Vice President of the European Parliament has been arrested. Eva Kaili along with four others were detained in an investigation into alleged bribery by a Gulf State.

Greek M.E.P suspended over graft probe, Eva Kaili arrested over bribery

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission released new guidance Thursday. The guidance issues security to disclose to investors, their exposure and risk to the cryptocurrency market.

U.S. SEC issues new guidance on cryptocurrency risks

Croatia will become the latest European country to enter the continent’s check-free travel zone known as the Schengen area. The European Union agreed on Thursday to let Croatia join the bloc but the wait continued for Bulgaria and Romania as their requests will be considered in the next official meeting.&nbsp;

“The&nbsp;Schengen area&nbsp;is growing for the first time in more than a decade,” the Czech Republic, which holds the EU presidency at the moment, tweeted from their official government handle.&nbsp;

“Ministers approved&nbsp;Croatia’s&nbsp;membership as of 1 January 2023!” the tweet further stated.&nbsp;

The Schengen area allows any person to travel freely within the member countries. It comprises of 26 countries — 22 EU states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-basketball-star-brittney-griner-on-her-way-home-confirms-joe-biden-541338">US basketball star Brittney Griner released in prisoner swap for arms dealer</a>

“When it comes to the accession of Romania and Bulgaria, we are not united and that makes us very weak and that makes me also sad,” Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson told reporters.&nbsp;

“You deserve to be full members of Schengen, you deserve to have access to the free movement in the Schengen area,” Johansson said before adding that a number of ministers supported the two nations.&nbsp;

Bulgaria and Romania joined in 2007 while Croatia became a part in 2013. However, a lack of unity in the decision between the two nations has resulted in Croatia gaining access ahead of them.&nbsp;

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and other members of the cabinet took to social media to express their pleasure. "Croatia is in Schengen!" Deputy Prime Minister Davor Božinović tweeted.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Croatia will become the latest European country to enter the continent’s check-free travel zone known as the Schengen area. The European Union agreed on Thursday to let Croatia join the bloc but the wait continued for Bulgaria and Romania as their requests will be considered in the next official meeting.

Croatia will become the latest European country to enter the continent’s check-free travel zone known as the Schengen area. The European Union agreed on Thursday to let Croatia join the bloc but the wait continued for Bulgaria and Romania as their requests will be considered in the next official meeting. “The Schengen area is growing for the first time in more than a decade,” the Czech Republic, which holds the EU presidency at the moment, tweeted from their official government handle. “Ministers approved Croatia’s membership as of 1 January 2023!” the tweet further stated. The Schengen area allows any person to travel freely within the member countries. It comprises of 26 countries — 22 EU states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Also read | US basketball star Brittney Griner released in prisoner swap for arms dealer “When it comes to the accession of Romania and Bulgaria, we are not united and that makes us very weak and that makes me also sad,” Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson told reporters. “You deserve to be full members of Schengen, you deserve to have access to the free movement in the Schengen area,” Johansson said before adding that a number of ministers supported the two nations. Bulgaria and Romania joined in 2007 while Croatia became a part in 2013. However, a lack of unity in the decision between the two nations has resulted in Croatia gaining access ahead of them. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and other members of the cabinet took to social media to express their pleasure. "Croatia is in Schengen!" Deputy Prime Minister Davor Božinović tweeted.

Croatia to join Schengen zone but Bulgaria, Romania bids rejected by EU

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruled on Thursday that Google will have to remove data from its online search results if any user can prove that it is accurate. This was a major boost for privacy rights and free speech activists who have been asking for people's "right to be forgotten" online.&nbsp;

"The operator of a search engine must de-reference information found in the referenced content where the person requesting de-referencing proves that such information is manifestly inaccurate," the Court of Justice of the European Union said in its judgement according to Associated Press.&nbsp;

There have been demands from various groups about the removal of any trace of their online presence but the judgement will help them in strengthening their case from a factual standpoint. The decision came in a case concerning two investment company executives who wanted Google to remove certain articles about their investment model – information that they proved to be “incorrect”.&nbsp;

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As part of the judgement, the thumbnails of the concerned news articles will also have to be changed with no traces of the two individuals. While Google had initially refused the request, the judgement is seen to be a middle ground for the right to be forgotten and the right to freedom of expression.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the judgement, Google said that the thumbnails were already removed and the rest of the judgement will be implemented in the coming days by all related search engines.&nbsp;

"Since 2014, we've worked hard to implement the right to be forgotten in Europe, and to strike a sensible balance between people’s rights of access to information and privacy," a spokesperson said.&nbsp;

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The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruled on Thursday that Google will have to remove data from its online search results if any user can prove that it is accurate.

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruled on Thursday that Google will have to remove data from its online search results if any user can prove that it is accurate. This was a major boost for privacy rights and free speech activists who have been asking for people's "right to be forgotten" online. "The operator of a search engine must de-reference information found in the referenced content where the person requesting de-referencing proves that such information is manifestly inaccurate," the Court of Justice of the European Union said in its judgement according to Associated Press. There have been demands from various groups about the removal of any trace of their online presence but the judgement will help them in strengthening their case from a factual standpoint. The decision came in a case concerning two investment company executives who wanted Google to remove certain articles about their investment model – information that they proved to be “incorrect”. Also read | US basketball star Brittney Griner released in prisoner swap for arms dealer As part of the judgement, the thumbnails of the concerned news articles will also have to be changed with no traces of the two individuals. While Google had initially refused the request, the judgement is seen to be a middle ground for the right to be forgotten and the right to freedom of expression. In the aftermath of the judgement, Google said that the thumbnails were already removed and the rest of the judgement will be implemented in the coming days by all related search engines. "Since 2014, we've worked hard to implement the right to be forgotten in Europe, and to strike a sensible balance between people’s rights of access to information and privacy," a spokesperson said.

Google must remove 'inaccurate data' if proven, EU top court says in judgement

The European Commission on Wednesday (December 7) proposed a ninth package of sanction on Russia. The sanctions proposed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would include almost 200 more individuals and entities on the EU sanctions list.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the commission favoured new sanctions against three additional Russian banks and new export controls and restrictions. Thes, she said, were especially for dual-use goods like key chemicals nerve agents, electronics and IT components.

