NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Serbia: Authorities must end unlawful use of force against protesters and investigate reports of police violence

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Following reports of a widespread violent crackdown on largely peaceful student protesters in Belgrade and other major towns across Serbia for the sixth consecutive day since 28 June, when student movement called for an early parliamentary election, Amnesty International and Civil Rights Defenders said in a joint statement:

    “Footage of Serbian riot police indiscriminately targeting peaceful protesters gathered at blockades on the street and in front of universities in Belgrade is alarming. There have been widespread arrests and allegations of excessive or otherwise unlawful use of force against student protesters – during the protests, the arrests and in police custody. Authorities must urgently investigate and explain reports of masked individuals in civilian clothes targeting protesters.

    “While the state has the responsibility to ensure public order and respond to individual violent incidents, any use of force must be a last resort, and be strictly necessary and proportionate to achieving a legitimate aim. A heavy-handed response to peaceful dissent cannot be justified.

    Footage of Serbian riot police indiscriminately targeting peaceful protesters gathered at blockades on the street and in front of universities in Belgrade is alarming

    “Serbian authorities must exercise restraint and ensure people can participate safely in demonstrations and express their dissent free from intimidation, harassment or violence. Failure to do so risks escalating tensions further. Instances of police use of unlawful force must be promptly and independently investigated and any officers suspected to have acted unlawfully must be brought to justice.

    “EU leaders should unequivocally denounce any human rights violations against protesters and stress that guaranteeing the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression remains front and centre in Serbia’s EU accession process.”  

    Background

    This week saw an increasing crackdown against largely peaceful civic actions after student protesters called for early parliamentary elections and set up hundreds of road blockades in multiple towns across the country. Amnesty International received reports about several hundred students, including high school students, and other protesters arrested on various criminal and administrative charges since Sunday. While many have been released, there were reports about police using excessive force both during the protests, arrests and detention, including beatings which left several students hospitalized for injuries.

    Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of the Serbian capital Belgrade last  Saturday demanding early parliamentary elections. The Saturday protest was the last in nearly eight months of persistent demonstrations across Serbia, triggered by the collapse of the railway station in Novi Sad in November 2024, which killed 16 people and sparked allegations about negligence and corruption in government infrastructure projects. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: China looks to strengthen cooperation with Greece – Chinese Premier

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    RHODES /Greece/, July 4 /Xinhua/ — China hopes to strengthen cooperation ties with Greece, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said on Friday on the Greek island of Rhodes.

    During the meeting with Greek Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hadzidakis, Li Qiang also said that China is willing to work with Greece to advance the implementation of the Piraeus Port project in a high-quality manner and promote a more optimized and balanced development of trade between the two countries. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China, Germany pledge to deepen ties and cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BERLIN, July 4 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with German Chancellor’s Foreign Policy Adviser Gunther Sautter in Berlin on Friday. The two sides agreed to promote the steady, healthy and stable development of bilateral ties.

    The interlocutors stressed that they attach great importance to the Chinese-German comprehensive strategic partnership and positively assessed its maturity and stability, which is growing day by day.

    They agreed to make thorough preparations for the next stage of high-level exchanges, make full use of the mechanisms of intergovernmental consultations and strategic dialogue, strengthen strategic communication and deepen mutual understanding, so as to jointly promote the sustainable, healthy and stable development of bilateral ties.

    The parties also agreed to resolve differences constructively and expand mutually beneficial cooperation.

    Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, said that China-Germany relations go beyond bilateral cooperation, and expressed hope that Germany will play a constructive role in the European Union to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of both sides and jointly respond to challenges. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: German Chancellor Meets with Chinese Foreign Minister

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BERLIN, July 4 (Xinhua) — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Berlin on Friday, vowing to work with China to uphold openness and mutual benefit, promote fair trade and jointly address global crises and challenges.

    F. Merz stated that the efforts aimed at this are in the interests of both countries, noting the positive development of German-Chinese relations and the continuous development of cooperation in various areas, including politics, economics and trade.

    The Chancellor also reaffirmed the new German government’s commitment to the one-China policy.

    Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, recalled that Chinese President Xi Jinping and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz recently held an important telephone conversation, which provided strategic guidance and political guarantees to bilateral relations.

    China-Germany relations, as a mature and successful relationship between great powers, do not target, depend on or obey any third party, Wang said, adding that the relations have strong internal momentum and exhibit a high degree of stability.

    China highly appreciates the constructive and pragmatic approach of the new German government in promoting China-Germany ties, Wang continued, adding that China is willing to maintain close high-level exchanges and make full use of various consultation mechanisms to promote the steady, healthy and stable development of China-Germany relations.

    According to him, this will not only serve the interests of both countries, but will also benefit Europe and the whole world.

    Wang Yi also noted that China is pleased to see Germany developing and prospering and playing an increasingly important role in Europe and the world.

