Major developments are unfolding across the globe in today's top international headlines.



Delhi Protests | Houthi Missile Attack | Trump-Iran Tensions | France Wildfires | China Landslide 

France and Spain are battling one of the worst wildfire emergencies in recent years as extreme heat, dry conditions, and powerful winds fuel massive blazes across Western Europe.

In France, thousands of residents have been evacuated after wildfires burned more than 14,000 hectares, forcing people to flee by land and sea. Tourist destinations have also been affected as emergency crews race to contain the flames.

In Spain, firefighters are battling fast-moving wildfires near Madrid and other regions, while authorities have declared emergency measures. NASA even evacuated one of its deep-space communication facilities as flames approached the area. European Union countries have deployed specialized firefighting aircraft to support efforts across both nations.

Europe Wildfire Crisis | France and Spain Battle massive blazes amid extreme heat

From India's NEET protest talks to rising tensions in West Asia, today's biggest international developments are making headlines.

In this bulletin:

CJP and the government hold another round of talks over the NEET paper leak protests.
Yemen's Houthi forces claim a missile strike on Saudi Arabia.
Donald Trump says the US will not finalize a Saudi nuclear deal without normalization with Israel.
Trump threatens action after the EU's billion-dollar fine on Google.
French wildfires force mass evacuations.
China reports deaths after a deadly landslide.
Netanyahu orders a new settler outpost in the occupied West Bank.

Watch the full roundup of the biggest global developments shaping world politics, diplomacy, conflict, and international affairs.

NEET Protest | Trump's Saudi Deal | Houthi Attack |Europe Wildfires | China Landslide | Wion News 

The European Union (EU) has expressed strong opposition to US President Donald Trump’s threatened 30 per cent tariffs on imports from the bloc, due to take effect next month. Following a meeting of EU ministers in Brussels on July 14, EU officials made it clear that they are prepared to implement countermeasures if the tariffs are imposed, signalling a deepening trade rift between the two economic powerhouses. Maros Sefcovic, the EU’s trade representative, stated that the threat of such high tariffs is “absolutely unacceptable.”&nbsp;Sefcovic emphasised that while the EU remains committed to resolving the issue through negotiations, it must also be prepared for all potential outcomes. “It takes two hands to clap,” he remarked, referring to the necessity of cooperation from both sides to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Despite the escalating tensions, Sefcovic expressed hope that a deal could still be achieved. “A negotiated solution is much better than the tension we might face after August 1,” he added. The EU has proposed countermeasures targeting up to $24.5 billion worth of US goods, should the tariffs go into effect.<h2>US tariffs shake European economy</h2>The proposed tariffs have caused alarm within the EU, particularly in countries like Germany, which could be severely impacted by the trade restrictions. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that the 30 per cent tariff would “hit the German export industry to the core,” with significant knock-on effects for the wider European economy. The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) also issued a call for urgent negotiations to avoid a complete breakdown in transatlantic trade relations.On July 14, European stock markets dipped, with automotive and alcohol sectors bearing the brunt of the decline. Investors are increasingly concerned about the potential impact of a full-scale trade war between the US and Europe. According to analysts, the tariffs could disrupt established supply chains and harm businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.While EU officials are holding firm on their desire for a negotiated solution, the White House has signalled openness to further discussions. Speaking from the Oval Office, President Trump reiterated that he is “always open to talk,” including with European officials, and confirmed that EU representatives would be travelling to the US for trade talks in the coming days.<h2>EU’s countermeasures and global trade concerns</h2>The EU’s readiness to retaliate with counter-tariffs comes as part of a broader scramble by nations worldwide to strike trade agreements ahead of the looming August 1 deadline. South Korea, Canada, and Mexico are also in negotiations with the US to prevent the imposition of tariffs, with each country trying to secure exemptions or reduce the scope of the proposed duties.For now, the EU’s focus remains on avoiding a tariff conflict while seeking a fair and balanced trade deal. However, if a resolution is not reached soon, the consequences could be far-reaching for industries on both sides. From the wine producers in Italy to the US automotive sector, businesses are bracing for the possibility of substantial financial losses. The EU’s unified stance on the issue signals the bloc’s resolve to protect its economic interests, but with the August 1 deadline fast approaching, the clock is ticking for both sides to find common ground.

The EU’s readiness to retaliate with counter-tariffs comes as part of a broader scramble by nations worldwide to strike trade agreements ahead of the looming August 1 deadline. 

