Jon Henley

Successive heatwaves and continent-wide drought have sharply reduced European farm production, with French vegetable yields falling by up to 100% for some crops and France’s maize harvest projected to be 35% below 2025 levels. Heat stress has also cut milk and egg production and left winter livestock feed in short supply. Around 60% of Italian farmland is drought-affected, damaging rice, corn, soy, fruit and vegetables, while Spanish cereal and wine production is also expected to decline. Governments are responding with costly aid packages, including €145m in immediate French support, but growers warn that structural measures are urgently needed.

Nearly 500 people, including 183 minors, have been detained in France since 1 July on suspicion of starting wildfires, with about 70% suspected of deliberate arson. Severe fires driven by record heat, dry conditions and strong winds have affected France, Croatia, Germany, Spain, Greece, Belgium and the UK. A Croatian blaze killed one person, injured dozens and forced 1,200 evacuations, while fires elsewhere displaced thousands, destroyed homes and threatened historic sites. Scientists and European climate authorities link the increasingly extreme wildfire conditions to climate change and a rapidly warming continent.

France’s parliament has approved legislation allowing the food and environmental safety agency Anses to grant exceptional waivers for the pesticides acetamiprid and flupyradifurone, which are permitted in the EU but banned in France. Beekeepers, UNAF, Greenpeace France and environmental advocates warn that the chemicals could cause high bee mortality, reduce honey harvests and damage ecosystems, while arguing that the measure undermines environmental safeguards. The FNSEA and Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard support the law as necessary to protect crops such as sugar beet, apples, hazelnuts and cherries from aphid-borne diseases and restore farmers’ competitiveness. Environment Minister Monique Barbut briefly resigned in protest before returning after assurances from President Emmanuel Macron. Opponents plan to challenge the law before the Constitutional Council.

Wildfires in France and Spain have forced about 267,000 people to evacuate, including 197,000 near Bordeaux and 70,000 west of Madrid. France has deployed 1,500 soldiers, specialist equipment and military aircraft, while Spain declared a national emergency and continued evacuations amid strong winds and difficult conditions. One person died near Valencia. EU assistance, including aircraft, helicopters and emergency mapping, is being provided. A separate fire in Scotland’s Cairngorms national park has burned for 11 days, prompted evacuations and drawn criticism from local residents over the government response.

More than 100,000 people were evacuated or ordered to shelter as severe wildfires spread through south-western France and central Spain during extreme heat and dry, windy conditions. The Cap Ferret and Biscarrosse fires in France burned more than 15,000 hectares and displaced over 90,000 people, while fires near Madrid and Ávila led Spain to declare a national emergency and affected about 40,000 people. France and Spain requested EU assistance, with international aircraft and helicopters being mobilized. Authorities warned that several fires remained uncontained, while record-setting wildfire activity and rising temperatures underscored the growing climate-related risks. Spanish investigators arrested one man and opened an investigation into another over suspected machinery-related sparks that may have caused a fire.

Wildfires forced the total evacuation of France’s Cap Ferret peninsula, with more than 10,000 hectares affected and tens of thousands displaced across south-western France. Spain declared a national emergency as fires near Madrid and Ávila threatened to merge, with as many as 19,000 people evacuated or confined in the Madrid region. France and Spain activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, prompting the deployment of water-bomber aircraft. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez linked the fires to the climate emergency, while the far-right Vox party rejected that explanation. The live coverage also reported a Russian strike that killed people in Ukraine, Romania’s shooting down of a drone in its airspace, a split in Poland’s Law and Justice party, and a cabinet reshuffle by Germany’s unpopular chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Wildfires in southwestern France and central Spain have forced about 30,000 people to evacuate amid record heat and a marine heatwave affecting much of the Mediterranean. France requested EU civil-protection assistance as more than 18,800 people fled a blaze near Saumos and Le Porge in Gironde, while Spain declared a national emergency around Madrid and Ávila, evacuating about 10,000 people. Fires have burned record areas in both countries, with nearly 125,000 hectares affected in Spain this year. Officials and scientists linked the worsening conditions to extreme heat, drought, climate change and dry overgrown vegetation, warning that increasingly vast and destructive fire complexes may become more common.

