European Union

Opinion on the draft general of the European Union for the financial year 2026 - all sections
Committee on Foreign Affairs
Michael Gahler

Source : © European Union, 2025 - EP

At least 23 people were killed early Thursday morning in a massive Russian air attack on Kyiv. According to the Ukrainian Air Force, 629 drones, hypersonic and ballistic missiles as well as cruise missiles were used. The EU delegation office and other institutions in the city centre were also badly hit. Europe's press reflects on the message behind the attack.

US President Trump is once again upping the economic pressure on the EU, threatening countries that tax US digital companies with retaliatory measures in the form of "significant additional tariffs" and restrictions on the export of cutting-edge technology and semiconductors if the 'discriminatory measures' are not stopped. Is Europe facing another clash with the US after the hard-won agreement on tariffs?

In the dispute over massive budget cuts, French Prime Minister François Bayrou has called a confidence vote for 8 September. He made the announcement after conferring with French President Emmanuel Macron. If the vote fails, it will mean the end of Bayrou's minority government. Europe's press is alarmed.

In Poland, a major controversy has broken out over social benefits for Ukrainian refugees. Polish President Karol Nawrocki has lodged an objection to the government's Ukraine aid law, which is intended to guarantee benefits such as child benefit and social assistance until March 2026. Commentators see symptoms of a declining willingness to help, as well as risks for Poland and Europe as a whole.

Pop superstar Taylor Swift and American professional footballer Travis Kelce have got engaged in Missouri. A news story which would normally only make headlines in the tabloids and in fan circles is making waves well beyond, and has even drawn comment from the US President. Europe's press also asks: what does this say about our society and our times?