The European Union (EU) has expressed strong opposition to US President Donald Trump’s threatened 30 per cent tariffs on imports from the bloc, due to take effect next month. Following a meeting of EU ministers in Brussels on July 14, EU officials made it clear that they are prepared to implement countermeasures if the tariffs are imposed, signalling a deepening trade rift between the two economic powerhouses. Maros Sefcovic, the EU’s trade representative, stated that the threat of such high tariffs is “absolutely unacceptable.” Sefcovic emphasised that while the EU remains committed to resolving the issue through negotiations, it must also be prepared for all potential outcomes. “It takes two hands to clap,” he remarked, referring to the necessity of cooperation from both sides to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Despite the escalating tensions, Sefcovic expressed hope that a deal could still be achieved. “A negotiated solution is much better than the tension we might face after August 1,” he added. The EU has proposed countermeasures targeting up to $24.5 billion worth of US goods, should the tariffs go into effect. US tariffs shake European economy The proposed tariffs have caused alarm within the EU, particularly in countries like Germany, which could be severely impacted by the trade restrictions. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that the 30 per cent tariff would “hit the German export industry to the core,” with significant knock-on effects for the wider European economy. The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) also issued a call for urgent negotiations to avoid a complete breakdown in transatlantic trade relations. On July 14, European stock markets dipped, with automotive and alcohol sectors bearing the brunt of the decline. Investors are increasingly concerned about the potential impact of a full-scale trade war between the US and Europe. According to analysts, the tariffs could disrupt established supply chains and harm businesses on both sides of the Atlantic. While EU officials are holding firm on their desire for a negotiated solution, the White House has signalled openness to further discussions. Speaking from the Oval Office, President Trump reiterated that he is “always open to talk,” including with European officials, and confirmed that EU representatives would be travelling to the US for trade talks in the coming days. EU’s countermeasures and global trade concerns The EU’s readiness to retaliate with counter-tariffs comes as part of a broader scramble by nations worldwide to strike trade agreements ahead of the looming August 1 deadline. South Korea, Canada, and Mexico are also in negotiations with the US to prevent the imposition of tariffs, with each country trying to secure exemptions or reduce the scope of the proposed duties. For now, the EU’s focus remains on avoiding a tariff conflict while seeking a fair and balanced trade deal. However, if a resolution is not reached soon, the consequences could be far-reaching for industries on both sides. From the wine producers in Italy to the US automotive sector, businesses are bracing for the possibility of substantial financial losses. The EU’s unified stance on the issue signals the bloc’s resolve to protect its economic interests, but with the August 1 deadline fast approaching, the clock is ticking for both sides to find common ground.

The EU’s readiness to retaliate with counter-tariffs comes as part of a broader scramble by nations worldwide to strike trade agreements ahead of the looming August 1 deadline.&nbsp;

EU warns of retaliation as US tariffs loom over trade talks

The European Commission has proposed a floating price cap on Russian oil that would adjust quarterly to stay 15 per cent below global crude benchmarks, a significant policy shift aimed at tightening the squeeze on Moscow’s war revenues while preserving energy market stability. The new mechanism, part of the EU’s 18th sanctions package against Russia, would replace the current $60-per-barrel cap introduced by the G7 in December 2022. That cap has become largely ineffective due to rising global oil prices, with Brent crude settling at $70.36 per barrel on July 11, and Russia’s flagship Urals crude trading just $2 below the existing threshold.EU diplomats said the floating cap would be recalibrated every three months based on the 10-week average of global prices, making it more difficult for Russia to profit while remaining in compliance with international trade rules.<h2>Growing divide with the US</h2>The European Union and the United Kingdom have led efforts to revise the price ceiling, frustrated by US reluctance to lower the cap. Despite tentative American support for a $45-$50 range in 2025, the EU appears prepared to act independently. This divergence reflects ongoing transatlantic tension over how aggressively to enforce restrictions on Russian energy exports.Key EU maritime states, like Greece, Malta, and Cyprus, had previously resisted lowering the cap without broader G7 backing, but they are now open to the floating model, diplomats said. Enforcement, however, remains a major challenge. The cap bans Western firms from trading, shipping, or insuring Russian oil sold above the set price, but the Kremlin has increasingly routed exports through non-compliant countries like China and India.The proposed floating cap is intended to make enforcement more adaptive and difficult to circumvent, but experts warn that arbitrage opportunities could emerge. Non-G7 buyers purchasing Russian oil at steep discounts may profit by reselling it into global markets where higher prices prevail.<h2>Markets and investors watching closely</h2>Energy analysts say the mechanism could trigger shifts in trade flows and benefit shipping and energy infrastructure firms positioned to exploit changing routes and demand. Stocks tied to LNG terminals, renewables, and logistics may see upside amid Europe’s broader energy transition.Still, geopolitical risks persist. Russian retaliation, West Asian tensions, or further supply disruptions could backfire on the EU by spiking prices and undermining the cap’s intent. Final approval of the proposal requires unanimous support from all 27 EU member states, with Slovakia currently holding out over unrelated energy concessions. The Commission aims to finalise the measure in the coming weeks.

