As part of NASA’s efforts to expand access to space, four private astronauts are in orbit following the successful launch of the fourth all private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. A SpaceX Dragon spacecraft lifted off at 2:31 a.m. EDT Wednesday from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying Axiom Mission 4 crew members Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space as commander, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut and pilot Shubhanshu Shukla, and mission specialists ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and HUNOR (Hungarian to Orbit) astronaut Tibor Kapu of Hungary. “Congratulations to Axiom Space and SpaceX on a successful launch,” said NASA acting Administrator Janet Petro. “Under President Donald Trump’s leadership, America has expanded international participation and commercial capabilities in low Earth orbit. U.S. industry is enabling astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary to return to space for the first time in over forty years. It’s a powerful example of American leadership bringing nations together in pursuit of science, discovery, and opportunity.” A collaboration between NASA and ISRO allowed Axiom Mission 4 to deliver on a commitment highlighted by President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to send the first ISRO astronaut to the station. The space agencies are participating in five joint science investigations and two in-orbit science, technology, engineering, and mathematics demonstrations. NASA and ISRO have a long-standing relationship built on a shared vision to advance scientific knowledge and expand space collaboration. This mission serves as an example of the success derived from collaboration between NASA’s international partners and American commercial space companies. Live coverage of the spacecraft’s arrival will begin at 5 a.m., Thursday, June 26, on NASA+. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media. The spacecraft is scheduled to autonomously dock at approximately 7 a.m. to the space-facing port of the space station’s Harmony module. Once aboard the station, Expedition 73 crew members, including NASA astronauts, Nicole Ayers, Anne McClain, and Jonny Kim, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonauts Kirill Peskov, Sergey Ryzhikov, and Alexey Zubritsky will welcome the astronauts. The crew is scheduled to remain at the space station, conducting microgravity research, educational outreach, and commercial activities for about two weeks before a return to Earth and splashdown off the coast of California. The International Space Station is a springboard for developing a low Earth economy. NASA’s goal is to achieve a strong economy off the Earth where the agency can purchase services as one of many customers to meet its science and research objectives in microgravity. NASA’s commercial strategy for low Earth orbit provides the government with reliable and safe services at a lower cost, empowers U.S. industry, and enables the agency to focus on Artemis missions to the Moon in preparation for Mars while also continuing to use low Earth orbit as a training and proving ground for those deep space missions. Learn more about NASA’s commercial space strategy at: https://www.nasa.gov/commercial-space -end- Josh FinchHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov Anna SchneiderJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111anna.c.schneider@nasa.gov
The criminals used phishing techniques to obtain login credentials from legitimate sellers on a well-known online commerce platform. After gaining access to the account, they changed the login details, locking the rightful users out of their accounts. The criminals then continued to post advertisements of fake goods on the seller account. Because customers trusted the seller accounts, they initially put orders in for over EUR 106 million. In the end, 556 customers completed their order and purchased goods that would never arrive, causing damages of over EUR 400 000.
When investigators identified the locations of the criminal group, Romanian and German authorities quickly began working together through a joint investigation team established by Eurojust. The cooperation led to a series of actions in December 2024, during which evidence was collected through house searches in Germany, Romania and Austria. Based on the evidence obtained, the authorities arrested four suspects in Romania and three in Germany. Preventative measures are in place for the four suspects in Romania, and two suspects in Germany remain in custody.
Following the actions in December, investigations into the group continued. Authorities discovered that three members of the criminal group had continued their criminal activities. The Romanian and German investigators quickly identified the individuals and prepared further action.
During an action day on 24 June, the three members were detained in Romania following a European Arrest Warrant issued by the German authorities. Eight house searches were also conducted where IT systems were seized containing more evidence. Investigations into the criminal group are ongoing.
The following authorities carried out the operation:
Romania: Prosecutor’s Office attached to the High Court of Cassation and Justice –Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism –Vâlcea Territorial Office; Service for Combating Organised Crime Vâlcea; Service for Combating Organised Crime Sibiu; Service for Special Actions Vâlcea; Service for Special Actions Sibiu
Germany: Bavarian Central Office for the Prosecution of Cybercrime; Criminal Police Department Nuremberg – K 52
The criminals used phishing techniques to obtain login credentials from legitimate sellers on a well-known online commerce platform. After gaining access to the account, they changed the login details, locking the rightful users out of their accounts. The criminals then continued to post advertisements of fake goods on the seller account. Because customers trusted the seller accounts, they initially put orders in for over EUR 106 million. In the end, 556 customers completed their order and purchased goods that would never arrive, causing damages of over EUR 400 000.
When investigators identified the locations of the criminal group, Romanian and German authorities quickly began working together through a joint investigation team established by Eurojust. The cooperation led to a series of actions in December 2024, during which evidence was collected through house searches in Germany, Romania and Austria. Based on the evidence obtained, the authorities arrested four suspects in Romania and three in Germany. Preventative measures are in place for the four suspects in Romania, and two suspects in Germany remain in custody.
Following the actions in December, investigations into the group continued. Authorities discovered that three members of the criminal group had continued their criminal activities. The Romanian and German investigators quickly identified the individuals and prepared further action.
During an action day on 24 June, the three members were detained in Romania following a European Arrest Warrant issued by the German authorities. Eight house searches were also conducted where IT systems were seized containing more evidence. Investigations into the criminal group are ongoing.
The following authorities carried out the operation:
Romania: Prosecutor’s Office attached to the High Court of Cassation and Justice –Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism –Vâlcea Territorial Office; Service for Combating Organised Crime Vâlcea; Service for Combating Organised Crime Sibiu; Service for Special Actions Vâlcea; Service for Special Actions Sibiu
Germany: Bavarian Central Office for the Prosecution of Cybercrime; Criminal Police Department Nuremberg – K 52
Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Wednesday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to open up the space sector to private players as a “turning point” that sparked a “miraculous” transformation. He projected that the sector could grow to USD 40–45 billion in a decade, and added that experiments conducted by astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla during the Axiom-4 mission will help prepare for future Indian space missions, including Chandrayaan-4 and the Bharat Space Station, planned for 2035.
