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<p>At least seven critics of the Kremlin, including journalists were targeted inside the European Union (EU) by a state using Pegasus, a <strong><a href="https://www.accessnow.org/publication/civil-society-in-exile-pegasus/">report by digital civil rights NGO Access Now</a></strong> said on Thursday (May 30). Those targeted include&nbsp;Russian, Belarusian, Latvian and Israeli journalists and activists inside the EU.</p>

<p>In its report, Access Now said on Thursday an investigation by the NGO revealed that the use of Pegasus (a hacking spyware made by Israel's NSO Group) to target Russian and&nbsp;Belarusian-speaking journalists dated back until at least 2020,&nbsp;with more attacks following the Ukraine war in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Access Now and the Citizen Lab also confirmed that five of the victims’ phones contained Apple IDs used by Pegasus operators in their attempts to hack the devices," the report added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The victims</strong></h2>

<p>One of the victims is a member of the&nbsp;Belarusian civil society currently based in Vilnius, Lithuania, the report said. This victim chose to remain anonymous after receiving an Apple threat notification on June 22, 2023, that their device had been targeted with a state-sponsored attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-orders-pegasus-maker-nso-to-share-israeli-state-secret-spyware-code-with-whatsapp-695595">US judge orders Pegasus maker NSO to share secret spyware code with WhatsApp</a></strong></p>

<p>"They reached out to the Citizen Lab for digital security support, who analysed the device and confirmed that it was infected with Pegasus spyware on or around March 25, 2021," the report said.</p>

<p>Another victim of the attack, a Russian journalist living in exile in Vilnius since the Ukraine war began,&nbsp;received two Apple threat notifications on October 31, 2023, and on April 10, 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Access Now and Citizen Lab identified an attempt to&nbsp;infect the journalist’s device on or around June 15, 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other victims also received similar Apple threat notifications.</p>

<h2><strong>Who was behind the attack?</strong></h2>

<p>A report by The Guardian on Thursday said that Russia seemed to be the most logical possible state behind the spyware attack, but the Access Now report did not explicitly name the accused.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Citizen Lab tells us that there is also no evidence suggesting that Russia, Belarus, or Lithuania are Pegasus customers," the report said, adding&nbsp;that Poland and Latvia were not responsible.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Dozens in Jordan targeted by authorities via Pegasus: Reports</strong></p>

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<p>"Estonia is another Baltic state that cooperates closely with Latvia and Lithuania on security matters, including regarding Russia and Belarus. According to the Citizen Lab, Estonia does appear to use Pegasus extensively outside their borders, including within multiple European countries," it said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least seven critics of the Kremlin, including journalists were targeted inside the European Union (EU) by a state using Pegasus, a report by digital civil rights NGO Access Now said on Thursday (May 30).

At least seven critics of the Kremlin, including journalists were targeted inside the European Union (EU) by a state using Pegasus, a report by digital civil rights NGO Access Now said on Thursday (May 30). Those targeted include Russian, Belarusian, Latvian and Israeli journalists and activists inside the EU. In its report, Access Now said on Thursday an investigation by the NGO revealed that the use of Pegasus (a hacking spyware made by Israel's NSO Group) to target Russian and Belarusian-speaking journalists dated back until at least 2020, with more attacks following the Ukraine war in 2022. "Access Now and the Citizen Lab also confirmed that five of the victims’ phones contained Apple IDs used by Pegasus operators in their attempts to hack the devices," the report added. The victims One of the victims is a member of the Belarusian civil society currently based in Vilnius, Lithuania, the report said. This victim chose to remain anonymous after receiving an Apple threat notification on June 22, 2023, that their device had been targeted with a state-sponsored attack. Also read | US judge orders Pegasus maker NSO to share secret spyware code with WhatsApp "They reached out to the Citizen Lab for digital security support, who analysed the device and confirmed that it was infected with Pegasus spyware on or around March 25, 2021," the report said. Another victim of the attack, a Russian journalist living in exile in Vilnius since the Ukraine war began, received two Apple threat notifications on October 31, 2023, and on April 10, 2024. Access Now and Citizen Lab identified an attempt to infect the journalist’s device on or around June 15, 2023. Other victims also received similar Apple threat notifications. Who was behind the attack? A report by The Guardian on Thursday said that Russia seemed to be the most logical possible state behind the spyware attack, but the Access Now report did not explicitly name the accused. "The Citizen Lab tells us that there is also no evidence suggesting that Russia, Belarus, or Lithuania are Pegasus customers," the report said, adding that Poland and Latvia were not responsible. Also watch | Dozens in Jordan targeted by authorities via Pegasus: Reports × "Estonia is another Baltic state that cooperates closely with Latvia and Lithuania on security matters, including regarding Russia and Belarus. According to the Citizen Lab, Estonia does appear to use Pegasus extensively outside their borders, including within multiple European countries," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

At least seven Kremlin critics targeted with spyware inside European Union

The European Union on Wednesday announced the creation of an "AI Office" of tech experts, lawyers and economists to regulate artificial intelligence under a sweeping new law.