Ukraine’s ousted defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov rejected President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s offer of another government position, arguing that only the defence portfolio gives him the authority to tackle procurement corruption, transform the army and conduct military operations. His supporters said wartime protests would continue until he is reinstated. The EU adopted its 21st sanctions package against Russia, targeting banks, crypto platforms, oil and the military-industrial sector, while granting Greece an exemption allowing some Russian LNG transport to third countries. Ireland’s prime minister Micheál Martin visited Kyiv amid scrutiny of the Rusal-owned Aughinish Alumina refinery and its possible links to Russia’s arms supply chain. The live updates also covered escalating Russian attacks affecting Ukraine’s Black Sea shipping corridor, deadly strikes, stalled peace diplomacy, extreme drought and wildfires across Europe, and the EU’s €890 million fine against Google for digital competition violations.

France recorded 5,764 excess deaths between 17 June and 2 July during an unprecedented heatwave, representing 36% excess mortality; people aged 75 and over accounted for about two-thirds of the increase. The deaths were from all causes and had not yet been directly attributed to heat. Across southern Europe, extreme temperatures intensified wildfire risks: a Guadalajara fire in Spain burned about 32,000 hectares and forced the evacuation of 1,200 people, while fires also affected France, Italy and other countries. Spanish authorities warned that the country had already experienced an exceptional number of major fires this year, while scientists linked the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves, droughts and wildfires to human-driven climate change.

Andy Burnham’s pro-European instincts and focus on industrialization, regional devolution and economic sovereignty could bring Britain closer to the EU without formally revisiting Brexit. His plans for sovereign capabilities in AI, energy and digital infrastructure overlap with the EU’s strategic-autonomy agenda, creating opportunities for cooperation on technology, critical minerals, cloud storage and supply chains. The government is also expected to pursue agreements on food-trade paperwork, emissions trading and youth mobility. Although Labour’s red lines rule out rejoining the single market, customs union or freedom of movement, Burnham’s domestic economic priorities may produce a quieter and more substantive UK-EU partnership than Keir Starmer’s rhetorical reset.

Hungarian prosecutors searched Fidesz offices and reportedly seized the party’s communications system and databases. Fidesz, led by Viktor Orbán, called the action unprecedented and accused Péter Magyar’s Tisza government of trying to disable the opposition party, while prosecutors said the searches formed part of an investigation into alleged misappropriation connected to the National Cultural Fund. The live coverage also reported Marine Le Pen’s condemnation, rising civilian casualties in Ukraine, Ukrainian strikes disrupting life in Russian-occupied Crimea, restrictions on shipping in the Sea of Azov, a rare Russian naval firing exercise near the UK, and the diplomatic and economic challenges facing new British prime minister Andy Burnham.

Abderrahim Fakir, a 42-year-old Moroccan-born Italian resident, died after police restrained him in Bologna while he repeatedly called for help. Video appears to show officers sitting on him, binding his ankles after he stopped moving and checking his vital signs only later. Prosecutors are investigating and have requested body-camera footage. Protests followed, with police using teargas and water cannon, while government figures defended the officers and opposition parties and human-rights campaigners demanded answers and condemned the government’s policing and immigration policies.

Andy Burnham has received congratulations from leaders including Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz, Ursula von der Leyen, Giorgia Meloni, Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Anthony Albanese after becoming Britain’s prime minister. They emphasized closer international partnerships, cooperation with the EU and continued support for Ukraine. International media, however, focused on the scale of his domestic challenge, including economic instability, strained public services, housing and defence demands, and strict fiscal constraints. Commentators also debated whether Burnham’s working-class northern persona and plans for nationalisation, state intervention and reindustrialisation represent meaningful change or a return to an earlier political model.

