EU News Highlights: May 25–31, 2025

Last week was a pivotal period for the European Union, marked by significant developments in defense, foreign policy, and international cooperation. From confronting internal challenges related to democratic values to forging stronger defense mechanisms amid global uncertainties, the EU demonstrated its commitment to safeguarding its principles and enhancing security. This article dives into eight crucial news events that shaped the EU’s strategic direction and international standing, providing insights into how these decisions impact both member states and the global community.

Bulgarians Protest Euro Adoption Plans

• On May 31, thousands of Bulgarians took to the streets in Sofia and other major cities to protest the government's plans to adopt the euro. Demonstrators, led by civic groups and nationalist parties, demanded a national referendum on the issue, expressing concerns over potential inflation and reduced purchasing power. President Rumen Radev supported the call for a referendum but was rebuffed by a pro-EU parliamentary majority who accused him of promoting Russian interests and undermining Bulgaria’s path to deeper European integration amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

EU Expresses Regret Over Increased US Steel Tariffs

• The European Commission has expressed strong regret over U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%. The move, announced on Friday, is seen as escalating trade tensions and increasing economic uncertainty. The commission criticized the decision for raising costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic and undermining ongoing efforts towards a negotiated solution. While the EU had previously paused its countermeasures to foster dialogue, the Commission announced it is finalizing preparations for expanded retaliatory measures. These counteractions will automatically come into effect on or before July 14 if no mutually acceptable agreement is reached.

EU Scales Back Carbon Border Tariff Scope

• On May 27, European Union countries agreed to scale back the scope of the bloc's upcoming carbon border tariff, significantly narrowing its application. Originally set to impact approximately 200,000 importers, the revised plan will now apply to just 10% of those companies. These firms reportedly account for over 99% of the emissions covered by the carbon border adjustment mechanism. The measure aims to protect EU producers from competition with imports from countries with less strict climate regulations by aligning import costs with the EU’s internal carbon pricing.

UK Travelers to Face Biometric Checks at EU Borders

• Starting in November 2025, UK holidaymakers traveling to the EU by ferry will face extended border checks due to the implementation of the EU’s new Entry Exit System (EES). This system requires British travelers to provide both fingerprints and facial scans upon their initial entry into the EU. While subsequent visits should ideally require only one biometric verification, delays in the readiness of new processing technology at key transit points such as the Port of Dover mean that both checks will be necessary each time, potentially adding up to six minutes per vehicle. An app developed by the European border agency Frontex, designed to speed up the biometric data collection, is not expected to be operational before November. Consequently, manual checks will persist, causing potential congestion. Significant infrastructure upgrades are underway at Dover to manage the increased processing time and volume. Although discussions are ongoing to permit British travelers to use e-gates in European airports to reduce wait times, no formal agreement has been made yet. Government officials continue to advocate for streamlined travel procedures to avoid delays, especially during busy holiday periods.

EU Adopts 15th Sanctions Package Against Russia

• The European Commission has welcomed the adoption this week by the Council of the EU of the 15th sanctions package against Russia. The focus of this package is to keep cracking down on Russia's shadow fleet, as well as combating sanctions' circumvention. It also includes substantial individual and entity listings related to the Russian military-industrial complex and increases the legal protection of EU Central Securities Depositories. With this package, the EU has, for the first time, imposed ‘fully-fledged' sanctions (travel ban, asset freeze, and prohibition to make economic resources available) on various Chinese actors.

Hungary's Controversial LGBTQ+ Law Faces EU Backlash

• Hungary's recent legislation, which could effectively ban Pride events and restrict LGBTQ+ freedoms, has drawn criticism from over 20 EU member states. The law permits fines against organizers and participants of such events and allows the use of facial recognition to identify them. At least 20 of the 27 EU countries, including major powers like France, Germany, and Spain, signed a declaration expressing concern that the legislation violates core EU values of human dignity, freedom, and equality. The European Commission is analyzing the law and considering action under its rule-of-law mechanisms. Hungary insists the legislation is misunderstood, arguing it protects children’s rights and does not constitute a ban on Pride events. Additionally, the EU is alarmed by another draft bill that threatens to penalize organizations deemed threats to Hungary’s sovereignty, possibly breaching EU law. The ongoing disputes have led the EU to withhold €18 billion in funds from Hungary. These tensions are further exacerbated by Hungary’s divergent stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, where it has obstructed EU aid and sanctions. The EU is increasingly considering measures that bypass Hungary’s opposition to uphold democratic principles.