EU creates 'AI office' to regulate Artificial Intelligence under new law

The global landscape is shifting. The US and China, the world's two largest economies, are locked in an uneasy rivalry. China boasts a massive manufacturing sector but remains reliant on western markets. This creates a complex dynamic, particularly for Europe.

US and EU pressure on China over Russian support & overcapacity

In the face of Russia's war on Ukraine - Poland and Greece have called the European Union to create an air defence sheild to better protect the block.

Poland & Greece propose creation of European Air Defence shield

<p>Mondelez, the maker of Oreo, Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate and Toblerone, has been slapped with a fine of €337.5 million ($366 million) by the European Union on Thursday (May 23), its ninth-largest antitrust fine. This development comes at a time when food costs are a major concern for European households.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fine has been imposed for hindering the trade of chocolate, cookies and coffee between European Union countries so that it can keep the prices high.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mondelez, formerly Kraft, is one of the world's largest producers of chocolate, biscuits and coffee, with revenue of $36 billion last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/argentinas-economic-activity-plummets-84-per-cent-in-march-the-steepest-drop-since-2020-724532">Argentina’s economic activity plummets 8.4 per cent in March, the steepest drop since 2020</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Mondelez brands also include Philadelphia cream cheese, Ritz crackers, Tuc salty biscuits and Cote d'Or and Milka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Margrethe Vestager, the EU's competition commissioner, claimed in a statement that Mondelez had illegally limited cross-border sales within the EU to maintain higher prices for its products.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In today's decision, we find that that Mondelez illegally limited cross-border sales across the EU. Mondelez did so to maintain higher prices for its products to the detriment of consumers,"&nbsp;Vestager said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/mankind-pharma-rides-indias-pharma-boom-with-a-new-product-campaign-724496">Mankind Pharma rides India's pharma boom with a new product campaign</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The practice has "harmed consumers, who ended up paying more for chocolate, biscuits and coffee".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This case is about price of groceries. It's a key concern to European citizens and even more obvious in times of very high inflation, where many are in a cost-of-living crisis," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Poland-US sign a $960 million agreement&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The investigation by the EU dates back to January 2021. The suspicions had led the bloc's investigators to carry out raids in Mondelez offices across Europe in November 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the European Commission, Mondelez "abused its dominant position" in breach of the bloc's rules by restricting sales to other EU countries with lower prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by news agency AFP, Mondelez&nbsp;responded by saying the fine related to "historical, isolated incidents, most of which ceased or were remedied well in advance of the commission's investigation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Many of these incidents were related to business dealings with brokers, which are typically conducted via sporadic and often one-off sales and a limited number of small-scale distributors developing new business in EU markets in which&nbsp;Mondelez&nbsp;is not present or doesn't market the respective product," it added in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Mondelez, the maker of Oreo, Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate and Toblerone, has been slapped with a fine of €337.5 million ($366 million) by the European Union on Thursday (May 23), its ninth-largest antitrust fine.

Mondelez, the maker of Oreo, Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate and Toblerone, has been slapped with a fine of €337.5 million ($366 million) by the European Union on Thursday (May 23), its ninth-largest antitrust fine. This development comes at a time when food costs are a major concern for European households. The fine has been imposed for hindering the trade of chocolate, cookies and coffee between European Union countries so that it can keep the prices high. Mondelez, formerly Kraft, is one of the world's largest producers of chocolate, biscuits and coffee, with revenue of $36 billion last year. Also read: Argentina’s economic activity plummets 8.4 per cent in March, the steepest drop since 2020 Mondelez brands also include Philadelphia cream cheese, Ritz crackers, Tuc salty biscuits and Cote d'Or and Milka. Margrethe Vestager, the EU's competition commissioner, claimed in a statement that Mondelez had illegally limited cross-border sales within the EU to maintain higher prices for its products. "In today's decision, we find that that Mondelez illegally limited cross-border sales across the EU. Mondelez did so to maintain higher prices for its products to the detriment of consumers," Vestager said. Also read: Mankind Pharma rides India's pharma boom with a new product campaign The practice has "harmed consumers, who ended up paying more for chocolate, biscuits and coffee". "This case is about price of groceries. It's a key concern to European citizens and even more obvious in times of very high inflation, where many are in a cost-of-living crisis," she added. Watch: Poland-US sign a $960 million agreement × The investigation by the EU dates back to January 2021. The suspicions had led the bloc's investigators to carry out raids in Mondelez offices across Europe in November 2019. According to the European Commission, Mondelez "abused its dominant position" in breach of the bloc's rules by restricting sales to other EU countries with lower prices. As reported by news agency AFP, Mondelez responded by saying the fine related to "historical, isolated incidents, most of which ceased or were remedied well in advance of the commission's investigation". "Many of these incidents were related to business dealings with brokers, which are typically conducted via sporadic and often one-off sales and a limited number of small-scale distributors developing new business in EU markets in which Mondelez is not present or doesn't market the respective product," it added in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Dairy Milk, Oreo maker Mondelez slapped with $366mn antitrust fine

