European Commission proposes €90 billion loan for Ukraine
The European Commission has proposed a €90 billion loan to support Ukraine's defense efforts, with approximately €60 billion allocated for military spending and €30 billion for budgetary support. European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity Valdis Dombrovskis emphasized the urgency of the funding, which is expected to be disbursed by early April, pending approval from the European Parliament and member states. The loan includes a 'Made In Europe' requirement, prioritizing European defense products while allowing for flexibility in purchasing from the US if necessary.
EU to Develop Comprehensive Security Strategy by 2026
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans for the EU to develop its own security strategy, aiming to transform the bloc into a 'military powerhouse' in 2026. During a closed-door meeting with Members of the European Parliament, she highlighted the EU's ongoing defense initiatives, including the up to €800 billion ReArm program and the SAFE joint procurement program, which involves 19 EU countries. Von der Leyen noted that this marks a significant shift as the EU has not previously had a comprehensive security strategy and has relied on NATO for collective defense.
Renewable Energy Surpasses Fossil Fuels in EU 2025
In 2025, renewable energy sources generated more electricity than fossil fuels in the European Union for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the region's energy transition. According to Eurostat, renewables accounted for 47.5% of gross electricity consumption, with wind contributing 38.0% and solar power 23.4%. This shift reflects a steady increase from 15.9% in 2004, highlighting the growing dominance of renewable energy in the EU's electricity landscape.
European Parliament Criticizes Commission's Tech Deregulation Proposal
The European Parliament criticized the European Commission's recent proposal for a simplification omnibus package, claiming it aligns too closely with the interests of US tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Meta. Watchdog organizations Corporate Europe Observatory and Lobby Control argue that the proposed changes, which include amendments to the General Data Protection Regulation and delays to the AI Act, threaten to undermine citizens' privacy rights and empower US big tech. The report also highlights increased lobbying efforts by tech companies, particularly their growing engagement with far-right MEPs, suggesting a potential political alliance aimed at promoting digital deregulation.
Von der Leyen urges EPP support for EU-Mercosur deal
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged members of the European People's Party (EPP) to support the EU-Mercosur trade deal, emphasizing its significance for the EU's global standing. As the European Parliament prepares to vote on a legal challenge to the agreement, von der Leyen highlighted recent improvements to the deal, including enhanced financial security for farmers, and is set to travel to Paraguay for a signing ceremony. The upcoming vote will determine whether the deal is referred to the EU's court of justice for a legality check.