    The minister expressed confidence that the new German government will positively assess China’s development, adhere to a rational and pragmatic policy towards it, respect China’s fundamental interests in practice, support China in achieving national reunification just as China once unconditionally supported the reunification of Germany, and continue to firmly adhere to the one-China principle.

    China is committed to building a new open economic system at a higher level, and the doors of its openness will be opened wider and wider, Wang Yi assured, adding that China is willing to share its market opportunities with Germany and jointly create new development prospects.

    During the meeting, the parties also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis and agreed to maintain strategic communication to facilitate its peaceful resolution. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israeli army claims control over 65% of Gaza Strip territory

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    JERUSALEM, July 4 (Xinhua) — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced in a statement on Friday that it has now established operational control over more than 65 percent of the Gaza Strip.

    The statement was accompanied by a military map showing areas under Israeli control, primarily in the northern, southern and eastern parts of the Palestinian enclave, as well as IDF deployment zones throughout the region.

    According to Israeli television channel Channel 12 News, when the Israeli military resumed its offensive in Gaza in March, it set a goal of controlling 75 percent of the territory.

    The IDF also said it had killed more than 100 militants in Gaza over the past week, including four senior commanders. Since March 18, the Israeli Air Force has struck more than 7,500 military infrastructure sites, including weapons depots, rocket launch sites and underground bunkers.

    Israel’s offensive, which began in October 2023, has left at least 57,130 documented Palestinians dead and 135,173 wounded, Gaza health authorities said Thursday. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Illegal import of English cars to Cyprus via Bulgaria – E-002583/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002583/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Loucas Fourlas (PPE)

    There has been an increase in the number of cases of second-hand vehicles being illegally imported from the United Kingdom into the Republic of Cyprus via non-EU countries – mainly Bulgaria. Some cases show that administrative loopholes and rules governing the movement of vehicles in the EU are being exploited to avoid customs and fiscal checks. These practices undermine public security, tax fairness and transparency in the second-hand vehicle market.

    In view of this, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.Is it aware of these practices and the dangers they pose?
    • 2.Does it intend to strengthen the framework for cooperation between customs authorities in the Member States to deal with such phenomena?
    • 3.What measures does it propose to ensure the traceability of a vehicle’s movements between countries in the EU?

    Submitted: 26.6.2025

    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Illegal import of English cars to Cyprus via Bulgaria – E-002583/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002583/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Loucas Fourlas (PPE)

    There has been an increase in the number of cases of second-hand vehicles being illegally imported from the United Kingdom into the Republic of Cyprus via non-EU countries – mainly Bulgaria. Some cases show that administrative loopholes and rules governing the movement of vehicles in the EU are being exploited to avoid customs and fiscal checks. These practices undermine public security, tax fairness and transparency in the second-hand vehicle market.

    In view of this, can the Commission answer the following:

    • 1.Is it aware of these practices and the dangers they pose?
    • 2.Does it intend to strengthen the framework for cooperation between customs authorities in the Member States to deal with such phenomena?
    • 3.What measures does it propose to ensure the traceability of a vehicle’s movements between countries in the EU?

    Submitted: 26.6.2025

    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Flight delays for EU passengers in summer 2025 – P-002660/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002660/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Benoit Cassart (Renew)

    Summer 2024 saw the most disruptions to flight punctuality in Europe in 25 years, with almost half of flights delayed. The situation in summer 2025 is set to be even worse.

    At least half of delays are down to air traffic control shortcomings in certain Member States, where air navigation service providers are understaffed and under capacity despite the European performance framework. The situation is sometimes compounded by air traffic controller strikes which disrupt the entire European network.

    The Member States concerned must urgently take the steps necessary to step up their air traffic control resources, particularly during the summer period. The first flights in the morning should receive special attention to avoid knock-on delays throughout the day.

    In the light of this concerning state of affairs, does the Commission intend to closely monitor Member States’ commitments and action to avoid a new wave of disruptions for European passengers this summer?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Flight delays for EU passengers in summer 2025 – P-002660/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002660/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Benoit Cassart (Renew)

    Summer 2024 saw the most disruptions to flight punctuality in Europe in 25 years, with almost half of flights delayed. The situation in summer 2025 is set to be even worse.

    At least half of delays are down to air traffic control shortcomings in certain Member States, where air navigation service providers are understaffed and under capacity despite the European performance framework. The situation is sometimes compounded by air traffic controller strikes which disrupt the entire European network.

    The Member States concerned must urgently take the steps necessary to step up their air traffic control resources, particularly during the summer period. The first flights in the morning should receive special attention to avoid knock-on delays throughout the day.

    In the light of this concerning state of affairs, does the Commission intend to closely monitor Member States’ commitments and action to avoid a new wave of disruptions for European passengers this summer?