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has called on European allies to collaborate with the United States in unlocking approximately 280 billion dollars in frozen Russian assets to provide sustained financial support to Ukraine.

EU urged to support Ukraine with Russian funds

China's commerce ministry on Sunday launched an anti-dumping probe into POM copolymers, a type of engineering plastic, imported from the European Union, United States, Japan and Taiwan. Watch in for more details!

China launches anti-dumping probe on EU, US, Japan & Taiwan

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the draft "foreign influence" or so-called "Russian law" that provoked massive protests for weeks. Watch to know more.

Georgian President vetoes Foreign Agent law, says 'it stalls our pathway to EU membership'

The European Parliament elections are just 3 weeks away leaders across European nations are leaving no stone unturned in their poll campaign. But what's making more noise are the issues on the ground the most common problem in Europe is the ongoing cost of living crisis.

EU parliament elections 2024: Europe's cost of living crisis

Georgia's parliament has passed a controversial 'Foreign Agents' bill despite widespread domestic opposition and warnings from the European Union that its enactment would imperil the country's chances of joining the bloc.

Georgia unrest: Why is Georgia up in arms? | Foreign Agents Bill triggers global outrage

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<p>The European Union (EU) on Thursday (May 16) started a formal investigation into Facebook and Instagram on allegations that the Meta-owned platforms are leading to addictive behaviour in children.</p>

<p>The investigation is&nbsp;being carried out&nbsp;under a mammoth law called the Digital Services Act (DSA)&nbsp;which&nbsp;forces the largest tech firms in the world to take more steps to protect European users online and remove any illegal content.</p>

<p>This&nbsp;is the second investigation which has&nbsp;been launched&nbsp;into Meta. Last month, another probe&nbsp;was launched&nbsp;by the European Union over concerns that Facebook and Instagram are not countering disinformation.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-flexes-arms-as-it-launches-probe-against-meta-over-disinformation-concerns-716397">EU flexes arms as it launches probe against Meta over disinformation&nbsp;concerns</a></p>

<p>"We&nbsp;are not convinced&nbsp;that it has done enough to comply with the DSA obligations to mitigate the risks of negative effects to the physical and mental health of young Europeans," said EU's internal market commissioner, Thierry Breton.</p>

<p>"We are sparing no effort to protect our children," he stated.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Meta's spokesperson tried to defend the company and claimed&nbsp;that it&nbsp;had&nbsp;taken steps to protect young users.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We want young people to have safe, age-appropriate experiences online and have spent a decade developing more than 50 tools and policies designed to protect them," said the spokesperson.</p>

<p>"This is a challenge the whole industry is facing, and we look forward to sharing details of our work with the European Commission," the spokesperson added.</p>

<h2><strong>EU suspects Meta's systems 'may stimulate behavioural addictions in children'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The European Commission, which is the tech regulator of the European Union, in Thursday's (May 16)&nbsp;announcement&nbsp;said that it suspected the systems of the platform "may stimulate behavioural addictions in children".</p>

<p>The commission also raised another issue&nbsp;which&nbsp;was the&nbsp;so-called "rabbit hole" effect.&nbsp;This&nbsp;happens when users get related content based on an algorithm, which&nbsp;in&nbsp;a few&nbsp;cases&nbsp;leads to more extreme content.</p>

<p>The commission also expressed concern that the age-verification tools of Meta may not be that effective.</p>

<p>According to DSA, there are strict rules for protecting children and ensuring that their privacy and security&nbsp;are not hampered&nbsp;online. The EU fears that Meta may not be taking enough steps to meet these obligations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Meta's oversight board probes handling of AI-generated explicit images</strong></p>

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<p>In a statement, the European Union&nbsp;said that the "opening of formal proceedings does not prejudge&nbsp;its outcome".&nbsp;No deadline has&nbsp;been set&nbsp;for the completion of the probe.</p>

<p>The DSA is present within the powerful legal armoury of the European Union to keep a check on big tech companies.</p>

<p>Facebook and Instagram fall among 23 "very large" online platforms&nbsp;which&nbsp;need to comply with the DSA or face&nbsp;the risk of&nbsp;fines&nbsp;which&nbsp;can be as high as six per cent of the total global turnover of the platform.</p>

<p>It can also&nbsp;impose a ban on&nbsp;social media platforms for&nbsp;serious&nbsp;and repeated violations. Other social media platforms&nbsp;which have been&nbsp;under the scrutiny of DSA are Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The European Union (EU) on Thursday (May 16) started a formal investigation into Facebook and Instagram on allegations that the Meta-owned platforms are leading to addictive behaviour in children.

