Stories from Brussels · Belgium

The International Confederation of Trade Unions has declared that billionaires are staging a 'coup' against democracy. This analysis, presented by General Secretary Luke Triangle, highlights the costs of this alleged 'coup' for workers.

Europe must avoid being on the menu and instead be at the negotiation table for new rules. This involves variable geometries and negotiable alliances. The White House is considering withdrawing 5,000 soldiers from Germany.

Helsing, a young defense company, aims to protect European democracy, according to an article in De Standaard. The company is described as special and not a typical startup, operating in the booming defense sector.

The historical progression of metals, specifically gold, silver, and bronze, was discussed in relation to a decline in their perfection. This concept appeared in ancient sandstone writings. The discussion included a mythological digression on these metals.

In 2003, Johnny Hallyday sold one million albums, with stores selling one million physical records. His album achieved diamond certification, requiring 100,000 sales for gold, 500,000 for platinum, and 1 million for diamond.

A report indicates that the European Union is demonstrating increasing flexibility in its approach to Ukraine. This development is highlighted as a shift in policy or support.

The European Parliament plenary session approved its position on the European Union budget for the 2028-34 period. This position calls for an increase in demand through state aid, covering up to 70% of additional costs. The rice sector believes the clause is not effective for protection. This clause will be activated to limit imports when they exceed a certain threshold, a measure the rice sector had requested to modify. For the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the parliament proposes an increase of nearly 140 billion euros compared to the European Commission's proposal. This would bring the CAP's budget to over 400 billion euros. Among these proposals, the Parliament defends the maintenance of livestock production throughout the entire European Union.

The European Commission should not be blackmailed and must finally stand up to Russian pressure. The head of the German automotive association VDA, Müller, fears enormous additional costs for German and European companies. The EU Commission has been urged to resist pressure from Russia. Russia consistently stated that certain areas should be given to Azerbaijan and urged signing an agreement.

A proposal aims to introduce a minimum quota of European components in strategic sectors. Public procurement and national subsidies would be linked to stricter environmental criteria, favoring companies that produce in Europe and adhere to high sustainability standards. This represents an evolution in the Union's industrial policy. The European Union is proposing a centralized procurement of natural gas, with Brussels managing supplies and individual countries receiving them. The EU also aims to establish a European Gas Observatory to monitor real-time storage and transport. This initiative seeks to ensure better management of energy resources.

Smugglers are reportedly facilitating migration to the United Kingdom by using routes through Europe.