EU mobilises additional €50 million for Ukraine’s urgent winter energy needs

The European Commission, together with the European Investment Bank, has today provided an additional €50 million to Ukraine’s state-owned energy company, Naftogaz. It will support the country’s energy system amidst the harshest winter conditions since the start of the war. In the face of ongoing Russian attacks targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and sharply dropping temperatures, […]

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Informal Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting in Nicosia

On 22 and 23 January, Justice and Interior Ministers from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries gathered in Nicosia, Cyprus, for an informal Justice and Home Affairs Council session.   On 22 January, Commissioner Magnus Brunner represented the European Commission, addressing EU Home Affairs issues. Discussions centred on sustainable approaches to returns and reintegration, steered […]

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EU announces €153 million in humanitarian aid to Ukraine and Moldova

The European Commission is announcing €153 million in emergency aid to Ukraine and refugee-hosting Moldova, as millions Ukrainians face freezing temperatures without power under sustained Russian bombardment of energy infrastructure. Responding to the urgent needs, the EU is allocating an initial €145 million in humanitarian aid for Ukraine to provide protection assistance, shelter, food, cash […]

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Silandro, Caldas da Rainha and Barcelona named 2026 European capitals of small retail

Today, Silandro/Schlanders in Italy, Caldas da Rainha, in Portugal, and Barcelona, in Spain, have been named as the 2026 European Capitals of Small Retail. The awards recognise small, medium, and large-sized cities that excel in supporting small retailers and vibrant city centres in 4 key areas: sustainability, entrepreneurship/community engagement, digitalisation, and urban vitality.  This important recognition will elevate the role of small retailers as a […]

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