    Submitted: 1.7.2025

    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Potential electricity grid imbalance due to intermittent supply from renewables – E-002586/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002586/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Julie Rechagneux (PfE), Rody Tolassy (PfE), Aleksandar Nikolic (PfE), Tomáš Kubín (PfE), Auke Zijlstra (PfE), Mathilde Androuët (PfE), France Jamet (PfE), Marie-Luce Brasier-Clain (PfE), Silvia Sardone (PfE), Pierre Pimpie (PfE), Catherine Griset (PfE), Isabella Tovaglieri (PfE), Virginie Joron (PfE), António Tânger Corrêa (PfE), Pascale Piera (PfE), Jana Nagyová (PfE), André Rougé (PfE), Mireia Borrás Pabón (PfE), Hermann Tertsch (PfE), Raffaele Stancanelli (PfE), Nikola Bartůšek (PfE), Jorge Martín Frías (PfE), Christophe Bay (PfE)

    On 28 April 2025, a major power outage affected almost all of the Iberian Peninsula and part of south-west France. According to several analysts, this instability was caused by rapid synchronisation failures in the grid, which is highly dependent on intermittent production from renewable sources.

    In February 2024, Redeia, the Spanish operator, warned that the electricity system was becoming increasingly vulnerable due to the lack of dispatchable capacities and the difficulty of maintaining a balance between production and consumption in real time.

    In parallel, the Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) sets a renewable energy use target of 42.5 % for each Member State by 2030. Several countries, including Spain, have already surpassed this threshold, even though their grid infrastructure or dispatchable capacity might not be entirely suitable.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission have a consolidated assessment of grid imbalance incidents in the Member States linked to predominantly intermittent production?
    • 2.Does it believe that it is possible to meet the renewable energy target of 42.5 % by 2030, when several national electricity grids are already struggling to integrate a high share of intermittent energy without compromising the system’s stability?
    • 3.Will it take account of reliability, flexibility or security of supply when assessing the national plans to contribute to the RED III goals?

    Submitted: 26.6.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission to cut EU Taxonomy red tape for companies

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 04 Jul 2025 The European Commission has adopted a set of measures to simplify the application of EU Taxonomy. This will reduce the administrative burden for EU companies, thus enhancing EU competitiveness while preserving core climate and environmental goals.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission declares the East Shield ‘noteworthy’ but stops short of specific pledges – E-001306/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Serious and persistent threats at the Eastern EU border may entail the weaponisation of migration which poses a challenge for national security of the concerned Member States, but also the security of the EU as a whole.

    This is what the Commission stressed in the communication on the weaponisation of migration which recalled the legal context in which any exceptional measure to tackle this threat can be taken by Member States, including as arising from case-law[1].

    The situation also calls for a resolute EU response which should be comprehensive, addressing both a potential threat of conventional military aggression and hybrid campaigns.

    The White Paper for European Defence — Readiness 2030[2] acknowledges the importance of defending all EU borders, in particular the Eastern border. The project related to an Eastern Border Shield has been considered a noteworthy exercise by a number of Member States to confront the growing challenges in the region.

    The Security Action for Europe Regulation[3], the European Defence Industry Programme[4] (subject to its negotiation by the co-legislators), and dual-use EU instruments (such as the Border Management Visa Policy Instrument) could provide the basis for additional efforts in support of Member States. The Commission has engaged in dialogue with Member States to explore possible options.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52024DC0570.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025JC0120.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025PC0122.
    • [4] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52024PC0150.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Lysine 1 – P-001590/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Lysine is an amino acid which can be included as an active substance in feed additives. 26 lysine-based feed additives are currently authorised to be placed on the EU market, all of them in the category of ‘nutritional additives’, and the functional group of ‘amino acids, their salts and analogues’. The purpose of these additives is to satisfy the nutritional needs of animals, thereby contributing to keeping animals in good health.

    The Commission is aware of the concerns regarding a reliable supply of lysine to the EU market and its importance as an essential amino acid to complement the diets of farmed animals.

    Security of supply for such agricultural inputs is part of a wider reflection whereby, as clearly highlighted by the Commission’s Vision for Agriculture and Food[1], the EU develops an assertive policy response in favour of our strategic autonomy and food sovereignty. Ensuring the survival of the sole remaining Union producer of lysine serves those objectives.

    In the EU interest analysis of the anti-dumping investigation you refer to, the Commission has provisionally concluded that the imposition of anti-dumping measures is unlikely to seriously affect the quantitative supply of lysine to EU users. The Commission has reasonable grounds to ascertain itself that no shortage of supply will occur in the future.

    The Commission has also provisionally concluded that it would result in an increase in the production cost of animal feed well below 1% and prices of animal livestock products will therefore hardly be affected by measures.

    Finally, the imposition of anti-dumping duties is likely to lower the production cost of lysine in the EU, as it is expected to result in increased sales and, thus, production volumes and less fixed costs per unit.

    • [1] COM(2025) 75 final.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Persistent obstacles to the improvement of cross-border rail transport – E-000647/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Regulation (EU) 2024/1679[1] of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on Union guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network, the TEN-T Regulation, was only adopted last year. It sets, amongst others, deadlines for the completion of networks and for the replacement of national, non-interoperable, rail safety systems (‘class B’ systems), with an EU standard system, notably the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS).

