News

Türkiye: EU seeks closer cooperation

Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos used a visit to Ankara to signal an initial step toward rapprochement.

By Antonia Zimmermann

20th sanctions package: EU aims to significantly curb Russia’s oil revenues

Under its proposed 20th sanctions package, the EU aims to further reduce Russia’s revenues through a sweeping ban on services for Russian crude oil, supplemented by measures targeting the financial sector, cryptocurrencies and expanded export controls.

By Stephan Israel

Media freedom: Commission issues guidelines for large platforms

The guidelines provide guidance on implementing Article 18(1) of the Media Freedom Act, detailing platforms’ responsibilities toward professional journalism and the remedies available to media companies in cases of content removal.

By Corinna Visser

Pakistan: China pledges support after terror attack

China has condemned a mosque attack in Islamabad and promised support for the Pakistani government. After recent attacks in the Balochistan region, China has also been increasingly concerned about the security of its own citizens in Pakistan.

By Leonardo Pape

Jimmy Lai: Verdict against Hong Kong publisher due on Monday

The verdict against Hong Kong media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai is set to be delivered on Monday morning. Beijing views Lai as a mastermind of the 2019 protests and a conspirator. His detention has been widely criticized as politically motivated.

By Leonardo Pape

TikTok: EU Commission alleges addictive design

Based on its preliminary findings in the investigation launched in 2024, the Commission has identified serious breaches of the DSA. TikTok’s algorithmic recommendation systems are also in the spotlight.

By Corinna Visser

Automotive: BYD and MG expand dealer networks

To reach more private customers, BYD and MG are planning a major expansion of their sales footprints in Germany, luring dealers with bonuses and other incentives. BYD aims to double its registrations in 2026.

By Ning Wang

Japan: Prime Minister Takaichi strengthened after parliamentary election

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi scored a clear victory in the parliamentary election with her LDP party. The stable majority is likely to accelerate Takaichi’s plans to strengthen national defense.

By Leonardo Pape

Thailand: Hope for political stability after elections

After Thailand’s parliamentary election, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s party is clearly in the lead. This could make it easier to form a stable coalition government and spare the country further political uncertainty.

By Leonardo Pape

EU-Wettbewerbsfähigkeit: Merz und Meloni machen vor informellem Gipfel Druck

By Markus Grabitz