Protests erupted in Tbilisi as the pro-Russian Georgian Dream party secured the presidency for ex-footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili through an electoral college, bypassing a public vote. The opposition boycotted the election, citing it as rigged. The EU and other international bodies criticized the process, urging respect for the Georgian people's pro-EU aspirations. The Georgian government, led by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, faces backlash for withdrawing from EU accession talks and introducing controversial laws, leading to widespread demonstrations and international sanctions.

South Korean lawmakers impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol following his controversial declaration of martial law, which was perceived as a power grab after a political defeat. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assumed the presidency, promising to stabilize the situation. The EU emphasized the need for a constitutional resolution, while citizens celebrated the impeachment, marking a significant political shift in South Korea.

The European Union is setting conditions for renegotiating the trade deal with the United Kingdom, including accepting the jurisdiction of the Court of Justice of the European Union, maintaining EU fishermen's access to British waters, and implementing a youth mobility program similar to Erasmus. These demands, originating from a document by the Hungarian government, are prerequisites for formal talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government. The EU is firm on maintaining the status quo on fishing rights and insists on the UK adopting EU food safety rules. The first review of the existing Trade and Cooperation Agreement is scheduled for 2026.

The European Union is strategizing to counter potential trade tariffs from the Trump administration by increasing imports of American products, particularly liquefied natural gas, to balance trade relations. The EU is also preparing a range of defensive measures, including retaliatory tariffs on American goods, leveraging the anti-coercion instrument, and potentially filing complaints with the World Trade Organization. The EU's approach aims to pressure the US administration while maintaining adherence to international trade rules. The article highlights the economic impact of previous tariffs on companies like Harley-Davidson and discusses the EU's potential use of technical trade barriers and public procurement restrictions as part of its strategy.

The European Union is preparing strategies to counter potential trade conflicts with the United States under Donald Trump's administration. Options include increasing imports of U.S. liquified natural gas, retaliating against U.S. products, and utilizing the Anti-Coercion Instrument. The EU may also consider legal actions through the World Trade Organization, though its effectiveness is limited. Other measures include investigating U.S. subsidies and technical barriers to trade. The article highlights the EU's cautious approach to maintaining trade relations while preparing for possible confrontations.

Maroš Šefčovič, the European commissioner, was confirmed after a successful hearing where he emphasized free trade and outlined priorities including EU competitiveness, defending businesses, and deepening alliances. He plans to revamp the EU-U.S. Trade and Technology Council and is negotiating with China over EV duties. Šefčovič aims to accelerate EU customs reform and address tensions with China, while condemning sanctions evasion on Russia. His confirmation comes ahead of Poland's Council presidency, which is expected to advance new Russia sanctions.

The European Union is set to impose duties on Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, citing unfair subsidies. Despite last-minute negotiations, the duties will take effect, impacting companies like BYD, SAIC, and Geely. The move aims to protect EU carmakers by leveling the playing field, though it risks Chinese retaliation, particularly affecting Germany's auto industry. The duties are part of a broader strategy to enhance EU competitiveness in the EV market, but challenges remain as China leads in EV technology. The debate continues on how best to support European automakers amid shifting global dynamics.

The European Union is preparing to renew discussions on imposing further sanctions on Russia, particularly targeting its energy exports, as Hungary's presidency, seen as obstructive, ends. Poland, taking over the EU presidency, aims to push for stricter measures against Russian energy imports, addressing loopholes in the current sanctions regime. The EU's strategy will focus on refining sanctions design and enforcement, with Poland advocating for increased transparency in tracking Russian fossil fuel imports. The European Commission's proposal is awaited to advance these discussions.

Germany, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, will oppose EU duties on Chinese electric vehicles in an upcoming vote, despite internal coalition disagreements. Scholz's Social Democrats, favoring a more Beijing-friendly approach, clashed with the Green Party's preference for a tougher stance. The liberal FDP also supports a 'no' vote. Germany's unexpected opposition could influence other EU countries, though significant support is needed to overturn the duties. Scholz utilized executive power to align the coalition's stance, highlighting the political dynamics within Germany's government.

The European Union is set to vote on imposing duties on Chinese electric vehicles, a move that could impact the European auto industry and potentially trigger a trade war with China. Germany, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, opposes the tariffs but faces challenges in blocking them due to the EU's qualified majority voting system. The European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, recommended the duties following an anti-subsidy probe. While some EU countries support the tariffs, others, like Spain and Italy, have called for a negotiated solution. Germany's internal political divisions further complicate its position, and it would need significant support from other EU countries to block the tariffs.