Singh noted that one of the biggest milestones in India’s space programme came when the private sector was allowed to participate. “I think one of the greatest turning points in India’s space journey has been PM Modi’s path-breaking decision to allow the private sector to step in. The change has been miraculous. The transformation in the last 4–5 years — there are thousands of crores of investments happening from the private sector,” he told ANI.
Singh further said that India’s space sector is set for rapid growth in the coming years. “Our future projections indicate that in about 8–10 years, we might grow 4–5 times, reaching about USD 40–45 billion. Opening up the space sector to the private sector was a very courageous decision, which could have been taken only by a political dispensation with tremendous conviction and willpower,” the Union minister said.
Referring to India’s growing ambitions in space exploration, Singh said the recent Axiom Mission 4 would provide valuable experience for future Indian missions.
“I think it will also be a good experience for future missions. This, coupled with Chandrayaan-4 and missions like the Bharat Space Station, which we plan to have by 2035, and for long-duration stays in space or microgravity conditions — what arrangements need to be put in place will also be learned through the experiments conducted by Shubhanshu,” Singh said.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hailed the successful launch of the Axiom Mission 4, stating that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla carries the wishes, hopes, and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indian citizens.
“We welcome the successful launch of the Space Mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland, and the US. The Indian astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, is on his way to becoming the first Indian to go to the International Space Station. He carries with him the wishes, hopes, and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. Wish him and the other astronauts all the success!” PM Modi posted on X.
Following the successful lift-off of Axiom Mission 4, Singh also saif on X that India’s rise to the status of a “Viksit Bharat” had begun through its space exploration.
“Congratulations, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla — you are the first Indian astronaut to embark on a mission to the International Space Station. Indeed, a proud moment for India! ISRO’s growing global collaborations, after the reforms introduced by the government headed by PM Narendra Modi, have placed India at the forefront of space exploration,” Singh wrote.
He added that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla would carry out seven important experiments designed by Indian institutes. The minister also took the opportunity to remember and honour the visionaries behind India’s space ambitions, Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan.
The Axiom Mission 4 was launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 2:31 am Eastern Time (noon IST).
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
MHRA publishes final Business Plan for 2023-2026 Corporate Plan
The new Business Plan sets out priorities for 2025–26: Protecting public safety and maintaining public trust; delivering efficient, predictable services through regulatory excellence; being an agile organisation that drives innovation; being a great place to work and providing excellent customer service.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published its Business Plan for 2025/26, reaffirming its commitment to keeping patients safe and enabling access to high quality and effective medical products through innovation across the UK.
As an Executive Agency of the Department of Health and Social Care, the MHRA plays a key role in delivering the Government’s priorities to help people live healthier, longer lives. This includes supporting the missions to ensure safe and fast regulatory approval, helping build an NHS fit for the future, and driving innovation and growth in the UK’s Life Sciences sector.
The MHRA Business Plan for 2025/26 includes commitments towards:
Strengthening patient safety further, by making safety monitoring faster, more efficient, and more data driven
Implementing an agile and risk-proportionate regulatory environment that enables growth
Embedding changes needed to continue maintaining consistent performance and efficient delivery of core services within predictable timeframes.
The full MHRA Business Plan 2025/26 can be found on the MHRA website.
Notes to Editors
The MHRA’s 2025/26 Business Plan is available here.
The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) regulates all medicines and medical devices in the UK, ensuring they are effective and acceptably safe. All decisions are underpinned by rigorous, evidence-based judgements to ensure the benefits outweigh any risks.
For media enquiries, please contact: newscentre@mhra.gov.uk or call 020 3080 7651.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Landmark plan to rebuild NHS in working class communities
The 10 Year Health Plan will set out how the government plans to tackle inequalities in people’s health through fundamental reforms to our health system
Billions freed up to move critical resources like medicines and equipment to regions that most need them
Major changes to how GP funding is distributed to help working class communities and coastal areas
Health Secretary to speak in Blackpool on 10 Year Health Plan’s focus on closing health inequalities
People living in working class communities and areas where medical resources are desperately needed are set to benefit from a huge boost in support, with billions of pounds diverted to deprived areas regions, as the Government’s 10 Year Health Plan takes unprecedented action to tackle the nation’s stark health inequalities.
After years of neglect, areas where people need the NHS most often have the fewest GPs, the worst performing services, and the longest waits – a phenomenon dubbed the inverse care law. People in working class areas and coastal towns spend more of their lives in ill health and life expectancy among women with the lowest incomes has fallen in recent years, after decades of progress.
The 10 Year Health Plan will set out how the government plans to rebuild the NHS and tackle widening inequalities in people’s health through fundamental reforms to our health system, putting an end to a postcode lottery of care.
In recent months, the NHS has driven trusts and ICBs hard to cut out wasteful spending and tackle projected deficits. By driving out the culture of deficits, around £2.2 billion previously set aside for deficit support will be freed up, so it can be reinvested in critical resources like staff, medicines, new technology and equipment where they are most needed. This will support millions of people in parts of England that have historically been left behind – such as in rural communities, coastal towns, and working-class communities.
The Health Secretary will announce the change during a speech in the North West.
Speaking in the North West today, Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting is expected to say:
The truth is, those in greatest need often receive the worst quality healthcare. It flies in the face of the values the NHS was founded on. The circumstances of your birth shouldn’t determine your worth. A core ambition of our ten-year plan will be to restore the promise of the NHS, to provide first class healthcare for everyone in our country and end the postcode lottery.
Last year we sent crack teams of top clinicians to hospitals in parts of the country with the highest waiting lists and levels of economic inactivity. It has seen waiting lists in those areas falling twice as fast as the rest of the country, helping get sick Brits back to health and back to work.
Thanks to the reforms we’ve made to bear down on wasteful spending, we can now invest the savings in working class communities that need it most. Where towns have the greatest health needs and the fewest GPs, we will prioritise investment to rebuild your NHS and rebuild the health of your community.
Over the past 14 years, NHS trusts have relied heavily on deficit support, with the taxpayer forced to cover the shortfall in their budgets, even when finances have been managed badly. Since becoming NHSE Chief Executive, Jim Mackey has driven down billions in planned deficits, cutting out spending on agency staff and back office costs.
This year, the £2.2 billion in deficit support funding will not go to systems that fail to meet their agreed financial plans. Deficit support funding will be phased out entirely from 2026/27, with no more reward for failure. Instead, the Government will introduce a transparent financial regime for this year that properly holds leaders to account over financial plans. Struggling trusts will be required to set out activity and costs so they can take steps to improve. The tougher financial regime will free up funding that will be reinvested in frontline services in working class communities.
The government’s 10 Year Health Plan will also address the inequalities in GP services across England. Currently, GP surgeries which serve working class areas receive on average 10% less funding per patient than practices in more affluent areas. Royal College of GP data shows that practices in some of the country’s poorest areas have roughly 300 more patients per GP than the most affluent regions.
Through the 10 Year Health Plan, the Government will review into the way formula through which GP funding is allocated across the nation – so working-class areas receive their fair share of resources.
Dr Amanda Doyle, NHS England national director for primary care said:
It is essential that GP practices serving our most deprived communities, where health challenges are often greatest, receive a fair share of resources that reflects their need.
The NHS is committed to ensuring people can access the help they need as quickly and easily as possible and ensuring funding reflects this will help us to do just that.
This work will look at how health needs are reflected in the distribution of funding through the GP contract, drawing on evidence and advice from experts such as The Advisory Committee on Resource Allocation (ACRA), and in consultation with the GP committee of the BMA and other stakeholders.
The Government has already sent top doctors to support hospital trusts in areas where more people are out of work and waiting for treatment. The crack teams have been sent into NHS hospitals serving communities with high levels of economic inactivity, helping trusts go further and faster to improve care in these areas, where more people are neither employed nor actively seeking work, for reasons including ill health.
Earlier this year, the government struck a new agreement with the independent sector as part of the Government’s plans to end the hospital waiting list backlog – giving patients in more deprived areas, where NHS provision is more limited, a greater choice over where they are treated.
This comes after the Health and Social Care Secretary announced a series of new measures to tackle inequalities in maternity care earlier this week. The rapid national investigation will provide truth and accountability for impacted families and drive urgent improvements to care and safety. It will also focus on inequalities in maternal care, which see black women almost three times as likely to die from childbirth as white women.
Jacob Lant, Chief Executive of National Voices, said:
Lord Darzi said in his review last summer that the inverse care law was still very real, with those who need the NHS the most often living in areas that have gotten the least investment.
The NHS 10 Year Plan needs to turn this completely on its head if the Government is to achieve its election promise on health inequalities and halve the gap in healthy life expectancy between different communities by 2035.
Shifting the money is only half the battle. We need to see outcomes on health inequalities used as one of the key success measures for NHS leaders as a new culture of accountability is developed post publication of the Plan.
Cllr Louise Gittins, Chair of the Local Government Association, said:
Across the country, councils are working tirelessly to incorporate fairness into housing, employment, and public health initiatives, often in the face of significant challenges.
Health inequalities are the stark and often unjust differences in health outcomes seen across various communities. These disparities may present themselves as variations in life expectancy, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and access to healthcare services.
Addressing these issues requires concerted efforts and targeted support. Health inequalities are estimated to cost the NHS an extra £4.8 billion a year, society around £31 billion in lost productivity, and between £20 and £32 billion a year in lost tax revenue and benefit payments. Health is therefore a major determinant of economic performance and prosperity.
Councils are pivotal in addressing health inequalities. By collaborating closely with local communities, businesses, and organisations, local authorities and the NHS can develop targeted interventions to improve health outcomes.
Notes to editors
The Royal College of GP data on patient numbers can be found here.
Authorities must allow people to participate safely in Saturday’s Budapest Pride, free from intimidation, harassment or violence, said Amnesty International Hungary as it handed in a global petition to the Budapest Police Headquarters.
The #LetPrideMarch petition, signed by more than 120,000 people from 73 countries, reminds the city’s chief of police that he has a duty to respect, protect and facilitate people’s right to peacefully protest and not to enforce discriminatory laws that infringe on people’s human rights. In April, discriminatory legislation came into force passed that has since been used to ban Pride marches and other protests supporting equal rights of LGBTI people in Hungary.
“Budapest police must ensure that the 30th Budapest Pride march proceeds unhindered and peacefully”
“This is a defining moment. You must choose to protect human rights and dignity over enforcing a law that silences those demanding equality,” reads the petition.
“We call on you to reject this unjust law, uphold Hungary’s human rights commitments, and ensure that the 30th Budapest Pride march proceeds unhindered and peacefully, free from discrimination, harassment, fear or violence.”
Under the terms of the new law it is ‘forbidden to hold an assembly in violation’ of 2021 legislation banning the ‘depiction and promotion’ of homosexuality and diverse gender identities to people under 18. Under the law, the authorities have the power to use facial recognition technology to identify participants and to fine those who participate in any prohibited assembly. According to the Criminal Code, organizers of an assembly which is banned may risk criminal charges and up to one year imprisonment.
On 17 June, Budapest’s mayor announced that Budapest Pride, which marks its 30th anniversary this year, will go ahead as a municipal event. In response, the Hungarian police issued a ban against the Pride, arguing that such event is an attempt to circumvent the new discriminatory public assembly law. The mayor has said that Pride will go ahead despite the ban.
We will continue to fight alongside and on behalf of all those who want to live in a more rights respecting, free and equal Hungary
More than 70 Amnesty International delegates from 17 European Amnesty sections, including the organization’s Secretary General, Agnès Callamard, will join the Pride march on Saturday.
“For years, the government has been trying to stigmatize and use illegal laws to make the lives of sexual and gender minorities, as well as organizations and people who stand up for human rights, impossible. The unlawful restriction of our right to peaceful assembly is the latest chapter in this process,” said Dávid Vig, Amnesty International Hungary’s Director.
“We will continue to fight alongside and on behalf of all those who want to live in a more rights respecting, free and equal Hungary, and of course we will be there at this year’s Budapest Pride.”