A study by the civil liberties group Liberties found that major AI chatbots, including ChatGPT and Gemini, provided inaccurate and inconsistent voting recommendations during Hungary’s parliamentary elections, frequently omitting or misidentifying parties such as the winning Tisza party. The systems often suggested parties not on the ballot, showed strong visibility bias, and offered unstable results across identical queries, raising concerns about their reliability in electoral contexts. Researchers highlighted transparency and oversight gaps, noting that general‑purpose AI models fall between the EU’s existing regulatory frameworks. The report calls for safeguards and warns that AI‑generated political advice could influence outcomes in competitive elections unless accuracy and accountability improve.

Political violence against elected officials is rising across the UK, the US and Europe amid dehumanising rhetoric, declining trust in institutions, polarisation and widespread disinformation. Experts say lone actors radicalised in online communities increasingly blend conspiracy theories, personal grievance and shifting extremist ideologies, making them difficult for security agencies to detect. Recent attacks and threats against politicians, including Ann Widdecombe’s suspected killing, have intensified debate over protection for elected officials, while analysts warn that political violence could become normalised as part of the political process.

France’s Bastille Day celebrations were overshadowed by extreme heat and expanding wildfires, prompting widespread cancellation of fireworks and traditional festivities. Emmanuel Macron oversaw his final parade, joined by leaders from Ukraine, the UK and Germany as allied troops participated in an expanded military procession highlighting European unity and support for Ukraine. Wildfires near the Fontainebleau forest forced evacuations and led to multiple arson-related arrests amid record national fire damage. Authorities warned of worsening climate-driven disasters while commemorations also acknowledged the 10th anniversary of the Nice terror attack.

France deployed 70,000 security personnel for Bastille Day events and the World Cup semifinal as Emmanuel Macron oversaw his final national day parade amid heatwaves and major wildfires. European leaders, including Volodymyr Zelenskyy, attended the celebrations, while local authorities cancelled fireworks due to fire risks. Wildfires near Fontainebleau forced evacuations as firefighters continued efforts to contain the blaze. Across Europe, Ukraine’s parliament accepted the resignation of prime minister Yulia Svyrydenko, Lithuania backed a new government led by Mindaugas Sinkevičius, Spain’s prime minister’s brother was banned from public office, and Albania saw ongoing protests over a Trump-linked resort. Bulgaria’s Rumen Radev announced the country’s withdrawal from the Coalition of the Willing, calling for diplomacy over military aid to Ukraine.

Marine Le Pen confirmed her 2027 presidential bid after a Paris appeals court upheld her conviction for misusing over €4m in EU funds but reduced penalties enough to keep her eligible. She will appeal to the Court of Cassation, a move that suspends requirements including an electronic ankle tag. The decision allows her to run but leaves her campaign vulnerable to future rulings that could reinstate monitoring. Polls place her and Jordan Bardella ahead of rivals, though her conviction and economic proposals may deter centrist voters. The timeline for the Court of Cassation’s final judgment creates ongoing uncertainty as the election approaches.

Marine Le Pen confirmed she will run in France’s 2027 presidential election and will appeal her conviction to the Court of Cassation, aiming to delay or suspend an electronic tagging requirement that she says would make campaigning impossible. She framed her bid as a joint ticket with Jordan Bardella, positioning him as her prospective prime minister and potential replacement candidate. The ruling has intensified political debate over her eligibility, with the final decision expected before the election. Alongside these developments, the Nato summit featured calls from Volodymyr Zelenskyy for Ukraine’s membership and highlighted increased European defence spending and strategic tensions involving Russia.