In a video statement, von der Leyen said Russia "continues to bring death and devastation to Ukraine and is deliberately targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, seeking to paralyse the country at the beginning of the winter."

She stressed that eight packages of sanctions already imposed by the EU were already hitting Russia very hard. Now, the bloc intends to raise the pressure on Russia with a ninth package.

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Sanctions require the unanimous backing of all the bloc's 27 member states, but most of the measures proposed in the first eight packages were approved by their representative European Council within weeks, though some were dropped or watered down.

(With input from agencies)

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The European Commission on Wednesday (December 7) proposed a ninth package of sanction on Russia. The sanctions proposed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would include almost 200 more individuals and entities on the EU sanctions list.

The European Commission on Wednesday (December 7) proposed a ninth package of sanction on Russia. The sanctions proposed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine would include almost 200 more individuals and entities on the EU sanctions list. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the commission favoured new sanctions against three additional Russian banks and new export controls and restrictions. Thes, she said, were especially for dual-use goods like key chemicals nerve agents, electronics and IT components. In a video statement, von der Leyen said Russia "continues to bring death and devastation to Ukraine and is deliberately targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, seeking to paralyse the country at the beginning of the winter." She stressed that eight packages of sanctions already imposed by the EU were already hitting Russia very hard. Now, the bloc intends to raise the pressure on Russia with a ninth package. Also Read | US slams Russian 'loose talk' on nuclear weapons after Putin remarks Sanctions require the unanimous backing of all the bloc's 27 member states, but most of the measures proposed in the first eight packages were approved by their representative European Council within weeks, though some were dropped or watered down. (With input from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

EU proposes more sanctions on Russia, ninth such package 

More than 40 manufacturers, shippers and industry groups including Siemens, Maersk and Unilever called on the EU on Thursday. This was done to mandate that all freight trucks be zero-emission models by 2035.

Over 40 manufacturers call on the EU for zero- emission freight trucks

In a series of decisions, European Union’s privacy regulators have said that Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms’ Inc should not require users to agree to personalised advertisements based on their digital activity, said a report by the Wall Street Journal. This could affect the company’s access to sell such ads which also reportedly contribute a significant amount to Meta’s revenue.&nbsp;

The personalised advertisements in question are the ones that the social media platforms show tp their users based on their activity, clicks and what they watch within Meta’s own apps. Notably, Meta users can opt out of ads based on their activity on other websites and apps, a provision that has been in place for years but is not applicable for ads data based on user activity on its own platforms.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-parent-meta-threatens-to-remove-news-from-platform-if-us-passes-media-bill-540386">Facebook parent Meta threatens to remove news from platform if US passes media bill</a>

This comes after the European Union privacy regulators approved a series of decisions, in line with their privacy laws, which cannot be evaded by Meta using their terms of service as a justification, said a person familiar with the matter to the WSJ. However, the board’s ruling which was approved on Monday has not been made public yet.&nbsp;

According to the report, if users are allowed to opt out of such targeted ads, platforms like Facebook and Instagram would have less access to user information which is used to build these ads, and people close to the company say these ads contribute significantly to the platforms’ revenue.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-and-eu-held-meet-to-resolve-trade-tensions-between-them-540647">U.S. and EU held meet to resolve trade tensions between them</a>

Notably, the EU does not plan on directly ordering Meta to change its advertising practices, as it plans to call upon Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DCP) to issue public orders and levy significant fines which would be in line with its decision, said the WSJ report, citing people familiar with the matter. Ireland is also home to Meta’s headquarters in the 27-country bloc. &nbsp;

However, Meta can appeal the potential Irish as well as the EU decision which would at least lead to suspension of the potentially lengthy litigation, but if it is upheld the company would have to make changes to its practices.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/meta-warns-one-million-users-about-potential-data-leak-through-malicious-apps-523435">Meta warns one million users about potential data leak through malicious apps</a>

Meta’s spokesperson told the WSJ, that EU law could allow for other legal justifications for its advertising practices and that it is too early to speculate since this is not the final decision. “We’ve engaged fully with the DPC on their inquiries and will continue to engage with them as they finalise their decision,” said the spokesperson. &nbsp; 
 
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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

In a series of decisions, European Union’s privacy regulators have said that Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms’ Inc should not require users to agree to personalised advertisements based on their digital activity, said a report by the Wall Street Journal.

In a series of decisions, European Union’s privacy regulators have said that Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms’ Inc should not require users to agree to personalised advertisements based on their digital activity, said a report by the Wall Street Journal. This could affect the company’s access to sell such ads which also reportedly contribute a significant amount to Meta’s revenue. The personalised advertisements in question are the ones that the social media platforms show tp their users based on their activity, clicks and what they watch within Meta’s own apps. Notably, Meta users can opt out of ads based on their activity on other websites and apps, a provision that has been in place for years but is not applicable for ads data based on user activity on its own platforms. ALSO READ | Facebook parent Meta threatens to remove news from platform if US passes media bill This comes after the European Union privacy regulators approved a series of decisions, in line with their privacy laws, which cannot be evaded by Meta using their terms of service as a justification, said a person familiar with the matter to the WSJ. However, the board’s ruling which was approved on Monday has not been made public yet. According to the report, if users are allowed to opt out of such targeted ads, platforms like Facebook and Instagram would have less access to user information which is used to build these ads, and people close to the company say these ads contribute significantly to the platforms’ revenue. ALSO WATCH | U.S. and EU held meet to resolve trade tensions between them Notably, the EU does not plan on directly ordering Meta to change its advertising practices, as it plans to call upon Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DCP) to issue public orders and levy significant fines which would be in line with its decision, said the WSJ report, citing people familiar with the matter. Ireland is also home to Meta’s headquarters in the 27-country bloc. However, Meta can appeal the potential Irish as well as the EU decision which would at least lead to suspension of the potentially lengthy litigation, but if it is upheld the company would have to make changes to its practices. ALSO READ | Meta warns one million users about potential data leak through malicious apps Meta’s spokesperson told the WSJ, that EU law could allow for other legal justifications for its advertising practices and that it is too early to speculate since this is not the final decision. “We’ve engaged fully with the DPC on their inquiries and will continue to engage with them as they finalise their decision,” said the spokesperson. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Meta’s targeted advertisements could face restrictions in the EU: Report

UK's opposition Labour Party vows for the biggest ever transfer of power from Westminster to the British people. Labour party's Chief Keir Starmer has vowed to shift the political power out of London.

