promoting defeatist narratives. The discussion took place in the European Parliament's committee on foreign interference.

The EU Commission proposed new rules to make it easier for consumers and companies to sue makers or operators of AI-driven drones and robots for damages. The draft AI Liability Directive aims to alleviate the burden of proof for customers as AI-operated tools become more prevalent. This legislation is part of the EU's broader effort to regulate artificial intelligence and ensure consumer protection.

Italians elected a right-wing majority parliament, expected to have a turbulent relationship with Brussels. The EU is facing multiple crises, including soaring inflation. European Central Bank president Christine Lagarde will update MEPs on the economic situation.

Italy's upcoming election is expected to result in a right-wing coalition government led by Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy, alongside Matteo Salvini's League and Silvio Berlusconi's Forza Italia. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán anticipates Meloni's support in his EU battles, but experts suggest that while Meloni's government may strain Italy-EU relations, it won't fundamentally alter the EU's internal dynamics. Concerns are raised about Meloni's potential domestic policies and their EU implications, but her economic dependence on EU funds may temper radical actions. The EU is unlikely to engage in major conflicts with Italy, given its significant role in the eurozone.

EU affairs ministers met to discuss the potential shift from unanimity to majority voting on sanctions and human rights issues using the 'passarelle clause'. Swedish minister Hans Dahlgren noted hesitant voices during the initial discussion, indicating limited progress on the matter.

Europe is preparing for the potential impact of a far-right leader taking charge in Italy, the eurozone's third-largest and one of its most indebted countries. This follows a week where the European Parliament highlighted energy proposals from EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, declared Hungary a 'hybrid regime,' and promoted an official to a top position. Italian voters are set to head to the polls on Sunday, 25 September.

The Hungarian government is set to introduce new anti-corruption legislation in an effort to prevent the suspension of €7.5 billion in EU cohesion funds. The EU Commission has proposed freezing 65 percent of these funds due to concerns over corruption and rule of law in Hungary. Prime minister Viktor Orbán's administration faces significant pressure to implement substantial reforms to address these issues.

EU Commissioner Guenther Oettinger is under scrutiny for using a private plane provided by German businessman Klaus Mangold, who has strong ties to the Kremlin, to travel to Budapest. This raises ethical concerns as it may violate EU rules against accepting gifts over €150. Mangold, known as 'Mr Russia' in Germany, is an advocate for lifting EU sanctions on Russia and has a history of facilitating business in Eastern Europe. The trip's purpose was officially for a conference on the future of cars, but suspicions arise that it was also to advise Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on handling an EU probe into the Paks II nuclear project with Russian firm Rosatom. The Commission's delayed response to inquiries and Oettinger's recent controversial comments have added to the concerns regarding transparency and conduct within the EU Commission.

The European Parliament is set to vote on a report that could trigger a sanctions procedure against Hungary for potentially breaching EU values. The report, authored by Dutch Green MEP Judith Sargentini, outlines concerns over Hungary's adherence to freedom of expression and minority rights, among others. The vote requires a two-thirds majority and hinges on the support of the European People's Party (EPP), which is divided over Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's actions. Orban has been criticized for his nationalist policies and undermining democratic institutions. The EPP is debating whether to maintain a centrist stance or shift rightward, mirroring Orban's illiberal democracy. The outcome of the vote could have significant implications for the EU's stance on upholding democratic values within its member states.

The article discusses the emerging political battle in Europe ahead of the European Parliament elections, highlighting the confrontation between pro-European forces led by French President Emmanuel Macron and populist, anti-migrant leaders such as Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Italy's Interior Minister Matteo Salvini. Macron has positioned himself as the main opponent to Europe's populist forces, refusing to back down against nationalism and hatred. Orban and Salvini have met to discuss forming a united political front against migration, with Orban expressing a desire to spread his anti-immigrant views within the European People's Party (EPP). The EPP is currently divided between liberal, pro-European members and populist-nationalist eurosceptics. Macron is also working to build his own party within the EU parliament. The article touches on the broader themes of euroscepticism, the opportunism of certain EU member states, and the lack of solutions offered by nationalist parties.

