On the first anniversary of the July-August 2024 student and people's uprising in Bangladesh, the European Union has paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of the Bangladeshi people.

In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the EU said:
"One year ago, people from all walks of life in Bangladesh took to the streets to demand their rights and call for a more just and democratic future. Today, we honor their courage and resilience, remember those who lost their lives, and reaffirm our support for the injured."

Looking ahead to the upcoming national elections, the EU called for inclusive and peaceful political dialogue, stating, “All parties must engage constructively in implementing key governance and human rights reforms.”
The statement concluded: "As Bangladesh continues on its democratic journey, it can count on the support of the European Union."

The European Council has approved its 18th sanctions package against Russia. Key measures include capping the price of oil at $47.60 per barrel, imposing restrictions on the Nord Stream pipeline, blacklisting 105 Russian oil tankers, and expanding banking sector controls. Over 50 individuals, companies, and organizations have been newly sanctioned. More than 20 Russian banks will also be cut off from the SWIFT system. Sanctions are also being extended to Chinese banks that support Russia. These measures are set to take effect shortly.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has urged the European Union to take immediate action against Israel for violating its human rights commitments under the EU-Israel Association Agreement.

“While the EU has passed 18 sanction packages against Russia for its aggression toward Ukraine and Europe, it has failed to suspend its agreement with Israel—even though Israel is clearly violating Article 2 of that treaty,” Sánchez said.

He stressed, “The EU must not delay any further. I will push for an immediate suspension of the agreement with Israel.” Meanwhile, the EU has so far responded only with calls for dialogue.

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned that EU countries may take firm action against Israel next month if the humanitarian situation in Gaza does not improve. Speaking at a foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Kallas said, “What’s happening in Gaza and the West Bank amounts to clear violations of human rights. It is urgent to ease the suffering of the Palestinian people.” Spain has already called for a complete suspension of its trade and cooperation agreement with Israel. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated, “Israel may be our friend, but we must speak candidly. They have committed human rights violations and must be held accountable.”

French far-right politician Marine Le Pen, who is set to run in the 2027 presidential election, has been convicted of embezzling EU funds. This conviction poses a significant hurdle to her candidacy. While the court has yet to announce her sentence, prosecutors have demanded a fine of 300,000 euros and a ban on holding public office for five years. Le Pen has stated that she will appeal the verdict, arguing that barring her from elections during an appeal would be unjust.

European Union (EU) Ambassador Michael Miller delivered three key messages to the Election Commission (EC) for ensuring a fair election. At a press conference on Sunday, Miller emphasized: First, the EU is a key partner for Bangladesh and stands by the country during this crucial time of transition. Second, the EU aims to strengthen its partnership in every aspect and is here to support the interim government in conducting elections according to the people’s expectations. Third, the EU has assured the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) that they will assist in conducting elections in accordance with international standards, offering expertise and financial packages. Additionally, if requested by Bangladesh’s authorities, the EU is willing to send election observers.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has proposed bringing Ukraine under NATO’s collective defense framework without granting it full membership. She emphasized the need for a “stable solution” to ensure Ukraine’s security, arguing that such a strategy would be more effective than merely deploying European peacekeeping forces. Meloni noted that UN peacekeeping missions are typically initiated after a peace process has already begun. Last month, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rejected Ukraine’s NATO membership bid, and former President Donald Trump also dismissed the idea as unrealistic.