The European Union (EU) on Thursday (May 16) started a formal investigation into Facebook and Instagram on allegations that the Meta-owned platforms are leading to addictive behaviour in children. The investigation is being carried out under a mammoth law called the Digital Services Act (DSA) which forces the largest tech firms in the world to take more steps to protect European users online and remove any illegal content. This is the second investigation which has been launched into Meta. Last month, another probe was launched by the European Union over concerns that Facebook and Instagram are not countering disinformation. Also Read: EU flexes arms as it launches probe against Meta over disinformation concerns "We are not convinced that it has done enough to comply with the DSA obligations to mitigate the risks of negative effects to the physical and mental health of young Europeans," said EU's internal market commissioner, Thierry Breton. "We are sparing no effort to protect our children," he stated. Meanwhile, Meta's spokesperson tried to defend the company and claimed that it had taken steps to protect young users. "We want young people to have safe, age-appropriate experiences online and have spent a decade developing more than 50 tools and policies designed to protect them," said the spokesperson. "This is a challenge the whole industry is facing, and we look forward to sharing details of our work with the European Commission," the spokesperson added. EU suspects Meta's systems 'may stimulate behavioural addictions in children' The European Commission, which is the tech regulator of the European Union, in Thursday's (May 16) announcement said that it suspected the systems of the platform "may stimulate behavioural addictions in children". The commission also raised another issue which was the so-called "rabbit hole" effect. This happens when users get related content based on an algorithm, which in a few cases leads to more extreme content. The commission also expressed concern that the age-verification tools of Meta may not be that effective. According to DSA, there are strict rules for protecting children and ensuring that their privacy and security are not hampered online. The EU fears that Meta may not be taking enough steps to meet these obligations. Watch: Meta's oversight board probes handling of AI-generated explicit images In a statement, the European Union said that the "opening of formal proceedings does not prejudge its outcome". No deadline has been set for the completion of the probe. The DSA is present within the powerful legal armoury of the European Union to keep a check on big tech companies. Facebook and Instagram fall among 23 "very large" online platforms which need to comply with the DSA or face the risk of fines which can be as high as six per cent of the total global turnover of the platform. It can also impose a ban on social media platforms for serious and repeated violations. Other social media platforms which have been under the scrutiny of DSA are Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube. (With inputs from agencies)

EU starts formal investigation into Facebook, Instagram over child protection policies

The Portuguese Parliament building was illuminated with the European Union colours during Europe Day in Lisbon, Portugal. Watch in!

Portugal parliament lit up in EU colours on Europe Day

The world just experienced its hottest April on record. This is according to the European Union's climate change monitoring service which added that, this new record extended an 11-month streak in which every month set a temperature peak.

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In a big win for Europe's farmers, the European Union has decided to extend farm subsidies until the end of 2024. The extension comes following protests from farmers seeking better pay and working conditions.

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The European Union on Tuesday launched an investigation into Meta's Facebook and Instagram over concerns the platforms are failing to counter disinformation ahead of EU elections in June. Watch in for more details!

EU probe Meta over election-related content

<p>The European Union has launched a probe against US tech giant Meta over allegations that it has not done enough to rein in disinformation and foreign interference&nbsp;ahead of&nbsp;upcoming EU elections. The European Commission said Monday (Apr 29) the investigation was focussed on Meta’s policy towards foreign advertisers&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;the closure of a tool widely used by journalists and civil groups to monitor trends on the social media site.</p>

<h2><strong>Is Meta violating EU’s Digital Services Act?</strong></h2>

<p>With the latest action, the regulators are flexing the Digital Services Act,&nbsp;the&nbsp;EU’s prime law governing online platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meta is drawing flak for lowering the visibility of political content in the users’&nbsp;feed&nbsp;as EU regulators say this could be violating DSA’s transparency rules. Additionally, they claim Meta is not providing users with tools to report illegal content on the platform, another violation of the DSA.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiHkqaK8ueFAxWYjK8BHeAvBF4QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/metas-whatsapp-and-threads-removed-from-apple-app-store-in-china-712897" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/technology/metas-whatsapp-and-threads-removed-from-apple-app-store-in-china-712897&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiHkqaK8ueFAxWYjK8BHeAvBF4QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Meta`s WhatsApp and Threads removed from Apple app store in China</a></strong></p>