Starmer: Rejoining European Union to not benefit economy | UK

The effects of climate change are being felt around the world. Now, the EU moves towards a greener future as it plans to ban products linked to deforestation.

WION Climate Tracker: EU plans to ban products linked to deforestation

Efforts to resolve a simmering dispute between Europe and the United States over trade disputes are on. EU worried of U.S. Inflation Reduction Act. Watch further to know more.

U.S. and EU held meet to resolve trade tensions between them

Some European Union countries have criticised Washington's landmark act. EU chief earlier spoke on the US subsidies plan. Watch this video for all the details.

WION Climate Tracker | EU criticises US climate plan; US touts IRA as a groundbreaking effort

Oil prices are up today by one percent. This comes after OPEC+ yesterday denounced price cap imposed by EU, G7 and Australia on machine oil. Moscow is now trying to cover up the loss from sales of its crude oil.

World Business Watch: OPEC+, Russia meet ahead of fresh sanctions on Russian oil

After over nine months into the Ukraine war, the West has finally reached an agreement that intends to deny Russia of war resources. The G7 and EU agreed to a 60 US dollar per barrel price cap on Russian crude oil.

Russia Ukraine War: Can a price cap cut Putin's war chest?

The EU and the euro area are now anticipated to see contraction in the final three months of this year and the first three months of 2023, which would constitute a technical recession, before recovering to positive growth in the spring of 2023.

WION Wideangle | Europe: Heading to a recession?

After denouncing the price cap that was imposed by the EU and the G7 on Russian oil, Moscow is now trying to cover up the losses that it may have to incur because of that.

OPEC+ stays on with production cut of 2 million barrels per day

Group of seven countries along with Australia and the European Union have agreed on a $60 per barrel price cap on Russian crude oil. With this they aim to deny Russia of war resources and now both Russia and Ukraine have reacted to the agreement, Russia completely denounced the oil cap while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his disappointment over the decision.

Russia denounces oil price cap agreed by EU, G7; Zelensky says 'price cap on Moscow not serious'

The European Union member states have agreed to put a price cap of $60 a barrel on Russian oil, AFP reported on Friday. The countries decided to follow the lead of the G7 economies who imposed a limit on Russian oil in a bid to hamper the revenues earned by the Kremlin. While the EU has already imposed multiple sanctions on Russia, they have not stopped the imports completely.

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According to the agreement, the price cap will be reviewed to maintain it in accordance with the market fluctuations and special attention will be paid to ensure that it is “at least 5% below the average market price. While nearly all the members agreed on the oil price cap, Poland remained skeptical of the terms, but the government finally gave its nod keeping the adjustments in mind.

Earlier, Russia said that the price cap will hurt its economy and it will result in higher inflation. While countries like China and India continue to deal with Russia when it comes to oil and natural gas, the loss of the European market has come as a major blow to the struggling Russian economy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-rejects-joe-bidens-terms-for-ukraine-talks-says-offensive-will-continue-539410">Russia rejects Biden's terms for Ukraine talks, says offensive will continue</a>

The main objective behind the oil price cap is to cut finance to the Russian government who are currently involved in the invasion of Ukraine. Russia has already cut its supply to most European nations and the prevalent energy crisis is predicted to get worse with the price cap.

The EU also said that it will need the cooperation of all G7 nations to put pressure on Russia, but it remains to be seen how China and India will react to the price cap.

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The European Union member states have agreed to put a price cap of $60 a barrel on Russian oil, AFP reported on Friday. The countries decided to follow the lead of the G7 economies who imposed a limit on Russian oil in a bid to hamper the revenues earned by the Kremlin.

The European Union member states have agreed to put a price cap of $60 a barrel on Russian oil, AFP reported on Friday. The countries decided to follow the lead of the G7 economies who imposed a limit on Russian oil in a bid to hamper the revenues earned by the Kremlin. While the EU has already imposed multiple sanctions on Russia, they have not stopped the imports completely. Also read | WHO 'pleased' to see China ease zero-Covid restrictions amid massive protests According to the agreement, the price cap will be reviewed to maintain it in accordance with the market fluctuations and special attention will be paid to ensure that it is “at least 5% below the average market price. While nearly all the members agreed on the oil price cap, Poland remained skeptical of the terms, but the government finally gave its nod keeping the adjustments in mind. Earlier, Russia said that the price cap will hurt its economy and it will result in higher inflation. While countries like China and India continue to deal with Russia when it comes to oil and natural gas, the loss of the European market has come as a major blow to the struggling Russian economy. Also read | Russia rejects Biden's terms for Ukraine talks, says offensive will continue The main objective behind the oil price cap is to cut finance to the Russian government who are currently involved in the invasion of Ukraine. Russia has already cut its supply to most European nations and the prevalent energy crisis is predicted to get worse with the price cap. The EU also said that it will need the cooperation of all G7 nations to put pressure on Russia, but it remains to be seen how China and India will react to the price cap.

European Union tentatively agrees on $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian oil

The European Commission wants to ban single-use packaging regularly distributed in hotels and restaurants, such as mini-soap bottles and packaging for condiments, as part of its sweeping legal proposals to reduce waste.

WION Climate Tracker: EU sets out plan to cut back packaging waste

The European Union proposed the creation of a special tribunal to try top Russian officials for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and France became the first major country to extend its support. In the proposal, the EU said that the tribunal will be formed after proper discussions with all member states and if accepted, the purview of the investigation will cover even Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-eases-covid-restrictions-in-beijing-hints-at-possible-change-in-stance-report-539115">China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance</a>

In an official statement, the French foreign ministry said that it supports the idea pitched by the European Union, and the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen and it will work with its European partners to make it a reality. The intent shown by France was seen as a major step as the western countries are currently reluctant to continue their negotiations with the Kremlin.&nbsp;

“The aim is to obtain the broadest possible consensus on this project among members of the international community,” the statement from the French foreign ministry stated according to AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eurozone-unemployment-drops-to-all-time-low-post-pandemic-recovery-slowed-by-global-headwinds-539136">Eurozone unemployment drops to all-time low</a>

Russia has not signed the international criminal court (ICC) treaty and as a result, a new court is needed if the Russian officials will be tried for “crimes of aggression”. While the ICC is mainly responsible for cases involving war crimes, they will be forced to provide diplomatic immunity to Putin.&nbsp;

Reuters also reported that Netherlands can also follow France’s lead to lend their support to the formation of the tribunal. “It is our task, as the international community, to make sure that we do justice,” the country’s foreign minister, Wopke Hoekstra, said earlier this week. &nbsp;

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The European Union proposed the creation of a special tribunal to try top Russian officials for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and France became the first major country to extend its support.

The European Union proposed the creation of a special tribunal to try top Russian officials for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and France became the first major country to extend its support. In the proposal, the EU said that the tribunal will be formed after proper discussions with all member states and if accepted, the purview of the investigation will cover even Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also read | China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance In an official statement, the French foreign ministry said that it supports the idea pitched by the European Union, and the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen and it will work with its European partners to make it a reality. The intent shown by France was seen as a major step as the western countries are currently reluctant to continue their negotiations with the Kremlin. “The aim is to obtain the broadest possible consensus on this project among members of the international community,” the statement from the French foreign ministry stated according to AFP. Also read | Eurozone unemployment drops to all-time low Russia has not signed the international criminal court (ICC) treaty and as a result, a new court is needed if the Russian officials will be tried for “crimes of aggression”. While the ICC is mainly responsible for cases involving war crimes, they will be forced to provide diplomatic immunity to Putin. Reuters also reported that Netherlands can also follow France’s lead to lend their support to the formation of the tribunal. “It is our task, as the international community, to make sure that we do justice,” the country’s foreign minister, Wopke Hoekstra, said earlier this week.

France backs EU plan to create tribunal for trial of Russian officials over Ukraine war

Unemployment levels hit a record low&nbsp;in the&nbsp;eurozone, at 6.5 percent in October, the EU's Eurostat statistics office said on Thursday. The figure, which was the lowest since Eurostat began tracking unemployment rates in April 1998, showed that the 19 EU nations&nbsp;that use the currency, Euro had recovered economically from the Covid pandemic. Compared to the 7.3 per cent recorded a year ago, the seasonally adjusted unemployment&nbsp;rate was significantly lower.

In October, 12.95 million or six per cent of the working-age population in the 27-nation European Union, were reported to be unemployed, with 10.87 million of them living in the eurozone itself.&nbsp;

While all The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) economies, with the exception of Britain, a former member of the EU, have recovered to their pre-pandemic size, the recovery is being slowed down by global headwinds. The European Commission predicts that the eurozone will enter a recession in the next weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macau-casinos-to-face-their-worst-year-ever-due-to-covid-restrictions-539092">Macau casinos to face their worst year ever due to Covid restrictions</a>

Despite declining in the most recent report on Wednesday, inflation is still running high at 10 per cent, which is more than the ECB's goal rate of two&nbsp;per cent. This is partly due to rising energy prices sparked by the consequences of Russia's war in Ukraine.

WATCH |&nbsp;India's GDP growth shrinks to 6.3%; The Agriculture sector grows 4.6%

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According to a Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) survey released by S&amp;P Global, business activity has been dropping for five months in a row, however the rate of decline moderated in November. As per Eurostat, young people had the highest unemployment rates in the EU and its eurozone, at 15.1 per cent and 15.0 percent, respectively.&nbsp; Germany, which has the largest economy in the eurozone, had an unemployment rate of 3.0 percent, down from 3.3 percent in October 2021. It decreased from 7.6 percent a year earlier to 7.1 percent in France, the second-largest economy.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Unemployment levels hit a record low in the eurozone, at 6.5 percent in October, the EU's Eurostat statistics office said on Thursday. The figure, which was the lowest since Eurostat began tracking unemployment rates in April 1998, showed that the 19 EU nations that use the currency, Euro had recovered economically from the Covid pandemic.

Unemployment levels hit a record low in the eurozone, at 6.5 percent in October, the EU's Eurostat statistics office said on Thursday. The figure, which was the lowest since Eurostat began tracking unemployment rates in April 1998, showed that the 19 EU nations that use the currency, Euro had recovered economically from the Covid pandemic. Compared to the 7.3 per cent recorded a year ago, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was significantly lower. In October, 12.95 million or six per cent of the working-age population in the 27-nation European Union, were reported to be unemployed, with 10.87 million of them living in the eurozone itself. While all The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) economies, with the exception of Britain, a former member of the EU, have recovered to their pre-pandemic size, the recovery is being slowed down by global headwinds. The European Commission predicts that the eurozone will enter a recession in the next weeks. Also read | Macau casinos to face their worst year ever due to Covid restrictions Despite declining in the most recent report on Wednesday, inflation is still running high at 10 per cent, which is more than the ECB's goal rate of two per cent. This is partly due to rising energy prices sparked by the consequences of Russia's war in Ukraine. WATCH | India's GDP growth shrinks to 6.3%; The Agriculture sector grows 4.6% According to a Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) survey released by S&P Global, business activity has been dropping for five months in a row, however the rate of decline moderated in November. As per Eurostat, young people had the highest unemployment rates in the EU and its eurozone, at 15.1 per cent and 15.0 percent, respectively. Germany, which has the largest economy in the eurozone, had an unemployment rate of 3.0 percent, down from 3.3 percent in October 2021. It decreased from 7.6 percent a year earlier to 7.1 percent in France, the second-largest economy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Eurozone unemployment drops to all-time low; post-pandemic recovery slowed by global headwinds

A new report claims EU has granted free carbon permits worth €100 Billion to polluting industries in the last 9 years. Can Europe still preach others on Climate action? Priyanka Sharma reports.

Gravitas: EU is giving 'free carbon permits' to big polluters

In the latest from Twitter, its decision to shut down its Brussels office in the EU and laying off thousands of workers is drawing concern to whether company can comply with tough European Union rules.

World Business Watch | Twitter job cuts a concern, says EU justice head

The European Union energy ministers were unable to agree on a cap on gas prices amid the ongoing energy crisis in Europe. Czech industry minister Jozef Sikela, whose country holds the current presidency of the EU, said on Thursday that the members will meet in December once again in an attempt to come up with a common price cap. However, AFP reported that a couple of measures were agreed upon during the meeting including joint gas purchases and a gradual shift to renewable energy sources.&nbsp;

Ahead of the meeting, the European Commission came up with a plan to introduce a price cap on natural gas across Europe but it was not received well by most member states. According to the plan, the maximum cap will be 275 euros per megawatt hour but it came with some conditions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blames-foreign-and-ukrainian-air-defence-systems-for-damages-in-kyiv-537151">Russia blames 'foreign and Ukrainian air defence' systems for damages in Kyiv</a>

The proposed cap will only be viable if the limit is breached for two weeks continuously and during the same period of time, the price for liquified natural gas (LNG) also goes up over 58 euros.&nbsp;

As a result, most members expressed their doubt over the complications that can arise from the proposed cap and the Polish and Spanish energy ministers even called it a ‘joke’, according to AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/who-is-lt-gen-asim-munir-and-why-his-appointment-as-next-pak-army-chief-has-rattled-imran-khan-537111">Who is Lt Gen Asim Munir and why his appointment as next Pak army chief has rattled Imran Khan?</a>

The sanctions imposed on Russia in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine have made life difficult for Europe. Russia used to account for over 40 per cent of the gas supply in the continent and although there is no complete ban, the Kremlin has stopped its exports in what Europe is calling a tactical move.&nbsp;

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The European Union energy ministers were unable to agree on a cap on gas prices amid the ongoing energy crisis in Europe. Czech industry minister Jozef Sikela, whose country holds the current presidency of the EU, said on Thursday that the members will meet in December once again in an attempt to come up with a common price cap.

The European Union energy ministers were unable to agree on a cap on gas prices amid the ongoing energy crisis in Europe. Czech industry minister Jozef Sikela, whose country holds the current presidency of the EU, said on Thursday that the members will meet in December once again in an attempt to come up with a common price cap. However, AFP reported that a couple of measures were agreed upon during the meeting including joint gas purchases and a gradual shift to renewable energy sources. Ahead of the meeting, the European Commission came up with a plan to introduce a price cap on natural gas across Europe but it was not received well by most member states. According to the plan, the maximum cap will be 275 euros per megawatt hour but it came with some conditions. Also read | Russia blames 'foreign and Ukrainian air defence' systems for damages in Kyiv The proposed cap will only be viable if the limit is breached for two weeks continuously and during the same period of time, the price for liquified natural gas (LNG) also goes up over 58 euros. As a result, most members expressed their doubt over the complications that can arise from the proposed cap and the Polish and Spanish energy ministers even called it a ‘joke’, according to AFP. Also read | Who is Lt Gen Asim Munir and why his appointment as next Pak army chief has rattled Imran Khan? The sanctions imposed on Russia in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine have made life difficult for Europe. Russia used to account for over 40 per cent of the gas supply in the continent and although there is no complete ban, the Kremlin has stopped its exports in what Europe is calling a tactical move.

European Union fails to agree on gas price cap, members to deliberate again next month

The European Parliament declared Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" on Tuesday for the "brutal and inhumane" acts inflicted by the government and military on Ukraine since the start of the conflict. The resolution was approved during the monthly plenary session in Strasbourg with 494 member states voting in favour, 58 against it and 44 members decided to abstain completely.

It was introduced by European People's Party, Renew Europe and the European Conservatives and Reformists group (ECR) against Russia’s "illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-blocks-scotland-from-holding-second-independence-referendum-536746">UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum</a>

"The deliberate attacks and atrocities carried out by the Russian Federation against the civilian population of Ukraine, the destruction of civilian infrastructure and other serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law amount to acts of terror against the Ukrainian population and constitute war crimes," the resolution read according to AFP.

"In the light of the above, (the European Parliament) recognises Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism and as a state which uses means of terrorism," it further stated.

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The members of the EU parliament also condemned the humanitarian as well as food crisis created by the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war all around the world. As a result, they decided to develop a new legal framework to prevent such situation and hold the responsible countries accountable.

Apart from the criticism, the resolution also demanded for a "comprehensive international isolation" of Russia and implementation of sanctions both on the economic as well as political fronts.

"Contacts with its official representatives at all levels (should) be kept to the absolute minimum necessary," lawmakers said while explaining the measures EU have decided to take in the near future.

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The European Parliament declared Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" on Tuesday for the "brutal and inhumane" acts inflicted by the government and military on Ukraine since the start of the conflict.

The European Parliament declared Russia as a "state sponsor of terrorism" on Tuesday for the "brutal and inhumane" acts inflicted by the government and military on Ukraine since the start of the conflict. The resolution was approved during the monthly plenary session in Strasbourg with 494 member states voting in favour, 58 against it and 44 members decided to abstain completely. It was introduced by European People's Party, Renew Europe and the European Conservatives and Reformists group (ECR) against Russia’s "illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression". Also read | UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum "The deliberate attacks and atrocities carried out by the Russian Federation against the civilian population of Ukraine, the destruction of civilian infrastructure and other serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law amount to acts of terror against the Ukrainian population and constitute war crimes," the resolution read according to AFP. "In the light of the above, (the European Parliament) recognises Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism and as a state which uses means of terrorism," it further stated. Also read | Virginia: Seven killed in mass shooting at Chesapeake Walmart, shooter among dead, say cops The members of the EU parliament also condemned the humanitarian as well as food crisis created by the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war all around the world. As a result, they decided to develop a new legal framework to prevent such situation and hold the responsible countries accountable. Apart from the criticism, the resolution also demanded for a "comprehensive international isolation" of Russia and implementation of sanctions both on the economic as well as political fronts. "Contacts with its official representatives at all levels (should) be kept to the absolute minimum necessary," lawmakers said while explaining the measures EU have decided to take in the near future.

European Union parliament declares Russia 'state sponsor of terrorism'

Amid the ongoing dispute over vehicle license plates, EU-mediated Serbia-Kosovo talks fail. EU has warned of escalation and violence. Watch this report.

Dispute over vehicle license plates: EU-mediated Serbia-Kosovo talks fail

The planned price cap for wholesale natural gas from the European Union was made public on Tuesday, but it was unclear if or when it would be used because it is&nbsp;set very&nbsp;high.&nbsp;

If approved, the cap, or "safety ceiling," as the European Commission referred to it in its proposal, would take effect in January at a fixed price of 275 euros per megawatt-hour.&nbsp;

After months of disagreements between EU nations about the high energy prices brought on by Moscow's conflict in Ukraine and its determination to restrict gas supplies, a suggested price cap was finally agreed upon.&nbsp;

It coincides with an initiative by EU members to voluntarily reduce their use of natural gas by 15 per cent&nbsp;throughout the winter in the northern hemisphere.

The cap, however, would not go into effect until gas prices in the European Union, which are determined based on in-advance purchases made through the Title Transfer Facility (TTF), the key benchmark for gas pricing in the EU, exceed that level for two weeks in a row.&nbsp;

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Additionally, the cap was subject to the TTF price of liquified natural gas, a kind of gas that can be sent anywhere in the globe and is easily transportable, rising beyond 58 euros for 10 days during that same two-week period.&nbsp;

The proposed price cap, according to EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson, is planned for the "filling season" of gas storage that will take place the year before winter.

(with inputs from agencies)

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The planned price cap for wholesale natural gas from the European Union was made public on Tuesday, but it was unclear if or when it would be used because it is set very high.

The planned price cap for wholesale natural gas from the European Union was made public on Tuesday, but it was unclear if or when it would be used because it is set very high. If approved, the cap, or "safety ceiling," as the European Commission referred to it in its proposal, would take effect in January at a fixed price of 275 euros per megawatt-hour. After months of disagreements between EU nations about the high energy prices brought on by Moscow's conflict in Ukraine and its determination to restrict gas supplies, a suggested price cap was finally agreed upon. It coincides with an initiative by EU members to voluntarily reduce their use of natural gas by 15 per cent throughout the winter in the northern hemisphere. The cap, however, would not go into effect until gas prices in the European Union, which are determined based on in-advance purchases made through the Title Transfer Facility (TTF), the key benchmark for gas pricing in the EU, exceed that level for two weeks in a row. Also Read: Zoom shares down 90% from pandemic peak in October 2020 Additionally, the cap was subject to the TTF price of liquified natural gas, a kind of gas that can be sent anywhere in the globe and is easily transportable, rising beyond 58 euros for 10 days during that same two-week period. The proposed price cap, according to EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson, is planned for the "filling season" of gas storage that will take place the year before winter. (with inputs from agencies)

EU unveils 'safety ceiling' on natural gas to grapple with high energy prices

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared the European Union’s sanctions against Russia ‘a step towards war,’ AFP reported. During a radio interview on Friday, Orban appeared to have shifted gears to deplore the EU’s economic measures against the Kremlin, which he considers “dangerous”.

"Anyone who intervenes economically in a military conflict is taking a position," Orban said during the interview. "Little by little, we are sliding towards war," he added. Orban further added that he will keep fighting against the EU’s sanctions on Russia and will ensure Hungary is exempted from them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meeting-hungarys-strongman-pope-treads-a-fine-line-with-an-embattled-leader-412510">Meeting Hungary’s strongman, Pope treads a fine line with an embattled leader</a>

While condemning the EU’s military support to Ukraine, Orban added, “Now we are supplying destructive weapons, we are training Ukrainian soldiers on our own territory, we are imposing sanctions on energy... We are becoming an integral part [of the conflict]. We are not being shot at yet, but we are about to become belligerent. Europe is playing a very dangerous game."

Orban has also opposed the EU’s proposal to provide $18 billion in aid to Ukraine in form of loans. "Hungary is not going to accept that EU members take out loans together to help Ukraine," he declared.

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Orban has seemingly intensified his criticism of Brussels’ Russia policy in the wake of the worsening economic situation at home. Inflation is soaring in the country, currently exceeding 20 per cent, while food prices have risen 45 per cent compared to the last year. According to Focus Economics, the Hungarian economy shrank 0.4 per cent&nbsp;on a seasonally adjusted quarter-on-quarter basis in the third quarter.

Now, Orban’s campaign is to blame the EU’s economic sanctions on Russia for Hungary’s poor state of economy. The government has already launched “national consultations” on the issue and put up posters around the country with the caption: "Brussels sanctions are ruining us" against a picture of a missile.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared the European Union’s sanctions against Russia ‘a step towards war,’ AFP reported. During a radio interview on Friday, Orban appeared to have shifted gears to deplore the EU’s economic measures against the Kremlin, which he considers “dangerous”.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has declared the European Union’s sanctions against Russia ‘a step towards war,’ AFP reported. During a radio interview on Friday, Orban appeared to have shifted gears to deplore the EU’s economic measures against the Kremlin, which he considers “dangerous”. "Anyone who intervenes economically in a military conflict is taking a position," Orban said during the interview. "Little by little, we are sliding towards war," he added. Orban further added that he will keep fighting against the EU’s sanctions on Russia and will ensure Hungary is exempted from them. Also read | Meeting Hungary’s strongman, Pope treads a fine line with an embattled leader While condemning the EU’s military support to Ukraine, Orban added, “Now we are supplying destructive weapons, we are training Ukrainian soldiers on our own territory, we are imposing sanctions on energy... We are becoming an integral part [of the conflict]. We are not being shot at yet, but we are about to become belligerent. Europe is playing a very dangerous game." Orban has also opposed the EU’s proposal to provide $18 billion in aid to Ukraine in form of loans. "Hungary is not going to accept that EU members take out loans together to help Ukraine," he declared. Also read | In Budapest, Hungary’s Viktor Orban tells CPAC conservatives to have own media to retain power Orban has seemingly intensified his criticism of Brussels’ Russia policy in the wake of the worsening economic situation at home. Inflation is soaring in the country, currently exceeding 20 per cent, while food prices have risen 45 per cent compared to the last year. According to Focus Economics, the Hungarian economy shrank 0.4 per cent on a seasonally adjusted quarter-on-quarter basis in the third quarter. Now, Orban’s campaign is to blame the EU’s economic sanctions on Russia for Hungary’s poor state of economy. The government has already launched “national consultations” on the issue and put up posters around the country with the caption: "Brussels sanctions are ruining us" against a picture of a missile. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hungary PM Orban warns EU against taking ‘a step towards war’, condemns military aid to Ukraine

The Rishi Sunak administration in UK is reportedly working on moving the country into a Swiss-style relationship with the European Union. The British government wants to build a closer economic relationship with the EU to avoid current trade barriers, reported the Sunday Times.

As per the report, the move could take place over the next decade. This comes after Chancellor Jeremy Hunt signalled last week that the Sunak administration intends to break ranks with Boris Johnson’s approach with the bloc, as per the Independent. The report made it clear that the UK did not wish to reinstate provisions facilitating the free movement of people.

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Like the UK, Switzerland is not a member of the European Union but has a closer economic relationship under a series of bilateral agreements. This gives the country free access to a part of the EU’s internal market, while also allowing the free movement of people.

The EU and the UK are locked in a long-running dispute over the Northern Ireland protocol; however, there have been renewed hopes in recent weeks. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt admitted this week that Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal caused damaging trade barriers with the EU.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/g20-meet-uk-prime-minister-rishi-sunak-addresses-summit-534736">WATCH |&nbsp;G20 meet: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak addresses summit</a>

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Hunt also said that the UK was on the way to having a smooth trading relationship with the bloc even without rejoining the single market system.

The Independent reported that hardline Conservative MPs, who support Brexit, can throw spanners into the works of the Sunak administration. The Swiss-style model requires payments to the EU budget along with a more liberal migration policy, provisions that would not satisfy the pro-Brexit Tories.&nbsp;

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Simon Clarke, a staunch Brexit supporter, was among the first ones to criticise the suggestion that the UK could adopt a Swiss-style arrangement. The Tory MP tweeted, “I very much hope and believe this isn’t something under consideration. We settled the question of leaving the European Union, definitively, in 2019.”

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I very much hope and believe this isn’t something under consideration. We settled the question of leaving the European Union, definitively, in 2019. <a href="https://t.co/wWAfFBJ1Ku">https://t.co/wWAfFBJ1Ku</a>
— Simon Clarke MP (@SimonClarkeMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/SimonClarkeMP/status/1594088393939484673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The Rishi Sunak administration in UK is reportedly working on moving the country into a Swiss-style relationship with the European Union. The British government wants to build a closer economic relationship with the EU to avoid current trade barriers, reported the Sunday Times.

The Rishi Sunak administration in UK is reportedly working on moving the country into a Swiss-style relationship with the European Union. The British government wants to build a closer economic relationship with the EU to avoid current trade barriers, reported the Sunday Times. As per the report, the move could take place over the next decade. This comes after Chancellor Jeremy Hunt signalled last week that the Sunak administration intends to break ranks with Boris Johnson’s approach with the bloc, as per the Independent. The report made it clear that the UK did not wish to reinstate provisions facilitating the free movement of people. Also read | Rishi Sunak becomes UK's richest PM with more wealth than King Charles III Like the UK, Switzerland is not a member of the European Union but has a closer economic relationship under a series of bilateral agreements. This gives the country free access to a part of the EU’s internal market, while also allowing the free movement of people. The EU and the UK are locked in a long-running dispute over the Northern Ireland protocol; however, there have been renewed hopes in recent weeks. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt admitted this week that Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal caused damaging trade barriers with the EU. WATCH | G20 meet: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak addresses summit × Hunt also said that the UK was on the way to having a smooth trading relationship with the bloc even without rejoining the single market system. The Independent reported that hardline Conservative MPs, who support Brexit, can throw spanners into the works of the Sunak administration. The Swiss-style model requires payments to the EU budget along with a more liberal migration policy, provisions that would not satisfy the pro-Brexit Tories. Also read | Watch: UK PM Rishi Sunak rushed out by his aides at COP27 meet Simon Clarke, a staunch Brexit supporter, was among the first ones to criticise the suggestion that the UK could adopt a Swiss-style arrangement. The Tory MP tweeted, “I very much hope and believe this isn’t something under consideration. We settled the question of leaving the European Union, definitively, in 2019.” I very much hope and believe this isn’t something under consideration. We settled the question of leaving the European Union, definitively, in 2019. https://t.co/wWAfFBJ1Ku — Simon Clarke MP (@SimonClarkeMP) November 19, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Rishi Sunak considering building Swiss-style economic relationship with EU

The creation of a loss and damage fund, which will help poor nations around the world to rebuild after major natural disasters, has dominated the conversation at this year’s COP27 summit. While the fund was not mentioned in the first draft of the summit declaration, the European Union has taken a massive step towards making it a reality. European Commission vice-president Frans Timmermans submitted a proposal on Friday that made it clear that the EU member nations agreed to create the fund.&nbsp;

“We were reluctant about a fund; it was not our idea to have a fund. My reluctance was because I know from experience it takes time before a fund can be established, and more time before it is filled, whereas we have existing instruments. I really believe we could move faster with existing instruments [for climate finance]. But since they [the G77] are so attached to a fund, we have agreed,” he said.&nbsp;

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The proposal to create the fund came from the G77 group of developing countries and it meant added onus on rich nations when it comes to contributing towards combating natural disasters. The rich countries were split on the fund but the EU approval is being considered to be a positive sign.&nbsp;

However, Timmermans added that the fund will be created with “clear conditions” and the majority of the money will be used towards helping the poorest and environmentally vulnerable countries.&nbsp;

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While several developing countries welcomed the stance taken by the EU, Yamide Dagnet, director for climate justice at the Open Society Foundations, demanded more clarity about the conditions.&nbsp;

“I expect Friday’s discussion to turn around the issue of defining vulnerability. Both the EU and the pair of ministers’ proposals on the table refer to the “most vulnerable countries” as those who should benefit from this fund – begging the question, of who is included and who is excluded into this framing, which has never been clearly defined in UN terms and could limit the benefits of the fund,” he told Reuters.&nbsp;

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The creation of a loss and damage fund, which will help poor nations around the world to rebuild after major natural disasters, has dominated the conversation at this year’s COP27 summit.

The creation of a loss and damage fund, which will help poor nations around the world to rebuild after major natural disasters, has dominated the conversation at this year’s COP27 summit. While the fund was not mentioned in the first draft of the summit declaration, the European Union has taken a massive step towards making it a reality. European Commission vice-president Frans Timmermans submitted a proposal on Friday that made it clear that the EU member nations agreed to create the fund. “We were reluctant about a fund; it was not our idea to have a fund. My reluctance was because I know from experience it takes time before a fund can be established, and more time before it is filled, whereas we have existing instruments. I really believe we could move faster with existing instruments [for climate finance]. But since they [the G77] are so attached to a fund, we have agreed,” he said. Also read | 6.9 quake hits off western Indonesia, no damage reported immediately The proposal to create the fund came from the G77 group of developing countries and it meant added onus on rich nations when it comes to contributing towards combating natural disasters. The rich countries were split on the fund but the EU approval is being considered to be a positive sign. However, Timmermans added that the fund will be created with “clear conditions” and the majority of the money will be used towards helping the poorest and environmentally vulnerable countries. Also read | Japan, United States hold military drills right after North Korea's ICBM launch While several developing countries welcomed the stance taken by the EU, Yamide Dagnet, director for climate justice at the Open Society Foundations, demanded more clarity about the conditions. “I expect Friday’s discussion to turn around the issue of defining vulnerability. Both the EU and the pair of ministers’ proposals on the table refer to the “most vulnerable countries” as those who should benefit from this fund – begging the question, of who is included and who is excluded into this framing, which has never been clearly defined in UN terms and could limit the benefits of the fund,” he told Reuters.

COP27: EU agrees to loss and damage fund to help poor nations tackle disasters

The European Union (EU) has announced plans to launch its own communications satellite network by 2027. The European Parliament and the EU member states reached an agreement Thursday under which the satellite communications internet system IRIS2 (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnection and Security by Satellites) will be built, DW reported.

This is a $6.2 billion project, which will be jointly funded by EU agencies and private companies. EU will contribute $2.4 billion, while the private sector is expected to fund the remaining $3.7 billion. The project was first announced in February before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; however, a disagreement over funding had stalled the negotiations.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-starlink-satellite-internet-service-reaches-all-seven-continents-517162">SpaceX Starlink satellite internet service reaches 'all seven continents'</a>

A statement by the European Parliament centrist political group Renew Europe read, “[IRIS 2] will secure the Union's sovereignty and autonomy by guaranteeing fewer dependencies on third-country infrastructure, and the provision of critical communication services where terrestrial networks are absent or disrupted, as observed, for instance, in Ukraine."

The EU has realised the importance of self-sufficiency in the internet sector in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war. The satellite internet has proven greatly useful after the start of the war.

After the invasion, the first thing that Russia did was cut off Ukraine’s access to terrestrial internet. In response, tech billionaire Elon Musk offered Ukraine free access to his satellite internet system Starlink.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-spacex-will-keep-funding-starlink-internet-service-in-ukraine-525810">WATCH |&nbsp;Elon Musk: SpaceX will keep funding Starlink internet service in Ukraine</a>

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The main objective of the EU’s satellite program is to maintain secure internet access in crisis situations like cyber attacks and natural disasters. The network will also be able to provide internet access to remote areas and remove dark zones in Europe, the Arctic region and Africa.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The European Union (EU) has announced plans to launch its own communications satellite network by 2027. The European Parliament and the EU member states reached an agreement Thursday under which the satellite communications internet system IRIS2 (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnection and Security by Satellites) will be built, DW reported.

The European Union (EU) has announced plans to launch its own communications satellite network by 2027. The European Parliament and the EU member states reached an agreement Thursday under which the satellite communications internet system IRIS2 (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnection and Security by Satellites) will be built, DW reported. This is a $6.2 billion project, which will be jointly funded by EU agencies and private companies. EU will contribute $2.4 billion, while the private sector is expected to fund the remaining $3.7 billion. The project was first announced in February before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; however, a disagreement over funding had stalled the negotiations. Read More: SpaceX Starlink satellite internet service reaches 'all seven continents' A statement by the European Parliament centrist political group Renew Europe read, “[IRIS 2] will secure the Union's sovereignty and autonomy by guaranteeing fewer dependencies on third-country infrastructure, and the provision of critical communication services where terrestrial networks are absent or disrupted, as observed, for instance, in Ukraine." The EU has realised the importance of self-sufficiency in the internet sector in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war. The satellite internet has proven greatly useful after the start of the war. After the invasion, the first thing that Russia did was cut off Ukraine’s access to terrestrial internet. In response, tech billionaire Elon Musk offered Ukraine free access to his satellite internet system Starlink. WATCH | Elon Musk: SpaceX will keep funding Starlink internet service in Ukraine × The main objective of the EU’s satellite program is to maintain secure internet access in crisis situations like cyber attacks and natural disasters. The network will also be able to provide internet access to remote areas and remove dark zones in Europe, the Arctic region and Africa. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

EU to launch its communication satellite network to avoid Ukraine-like internet crisis

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