A new law banning assemblies that support LGBTI rights came into effect in Hungary earlier this year, in a direct attack on LGBTI people, their allies, and the right to protest. As a result, the Budapest Pride march due to take place on 28 June is under threat.
Eszter Mihály, LGBTQI+ Rights Officer at Amnesty International Hungary, has been leading the organization’s campaign “Let Pride March” and is calling for national police to ensure the event in Budapest goes ahead without repression, surveillance, or intimidation.
In this interview, she shares more about her work as an activist and lawyer, the reality of being LGBTI in Hungary and why Pride must go ahead.
What made you join the fight for LGBTI+ rights?
After graduating from law school, I was determined to become a human rights lawyer, believing that a just society is measured by its treatment of the most vulnerable. Initially, I focused on human rights violations in the prison system, but when the government started to target LGBTI individuals and those advocating for their rights, I shifted my focus.
I had the opportunity to work on cases against the ban on legal gender recognition for transgender people but soon realised that addressing individual cases wasn’t enough. I wanted to utilize broader tools to encourage social change and affirm dignity and equality. This is why I joined Amnesty International Hungary’s team as an LGBTI rights officer.
What’s been the reality for LGBTI+ rights and communities in Hungary over the past few years?
Since 2010, there has been a growing stigmatization of LGBTI individuals in the narratives promoted and legislation adopted by the ruling parties in Hungary. This trend has seemingly reached its peak with recent legal amendments that permit the banning of Pride marches and protests supporting LGBTI rights.
The amendments also allow authorities to impose sanctions on organisers and participants and to use facial recognition technology to identify them. Attendees of a banned Pride march could face fines of up to 200,000 HUF (500 euros).
What do you make of the government’s escalating crackdown on LGBTI+ rights?
The escalating crackdown on LGBTI rights in Hungary can be understood as a deliberate political strategy. Orbán’s government frames LGBTI rights as a foreign trend that threatens national identity and sovereignty, and the visibility of LGBTI identities as harmful for children’s moral development. This pattern of regression is not happening in isolation but follows a broader global “anti-gender” trend where marginalized groups are targeted to divert attention from systemic issues such as corruption or the failings of public services.
State-driven rhetoric that portrays LGBTI rights and visibility as threats to children or traditional values can heighten social hostility. This kind of framing leads to increased stigma and scapegoating within communities, schools, and workplaces.
The crackdowns on LGBTI rights are part of a wider effort to suppress independent voices, including human rights organizations, often labelling them as foreign agents. A new Bill on the “Transparency of Public Life” was recently submitted, which could allow the government to blacklist various organizations that receive foreign funding and are deemed to threaten Hungary’s sovereignty.
How is the LGBTI+ community and its allies responding to the crackdown on their rights and potential ban of Budapest’s Pride on 28 June?
There is more interest in participating in Budapest Pride than ever before.
The Rainbow Mission Foundation, the organiser, has publicly confirmed its commitment to hold the event this year. In support of LGBTI rights, Amnesty Hungary, Háttér Society, the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, and the Hungarian Civil Liberties Union have organised protests and are taking legal action to challenge both the police’s decision to ban a protest supporting LGBTI rights and the underlying law. Budapest’s mayor, Gergely Karácsony, has also announced that the march will proceed as an official municipal event.
Moreover, Amnesty International has launched a “Let Pride March” campaign to rally global support and encourage the Hungarian police to ensure safe participation on June 28 collecting more than 100,000 signatures from more than 70 countries.
What is special about the annual Pride march in Budapest?
Budapest Pride has undergone remarkable transformation since its first march in 1997, evolving from a modest, heavily policed gathering into a powerful symbol of love and resistance.
My first experience in 2015, followed by several years of volunteering to support the organisers, has shown me the profound creativity, courage, and solidarity that define the event today, despite increasing government repression. Around the time I started to attend, the police still maintained barricades “for protection,” but year-by-year, we managed to break these barriers and started marching freely.
The joy, unexpected hugs, and the sight of queer couples kissing freely in public, perhaps for the first time without fear, are my favourite moments that inspire hope and resilience.
The joy, the unexpected hugs, and the sight of queer couples kissing freely in public is what makes the Pride March in Budapest special.
What does this year’s Pride represent?
This year’s Pride march is not just about LGBTI rights; it is a test of whether the human right to peaceful assembly can survive in Hungary, and if Hungary can ban and criminalise Pride with minimal pushback, other European countries might follow suit.
I believe Budapest’s determination will prevail, showing that LGBTI people are integral to Hungarian society, not “foreign ideologies”.
What support have you received internationally?
We have witnessed significant international solidarity. A cross-party group of Members of the European Parliament, Hadja Lahbib, the EU Commissioner for Equality, and Graeme Reid, the UN Independent Expert on Protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, have announced their intention to march in Budapest in defiance of the ban.
I strongly believe that resilience and solidarity can drive meaningful change, especially in the face of adversity. The growing visibility of LGBTI people can serve as a powerful counteraction to the government’s campaign of hate and discrimination. Looking ahead to next year, Hungary will hold parliamentary elections that present a crucial opportunity for us to reclaim our human rights.
I envision a future in which LGBTI individuals are not perceived as outsiders or threats to society, but are instead embraced as integral members of all communities. It is my hope that through our collective efforts, we will foster a safe society that truly reflects the values of love and diversity.
Where do you draw hope from when it gets difficult to fight?
I find a deep sense of hope in the knowledge that I am not alone in this. I’ve encountered countless incredible individuals, each dedicated to our shared mission with remarkable bravery.
How can Amnesty’s supporters – and others – help the LGBTI+ community in Hungary?
People outside Hungary play a crucial role. Solidarity is not an empty slogan: it is a successful strategy. In a country where resistance is met with censorship and smear campaigns, international visibility and financial support can be lifesaving, since many NGOs in Hungary operate on nearly non-existent budgets, especially with their funding under threat.
Call out your own government to pressure Hungary through diplomacy when human rights are violated. If you’re in the EU, push for stronger enforcement of the rule of law mechanisms (like Article 7) and new infringement procedures to challenge laws violating human rights.
Don’t allow Hungary’s anti-LGBTI laws to become “old news”. Keep the conversation going and amplify our voices.
With countries in danger of failing to meet their Sustainable Development Goals targets – and their human rights obligations – leaders attending the Financing for Development Conference must act fast to avert climate catastrophe and guarantee the human rights of billions of people currently being denied socio-economic justice, said Amnesty International.
The 4th International Conference for Financing for Development will take place from 30 June to 3 July in Seville, Spain. It provides a unique opportunity to reform development financing at all levels and address financing challenges preventing the urgently needed investment push to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. The SDGs were put in place 10 years ago to guarantee peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and in the future.
“Years of underinvestment by all states mean the majority of the Sustainable Development Goals are way off track from their 2030 target. This conference must confront the immediate crisis linked to the cutting of international assistance by major donors whilst committing to structural reforms that could provide sustainable sources of financing for the longer term – from advancing international tax cooperation and addressing the debt crisis, to reforming international financial institutions and promoting more inclusive systems of financing and development,” said Riva Jalipa, Amnesty International’s Financing for Rights Lead Adviser.
A series of robust measures must be put in place if the Sustainable Development Goals are to become a reality.
Riva Jalipa, Amnesty International’s Financing for Rights Lead Adviser
“A series of robust measures must be put in place if the SDGs are to become a reality. The US and other governments must reverse cuts to aid budgets. Wealthy states must support the UN tax treaty process whilst providing debt relief for countries in or at risk of debt distress including cancellation where appropriate. Fossil fuels subsidies must be redirected towards investment in clean energy and leaders must commit to a full, fast, fair and funded fossil fuel phase out across all sectors and invest adequately in a just and equitable transition. Adopting these measures will go a long way to rescuing the SDGs and ensure social, economic and climate justice for millions across the world.”
Amnesty International will also be co-hosting a Virtual Side Event at the Financing for Development Conference, Seville: Reparative Justice in Financing for Development. The session will focus on development financing and reparative justice as a means through which a human rights-based economy which redresses both existing and historical injustices can not only be conceptualized but also practically actioned. Register to attend via Zoom.
Background
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were put in place 10 years ago to guarantee peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and in the future. The 17 goals aimed to address global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice – to ensure no one was left behind. However,years of underinvestment by all states mean over 80% of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)’ targets are off track due to underinvestment by all states.
Headline: Verizon Business wins multisite private 5G contract fueling a multibillion dollar regeneration project
What you need to know:
Verizon Business, in collaboration with Nokia, will deliver multiple Verizon Private 5G Networks to industrial campuses across the Thames Freeport, one of the UK’s busiest maritime logistics and manufacturing regions.
The Thames Freeport is a designated UK “Free Trade Zone,” established to boost economic growth, create high-value jobs and attract global investment as part of a long-term effort to revive the UK’s River Thames Estuary region.
Thames Freeport will use Verizon Private 5G to enhance port operations with AI-driven data analytics, autonomous vehicle control, real-time logistics orchestration, innovation research & development, and more.
LONDON, U.K. — Verizon Business, Thames Freeport and Nokia today announced a strategic partnership to deploy Verizon Private 5G Networks across multiple key logistics, manufacturing, and innovation sites along the River Thames Estuary in the United Kingdom. The Verizon Private 5G Networks will serve as the technology foundation for a multiyear, multibillion dollar operational transformation and economic revival for the region, one of the busiest maritime logistics hubs in the United Kingdom.
The Private 5G Networks buildout provides a scalable, long-term connectivity foundation for advanced data, AI, edge compute, and IoT infrastructure deployments aimed at transforming port and manufacturing operations.
The technological enhancements will play a direct role in boosting the local economy, underpinning job training and reskilling efforts as part of employment initiatives and supporting innovation and research & development collaborations among Freeport tenants and outside corporate, government, and research entities. Thames Freeport has already created 1,400 jobs and plans to reach 5,000 by 2030, with a focus on high-skilled training for local communities.
Private 5G Deployments at Thames Freeport
The Verizon Private 5G Networks will enable advanced data and application capabilities for AI-driven data analytics, predictive maintenance, process automation, autonomous vehicle control, safety monitoring, and real-time logistics orchestration. Nokia is the sole hardware and software provider for the networks, which will incorporate the Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) platform and Nokia MX Industrial Edge (MXIE). The Verizon Private 5G Networks will be deployed to the following:
DP World London Gateway and DP World Logistics Park, the UK’s largest and most integrated deep-sea container port and logistics facility, with port capacity to handle over 3 million units per year. The hub includes a rail terminal with 20 daily services and a 9.25 million square foot high-tech logistics center.
Port of Tilbury, the largest of the mixed-use Thames Freeport ports. Tilbury handles 16 million tonnes of cargo per year across 31 independent working terminals. Operated by Forth Ports, the sites comprise a crucial logistics hub for the construction, automotive and food & drink sectors.
Ford Dagenham, the largest manufacturing site in London, this unique location gives access to regional manufacturing clusters, proximity to suppliers, and brings key production closer to the end market.
Executive Statements
“Our partnership with Thames Freeport and Nokia shows the full promise of private 5G at scale. Thames Freeport is developing one of the most technologically advanced commercial corridors in Europe to enable forward innovation and economic revitalization for an entire community,” said Jennifer Artley, SVP, 5G Acceleration at Verizon Business. “We’re not just driving operational improvements to help a partner stay ahead of the curve; we’re laying the groundwork for new revenue streams, community development, and further commercial and technological investment.”
“A flexible, high-performance connectivity platform is critical to our long-term vision,” said Martin Whiteley, CEO, Thames Freeport. “Our investment in private 5G is not an incremental network upgrade—it’s the backbone of a technological transformation fueling our long-term multi-stakeholder mission, which includes operational excellence for tenants; ROI for shareholders like Ford, DP World and Forth Ports; innovation leadership for public and private benefit; circular economy models supporting efficient energy models; empowering community development by enabling high-value job creation and training; and transforming public services with near-real time diagnostics at health-service sites. By partnering with Verizon Business and Nokia, we’re delivering the technology needed to propel our region to the front of the leading edge.”