<p>Meta also discontinued CrowdTangle, a widely-used tool&nbsp;used by civil society groups&nbsp;to track trending conversations on Facebook and Instagram.&nbsp;The tool will go offline after&nbsp;August 14.</p>

<p>EU says Meta’s decision to discontinue the tool without providing an efficient alternative “could result in damage to civic discourse and electoral processes in relation to the mis- and disinformation tracking capabilities, identification of voter interference and suppression, and the overall real-time transparency provided to fact-checkers, journalists&nbsp;and&nbsp;other relevant&nbsp; electoral&nbsp;stakeholders.”</p>

<h2><strong>How can&nbsp;EU punish Meta?</strong></h2>

<p>As per DSA, if allegations against Meta are confirmed, the&nbsp;EU can impose fines of up to 6&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of the company’s total global revenue.</p>

<p>Meta has said the company will cooperate with the EU authorities.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiHkqaK8ueFAxWYjK8BHeAvBF4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/metas-stock-falls-as-higher-ai-spending-modest-revenue-forecast-disappoints-investors-714742" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/metas-stock-falls-as-higher-ai-spending-modest-revenue-forecast-disappoints-investors-714742&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiHkqaK8ueFAxWYjK8BHeAvBF4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Meta`s stock falls as higher AI spending, modest revenue forecast disappoint investors</a></strong></p>

<p>“We have a well-established process for identifying and mitigating risks on our platforms,” a spokesperson for the company said. “We look forward to continuing our cooperation with the European Commission and providing them with further details of this work,” the statement added.</p>

<p>Last fall, Meta submitted&nbsp;required documents to the EU in which it highlighted how it plans to tackle risks associated with its online tools. However, the concerns are that Meta has failed to do its job diligently.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The European Union has launched a probe against US tech giant Meta over allegations that it has not done enough to rein in disinformation and foreign interference ahead of upcoming EU elections.

The European Union has launched a probe against US tech giant Meta over allegations that it has not done enough to rein in disinformation and foreign interference ahead of upcoming EU elections. The European Commission said Monday (Apr 29) the investigation was focussed on Meta’s policy towards foreign advertisers as well as the closure of a tool widely used by journalists and civil groups to monitor trends on the social media site. Is Meta violating EU’s Digital Services Act? With the latest action, the regulators are flexing the Digital Services Act, the EU’s prime law governing online platforms. Meta is drawing flak for lowering the visibility of political content in the users’ feed as EU regulators say this could be violating DSA’s transparency rules. Additionally, they claim Meta is not providing users with tools to report illegal content on the platform, another violation of the DSA. Also read: Meta`s WhatsApp and Threads removed from Apple app store in China Meta also discontinued CrowdTangle, a widely-used tool used by civil society groups to track trending conversations on Facebook and Instagram. The tool will go offline after August 14. EU says Meta’s decision to discontinue the tool without providing an efficient alternative “could result in damage to civic discourse and electoral processes in relation to the mis- and disinformation tracking capabilities, identification of voter interference and suppression, and the overall real-time transparency provided to fact-checkers, journalists and other relevant electoral stakeholders.” How can EU punish Meta? As per DSA, if allegations against Meta are confirmed, the EU can impose fines of up to 6 per cent of the company’s total global revenue. Meta has said the company will cooperate with the EU authorities. Also read: Meta`s stock falls as higher AI spending, modest revenue forecast disappoint investors “We have a well-established process for identifying and mitigating risks on our platforms,” a spokesperson for the company said. “We look forward to continuing our cooperation with the European Commission and providing them with further details of this work,” the statement added. Last fall, Meta submitted required documents to the EU in which it highlighted how it plans to tackle risks associated with its online tools. However, the concerns are that Meta has failed to do its job diligently. (With inputs from agencies)

EU flexes arms as it launches probe against Meta over disinformation concerns

The European union has criticised Russia for putting subsidiaries of one Italian and one German company under the "temporary external management" of a Gazprom entity. The multilateral organisation said the move underscored Moscow's disregard for international norms.