EU Ministers Approve €150 Billion Arms Fund

• On May 27, 2025, European Union ministers approved the establishment of a €150 billion arms fund named the Security Action for Europe (SAFE), aimed at bolstering European defense capabilities amid concerns about potential Russian aggression and diminishing U.S. security assurances. The decision enables joint EU borrowing to provide loans for collaborative defense projects. The initiative responds to fears heightened by Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and reflects a strategic push to strengthen EU defense, complementing a 30% increase in military spending over the past three years. SAFE includes a “buy European” clause, requiring that 65% of project value originate from companies within the EU, the European Economic Area, or Ukraine. British firms may also participate following the UK’s recent Security and Defence Partnership with the EU. Russia has criticized the fund as war-provoking, but EU leaders view it as essential for deterrence and solidarity.

EU Extends Sanctions Against Syria

• The European Union has extended its sanctions against Syria until June 2025, expressing deep concern over the ongoing conflict and its humanitarian impact. The sanctions target 316 individuals and 86 entities, including government officials and organizations, imposing asset freezes and travel bans. The EU emphasizes its commitment to supporting the Syrian people and holding accountable those responsible for the prolonged crisis. These measures reflect the EU's stance on promoting peace and stability in the region.

EU to Strengthen Defense System Amid U.S. Pressure

• In response to the Trump administration's pressure on NATO allies to increase their defense contributions, the European Union has announced plans to strengthen its own defense infrastructure. President Donald Trump had emphasized that NATO countries should prioritize their own defense spending over relying on the United States. The EU's move signals a shift towards greater self-reliance in defense matters, contrasting what it described as “tough love” from the U.S. leadership with a preference for no involvement over pressuring alliances. This development marks a significant evolution in EU defense strategy amid changing transatlantic dynamics.

EU Seeks Companies' U.S. Investment Data for Trade Deal

• The European Union has requested major European business organizations, BusinessEurope and the European Round Table for Industry (ERT), to gather updated data on their members' investments in the United States. This initiative is part of the EU's efforts to expedite trade negotiations with the Trump administration. The move follows President Trump's postponement of a proposed 50% tariff on EU imports until July 9, allowing both sides to agree on fast-tracking trade talks. According to an ERT spokesperson, the gathered data aims to highlight the significant value of trans-Atlantic economic and trade relations.

India-EU Naval Exercise in Indian Ocean

• India and the European Union are conducting a joint naval exercise in the Indian Ocean from June 1 to June 3, 2025. This collaboration aims to enhance maritime security through advanced counter-piracy operations, improved interoperability between naval forces, tactical maneuvers, and strengthened communication protocols. The exercise reflects the deepening strategic maritime relationship between India and the EU as they work together to address common security challenges in the Indian Ocean region.

EU Chief and 27 Commissioners to Visit India

• European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, accompanied by all 27 EU Commissioners, is scheduled to visit India from February 27 to 28, 2025. This unprecedented visit underscores the importance both the EU and India attach to taking their strategic partnership to a new level. During the visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold delegation-level talks with President von der Leyen, focusing on enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including trade, technology, and global security. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and explore new avenues for collaboration between the two entities.

EU Extends Sanctions Against Syria Until June 2025

• The European Union has extended its sanctions against Syria until June 2025, expressing deep concern over the ongoing conflict and its humanitarian impact. The sanctions target 316 individuals and 86 entities, including government officials and organizations, imposing asset freezes and travel bans. The EU emphasizes its commitment to supporting the Syrian people and holding accountable those responsible for the prolonged crisis. These measures reflect the EU's stance on promoting peace and stability in the region.

The European Union’s actions over the past week underscore a clear focus on reinforcing democratic values, boosting defense capabilities, and strengthening strategic alliances. By addressing complex challenges both within its borders and on the international stage, the EU is positioning itself as a resilient and proactive actor in global affairs. These developments not only affect Europe but also influence the broader geopolitical landscape, signaling a more assertive and united Europe moving forward.

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