    The regulation contains mechanisms to steer its level of implementation, including through national plans and programmes, the annual status report and the work plans drawn up by the European Coordinators as well as a review clause per 31 December 2033.

    2. The Commission, supported by the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA), works continuously to harmonise administrative and technical requirements for railways in the EU. Recent initiatives include the proposal to renew the rules on capacity allocation, which is currently being negotiated with the European Parliament and the Council. Upcoming initiatives include proposals on the revision of the Train Drivers Directive[2] and a new legislative initiative on ticketing.

    3. Together with Member States and ERA, the Commission works to identify and to remove identified barriers. Tools to identify these barriers include the so-called ‘log-book’ for freight services and the pilot projects for cross-border long-distance passenger rail. In addition, the regular updates of the Technical Specifications for Interoperability (TSI) support the further harmonisation of technical and operational rules.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1679/oj/eng.
    • [2] Directive 2007/59/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2007 on the certification of train drivers operating locomotives and trains on the railway system in the Community, OJ L 315, 3.12.2007, p. 51-78.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Inadequate checks on road transport in Greece owing to the abandonment of the Joint Inspection Teams – E-001424/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. The Commission is not aware of an inadequate functioning of the checks in road transport in Greece. In line with Article 2(3) of Directive 2006/22/EC[1], Member States are required to carry out a minimum number of checks at the roadside and at the premises of road transport undertakings to verify compliance of drivers and operators with the EU social rules in the road transport sector. The 32nd report from the Commission on the implementation of the social legislation relating to road transport[2] based, as regards Greece, on the Greek national report, shows that Greece complied with the minimum level of checks in the period 2021-2022. Member States must submit to the Commission, by 30 September 2025, their national report covering the period 2023-2024.

    2. The Commission may decide to take any appropriate action, including infringement proceedings, against Greece in case of failure to comply with the minimum control requirements set out in Article 2(3) of Directive 2006/22/EC.

    3. The European Labour Authority can help the Greek authorities by further promoting the exchange of experience, best practices and information, and by involving them in concerted checks and joint training initiatives .

    • [1] Directive 2006/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 March 2006 on minimum conditions for the implementation of Council Regulations (EEC) No 3820/85 and (EEC) No 3821/85 concerning social legislation relating to road transport activities and repealing Council Directive 88/599/EEC (OJ L 102 of 11.4.2006, p. 35).
    • [2] Report from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council on the implementation in 2021-2022 of Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 on the harmonisation of certain social legislation relating to road transport and of Directive 2002/15/EC on the organisation of the working time of persons performing mobile road transport activities (32nd report from the Commission on the implementation of the social legislation relating to road transport) COM/2024/405 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=COM:2024:405:FIN.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Unequal development of tourist ports in the EU – Greece failing to make the most of European tools – E-001359/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP)[1], the ‘Tourism Development’[2] and ‘Upgrade Interventions for Regional Ports’[3] measures support significant port investments aiming to extend the tourism season in Greece beyond the summer months and promote alternative forms of tourism, contributing to economic resilience, sustainable growth and social and territorial cohesion. These investment measures provide funding for infrastructures and interventions in regional ports, tourist ports and marinas.

    The EU Cohesion Policy also supports investments in port infrastructure to enhance access to coastal and island regions and strengthen local economies.

    In Greece, around EUR 228 million has been allocated through national and regional programmes to improve port facilities, aiming to boost connectivity, foster economic development in island areas, and stimulate tourism growth.

    In particular, funding programmes support sustainable maritime tourism such as a call for Green Transition Projects under the Interreg NEXT MED to tackle climate challenges across the Mediterranean region[4].

    Under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), regional flagship projects[5] have been supported to strengthen the competitiveness of coastal tourism as well as to promote sustainable transport and ports in the Mediterranean.

    The Transition Pathway for Tourism and EU Agenda for Tourism 2030 emphasises the need to transition to a sustainable development model that includes island and coastal economies, considering that 45% of nights spent in the EU are in coastal destinations.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en.
    • [2] measure ID: 16931.
    • [3] measure ID: 16975.
    • [4] https://www.interregnextmed.eu/apply-for-funding/second-call-for-proposals/.
    • [5] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/news-events/news/promoting-sustainable-blue-economy-emfaf-flagship-call-2021-projects-year-2023-07-24_en,
      https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/news-events/news/new-emfaf-regional-flagship-projects-just-kicked-their-work-2023-10-12_en.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Unequal development of tourist ports in the EU – Greece failing to make the most of European tools – E-001359/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Under the Greek Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP)[1], the ‘Tourism Development’[2] and ‘Upgrade Interventions for Regional Ports’[3] measures support significant port investments aiming to extend the tourism season in Greece beyond the summer months and promote alternative forms of tourism, contributing to economic resilience, sustainable growth and social and territorial cohesion. These investment measures provide funding for infrastructures and interventions in regional ports, tourist ports and marinas.

    The EU Cohesion Policy also supports investments in port infrastructure to enhance access to coastal and island regions and strengthen local economies.

    In Greece, around EUR 228 million has been allocated through national and regional programmes to improve port facilities, aiming to boost connectivity, foster economic development in island areas, and stimulate tourism growth.

    In particular, funding programmes support sustainable maritime tourism such as a call for Green Transition Projects under the Interreg NEXT MED to tackle climate challenges across the Mediterranean region[4].

    Under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), regional flagship projects[5] have been supported to strengthen the competitiveness of coastal tourism as well as to promote sustainable transport and ports in the Mediterranean.

    The Transition Pathway for Tourism and EU Agenda for Tourism 2030 emphasises the need to transition to a sustainable development model that includes island and coastal economies, considering that 45% of nights spent in the EU are in coastal destinations.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/economic-recovery/recovery-and-resilience-facility/country-pages/greeces-recovery-and-resilience-plan_en.
    • [2] measure ID: 16931.
    • [3] measure ID: 16975.
    • [4] https://www.interregnextmed.eu/apply-for-funding/second-call-for-proposals/.
    • [5] https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/news-events/news/promoting-sustainable-blue-economy-emfaf-flagship-call-2021-projects-year-2023-07-24_en,
      https://cinea.ec.europa.eu/news-events/news/new-emfaf-regional-flagship-projects-just-kicked-their-work-2023-10-12_en.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Immunosenescence – E-001594/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Vaccination programmes and services are a competence of national authorities. The Commission supports Member States in increasing and maintaining high vaccination coverage rates and in a lifelong approach to vaccination. It is a theme of #UnitedInProtection[1], the Commission’s campaign promoting safe and effective vaccines’ benefits.

    Immunosenescence is a scientific challenge. In general, a clear understanding of the protective human immune response to infection is key to selecting and designing the right vaccine antigens.

    New or more specifically targeted formulations may be needed to improve response to existing vaccines in different population groups such as the elderly that may mount a suboptimal immune response to vaccination.

    The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) regularly generates estimates of vaccine effectiveness for key vaccination programmes, such as seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccines[2], with specific attention towards older groups.

    The ECDC also regularly provides summaries of scientific data available on the performance of newer vaccines[3] which may help to address some of the challenges related to immunosenescence.

    This scientific evidence, together with existing complementary research in the field, can help to inform on where gaps exist, including areas where research and development for newer and more effective vaccines targeting specific population group needs is key.

    The ECDC also regularly publishes overviews on the performance of national immunisation groups, such as for seasonal influenza vaccination in older age groups[4].

    Such overviews include public health considerations on how Member States and stakeholders can strengthen the implementation of existing programmes.

    • [1] https://vaccination-protection.ec.europa.eu/index_en.
    • [2] Please consult Vaccine Effectiveness, Burden and Impact Studies (VEBIS) on the ECDC website for an
      overview of ongoing studies and latest results available: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/infectious-disease-topics/related-public-health-topics/immunisation-and-vaccines/vaccine-0.
    • [3] https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/systematic-review-update-efficacy-effectiveness-and-safety-newer-and-enhanced.
    • [4] https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/survey-report-national-seasonal-influenza-vaccination-recommendations.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Strategic risks of the proposed REACH ban on calcium cyanamide in agriculture – E-002584/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002584/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tomáš Zdechovský (PPE)

    The Commission’s proposed restriction, under the regulation on the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH), on the use of calcium cyanamide as a fertiliser threatens to seriously jeopardise European strategic autonomy. While the restriction targets agricultural use, it threatens the economic viability of the only European producer, Alzchem Trostberg GmbH, which also supplies calcium cyanamide for nitroguanidine, a critical energetic material used in artillery shells, tank and naval ammunition, insensitive munitions and rocket propellants.

    If agricultural demand collapses, calcium cyanamide production may become unsustainable or cease entirely. This would dismantle the only European supply chain for nitroguanidine and force reliance on imports from China, India, Japan or other countries, many of which pose serious geostrategic risks, undermining the EU’s defence capabilities and industrial sovereignty.

    In the light of this:

    • 1.Has the Commission assessed the indirect impact of the proposed ban on the viability of calcium cyanamide production and its consequences for European defence supply chains?
    • 2.What steps will the Commission take to preserve access to this strategic raw material and prevent the collapse of the only EU-based production facility?
    • 3.Will the Commission consider a targeted exemption or alternative regulatory approach that balances environmental goals with the need to safeguard critical industrial and defence capabilities?

    Submitted: 26.6.2025

    Last updated: 4 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Subsidies for EU prejudices? – E-001730/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Information on EU budget funding awarded to specific recipients, such as European media outlets, is publicly available through the centralised Financial Transparency System (FTS) web page[1]. This tool provides detailed information at individual project level, allowing to conduct searches across multiple dimensions.

