Despite the European Union’s efforts to reduce reliance, seven member states increased their Russian energy imports in 2025. These imports, totaling over 11 billion euros in the first eight months, include substantial increases from France and the Netherlands. This contradicts the EU’s broader goal and has drawn criticism, particularly from the United States, who deem the continued purchases as funding the ongoing war. Much of the trade involves liquefied natural gas, and long-term contracts with major energy firms perpetuate the reliance, which is viewed as a “form of self-sabotage” by experts.
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In a recent phone call, the leaders of the U.K., France, and Germany agreed to work together, alongside the U.S., to explore using frozen Russian assets to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces, aiming to increase pressure on Russia to end the war. This initiative is a response to Kyiv’s growing budget gap and mounting war costs. With the EU proposing a reparations loan backed by these assets, this strategy also includes additional measures against Russia’s shadow fleet and is intended to provide Ukraine with substantial financial aid, to be repaid only when Russia agrees to pay war reparations.
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According to President Zelenskyy, Ukraine and the European Union are on course to match Russia’s annual artillery round production by 2026. He indicated that slight acceleration by partner nations could ultimately give Ukraine and its allies an artillery advantage over Moscow. This increased production is a strategic move to ensure sustained ammunition supplies for Ukraine’s defense and reduce Moscow’s battlefield advantage. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has also reported that Europe’s artillery shell production has increased significantly in recent years.
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In a recent vote, the European Parliament approved a measure to restrict the use of meat-related terms like “steak” and “burger” to products derived from meat. This move, supported by a majority of MEPs, is intended to benefit farmers and provide clarity for consumers, mirroring existing regulations on dairy product terminology. The proposal’s future remains uncertain as it requires approval from a majority of the EU’s member states, and faces opposition from Green MEPs and some consumer groups who argue that such a ban is unnecessary and confusing. German supermarkets and others fear that the ban could make it more difficult for consumers to make informed decisions.
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Five countries block EU proposal to ban tourist visas for Russians, and it’s quite the story. It seems the European Union, or at least a good chunk of it, was considering slapping a ban on tourist visas for Russians. The aim, I suppose, was to put some pressure on the Kremlin, or maybe just to send a clear message. But, as often happens in the complex world of international relations, not everyone was on board.
Italy, Spain, France, and Hungary were the first to raise their hands and say “not so fast.” They joined Greece in opposing the restrictions. Now, I can’t help but wonder what drove these countries to take this stance.… Continue reading
Brussels pitches a €140 billion loan for Ukraine, cleverly leveraging Russia’s frozen assets. This is the core concept, a financial maneuver with significant implications. It’s not as straightforward as simply handing over the money. Instead, it’s a carefully orchestrated process.
The heart of the plan involves a loan from the European Commission to Ukraine. The crucial part? The Commission intends for Ukraine to use future compensation, the reparations Russia will be forced to pay for the war, to repay the loan. After that, the Commission repays Euroclear, and Euroclear essentially returns the money to Russia, completing the circuit. Sounds a bit convoluted, right?… Continue reading
Moldova’s upcoming parliamentary election has been disrupted by the electoral commission’s decision to exclude two pro-Russian parties. These parties, Heart of Moldova and Moldova Mare, were barred due to allegations of illegal financing, voter bribery, and undeclared foreign funds. The move follows accusations of Russian interference and is critical as Moldova, a former Soviet republic, navigates its path towards the European Union, potentially deciding the country’s geopolitical orientation.
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Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has accused President Zelenskyy of an “anti-Hungarian obsession” amid escalating tensions. This response follows a period of worsening relations between the two countries, fueled by Budapest’s opposition to Ukraine’s EU accession and recent actions, including the bombing of the Druzhba oil pipeline. In response to entry bans imposed by Hungary on a Ukrainian commander, Ukraine reciprocated with bans on Hungarian military officials. Szijjártó further claimed that Ukraine has pursued an “anti-Hungarian policy” for a decade.
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Speaking at a G20 foreign ministers meeting, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused NATO and the European Union of waging a “real war” against Russia “through Ukraine.” Lavrov claimed the West provoked the conflict and is directly involved. These comments follow remarks from former US President Donald Trump, who suggested Ukraine could regain lost territories and that NATO should shoot down Russian aircraft. Lavrov’s statements occurred after a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where the latter urged Russia toward a resolution.
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The European Union is reportedly preparing trade measures to potentially halt Russian oil imports through the Druzhba pipeline, the primary crude supply route for Hungary and Slovakia. These measures, unlike sanctions, would bypass the need for unanimous approval, thus circumventing potential resistance from these countries. This move aligns with the EU’s efforts to reduce dependence on Russian energy, a goal also encouraged by the US. Hungary and Slovakia are currently the only EU nations still importing Russian pipeline oil, while Czechia recently ended its imports.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood