The European Union has officially launched the new “Entry/Exit System” (EES) from October 12, 2025, marking a major shift in how non-EU travelers enter and leave Europe. The system, designed to strengthen regional security, streamline immigration, and replace manual passport stamping, will digitally record travelers’ biometric data—including fingerprints and facial images—along with the time and location of their entry and exit. This innovation aims to combat illegal overstays, identity fraud, and cross-border crimes by enabling authorities to monitor travel in real time. Portugal and several other EU countries are coordinating the rollout through national security agencies and airport authorities. Although implementation will continue until December, the EES promises faster, safer, and more transparent travel management under strict EU data protection laws, representing a new era for Schengen border control.

Millions of people across Europe have taken to the streets, calling for an end to two years of Israeli attacks in Gaza and the rapid delivery of humanitarian aid. The largest turnout was in Amsterdam, where around 250,000 people marched through the city center waving Palestinian flags and demanding their government take a tougher stance on Israel and halt arms supplies. Protests were also held in Istanbul, Ankara, Barcelona, Sofia, and Rabat, highlighting global solidarity with Palestinians. Amnesty International organized many of these demonstrations, urging European governments to use all diplomatic and economic measures to pressure Israel. Protesters emphasized the urgent need to stop bloodshed, label the ongoing oppression as genocide, and suspend arms trade and other collaborations with Israel, reflecting widespread public anger over the humanitarian crisis.

The European Union is set to meet in Washington on September 8 to discuss imposing new sanctions on Russia. Led by EU sanctions envoy David O’Sullivan, the delegation will hold talks at the U.S. Treasury Department on increasing economic pressure against Russia. Officials from the White House, State Department, and U.S. Trade Representative will also participate. The move follows EU President António Costa’s announcement of the U.S. visit. Meanwhile, Putin criticized Western nations for using the Ukraine crisis to manage their own economic challenges.

EU countries remain split over how to respond to Israel’s attacks on Gaza and the worsening humanitarian crisis. At a Copenhagen meeting, foreign ministers discussed suspending EU funding for Israeli startups but lacked sufficient support for action. Spain and Ireland urge stronger measures, while Germany and Hungary resist. Denmark warns of a severe humanitarian catastrophe. The UN’s IPC reports famine in Gaza, which Israel denies. EU foreign policy chief says no decision will be made, highlighting deep divisions.

The European Union aims to cut car carbon dioxide emissions to zero by 2035, but auto industry leaders warn the goal is unrealistic. They cite competition from low-cost Chinese EVs, U.S. export barriers, reliance on Asian batteries, insufficient charging infrastructure, and high production costs. Automakers advocate a mix of EVs, plug-in hybrids, hydrogen vehicles, and other carbon-free fuels. Some EU members are also calling to lift the 2035 combustion engine ban, urging a policy review to meet targets realistically.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb will join a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. The discussions will focus on security guarantees, regional stability, and continued sanctions against Russia. The meeting follows concerns after the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska and aims to reinforce support for Ukraine, address territorial integrity, and shape future diplomatic and military cooperation between the U.S. and European allies.

Southern Europe is reeling from one of its worst wildfire seasons, with blazes sweeping from Greece to Portugal. At least four people have died—three in Spain and one in Portugal—as thousands are evacuated and nearly 100 injured. Spain faces the heaviest damage, battling more than 14 major wildfires that have destroyed 390,000 acres. Transportation has been disrupted, with highways closed and rail suspended. The EU has deployed firefighting aircraft, while Portugal fights seven large blazes with 4,000 firefighters.

Britain, France, and Germany have warned the UN they will reinstate sanctions on Iran if no diplomatic deal is reached over Tehran’s nuclear program by the end of August. In a joint letter, the E3 said they are ready to use the 2015 deal’s “snapback mechanism” if Iran continues violating limits, accusing Tehran of stockpiling 40 times the permitted uranium. The warning follows Israeli and US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and Iran’s suspension of cooperation with the IAEA.

Severe wildfires and an intense heatwave have claimed at least three lives in southern Europe, forcing thousands to evacuate. Temperatures have topped 40°C across Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and the Balkans, with red heat alerts in place. Spain’s weather service warned of highs reaching 44°C in Seville and Cordoba. In Tres Cantos, near Madrid, a stable worker died after flames—fueled by 70 km/h winds—spread into residential areas. Over 1,000 troops have been deployed to fight the fires. Portugal is battling three major blazes, while Sardinia saw the death of a four-year-old Romanian child found unconscious in a car. France has heat warnings in three-quarters of the country, and Greece is fighting over 150 active wildfires.

Microsoft and Amazon are planning to transform aging coal and gas power plants across Europe into AI data centers. These facilities offer ideal infrastructure, such as electricity and water access, crucial for cooling and power stability. With AI's rising energy needs, European energy companies like RWE, Engie, and Enel see this as a profitable opportunity. Repurposing old plants avoids costly shutdowns and supports long-term green energy contracts. This approach could ensure reliable power for tech firms while aiding the transition to sustainable infrastructure.

Europe’s steel sector is facing mounting uncertainty due to weak demand and the impact of U.S. tariffs. Analysts warn that cheap imports and price volatility may worsen the situation in the coming months. Major producers like ArcelorMittal, Outokumpu, and Aperam have shown mixed Q2 results, with concerns over declining profits ahead. Stocks of several companies fell following weaker outlooks. Additionally, excess steel diverted from the U.S. market could flood Europe, increasing supply and pushing prices lower, straining European producers further.

Slovenia has become the first European Union country to impose a full arms embargo on Israel, citing Israel’s ongoing military offensive in Gaza. Prime Minister Robert Golob announced the decision, emphasizing Slovenia's independent stance due to EU inaction. The government also declared two far-right Israeli ministers unwelcome for inciting violence. Since October 2023, Slovenia has approved no weapons exports to Israel. In June, it recognized Palestine as a state, following Ireland, Norway, and Spain. France, the UK, and Canada may follow suit.

A new US-EU trade deal has triggered disappointment across Europe. France slammed it as a "surrender," while Germany warned it could harm its economy. The deal imposes a 15% tariff on EU exports to the US, down from Trump’s earlier 30% threat. In return, the EU will buy more American energy and ease tariffs on some US goods. Critics say the deal is damage control, not a win. While some leaders welcome avoiding a trade war, skepticism remains widespread.

Iran and the three European signatories of the 2015 nuclear deal—Britain, France, and Germany—have concluded their second round of nuclear discussions in Istanbul. The closed-door meeting lasted over three hours at the Iranian Embassy. This follows earlier talks in May and a recent disruption caused by an Israeli strike on Iran. Although no official statement was released, diplomatic sources suggest future meetings are likely. The talks aim to revive diplomacy amid ongoing tensions over Iran’s nuclear program.

The UK and 27 other nations have condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, accusing it of committing inhumane killings while civilians sought food and water. In a joint statement, they called for an immediate ceasefire and criticized the aid system as degrading. Over 800 Palestinians have reportedly died while seeking aid. The UN and aid agencies say access is being hindered. Israel rejected the claims, accusing Hamas of interference. Gaza’s death toll since October 2023 has surpassed 59,000, according to its health ministry.