Two firms put under 'temporary external management' of Gazprom

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will be fighting European Union (EU) elections slated to be held in June this year, she announced Sunday (Apr 28). However, she won’t be taking up the seat if elected. The elections will be held from June 6-9 and would be a litmus test for her 18-month-old rule. The move, Meloni says, is an effort to boost support for her Brothers of Italy party.</p>

<p>"We want to do in Europe what we did in Italy... create a majority that brings together the centre-right forces and send the left into opposition," Meloni declared at a party conference in the coastal city of Pescara to set out EU policies and launch the campaign.</p>

<h2><strong>Meloni vs EU</strong></h2>

<p>Meloni, a right-wing leader, has been a ferocious opponent&nbsp;to&nbsp;the European Union. She even called for leaving the Euro Zone in her 2022 election campaign, which had set alarm bells ringing in European capitals.</p>

<p>Following her victory and assumption of power, Meloni has followed a balanced approach, however. She has refrained from opposing the EU openly and sided with the bloc on Ukraine affairs.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiaxvynoeWFAxWCyjgGHcRXDiUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-attend-ai-session-at-g7-summit-in-italy-715482" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-attend-ai-session-at-g7-summit-in-italy-715482&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiaxvynoeWFAxWCyjgGHcRXDiUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Pope Francis to attend AI session at G7 summit in Italy</a></strong></p>

<p>Meloni will now be the first name on the ballot against her party name in all five constituencies up for the EU election. To assure her supporters, Meloni has said she won’t use "a single minute" of her time as prime minister to campaign.</p>

<h2><strong>Other leaders in the fray</strong></h2>

<p>Opposition Democratic Party (PD) leader Elly Schlein and Forza Italia party’s Antonio Tajani have also announced their intention to run.</p>

<p>According to recent polls, Meloni’s Brothers of Italy is the country’s most popular party with 27 per cent support. Opposition PD is on second spot, with 20 per cent support whereas the left-leaning 5-Star Movement enjoys 16 per cent support.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Italy passes contentious abortion law, Senate passes provision in Confidence Vote</strong></p>

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<p>If they are elected, all three running candidates—Meloni, Schlein and Tajani—are expected to vacate their seats to pave the way for runner-up candidates.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will be fighting European Union (EU) elections slated to be held in June this year, she announced Sunday (Apr 28). However, she won’t be taking up the seat if elected.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will be fighting European Union (EU) elections slated to be held in June this year, she announced Sunday (Apr 28). However, she won’t be taking up the seat if elected. The elections will be held from June 6-9 and would be a litmus test for her 18-month-old rule. The move, Meloni says, is an effort to boost support for her Brothers of Italy party. "We want to do in Europe what we did in Italy... create a majority that brings together the centre-right forces and send the left into opposition," Meloni declared at a party conference in the coastal city of Pescara to set out EU policies and launch the campaign. Meloni vs EU Meloni, a right-wing leader, has been a ferocious opponent to the European Union. She even called for leaving the Euro Zone in her 2022 election campaign, which had set alarm bells ringing in European capitals. Following her victory and assumption of power, Meloni has followed a balanced approach, however. She has refrained from opposing the EU openly and sided with the bloc on Ukraine affairs. Also read: Pope Francis to attend AI session at G7 summit in Italy Meloni will now be the first name on the ballot against her party name in all five constituencies up for the EU election. To assure her supporters, Meloni has said she won’t use "a single minute" of her time as prime minister to campaign. Other leaders in the fray Opposition Democratic Party (PD) leader Elly Schlein and Forza Italia party’s Antonio Tajani have also announced their intention to run. According to recent polls, Meloni’s Brothers of Italy is the country’s most popular party with 27 per cent support. Opposition PD is on second spot, with 20 per cent support whereas the left-leaning 5-Star Movement enjoys 16 per cent support. Watch: Italy passes contentious abortion law, Senate passes provision in Confidence Vote × If they are elected, all three running candidates—Meloni, Schlein and Tajani—are expected to vacate their seats to pave the way for runner-up candidates. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy’s Giorgia Meloni to contest EU election to boost support for party

Chinese president XI Jinping is set to embark on a tour of Europe. He will be visiting several countries on his first trip to the continent since the covid pandemic. As China looks for greater trade and strategic ties with the region. During the reported tour the Chinese leader will make stops in Hungary, Siberia and France. Watch in for more details!

Xi Jinping's visit to Europe aiming to repair ties with the EU?

Lawmakers of the European Union will vote today to ban products that are manufactured by employing forced labour. The lawmakers hope that the new law will be used to block imports from China and that the upcoming law against products involving forced labour spark tensions in China.

EU's new law against forced labour worries China

<p>The European Union (EU) has issued a severe warning to TikTok, stating that its new service, TikTok Lite, may be banned due to worries that it may be as addictive as cigarettes. This is the first time the EU has used its recently gained powers to impose fines on social media companies since the Digital Service Act (DSA) was passed last August.</p>

<p>The commission gave TikTok till Wednesday to "bring arguments in its defence which the commission will carefully assess" before making a final judgment on its enforcement actions.</p>