“Private wireless and industrial edge are the foundations for the digital transformation of industrial sites, and the Thames Freeport deployment is a landmark example of this evolution at scale. This is one of the largest commercial private 5G rollouts in a European port incorporating the Nokia DAC platform. This network will allow Thames Freeport to overlay advanced use cases such as AI-driven data analytics, predictive maintenance, process automation, autonomous vehicle control, safety monitoring, and real-time logistics orchestration,” said David de Lancellotti, VP of Enterprise Campus Edge Sales at Nokia. “Together with Verizon Business, we’re proud to be enabling the infrastructure that will help Thames Freeport drive new efficiencies, sustainable growth, and long-term economic opportunity for the region.”
Fueling Growth
The Thames Freeport has a mission of economic regeneration and operational excellence, centered on stimulating trade, fostering innovation, supporting energy transition, creating jobs and improving the lives of the people around it. Private 5G Networks from Verizon Business can help enable a range of strategic priorities at Thames Freeport sites in service of that mission.
Select priorities include enabling advanced technology layers such as AI, edge computing, and IoT across active industrial sites where Freeport stakeholders can collaborate on new applications. For example, industrial sites can leverage IoT for autonomous yard tractors and quay cranes and for near real-time tracking, smart routing, and condition monitoring for cargo. That can allow tenants to intake cargo, assess quantity and condition, and ship it out faster and more efficiently, losing less to damage or misplacement. Additionally, AI with edge computing can help manage environmental impact through edge-connected smart sensors and AI-driven analytics that monitor and optimize port operations and asset performance, including near-real time monitoring of emissions, air and water quality, and noise levels.
Managing the use of the Verizon Private 5G Network infrastructure will be the responsibility of Thames Freeport and its tenant shareholder organizations. This ensures fit-for-purpose connectivity that adapts to site-specific requirements while safeguarding data and operational autonomy.
India’s Rishabh Pant and England’s Ben Duckett have achieved career-best ratings in the latest ICC Men’s Test Batting Rankings following their impressive performances with the bat in the first Test at Headingley, according to the official ICC website.
Pant became just the second wicket-keeper after Zimbabwe’s Andy Flower to score two centuries in the same Test match, scoring 134 and 118 in the thrilling Leeds contest that England won by five wickets. He earned a career-best rating, moving up one spot to seventh overall in the Test batting rankings.
Duckett claimed Player of the Match honors for his innings of 62 and 149, also achieving a new career-best rating by jumping five places to eighth in the updated Test batting rankings.
Duckett’s England teammates Ollie Pope (up three spots to 19th) and Jamie Smith (up eight places to 27th) also gained ground in this week’s rankings update. Meanwhile, India captain Shubman Gill moved up five spots to 20th overall after his century in the first innings of the match.
England veteran Joe Root remains the No.1-ranked Test batter, with teammate Harry Brook his closest challenger.
The drawn first Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also saw a host of players improve their positions in the batting rankings, with Mushfiqur Rahim leading the way after his innings of 163 in Galle.
Rahim gained 11 spots to reach 28th among Test batters, while teammate Najmul Hossain Shanto surged 21 places to 29th after scoring two centuries in the same match.
There was little change in the latest Test bowlers’ rankings, with India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah maintaining his top position after another five-wicket haul in the Headingley Test.
There was also joy for England captain Ben Stokes, who gained three spots to move up to fifth in the Test all-rounder rankings, following his strong contributions with both bat and ball in the same Test.
Changes were also seen in the latest T20I rankings after the completion of the tri-series between Scotland, Nepal, and the Netherlands, which the hosts won in Glasgow.
Netherlands’ dasher Michael Levitt rose 16 spots to 14th, and Scotland all-rounder Brandon McMullen moved up 20 places to joint-38th on the latest T20I batters list, while spinner Mark Watt climbed two spots to 38th in the T20I bowlers’ rankings.
Nepal spinner Lalit Rajbanshi also made notable progress, jumping 29 places to 54th following his four wickets in the tri-series.
Measures to protect the public and establish industry standards.
New proposals to improve safety and standards in the non-surgical cosmetic procedures sector have been set out as the Scottish Government publishes its response to a consultation on the issue.
The proposals, informed by over 2,200 responses and broad stakeholder engagement, intends to introduce a minimum age of 18 for all procedures and classify treatments into three distinct groups which will be regulated to reflect the associated risk:
group 1 procedures – such as microneedling and non-ablative laser treatments – will require both a premises licence and individual practitioner licences issued by local authorities
group 2 procedures – including injectables like Botox® and dermal fillers – will have to be supervised by a qualified health care professional in a setting regulated by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS)
group 3 procedures – for instance, breast and buttock augmentation – will have to be performed by a qualified healthcare professional in an HIS-regulated setting
The Scottish Government will take forward a combination of primary and secondary legislation to implement the proposals. A new Bill regulating Group 2 and Group 3 procedures will be introduced later this year. Secondary legislation under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 will establish the licensing regime for Group 1 procedures.
Public Health Minister Jenni Minto said:
“It is deeply upsetting to hear of cases where people have suffered as a result of non-surgical cosmetic procedures going wrong.
“The current gaps in regulation mean that anyone can perform most of these procedures without the need for any formal training or qualifications. These proposals reflect our determination to protect the public and ensure high standards across this growing industry.
“I am particularly heartened by the broad support for action to make the sector safer, and we will continue to work closely with Healthcare Improvement Scotland, local authorities, and the wider industry to support a smooth and effective implementation.”
Background
The latest consultation built on a previous one in 2020 and put forward more detailed proposals for what that further regulation could look like. The recent consultation on the licensing and regulation of non-surgical cosmetic procedures received over 2,200 responses from individuals, businesses, professional bodies, and medical experts. There was widespread support for increased regulation to improve safety and accountability across the sector.
Members of the Education and Children’s Services Committee were today (Tuesday 24 June) updated on the significant strides made by Aberdeen schools in educating young people about Climate Change, Biodiversity and the city’s Net Zero ambitions during the 2024-25 school session.
The report, which detailed a wide range of impactful events and initiatives delivered across schools, as well as the continued efforts of the Youth Climate Change Group, was approved by committee with the exception of recommendation 2.3. The full report can be viewed here.
