Jet Fuel Prices in Europe More Than Double Since February
Jet fuel prices in Europe have more than doubled since February due to blockades of the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel's actions against Iran. Prices rose from approximately €68.27 ($80) per barrel to €153.84 ($180) by the end of April, leading to a 24% increase in airfare over the past year, as airlines like Air France-KLM and Lufthansa impose surcharges and cut flights. The International Energy Agency has warned that Europe has only about six weeks of jet fuel left, prompting Airlines for Europe to call for urgent EU measures to mitigate the impact of the crisis.
Ukraine Demands Approval Rights in Greece Drone Deal
Ukraine has set conditions for Greece regarding a sea-drone deal, insisting on the right to approve the use of jointly produced unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in military engagements, a demand that has raised concerns in Athens. The two countries agreed last November to co-produce these drones, leveraging Ukrainian technology and Greek shipyards, but negotiations have stalled due to Ukraine's additional request for veto powers over any sales to third countries, which Greece is reluctant to accept.
Chinese Court Limits AI-Driven Employee Terminations
A Chinese court ruled that companies cannot terminate employees solely to replace them with artificial intelligence, emphasizing that AI adoption is a strategic business choice rather than an unforeseeable change in circumstances under China’s Labour Contract Law. This decision followed a case involving a tech worker in Hangzhou who was fired after refusing a demotion due to job automation, with the court ordering the company to pay compensation. The ruling reflects a broader legal trend in China, contrasting with the lack of similar protections in the US and EU, as 78,000 tech workers were laid off globally in early 2026, nearly half due to AI.
Hezbollah Reinforces Fighters and Weapons in Southern Lebanon
Hezbollah has reported the reinforcement of its fighters and weapons in southern Lebanon since the onset of the conflict with Israel on March 2, according to the group's media relations director, Youssef Al Zein. This development follows the Lebanese army's disarmament efforts near the Israeli border, which were completed in January, and comes amid ongoing hostilities despite a ceasefire extension. Meanwhile, Israel's ambassador to Greece, Noam Katz, highlighted the necessity of supporting Lebanon's legitimate government to effectively manage Hezbollah and reduce its military capabilities.