<p>The digital commissioner, Thierry Breton, stated that the Chinese-owned video-sharing site had "failed to prove" that TikTok Lite, which compensates users for watching clips, conformed with the act's obligations, labelling the service as "toxic."</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨We suspect <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TikTokLite?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TikTokLite</a> feature to be toxic &amp; addictive, in particular for children.<br />
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Unless TikTok provides compelling proof of safety —which it failed to do until now—we stand ready to trigger <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DSA</a> interim measures including the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/suspension?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#suspension</a> of the TikTokLite "reward programme" <a href="https://t.co/71neLMrkYy">pic.twitter.com/71neLMrkYy</a></p>
— Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThierryBreton/status/1782414979968139392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The commission stated that the reward function might be stopped in the bloc if TikTok could not respond adequately to authorities' worries about the impact on users' mental health.</p>

<p>The rewards include Amazon vouchers and gift cards via PayPal or TikTok's Coins currency for points gained through "tasks" such as viewing videos, like content, following producers, or asking others to join.</p>

<p>Breton noted that the app was introduced in France and Spain this month despite a continuing DSA investigation into the company that began in February over concerns about child safety. He stated that TikTok is used by millions of youngsters in Europe, and the commission is "making every effort to protect them."</p>

<p>On Monday, the commission stated that it had not received adequate responses from TikTok regarding addiction precautions, despite the fact that TikTok was already under investigation for other kid safety issues.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidoDIwi8XtfpqZ" /><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-house-votes-to-ban-tiktok-but-the-app-wont-go-away-anytime-soon-713454" target="_blank">US House votes to ban TikTok, but the app won't go away anytime soon</a></strong></p>

<p>“While this first case is ongoing, TikTok chose to launch TikTok Lite, which under the laudable promise of letting you watch videos … creates financial incentives for spending more time on your phone,” the commission said.</p>

<p>“Unless TikTok provides compelling proof of safety, which it has failed to do now, we stand ready to trigger DSA interim measures including the suspension of the TikTok Lite reward programme," Breton wrote on X.</p>

<p>“We are disappointed with this decision – the TikTok Lite rewards hub is not available to under-18s and there is a daily limit on video watch tasks. We will continue discussions with the commission,” TikTok spokesperson said.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The European Union (EU) has issued a severe warning to TikTok, stating that its new service, TikTok Lite, may be banned due to worries that it may be as addictive as cigarettes.

The European Union (EU) has issued a severe warning to TikTok, stating that its new service, TikTok Lite, may be banned due to worries that it may be as addictive as cigarettes. This is the first time the EU has used its recently gained powers to impose fines on social media companies since the Digital Service Act (DSA) was passed last August. The commission gave TikTok till Wednesday to "bring arguments in its defence which the commission will carefully assess" before making a final judgment on its enforcement actions. The digital commissioner, Thierry Breton, stated that the Chinese-owned video-sharing site had "failed to prove" that TikTok Lite, which compensates users for watching clips, conformed with the act's obligations, labelling the service as "toxic." 🚨We suspect #TikTokLite feature to be toxic & addictive, in particular for children. Unless TikTok provides compelling proof of safety —which it failed to do until now—we stand ready to trigger #DSA interim measures including the #suspension of the TikTokLite "reward programme" pic.twitter.com/71neLMrkYy — Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) April 22, 2024 × The commission stated that the reward function might be stopped in the bloc if TikTok could not respond adequately to authorities' worries about the impact on users' mental health. The rewards include Amazon vouchers and gift cards via PayPal or TikTok's Coins currency for points gained through "tasks" such as viewing videos, like content, following producers, or asking others to join. Breton noted that the app was introduced in France and Spain this month despite a continuing DSA investigation into the company that began in February over concerns about child safety. He stated that TikTok is used by millions of youngsters in Europe, and the commission is "making every effort to protect them." On Monday, the commission stated that it had not received adequate responses from TikTok regarding addiction precautions, despite the fact that TikTok was already under investigation for other kid safety issues. Also read: US House votes to ban TikTok, but the app won't go away anytime soon “While this first case is ongoing, TikTok chose to launch TikTok Lite, which under the laudable promise of letting you watch videos … creates financial incentives for spending more time on your phone,” the commission said. “Unless TikTok provides compelling proof of safety, which it has failed to do now, we stand ready to trigger DSA interim measures including the suspension of the TikTok Lite reward programme," Breton wrote on X. “We are disappointed with this decision – the TikTok Lite rewards hub is not available to under-18s and there is a daily limit on video watch tasks. We will continue discussions with the commission,” TikTok spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies)

European Union warns of TikTok Lite ban over ‘addictive’ reward-to-watch feature

European Union lawmakers are set to vote to ban products made using forced labour under a new law that has China in its sights, risking tensions with Beijing. Watch in for more details!

EU's latest law seeks to eradicate forced labour from markets

Indian nationals can now get long-term, multi-entry Schengen visa. The European Union will now offer multiple-entry Schengen VISAs with longer validity.