Councillor Martin Greig, convener, of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “Our schools are playing a vital role in preparing young people to meet the challenges of the climate emergency. Through innovative learning and strong partnerships, we are empowering the next generation to lead the way towards a more sustainable and equitable future for Aberdeen and beyond.”
Councillor Jessica Mennie, vice-convener of the Education and Children Services Committee, said: “The enthusiasm and creativity shown by our young people in tackling climate change is truly inspiring. By embedding sustainability into everyday learning and supporting youth-lead initiatives, we are not only educating but also encouraging future leaders to help shape a greener Aberdeen.”
Aberdeen’s schools continue to embrace the Learning for Sustainability (LfS) agenda, integrating sustainable development, biodiversity, climate change, outdoor learning, and global citizenship into the Curriculum for Excellence.
These themes are explored through interdisciplinary learning, project-based learning, science, social studies, and outdoor education, empowering young people to take meaningful action for a better future. Aberdeen now has 11 schools that are recognised as Eco Schools and awarded Green Flag status by Keep Scotland Beautiful.
St Joseph’s RC School won the Scottish Fair Trade ‘In the Bag’ award in recognition of its 10-year commitment to fair and ethical trade, including being the first school in Scotland to commit to supporting and working with communities in India.
The Youth Climate Change Group remains a vital platform for pupil voice and leadership and the committee thanked pupils for their significant efforts in promoting and actioning environmental work in school and citywide.
Committee members agreed that this important area of focused activity should continue and instructed the Chief Officer for Education and Lifelong Learning to support the Youth Climate Change Group to collate and share a yearly summary of the most impactful projects in their schools, through means to be determined by the group, to inspire other young people across the city.
The committee agreed that representatives from the Youth Climate Change Group should be invited to present the Climate Change report to committee in subsequent years.
In partnership with the City Development and Regeneration Service, the Education Service will launch the ABZ Pipeline – a new initiative designed to create curriculum-linked pathways into the renewable sector. This programme will connect learners with employers, offering real-world experiences and helping pupils align their career planning with Aberdeen’s green economy.
Aberdeen for a Fairer World (AFW) continues to play a key role in supporting schools with climate-related activities. Their work includes developing projects with local authorities, ETZ, and employers, identifying skills and employment opportunities, and assessing the impact of in-school activities.
A comprehensive record of school participation during Climate Week North East 2025 will be published in the summer term.
Beyond the classroom, pupils are engaging in film screenings, workshops, barista events, and Fair Trade initiatives – demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and community action. These efforts also contribute to wider achievement and support National Qualifications.
These initiatives also align with the Local Outcome Improvement Plan (LOIP) Stretch Outcome 13, which aims to reduce Aberdeen’s carbon emissions by at least 61% by 2026. As the city works towards Net Zero by 2045, the continued focus on climate education and youth engagement is essential to building a resilient, sustainable future.
The committee instructed the Chief Officer of Education and Lifelong Learning to provide a progress update within one calendar year.
Primary 7 pupils heading to Greenfield Academy have taken part in a special transition day at the Regional Performance Centre for Sport.
With Greenfield Academy set to open in August for the new school year, pupils from the feeder primary schools have gathered at the Regional Performance Centre (RPC) to mark this important step in their journey.
Over 300 new s1 pupils took part in a range of indoor and outdoor activities and had the opportunity to meet their new classmates and teachers. The activities were organised by the school in partnership with Dundee Active Schools, Community Learning and Development East Youth Team, and the Dundee Battalion Army Cadet Force.
Greenfield Academy is part of the new £100 millionDrumgeithCommunity Campus, which is the largest investment in education, sport and community provision in the city and will deliver state-of-the-art facilities and services to the area.
Children, Families and Communities Convener Stewart Hunter said: “This isa really excitingtime for our young people who will be attending the new Greenfield Academy.
“It’s great that even though they can’t go and do this at the school, they are still able to come together, get to know each other, and meet their future teachers.
“I know a lot of work has gone into making this possible, and I would like to thank everyone involved.”
Greenfield Academy Headteacher, Johnny Lothian said: “Our students are looking forward to taking the step to their new Secondary School and in August will become Greenfield Academy first-ever S1 intake. Already they are showing themselves to be a superb year group with great potential.”
The feeder primary schools areClaypottsCastle, Rowantree, Fintry,Ballumbie, Mill of Mains, andLonghaugh.
Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with the Prime Minister of Estonia, Kristen Michal, on the margins of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit in The Hague, the Netherlands.
The prime ministers underscored the strong and dynamic relationship between Canada and Estonia. They discussed opportunities to strengthen shared priorities – including in commerce, defence, and energy – and to bolster co-operation on critical minerals.
The two leaders underscored their steadfast support for Ukraine and agreed on the imperative of achieving a just and lasting peace.
Prime Minister Carney outlined Canada’s plan to rebuild, rearm, and reinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces – meeting the NATO 2 per cent target this year and accelerating defence investments in the years ahead.
Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Michal agreed to remain in close contact.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
SFST looks for more co-operation opportunities with AIIB member states at its 10th Annual Meeting of Board of Governors in Beijing Speaking at the side event on “Implementing the International Financial Reporting Standards – Sustainability Disclosure Standards (ISSB Standards) from the Ground Up: The AIIB Journey”, Mr Hui noted that while the AIIB is one of the first multilateral development banks to adopt the ISSB Standards, Hong Kong was also confirmed by the International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation earlier this month as among the initial set of jurisdictions having set a target of fully adopting the ISSB Standards.
He said, “By aligning with a global standard, we ensure international comparability of our data. This not only boosts investor confidence but also creates a strong foundation for new opportunities. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will continue to work in collaboration with financial regulators and stakeholders to support the pragmatic implementation of the ISSB Standards through enhancing capacity building and promoting the use of technological solutions.”
This afternoon, Mr Hui also spoke on “Fostering Development and Infrastructure Connectivity” at the Governors’ Business Roundtable. He shared with delegations from other member states Hong Kong’s efforts in fostering development in sustainable finance as well as developing diverse and innovative financial products. The latter includes the roll-out of the Infrastructure Bond Programme and the issuance of infrastructure loan-backed securities by the Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation Limited (HKMC) with the AIIB as an anchor investor. He told the delegations that a third issuance by the HKMC can be expected this year.
