To relieve supply chains and ensure production continuity, companies could build up raw materials reserves. Japan, China, and the USA are miles ahead of Berlin and Brussels where the topic is being discussed. So far, however, this approach has been too expensive. Government stocks could also be part of the strategy.
By Leonie Düngefeld
A dispute has broken out among member states over mandatory energy-saving targets following the Commission's presentation of its winter plan. Germany, on the other hand, should save more to be able to support its neighbors, according to authority head Klaus Müller.
By Manuel Berkel
The EU Commission is adding pressure on Hungary in the rule of law conflict by threatening Prime Minister Orbán with withholding billions in EU funds. Experts agree that the sanctions would hit Budapest hard.
By Till Hoppe
The Commission wants to prepare the EU for all possible scenarios related to Russian gas flow by reducing energy consumption. In the winter plan, it proposes savings of 15 percent as early as August – mandatory if necessary.
By Manuel Berkel
Italy's Prime Minister Mario Draghi fell well short of the broad approval he wanted in the vote of confidence in the Senate. The right-wing parties Forza Italia of Silvio Berlusconi, Lega Nord of Matteo Salvini and the Five Star Movement abstained from voting, thus contributing to the failure of the government.
By Isabel Cuesta Camacho
Amid the gas crisis, the Commission wants to acquire further powers. Meanwhile, the German government has set the locations for two additional LNG terminals.
By Manuel Berkel
Military equipment and ammunition stocks need to be replenished across Europe: Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, member states have sent many weapons to Ukraine. Now, more howitzers, ammunition, anti-aircraft missiles and anti-tank missiles need to be purchased – and quickly.
By Ella Joyner
After a break of almost two years and a disastrous summit in April, Brussels and Beijing are once again talking about trade issues in a separate format – and apparently quite constructively. Things are also moving at other diplomatic levels. However, not necessarily to China's liking.
By Amelie Richter
Gas imports from the South Caucasus are intended to reduce the EU's dependence on Russia. But Gazprom is trying to disrupt the Union's political rescue attempts with ever new maneuvers.
By Manuel Berkel
To ensure that the transition to a greener transport system can succeed, the 27 EU member states must expand their charging infrastructure as quickly and extensively as possible. While the Commission and the Council have already defined their positions for the expansion, negotiations in the Parliament have so far stalled. Now, there are far-reaching compromises. However, "a few thick boards" still need to be drilled.
By Lukas Knigge