    2. Grants for news media are provided on the basis of open calls. The applying entities are free to propose the activities to be implemented based on the objectives and expected deliverables set out in the calls. Such calls include provisions to make sure that beneficiaries apply journalistic and ethical standards, while operating with full editorial independence.

    3. Free and fair elections are at the core of democracy. The conduct and the organisations of elections are the competence and responsibility of the Member States, in accordance with their national constitutional rules and legislation, subject to EU law and their international obligations. All EU grants must be implemented by beneficiaries in full respect of applicable EU and national law. Hence, applicants have to comply with electoral rules in the given Member State.

    Direct EU funding falls outside the scope of the EU State aid rules. Moreover, direct EU funding is governed by rigorous rules designed to prevent distortions of competition and there is no evidence of a breach of the EU’s competition rules.

    • [1] https://ec.europa.eu/budget/financial-transparency-system/index.html. The annual publications are based on Article 38 of the Financial Regulation (OJ L 2024/2509, 26.9.2024, p. 1-239), and in accordance with the third paragraph of the article, information on recipients is not disclosed in specific cases outlined therein.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Digital platforms and content moderation – double standards in the fight against online crime – E-001883/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Freedom of expression and information is a pillar of democracy and protected under the EU Charter.1 The Digital Services Act (DSA)[1] helps create a safer digital space where the fundamental rights of users are protected online. The DSA defines the responsibilities of online platforms and specifically helps to ensure freedom of expression online.

    Under the DSA the Commission monitors the compliance of all designated Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and Very Large Search Engines (VLOSEs) including TikTok.[2]

    In order to address harmful and potentially illegal content under the DSA, the providers of online platforms, including social media platforms need to put in place an easy-to-use reporting tool for users to notify them about the presence of illegal content on the platform.

    In addition, competent authorities in each Member State may order providers to take action against certain items of illegal content and provide them with specific information.

    As VLOP, TikTok has to comply with additional obligations. Namely, the diligent assessment and effective mitigation of the systemic risks, including in relation to the freedom of expression and the removal of illegal content. Mitigation measures can include the automatic detection of harmful content.

    Digital Services Coordinators (DSC) are the competent authorities to monitor compliance with the DSA in each Member State. They also gather complaints from individual cases like the one you mentioned and assesses the need for further action.

    In Italy, the communications Regulatory Authority (AGCOM) is the designated DSC. Users also have the right to go through out-of-court dispute settlement bodies in case of disagreement with the platform’s actions.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=LEGISSUM:4625430.
    • [2] Supervision of the designated very large online platforms and search engines under DSA | Shaping Europe’s digital future.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protecting consumers when they are automatically connected to non-European telephone networks – E-002062/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission considers that the current Roaming Regulation[1] adequately ensures end-users’ protection from inadvertent roaming.

    According to Articles 13(5) and 14(6) of the Roaming Regulation, roaming providers are obliged to take all reasonable steps to protect their customers from paying roaming charges due to inadvertently accessed roaming services while situated in their home Member State.

    This includes informing customers on how to effectively avoid inadvertent roaming in border regions. Equally, according to Article 4(2) of the Roaming Regulation, roaming providers should ensure that, w hen roaming within the EU, roaming customers are able to use the retail services to which they subscribe and benefit from the same level of quality of service as at home .

    National regulatory authorities and, where applicable, other competent authorities are expected to be alert to situations of inadvertent roaming in the border regions. They should monitor and collect information on inadvertent roaming and take appropriate measures where necessary.

    Moreover, roaming providers are, pursuant to Article 14(4) of the Roaming Regulation, obliged to grant to their customers at least the default financial or volume limits in value of EUR 50 and 100[2] for regulated data roaming services that the customers consume, including outside the EU, when technically possible.

    In light of the above, the Commission considers that the current Roaming Regulation’s framework provides adequate protection for end-users against inadvertent roaming.

    More efforts though could be taken at national level to implement, monitor, and enforce the existing Roaming Regulation’s framework, for the benefit of end-users.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2022/612 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 6 April 2022 on roaming on public mobile communications networks within the Union (OJ L 115, 13.4.2022, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/612/oj).
    • [2] Per monthly billing period, excluding VAT.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Participation in the Olympic Games as a framework for peace and mutual understanding – E-001810/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Sport plays a powerful role in promoting peace, respect, and understanding within societies. By teaching us to follow rules, respect opponents, and reject violence, it contributes meaningfully to human rights and peaceful coexistence. As the world’s foremost sporting event, the Olympic Games symbolise these values and have the unique ability to bring people together across borders and differences.

    The Commission believes that international sporting events, including the Olympic Games, must not be used for political propaganda by regimes engaged in wars of aggression in violation of international law.