EU diplomats said the floating cap would be recalibrated every three months based on the 10-week average of global prices, making it more difficult for Russia to profit while remaining in compliance with international trade rules.

The European Commission has proposed a floating price cap on Russian oil that would adjust quarterly to stay 15 per cent below global crude benchmarks, a significant policy shift aimed at tightening the squeeze on Moscow’s war revenues while preserving energy market stability. The new mechanism, part of the EU’s 18th sanctions package against Russia, would replace the current $60-per-barrel cap introduced by the G7 in December 2022. That cap has become largely ineffective due to rising global oil prices, with Brent crude settling at $70.36 per barrel on July 11, and Russia’s flagship Urals crude trading just $2 below the existing threshold. EU diplomats said the floating cap would be recalibrated every three months based on the 10-week average of global prices, making it more difficult for Russia to profit while remaining in compliance with international trade rules. Growing divide with the US The European Union and the United Kingdom have led efforts to revise the price ceiling, frustrated by US reluctance to lower the cap. Despite tentative American support for a $45-$50 range in 2025, the EU appears prepared to act independently. This divergence reflects ongoing transatlantic tension over how aggressively to enforce restrictions on Russian energy exports. Key EU maritime states, like Greece, Malta, and Cyprus, had previously resisted lowering the cap without broader G7 backing, but they are now open to the floating model, diplomats said. Enforcement, however, remains a major challenge. The cap bans Western firms from trading, shipping, or insuring Russian oil sold above the set price, but the Kremlin has increasingly routed exports through non-compliant countries like China and India. The proposed floating cap is intended to make enforcement more adaptive and difficult to circumvent, but experts warn that arbitrage opportunities could emerge. Non-G7 buyers purchasing Russian oil at steep discounts may profit by reselling it into global markets where higher prices prevail. Markets and investors watching closely Energy analysts say the mechanism could trigger shifts in trade flows and benefit shipping and energy infrastructure firms positioned to exploit changing routes and demand. Stocks tied to LNG terminals, renewables, and logistics may see upside amid Europe’s broader energy transition. Still, geopolitical risks persist. Russian retaliation, West Asian tensions, or further supply disruptions could backfire on the EU by spiking prices and undermining the cap’s intent. Final approval of the proposal requires unanimous support from all 27 EU member states, with Slovakia currently holding out over unrelated energy concessions. The Commission aims to finalise the measure in the coming weeks.

EU diplomats said the floating cap would be recalibrated every three months based on the 10-week average of global prices, making it more difficult for Russia to profit while remaining in compliance with international trade rules.

EU pushes for floating price cap on Russian oil to undercut Kremlin revenues

The European Commission is set to unveil a sweeping proposal next week that would impose a new tax on large companies operating within the EU, aiming to secure fresh independent revenue streams for the bloc’s €1 trillion-plus ($1.16 billion) common budget. According to a draft proposal seen by the Financial Times, the so-called “corporate resource for Europe” would target companies with annual net turnover exceeding €50 million ($58.4 million), regardless of where they are headquartered.&nbsp;The measure, still under internal discussion, is part of a broader push to diversify the EU’s sources of income as it faces rising expenditure demands, from defence and climate initiatives to mounting debt interest. The proposed levy would use a bracket system, with companies generating the highest revenues contributing more. If adopted, this tax would apply uniformly to all qualifying firms across the 27-member bloc, a move that could include multinational giants from the US, China, and other non-EU countries.However, implementation remains uncertain. The tax would require unanimous approval from all EU member states, a high bar that has thwarted previous efforts to introduce bloc-wide taxes, such as the long-shelved financial transaction tax or a digital services levy aimed at Big Tech. The current draft appears to drop earlier proposals for a targeted digital services tax, a concession likely made to avoid further tensions with the US, where President Donald Trump has sharply criticised the EU’s approach to regulating American tech firms.<h2>Additional levies on e-waste, tobacco under consideration</h2>In addition to the corporate tax, the Commission is also weighing several other revenue-generating measures, including a levy on non-recycled electronic waste, a share of increased tobacco excise duties, and a handling fee on long-distance e-commerce packages—a charge expected to disproportionately affect imports from China.The proposal, due to be officially announced alongside the EU’s next seven-year budget plan, includes placeholders for some financial details, indicating internal negotiations are still underway. A Commission spokesperson declined to comment on the specifics of the draft, noting that the content remains subject to change.Brussels argues the need for new, stable revenue sources is growing urgent. The EU’s budget, traditionally funded largely by national contributions and a few independent revenue streams like customs duties and VAT, is under pressure as spending rises sharply. Existing levies such as the emissions trading system and the upcoming carbon border adjustment mechanism—expected to generate €1.5 billion (1.75 billion) annually starting in 2026—will also be reviewed and possibly expanded.Yet political resistance looms large. Countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, and Sweden have historically opposed efforts to increase the EU budget or introduce new EU-level taxes. Corporate Europe is also likely to push back, especially amid slow economic growth and high energy costs.