A French appeal court upheld Marine Le Pen’s conviction for misuse of EU funds but reduced her ban from public office, allowing her to run for the 2027 presidency. The ruling includes a year of house arrest with electronic monitoring, though this will not take effect while she appeals to the court of cassation. Le Pen announced she will pursue that appeal and confirmed her candidacy, delaying contingency plans for Jordan Bardella to run in her place. Polls show either candidate would advance to the runoff, where forecasts suggest a close race against centrist contender Édouard Philippe.

A Paris appeals court is set to decide whether Marine Le Pen can run in France’s 2027 presidential election, following her conviction for misusing European Parliament funds and a five‑year ban on holding office. The ruling will determine whether she or her protégé Jordan Bardella becomes the National Rally candidate. Possible outcomes range from acquittal to maintaining or reducing her ban, with implications for her ability to campaign even if eligible. Polls show both Le Pen and Bardella likely to reach the runoff, though analysts differ on their prospects against rivals from the left and centre. Tensions within the party and scrutiny of Bardella’s experience add further uncertainty to the race.

Russian strikes on Kyiv killed more than 20 people as Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Nato leaders to take stronger decisions on supporting Ukraine ahead of the Ankara summit. Mark Rutte emphasised increased European defence spending and ongoing discussions on air defence and force posture, while Donald Trump suggested progress toward ending the conflict following calls with Vladimir Putin and Zelenskyy. Nato members prepared to address drones, interceptors and broader defence commitments as Kyiv continued to appeal for additional air‑defence support.

Wildfires driven by early summer heatwaves are burning across France, Spain, Portugal and Greece, forcing thousands to evacuate. Firefighters are struggling against strong winds, high temperatures and rapidly spreading flames, with major blazes in the Pyrenees, Catalonia, Castellón and Vouzela. Officials warn of highly volatile conditions after record heat, with climate scientists attributing the extreme temperatures to the climate crisis. Additional evacuations and factory damage have occurred in Greece as emergency teams work to contain multiple fires across the region.

France recorded a near 30% rise in deaths during the peak week of a record June heatwave, with at least 2,025 excess deaths and the toll expected to rise as more data is processed. The surge was concentrated among people over 45, particularly those over 65, and Paris saw a 62% increase in deaths. Belgium and the Netherlands also reported significant excess mortality. The heatwave shattered temperature records across Europe, with nearly two-thirds of Europeans experiencing temperatures above 35C.

Authorities identified Anastasiia Berezovska, a Ukrainian woman living in Germany, as the suspected perpetrator of a parcel bomb attack in Monaco that severely injured businessman Vadym Iermolaiev and two family members. Interpol issued a red notice as German police searched her residence and reported she had fled. Investigators believe she acted with accomplices and disguised herself as a man. The bomb was detonated remotely before the suspect escaped through France and returned toward Germany. Victims were treated in hospitals in Nice, with one remaining in critical condition. Iermolaiev has been under Ukrainian sanctions, while his son has been convicted of fraud, adding complexity to potential motives. Monaco’s leadership condemned the attack and mobilized public services.

A global survey of perspectives on the United States at its 250th anniversary reveals widespread concern, disappointment and disillusionment as Donald Trump’s second term reshapes foreign perceptions. Allies and adversaries describe damaged trust, heightened unpredictability and a shift toward unilateralism impacting security ties, trade relationships and public sentiment. Across regions, longstanding admiration for US freedoms, culture and opportunity persists but is increasingly overshadowed by fears of instability, coercive policy shifts and eroding democratic values under Trump-era governance.

A synchronised Viking row chant created by Ole Frøystad has become a widespread cultural phenomenon during Norway’s strong 2026 World Cup run, performed by fans, players and public figures across Norway and abroad. While many embrace the display as national pride and team support, critics argue it promotes problematic Viking imagery and exaggerated masculinity, with some raising concerns over far-right associations. Supporters and officials largely dismiss the criticism, emphasising cultural expression and national unity as the chant continues to gain popularity.