    At the same time the Commission fully supports the autonomy of the sporting movement and the universal right of individual athletes, to participate in such events and takes note of the decision of the International Olympic Committee to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

    Last updated: 4 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Modernisation and safety of rail networks in the EU – E-000778/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission underlines that the responsibility for rail safety lies with the Member States and relevant actors, as set out in Article 4 of Directive 2016/798[1]. Neither the Commission nor the European Union Agency for Railways (the Agency) can replace these actors in their roles .

    The Commission does assess the compliance of the national measures transposing the Rail Safety Directive[2], whereas the Agency audits its implementation and application by the national safety authorities, which play a pivotal role in ensuring safety of the national rail systems.

    On request of the Commission, the Agency may perform complex assessments of the entire rail sector in Member States. To rectify non-compliance, Member States must implement an Action Plan.

    In case of deficiencies in the implementation of EU law, the Commission may take the necessary measures, as it was done for Greece by opening an infringement case (INFR(2023)2036 of 16 December 2024[3]).

    The Commission considers that the legislative framework concerning rail safety is mature and contains strong control mechanisms. However, it should be improved by EU-wide safety occurrence reporting for early alerts and by measures enhancing the risk-based monitoring capabilities of the Agency.

    In the Commission’s view, the 2024 trans-European transport network (TEN-T) Regulation[4] introduced a solid framework to ensure the development of an efficient, digital and resilient rail network in the European Union.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32016L0798.
    • [2] Directive (EU) 2016/798 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 May 2016 on railway safety, http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2016/798/oj.
    • [3] Press release: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/inf_24_6006.
    • [4] Regulation (EU) 2024/1679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on Union guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network, amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1153 and (EU) No 913/2010 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1315/2013, http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1679/oj.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Aviation safety and implementation of EU rules – E-001606/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. No official complaint to the Commission has been registered, however the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) has been subject to standardisation inspections by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) monitoring the application by the competent authorities of the Member States of Regulation (EU) 2018/1139[1] and of its delegated and implementing rules, and to report to the Commission about the results. No particular findings have been raised regarding the air collision avoidance system.

    2. The latest standardisation inspection of HCAA as the authority responsible for the safety oversight of Air Traffic Management/Air Navigation Services has been performed at the end of 2023 The implementation of the subsequent Corrective Action Plan by HCAA is progressing.

    3. The Commission has opened infringement cases INFR(2024)2237[2] and INFR(2024)2014[3] regarding the established shortcomings. Finally, as a result of lack of implementation of the requirements related to data link services, the Commission has opened infringement case INFR(2020)2050[4]. The Commission is closely following up on implementation of the related rules.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2018 on common rules in the field of civil aviation and establishing a European Union Aviation Safety Agency, and amending Regulations (EC) No 2111/2005, (EC) No 1008/2008, (EU) No 996/2010, (EU) No 376/2014 and Directives 2014/30/EU and 2014/53/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, and repealing Regulations (EC) No 552/2004 and (EC) No 216/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (EEC) No 3922/91 (Text with EEA relevance.) OJ L 212, 22.8.2018, p. 1-122, http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2018/1139/oj.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/implementing-eu-law/search-infringement-decisions/?langCode=EN&version=v1&typeOfSearch=byDecision&refId=INFR(2024)2237&page=1&size=10&order=desc&sortColumns=decisionDate.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/implementing-eu-law/search-infringement-decisions/?langCode=EN&version=v1&typeOfSearch=byDecision&refId=INFR(2024)2014&page=1&size=10&order=desc&sortColumns=decisionDate.
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/implementing-eu-law/search-infringement-decisions/?lang_code=EN&typeOfSearch=true&active_only=0&noncom=0&r_dossier=2020%2F2050&decision_date_from=&decision_date_to=&title=&submit=Search&langCode=EN.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – European Oceans Pact and the emissions trading system covering buildings, road transport and additional sectors (ETS2). – E-002014/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    All sectors, including waterborne activities, need to contribute to the EU climate neutrality goal by 2050.

    The Commission announced in the European Ocean Pact[1] that it will propose measures to decarbonise and modernise the fisheries fleet, supported by the Energy Transition Partnership for the fisheries and aquaculture sector.

    In addition, it recalled the importance of the recent extension of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) to maritime and the implementation of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation[2] to accelerate the decarbonisation of the EU maritime transport sector.

    Furthermore, the Commission is launching a study on greenhouse gas emission reduction costs and pathways for EU fisheries to achieve net zero by 2050[3].

    The ETS2 — which will be fully operational from 2027 onwards — will cover and address the CO2 emissions from fuel combustion in buildings, road transport and industry not covered by the existing EU ETS.

    While emissions from waterborne activities are not included in its scope, Member States can decide, on a voluntary basis, to opt-in additional emissions. Some Member States, including Austria, Finland, the Netherlands and Sweden, have already decided to include, within the scope of ETS2, emissions from some smaller vessels, inland navigation and/or fishing.

    In addition, the Commission will examine, no later than end of 2026, the feasibility and economic, environmental and social impacts of including ships below 5 000 gross tonnage within the scope of the ETS Directive[4].