Indian nationals can now apply for multiple-entry, long-term Schengen visas.

The leader of Moldova's leftist opposition urged voters on Thursday to boycott a referendum on backing the country's drive to join the European Union. Watch in for more details!

Moldovan opposition leader urges boycott of EU referendum

European lawmakers on Wednesday (April 10) approved a revamped migration system that the pro-EU political centre promises would reduce irregular arrivals as it seeks to stem gains by the far right ahead of the bloc's parliamentary election in June.

EU parliament passes migration legislation

EU parliament approves migration system revamp ahead of bloc's election

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<p>A new study by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) has highlighted that racist policing is under-reported in the European Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Racist comments, more frequent stops, and even violence - this is how people of different ethnic backgrounds experience policing in Europe. Yet, the lack of national data makes it difficult to fully assess the magnitude of the problem and design effective responses, finds the first ever EU-wide report on racism in policing from the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA)," the report read.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lack of data on racist incidents involving police</strong></h2>

<p>According to the EU agency's report, "the number of officially recorded incidents of police racism is very low. This makes it impossible to assess the prevalence of the issue." But the low number of such cases does not mean that it doesn't happen.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency said that most EU countries don't officially or improperly collect data on racist incidents involving police. The lack of the data, according to FRA "makes it difficult to fully assess the magnitude of the problem and design effective responses."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://wionews.com/world/san-francisco-issues-apology-to-african-americans-for-institutional-racism-694547" target="_blank"><strong>San Francisco issues apology to African Americans for 'institutional racism'</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Lack of recruitment policies to improve ethnic diversity</strong></h2>

<p>The report also highlights that countries across the EU are lacking recruitment policies to improve ethnic diversity.</p>

<p>"Ensuring a more diverse police force that represents society is crucial for effective and trustful policing. In most countries, there is no data on ethnic diversity within police forces. This makes it impossible to track the career development of police officers with ethnic backgrounds, and the impact this may have on policing practices. EU countries should focus on increasing diversity in police forces and keep track of their efforts," the report said.</p>

<p>Last year, FRA found that black people in the EU countries are facing higher levels of discrimination. 45 per cent&nbsp;of the respondents in the EU survey said that they have been affected by racism which was 6 per cent&nbsp;up from 2016.</p>


A new study by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) has highlighted that racist policing is under-reported in the European Union. "Racist comments, more frequent stops, and even violence - this is how people of different ethnic backgrounds experience policing in Europe.

A new study by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) has highlighted that racist policing is under-reported in the European Union. "Racist comments, more frequent stops, and even violence - this is how people of different ethnic backgrounds experience policing in Europe. Yet, the lack of national data makes it difficult to fully assess the magnitude of the problem and design effective responses, finds the first ever EU-wide report on racism in policing from the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA)," the report read. Lack of data on racist incidents involving police According to the EU agency's report, "the number of officially recorded incidents of police racism is very low. This makes it impossible to assess the prevalence of the issue." But the low number of such cases does not mean that it doesn't happen. The agency said that most EU countries don't officially or improperly collect data on racist incidents involving police. The lack of the data, according to FRA "makes it difficult to fully assess the magnitude of the problem and design effective responses." Also read: San Francisco issues apology to African Americans for 'institutional racism' Lack of recruitment policies to improve ethnic diversity The report also highlights that countries across the EU are lacking recruitment policies to improve ethnic diversity. "Ensuring a more diverse police force that represents society is crucial for effective and trustful policing. In most countries, there is no data on ethnic diversity within police forces. This makes it impossible to track the career development of police officers with ethnic backgrounds, and the impact this may have on policing practices. EU countries should focus on increasing diversity in police forces and keep track of their efforts," the report said. Last year, FRA found that black people in the EU countries are facing higher levels of discrimination. 45 per cent of the respondents in the EU survey said that they have been affected by racism which was 6 per cent up from 2016.

Racist policing massively under-reported in the European Union, report finds

The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights finds widespread racism in European policing, with ethnic minorities experiencing profiling, violence, and discrimination. Watch in for more details!

EU study finds widespread racist policing practices

Tuesday was the worst day for European defence stocks in over 18 months. This was in response to warnings from Goldman Sachs that the industry was trading at exorbitant valuations due to its recent blistering surge.

European defence stocks sink to mark worst day in 18 months

WhatsApp has committed to comply with European Union data transparency requirements. The decision follows complaints from consumer groups across Europe that the business did not clarify its privacy policy modifications last year.

Meta revamps WhatsApp to meet EU 'gatekeeper' rules

EU lawmakers will vote Wednesday on a vast overhaul of the bloc's asylum policies that would harden border procedures for irregular arrivals and require all member countries to pitch in. Watch in for more details!

EU parliament nears final vote on landmark asylum reform

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