The measure, still under internal discussion, is part of a broader push to diversify the EU’s sources of income as it faces rising expenditure demands, from defence and climate initiatives to mounting debt interest. 

The European Commission is set to unveil a sweeping proposal next week that would impose a new tax on large companies operating within the EU, aiming to secure fresh independent revenue streams for the bloc’s €1 trillion-plus ($1.16 billion) common budget. According to a draft proposal seen by the Financial Times, the so-called “corporate resource for Europe” would target companies with annual net turnover exceeding €50 million ($58.4 million), regardless of where they are headquartered. The measure, still under internal discussion, is part of a broader push to diversify the EU’s sources of income as it faces rising expenditure demands, from defence and climate initiatives to mounting debt interest. The proposed levy would use a bracket system, with companies generating the highest revenues contributing more. If adopted, this tax would apply uniformly to all qualifying firms across the 27-member bloc, a move that could include multinational giants from the US, China, and other non-EU countries. However, implementation remains uncertain. The tax would require unanimous approval from all EU member states, a high bar that has thwarted previous efforts to introduce bloc-wide taxes, such as the long-shelved financial transaction tax or a digital services levy aimed at Big Tech. The current draft appears to drop earlier proposals for a targeted digital services tax, a concession likely made to avoid further tensions with the US, where President Donald Trump has sharply criticised the EU’s approach to regulating American tech firms. Additional levies on e-waste, tobacco under consideration In addition to the corporate tax, the Commission is also weighing several other revenue-generating measures, including a levy on non-recycled electronic waste, a share of increased tobacco excise duties, and a handling fee on long-distance e-commerce packages—a charge expected to disproportionately affect imports from China. The proposal, due to be officially announced alongside the EU’s next seven-year budget plan, includes placeholders for some financial details, indicating internal negotiations are still underway. A Commission spokesperson declined to comment on the specifics of the draft, noting that the content remains subject to change. Brussels argues the need for new, stable revenue sources is growing urgent. The EU’s budget, traditionally funded largely by national contributions and a few independent revenue streams like customs duties and VAT, is under pressure as spending rises sharply. Existing levies such as the emissions trading system and the upcoming carbon border adjustment mechanism—expected to generate €1.5 billion (1.75 billion) annually starting in 2026—will also be reviewed and possibly expanded. Yet political resistance looms large. Countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, and Sweden have historically opposed efforts to increase the EU budget or introduce new EU-level taxes. Corporate Europe is also likely to push back, especially amid slow economic growth and high energy costs.

The measure, still under internal discussion, is part of a broader push to diversify the EU’s sources of income as it faces rising expenditure demands, from defence and climate initiatives to mounting debt interest.&nbsp;

EU eyes new corporate tax to boost budget revenues amid rising spending demands

Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Estonia, Greece, Iceland, Ireland and Spain – who have reportedly confirmed accepting travellers administered with Covishield vaccine.

New Delhi hardens stance to allow Covishield for greenpass

European Union has excluded COVID-19 vaccine Covishield from its 'Green Pass' list. India has formally raised the issue with the EU. Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute, said he has taken this up at the “highest levels”.

Covishield not on EU vaccine 'Green Pass'list

The European Union has blamed China and Russia for discrediting western vaccines and promoting their own jabs. WION's Palki tells you why vaccine propaganda can prove lethal in a public health crisis.

Gravitas: E.U blames China, Russia for vaccine disinformation

The EMA found that all instances of clotting had occurred in adults under 60 years, mostly women, within three weeks of vaccination with J&J's single shot.