    The Commission will notably build its analysis on its recent report[5] looking at the potential inclusion of small ships, including fishing vessels, in the scope of the EU regulation for the Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) of maritime emissions.

    • [1]  COM(2025) 281 final — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=comnat:COM_2025_0281_FIN.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/1805/oj/eng.
    • [3] The study is expected to be published by the end of 2025 and will explore complementary scenarios, including the introduction of fisheries into the MRV and ETS systems.
    • [4] Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 October 2003 establishing a scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the Community and amending Council Directive 96/61/EC (OJ L 275, 25.10.2003, p. 32).
    • [5]  COM(2025) 109 final — https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52025DC0109&qid=1749048682099.

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Security and integrity of electronic platforms for public invitations to tender in Sicily – E-001519/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission undertakes regular annual eProcurement workshops with Member States, to understand their current eProcurement services and monitor their operational effectiveness.

    This proactive stance aims to ensure, as much as possible, the integrity and security of eProcurement systems across the EU. It also aims to maintain trust and transparency in public procurement processes and foster an environment where public procurement is conducted in a fair, efficient, and secure manner.

    So far, throughout the duration of these workshops, no instances have been reported or discussed wherein buyers or suppliers have manipulated eProcurement services with the intention of altering bids. This suggests a high level of integrity within the existing eProcurement systems employed by Member States.

    More specifically, regarding the incident in Sicily, the Commission has been in contact with Italian authorities and at this stage understands that potential irregularities appear not to result from the manipulation of the eProcurement service itself.

    The Commission remains committed to pursuing further contacts with Italian authorities should investigatory procedures later uncover evidence of a security breach or malfunction within the eProcurement service used in Sicily.

    Last updated: 4 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Eastern Shield – P-001157/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The serious and persistent nature of the hybrid threats at the Eastern EU border with Russia and Belarus pose new challenges for the whole EU.

    It calls also for a strengthened EU response, in full respect of EU and international law, which should be comprehensive, both addressing the threat of potential conventional military aggression and ongoing hybrid activities, including campaigns for weaponising migration and challenging the entire Schengen zone.

    The White Paper on the European Defence Readiness 2030[1] acknowledges that the defence of all EU land, air and maritime borders is important, in particular as regards the EU Eastern border. The Eastern Border Shield project is a noteworthy exercise by a number of Member States to confront the growing challenges in that region.

    The Commission would consider potential financial support for defence upon Member States request under the future European Defence Industry Programme[2], the Commission has engaged with Member States undertaking national efforts in strengthening EU external borders to explore possible options and the scope of potential support.

    The Commission also supports Member States in ensuring strong European integrated border management and effective protection of the EU external borders through the Border Management and Visa Instrument (BMVI)[3]. Activities related to the automated border surveillance systems are a substantial part of Poland’s 2021-2027 BMVI programme.

    The EUR 220.5 million allocated to the programme includes funding made available in December 2024 for ‘Enhancing border surveillance capabilities for countries bordering Russia and Belarus’ (currently being added to the programme) and will be increased by EUR 23 million from the mid-term review.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025JC0120.
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52024PC0150.
    • [3] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32021R1148.
    Last updated: 4 July 2025

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU invests €852 million in six innovative electric vehicle battery projects

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 04 Jul 2025 Today, the European Commission announced that six pioneering electric vehicle (EV) battery cell manufacturing projects will receive a total of €852 million in grants from the Innovation Fund, using revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Positioning cardiomyopathy in the cardiovascular health plan – E-002613/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002613/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nicolás González Casares (S&D), Elena Nevado del Campo (PPE), Romana Jerković (S&D), Liesbet Sommen (PPE), Leire Pajín (S&D), Nikos Papandreou (S&D), Tomislav Sokol (PPE)

    Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death in the European Union, accounting for more than 1 in every 3 deaths and causing almost 5 000 deaths every day. CVDs take many forms. One of them is cardiomyopathy, which refers to a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle and are usually caused by inherited pathogenic genetic mutations. However, cardiomyopathy has received little policy attention.

    Collectively, the various forms of cardiomyopathy affect around 1 in 330 people in Europe, and they can occur in patients of all ages. The prevalence of cardiomyopathy is rising, yet underdiagnosis, misdiagnosis and late diagnosis remain widespread. Cardiomyopathy can significantly impair patients’ quality of life and psychological well-being. It also generates significant healthcare costs per patient, primarily because of the hospitalisations required to treat cardiomyopathy-related complications, but also because of heart transplants.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.what is the Commission currently doing to help tackle the burden of cardiomyopathy on patients, families and healthcare systems?
    • 2.is the Commission planning to incorporate cardiomyopathy into its upcoming cardiovascular health plan?
    • 3.how does the Commission plan to promote early diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, given that it is often underdiagnosed, misdiagnosed or diagnosed late?

    Submitted: 28.6.2025

    Last updated: 4 July 2025

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