The article discusses the impact of Brexit on the fragile peace process in Northern Ireland, particularly focusing on the potential re-establishment of a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. It highlights the physical division in Belfast's Alexandra Park, a symbol of past conflicts, and the concerns of local communities and businesses about the return of a hard border. The piece also touches on the political challenges faced by British Prime Minister Theresa May in finding a solution that satisfies all parties, including the EU, the Republic of Ireland, and various factions within the UK. The article underscores the personal nature of the border issue for residents and the risks of reigniting old tensions.

The article discusses Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's impact on Hungary and European politics since his return to power in 2010. Orban has implemented a series of controversial changes, including economic reforms, imposing special taxes on foreign banks, undermining the rule of law, and cracking down on the free press. He has also been a vocal critic of immigration and has inspired far-right leaders across Europe with his 'illiberal democracy' model. The article highlights Orban's use of the Visegrad Four group to promote his politics within the EU and his support from the European People's Party (EPP), despite his anti-EU campaigns. The EPP's reluctance to expel Orban's party, Fidesz, is seen as providing him with political cover. The article contrasts Orban's pragmatic approach to Poland's more 'fanatic' leadership and notes the EU Commission's investigations into Hungary's democratic backsliding have only resulted in minor changes. Orban's expected re-election is seen as likely to further consolidate his influence on the European political right.

The article discusses Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's political journey from a liberal anti-communist to a populist nationalist leader. It highlights Orban's endorsement of Donald Trump, his challenge to the European Union's integration, and his plans to hold a referendum on the resettlement of refugees in Hungary. The article traces Orban's rise to power, starting with his bold anti-Soviet stance in 1989, the founding of the Fidesz party, and his evolution towards an 'illiberal democracy' modeled after Turkey and Russia. It also touches on Orban's personal background, his anti-elitist sentiment, and his political maneuvers to maintain control over Fidesz and return to power after a defeat in 2002. The article suggests that Orban's political strategy involves exploiting anti-elite sentiment and nationalism to remain Hungary's dominant political figure.

In Hungary, the satirical Two-Tailed Dog Party (TTDP) has launched a billboard campaign to oppose Prime Minister Viktor Orban's anti-immigrant referendum scheduled for 2 October. The TTDP, known for its humorous and satirical approach, has raised funds from citizens to counter the government's narrative linking migration with terrorism and criminality. Their billboards mockingly highlight issues like the war in Syria and political corruption. Gergely Kovacs, the party's leader, criticizes the government for inciting hatred and distracting from domestic problems. The TTDP is advocating for a protest vote against the referendum, which they consider a 'stupid question.' The party plans to participate in the next general election in 2018.

The article discusses the challenges to democratic principles and the rule of law in Poland and Hungary, focusing on the actions of their governments that undermine judicial independence. It highlights the leaked draft report from the Venice Commission, which criticizes the Polish government's interference with the country's highest court. The article also covers Hungary's legislative changes under Prime Minister Viktor Orban that conflict with EU law. Despite the European Commission's probes and the European Court of Justice ruling against Hungary, the EU's ability to enforce compliance with democratic standards is limited due to a lack of legal mechanisms, political will, and consensus among member states. The article touches on the debate over the EU's role as a political union versus an economic one and the challenges in ensuring member states adhere to democratic principles, with the EU's existing tools like the 'rule of law framework' and Article 7 procedure being ineffective or difficult to implement.

The article discusses the steps being taken by Poland's new government to transform the country from a liberal to an illiberal democracy, drawing parallels with Hungary under Viktor Orban and other non-EU examples like Russia and Turkey. It outlines a seven-step guide on how to dismantle democratic checks and balances, including winning elections with vague promises, dismantling constitutional checks, controlling media, managing finances, discrediting opposition, creating enemies, and rewriting election rules. The article also critiques the European Union's responses to such actions and suggests that the EU has been quicker to respond to Poland's changes than it was to Hungary's, but the effectiveness of this political pressure is yet to be determined.