Stories from Belgium

China has rationed the amount of critical minerals available to companies in Europe. These minerals are essential for manufacturing products ranging from defense kits to various other goods. The move has prompted discussions at the EU level to manage these dependencies.

Belgian singer Sylvie Crush and rapper Romeo Elvis have been chosen to co-write lyrics for a performance. Romeo Elvis, the brother of singer Angèle, faces accusations of sexual aggression dating back to 2020.

European stock markets closed higher at the end of April, marking the strongest monthly performance since November 2024. The STOXX 50 index closed at 500 points, increasing by 1%. The CAC 40 index closed at 611 points, an increase of 1.38%.

Jonathan Wilkinson has been appointed as Canada's ambassador to the European Union. The appointment aims to strengthen and develop relations between Canada and the European Union. The Canadian Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in community summits later this weekend.

A long-delayed 90 billion euro loan to Ukraine has been approved. The approval follows the voting out of Viktor Orban in Hungary. This funding is described as a major boost for Ukraine amid the ongoing war.

Inflation in the European Union rose to 10.9 percent year-on-year in April, up from 5.1 percent in March. Core inflation for the month was reported at 2.2 percent. Inflation reached 10.9% in April compared to 5.1% in March, while core inflation was 2.2%.

The European Union is investigating social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat regarding potential impacts on mental health and child protection. Regulators are examining whether platform designs contribute to addiction in users under the age of 18.

Several major European economies expressed dissatisfaction with a US proposal to resolve metal tariff disputes. European Union members are evaluating potential response measures following dissatisfaction with US proposals regarding metal tariff disputes.

The number of Listeria cases is rising, according to a report from VRT Radio 1. The bacteria can grow in refrigerators, which is a point of concern for health officials. The source noted that work has been ongoing for several years to address this issue.

The Trump administration is reportedly considering a plan to relocate US military personnel from NATO member nations that are deemed uncooperative in the Iran war. The report follows warnings regarding pressure on allies during the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump has expressed repeated dissatisfaction with allies, including South Korea, regarding their cooperation during the war. The United States must now discuss planned troop movements with NATO states. This potential move aims to address issues with troop participation and burden-sharing within the alliance. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is cooperating with the United States to understand the details of a decree. NATO has seen progress and is confident in its deterrence and defense capabilities.