Spain and France are preparing for another heatwave expected to bring temperatures up to 44C after June’s record-breaking heat caused more than 2,000 excess deaths. Meteorological and health agencies warn of increased risks, including forest fires and a sharp rise in heat-related medical emergencies, particularly among the elderly. French authorities report heightened wildfire activity in the south and note rising drowning deaths as people seek relief from extreme temperatures. Shortages of affordable air-conditioning units have sparked crowds and scuffles at Lidl stores around Paris. Scientists attribute the severity of the heat events to human-driven climate change.

Far-right parties’ electoral support in Europe has risen to more than 23%, nearly five times higher than in the mid-1990s, according to research led by Matthijs Rooduijn for the PopuList project. Significant gains between 2023 and 2025 in countries including France, the UK, Germany and Austria contributed to the increase, with several far-right parties entering government coalitions or leading national polls. Analysts attribute the trend to the growing salience of issues such as immigration, the normalization of far-right rhetoric, and increasingly effective messaging. While some parties have faced setbacks, the overall rise continues, raising concerns about pressures on democratic norms in countries where far-right populists gain power.

A severe heatwave across western Europe led to the deaths of two young children in France and several elderly people near Bordeaux, with additional fatalities reported from drownings. France issued widespread danger-to-life alerts as temperatures exceeded 40C in multiple regions, prompting school closures and train cancellations. Spain declared its first heatwave of the year with temperatures expected to reach 44C, while the UK, Belgium, Italy and Germany also faced extreme conditions and disruptions. Meteorological agencies warned that temperatures are far above seasonal averages, reflecting scientists’ expectations that climate change is driving more frequent and intense heat events.

Ukraine escalates long‑range strikes on Crimea and Russian territory as Volodymyr Zelenskyy vows to intensify counterattacks following large Russian drone assaults. Diplomatic tensions deepen between Ukraine and Poland over a military unit’s renaming, while Donald Trump renews criticism of Italy’s Giorgia Meloni. Keir Starmer announces plans to resign as UK prime minister, prompting the postponement of an upcoming EU‑UK summit. Western Europe faces record‑breaking heat, and political disputes unfold across Czechia and Hungary over media funding and constitutional reforms.

France placed more than a third of the country under red heat alerts as temperatures above 40C prompted the cancellation of outdoor events and the imposition of alcohol restrictions during the Fête de la Musique. Authorities deployed police, emergency workers and public cooling measures in Paris while school closures and travel warnings were issued nationwide. Italy and Spain expanded heat alerts as temperatures surged across southern Europe, and UK forecasters warned of potentially record-breaking June heat.

Polling across 15 EU countries shows strong support for the UK rejoining the EU, with two-thirds of respondents backing membership and broad favourability even among far‑right voters. In the UK, most voters across party lines believe Brexit has harmed key issues such as the economy, cost of living, immigration and trade, driving a large majority to favour closer ties with the EU and accept free movement in exchange for stronger economic integration. The findings indicate shifting public attitudes, with British voters preferring Europe over the US as a security partner and supporting greater European defence cooperation. The data suggests a wide political opening for deeper UK‑EU relations beyond current government policy.

France and other parts of western Europe are experiencing the second severe heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to exceed 40C and more than half of France under an orange alert. Emmanuel Macron urged heightened vigilance as authorities cancelled trains, rescheduled exams and warned that conditions could match the deadly 2003 heatwave. Meteorological agencies in France, Spain and Germany forecast continued extreme temperatures, potential record national heat indices, and related risks such as reduced nuclear output, cancelled events and increased health dangers.

A YouGov survey across six western European countries found that majorities believe crime and violent crime are rising despite long‑term declines in overall and homicide rates since the 1990s. Trust in national police remains generally high, except in Britain, where confidence is notably lower. Public perceptions vary by country, with France and Italy showing the strongest belief that crime is increasing. Despite statistical improvements, high‑profile issues such as drug‑related gang violence, sexual and domestic violence, and corruption shape national attitudes.