EU backs J&J COVID-19 vaccine despite blood clot risk

One in five people in the European Union, or more than 92.4 million of the bloc's population experienced poverty, said a United Nations report. This amounts to 21.1 per cent of the population experiencing poverty. The observation has been made by Olivier De Schutter, a UN special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, who interviewed dozens of EU officials to make his assessment.

De Schutter warned that the EU institutions -- which include the commission, the European Central Bank and the council of ministers -- must use the current covid crisis to "reinvent themselves" to fight poverty.

He also criticised EU&nbsp;policymakers for being focussed on austerity and balanced budgets rather than lifting tens of millions of Europeans out of poverty.

Currently, "EU member states are asked to be competitive and lean: they are pardoned for not being social enough," said the report.

EU member states all too often "compete with each other in very unhelpful ways", stifling social progress.

"They race to the bottom by lowering taxes, wages, and worker protections because they think that's how they can attract investors and improve... competitiveness," said De Schutter.

He also slammed the EU's much vaunted Green Deal, a vast programme that is meant to ensure the EU becomes carbon neutral by 2050.

"The fight against poverty is the missing piece of this Green Deal" even though it was presented as a key component, he said.

"But as long as this good intention is not translated into concrete actions, millions will continue to struggle for a decent standard of living in a society that leaves them behind."

He urged the EU to implement its so-called European Pillar of Social Rights, which should include minimum income guarantees and legally binding targets to erase poverty.

It "is an opportunity that should not be wasted," he said.&nbsp;

One in five people in the European Union, or more than 92.4 million of the bloc's population experienced poverty, said a United Nations report. This amounts to 21.

One in five people in the European Union, or more than 92.4 million of the bloc's population experienced poverty, said a United Nations report. This amounts to 21.1 per cent of the population experiencing poverty. The observation has been made by Olivier De Schutter, a UN special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, who interviewed dozens of EU officials to make his assessment. De Schutter warned that the EU institutions -- which include the commission, the European Central Bank and the council of ministers -- must use the current covid crisis to "reinvent themselves" to fight poverty. He also criticised EU policymakers for being focussed on austerity and balanced budgets rather than lifting tens of millions of Europeans out of poverty. Currently, "EU member states are asked to be competitive and lean: they are pardoned for not being social enough," said the report. EU member states all too often "compete with each other in very unhelpful ways", stifling social progress. "They race to the bottom by lowering taxes, wages, and worker protections because they think that's how they can attract investors and improve... competitiveness," said De Schutter. He also slammed the EU's much vaunted Green Deal, a vast programme that is meant to ensure the EU becomes carbon neutral by 2050. "The fight against poverty is the missing piece of this Green Deal" even though it was presented as a key component, he said. "But as long as this good intention is not translated into concrete actions, millions will continue to struggle for a decent standard of living in a society that leaves them behind." He urged the EU to implement its so-called European Pillar of Social Rights, which should include minimum income guarantees and legally binding targets to erase poverty. It "is an opportunity that should not be wasted," he said.

More than 92 million people in EU experience poverty: UN report

The European Union has officially launched its programme of mass vaccination against Covid-19, with the goal of making shots available to all its adult population by the end of 2021

EU launches mass Covid-19 vaccination drive

EU leaders have called for post-Brexit trade talks to continue beyond the end of the week - the deadline suggested by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

EU-UK trade deal post-Brexit: EU leaders stress unity of 27-nation bloc

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Delhi Protests | Houthi Missile Attack | Trump-Iran Tensions | France Wildfires | China Landslide

Europe Wildfire Crisis | France and Spain Battle massive blazes amid extreme heat

NEET Protest | Trump's Saudi Deal | Houthi Attack |Europe Wildfires | China Landslide | Wion News

NEET Protest | Trump's Saudi Deal | Houthi Attack |Europe Wildfires | China Landslide | Wion News

EU warns of retaliation as US tariffs loom over trade talks

EU pushes for floating price cap on Russian oil to undercut Kremlin revenues

EU eyes new corporate tax to boost budget revenues amid rising spending demands

New Delhi hardens stance to allow Covishield for greenpass

Covishield not on EU vaccine 'Green Pass'list

Gravitas: E.U blames China, Russia for vaccine disinformation

EU backs J&J COVID-19 vaccine despite blood clot risk

More than 92 million people in EU experience poverty: UN report

EU launches mass Covid-19 vaccination drive

EU-UK trade deal post-Brexit: EU leaders stress unity of 27-nation bloc