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1. EU Proposes Major Tobacco Tax Overhaul
The European Commission has proposed a significant overhaul of the Tobacco Taxation Directive, aiming to increase minimum excise duties on cigarettes by 139 percent. The plan also includes introducing EU-wide minimum taxes on vapes, heated tobacco products, and nicotine pouches, but it remains under negotiation pending unanimous approval from member states.
2. France Establishes Right to Assisted Dying
French President Emmanuel Macron has enacted a law that grants a right to assisted dying for certain patients, following extensive public and parliamentary discussions. The legislation was published in the Official Journal after receiving approval from the Constitutional Council, albeit with several reservations.
3. Belgian Prince Acknowledges Son
Belgium’s Prince Laurent has officially recognized 26-year-old Clement Vandenkerckhove as his son, granting him the status of a prince and a legal heir. This acknowledgment was registered before a civil registrar, marking a significant moment for the royal family.
4. Spain Plans Urgent Transfer of Migrant Girls
Spain is moving ahead with plans to urgently transfer 500 migrant girls from Ceuta to the mainland, following a mass influx of migrants in late July. The Ministry for Youth and Children has stated that this initiative will include a royal decree-law mandating compulsory, solidarity-based reception for all involved.
5. Austria Calls for Stricter Telegram Oversight
Austria is urging the European Union to enhance oversight of the messaging platform Telegram, citing its role as a hub for extremist networks and disinformation. State Secretary Joerg Leichtfried emphasized the need to take action against the unchecked spread of harmful content on the platform.
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6. The annual inflation rate in the euro area rose to 2.9% in July, a slight increase from 2.8% in June, according to Eurostat. Similarly, inflation in the EU climbed to 3%, up from 2.9% the previous month, reflecting ongoing economic pressures.
7. French MEP Raphaël Glucksmann is preparing to announce his candidacy for the presidential election, positioning himself as a key figure on the center left. Despite hints from other prominent Socialists to pursue independent bids, polls indicate Glucksmann is the most viable candidate within his party.
8. Ukraine’s former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for presidential elections during wartime, citing a governance crisis in the country. His dismissal last month led to widespread protests, marking a significant moment as this is the first time a political figure has advocated for elections since the onset of the Russian invasion in 2022. Next.
ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard has passed away at the age of 77. The iconic musician was a key member of the rock band, which also included founder and lead vocalist Billy Gibbons. Following the death of bassist Dusty Hill in 2021, the group continued to perform with Elwood Francis stepping in. Gibbons expressed his sorrow, stating that they have lost a great friend and collaborator, while the music world mourns the loss of one of its most innovative drummers.
In Spain, an earthquake has struck the historic city of Granada, resulting in injuries to three individuals. The tremor caused damage to several buildings and vehicles, prompting the temporary closure of the renowned Alhambra palace. Local authorities are assessing the situation and providing assistance to those affected by the quake.
Turning to the weather. In Riga, 12 to 19 degrees with sunny feels like. In London, 17 to 24 degrees with overcast feels like. In Paris, 20 to 29 degrees with overcast feels like. In Brussels, 15 to 21 degrees with patchy rain possible feels like. In Berlin, 15 to 18 degrees with overcast low. In Stockholm, 11 to 20 degrees with sunny feels like. In Madrid, 25 to 33 degrees with sunny feels like.
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