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Ukraine and Moldova began the first phase of EU membership negotiations in Luxembourg on Monday, launching the cluster covering rule of law and democracy. The EU's enlargement chief expressed optimism that both countries could sustain momentum and open the remaining five clusters next month.
This commentary argues that British discussions about rejoining the EU are overly self-centered, ignoring the perspectives and priorities of existing member states. It contends that the UK must understand the EU's current agenda and the fact that many European countries are not eager to welcome Britain back, especially given other candidates like Ukraine.
Ukraine is advancing in its bid to join the European Union after Hungary, its biggest opponent within the bloc, dropped its objections. Negotiations for Ukraine to join the EU will begin, though the path to membership remains long.
The EU sanctioned Russia's Prosecutor General Alexander Gutsan and dozens of others for supporting the war in Ukraine or involvement in Alexei Navalny's death. The measures target sanctions-evading 'shadow fleet' operators, war propagandists, and military equipment makers, including entities in China, Turkey, and the UAE.
EU institutions finalized air passenger rights rules after over a decade of negotiations. Passengers will get a free personal item and small wheeled bag, plus €300-600 compensation for long delays or cancellations. The rules take effect in 2027.
EU foreign ministers failed to reach consensus on sanctions against Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas said Monday. France and Ireland had previously imposed their own bans, while Italy has an investigation underway.
Martin Sandbu argues that the UK's departure from the EU is temporary and that economic and political pressures will eventually drive Britain back into the bloc. He contends that the costs of Brexit are becoming increasingly apparent, making rejoining inevitable over the long term.
Philip Rycroft, former permanent secretary for exiting the EU, said 'Brexit is not done' and called for a debate on rejoining. He noted assumptions from 2016 have been undermined by events like Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The OBR estimates a 4% GDP loss from leaving the single market.
Philip Rycroft, a former Brexit supporter, argues that while rejoining the EU is not imminent, patient advocacy can build a solid majority for it. He contends that Brexit has not delivered transformational benefits and that the UK should reassess its national interest based on post-Brexit experience.
EU member states approved updated carbon efficiency benchmarks for the Emissions Trading System, determining free permit allocations for 2026-2030. The approval followed a European Commission pledge to fast-track a revision to increase free allowances, addressing industry concerns about costs.