At the AIIB President’s Reception and the Special Session of the Board of Governors’ meeting held yesterday (June 24), Mr Hui met with the President of the AIIB, Mr Jin Liqun, and the President-elect of the AIIB, Ms Zou Jiayi. He also met financial officials of other member states to update them on Hong Kong’s latest developments in green and sustainable finance, and the recent vibrant financial market situation.
In addition, Mr Hui held bilateral meetings separately with delegations from Egypt, Germany and Poland on the sidelines of the Annual Meeting to explore opportunities for further co-operation.
During his stay in Beijing, Mr Hui met with the President of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Mr Liu Jun, and the Chief Financial Officer of the China Construction Bank, Mr Sheng Liurong. He will return to Hong Kong tonight. Issued at HKT 17:41
The Regional Development Committee adopted its position on proposals to introduce new priorities and flexibilities to the current EU cohesion funding cycle.
MEPs from the Regional Development Committee broadly endorse, in a report adopted on Wednesday with 26 votes in favour, 10 against, and 5 abstentions, a Commission proposal to adapt the EU’s cohesion policy priorities in the period 2021–2027 while introducing some targeted changes to ensure that the main cohesion policy principles remain in place.
New priorities and flexibilities
MEPs backed the proposed introduction of new objectives that would be eligible for cohesion funds, namely defence industrial capabilities and military mobility, water resilience, affordable housing, decarbonisation, and energy infrastructure. They also agreed to channel some of the funds into EU competitiveness, particularly to the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP), and to extra support for EU regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.
MEPs also supported more favourable funding conditions, including the possibility of 100% co-financing, 30% pre-financing and a further pay-off of 9.5% of the total funding for reallocations to the new priorities in 2026 if at least 15% of funds are reallocated to them. MEPs propose lowering this threshold to 10%.
MEPs call for preparedness investments
In their amendments, MEPs want to prioritise dual-use infrastructure (suitable for civilian and military use) when funding the defence industry and military mobility. On water management, they want to broaden the scope of support to include integrated water management (for example, irrigation and desalination). MEPs also want to make housing sustainability a priority, and allow funds to go to the protection of critical energy infrastructure and civil preparedness infrastructure.
To ensure cohesion policy’s focus on reducing inter-regional inequalities is maintained, MEPs want to update the rules such that only less developed and transition regions can access the new funding for defence and decarbonisation. They also changed a provision that would allow support to go to larger companies to specify that this can only happen when the companies commit to local employment. MEPs added a measure ensuring the consent of local and regional authorities is still needed for the transferring of already-planned territorial development funds to other purposes.
MEPs emphasise that the new flexibilities cannot be applied to cohesion funding frozen under the EU’s conditionality regulation for violations of EU values or the rule of law.
Quote
After the vote, rapporteur and Committee Chair Dragoș Benea (S&D, Romania) said: “Parliament is stepping up to deliver concrete answers to citizens living in border regions, to families struggling to find affordable housing, and to communities facing the challenges of the green transition. By adapting the rules of cohesion policy to today’s emerging priorities, without undermining the core mission of territorial solidarity, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring no region and no European citizen is left behind.”
Next steps
Negotiations with the Council were authorised with 31 in favour, 9 against, and 1 abstention. They will be announced during Parliament’s July 7-11 plenary session, and if there are no objections, they can proceed.
Background
The Commission’s proposal would amend the European Regional Development Fund, Cohesion Fund and Just Transition Fund. The Commission estimates that it will lead to €16.1bn in additional pre-financing paid out in 2026. The proposal does not introduce new resources, so these funds are front-loaded from subsequent years.
In parallel, the Employment and Social Affairs Committee is discussing similar proposals in the context of the European Social Fund +.
The Regional Development Committee adopted its position on proposals to introduce new priorities and flexibilities to the current EU cohesion funding cycle.
MEPs from the Regional Development Committee broadly endorse, in a report adopted on Wednesday with 26 votes in favour, 10 against, and 5 abstentions, a Commission proposal to adapt the EU’s cohesion policy priorities in the period 2021–2027 while introducing some targeted changes to ensure that the main cohesion policy principles remain in place.
New priorities and flexibilities
MEPs backed the proposed introduction of new objectives that would be eligible for cohesion funds, namely defence industrial capabilities and military mobility, water resilience, affordable housing, decarbonisation, and energy infrastructure. They also agreed to channel some of the funds into EU competitiveness, particularly to the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP), and to extra support for EU regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.
MEPs also supported more favourable funding conditions, including the possibility of 100% co-financing, 30% pre-financing and a further pay-off of 9.5% of the total funding for reallocations to the new priorities in 2026 if at least 15% of funds are reallocated to them. MEPs propose lowering this threshold to 10%.
MEPs call for preparedness investments
In their amendments, MEPs want to prioritise dual-use infrastructure (suitable for civilian and military use) when funding the defence industry and military mobility. On water management, they want to broaden the scope of support to include integrated water management (for example, irrigation and desalination). MEPs also want to make housing sustainability a priority, and allow funds to go to the protection of critical energy infrastructure and civil preparedness infrastructure.
To ensure cohesion policy’s focus on reducing inter-regional inequalities is maintained, MEPs want to update the rules such that only less developed and transition regions can access the new funding for defence and decarbonisation. They also changed a provision that would allow support to go to larger companies to specify that this can only happen when the companies commit to local employment. MEPs added a measure ensuring the consent of local and regional authorities is still needed for the transferring of already-planned territorial development funds to other purposes.
MEPs emphasise that the new flexibilities cannot be applied to cohesion funding frozen under the EU’s conditionality regulation for violations of EU values or the rule of law.
Quote
After the vote, rapporteur and Committee Chair Dragoș Benea (S&D, Romania) said: “Parliament is stepping up to deliver concrete answers to citizens living in border regions, to families struggling to find affordable housing, and to communities facing the challenges of the green transition. By adapting the rules of cohesion policy to today’s emerging priorities, without undermining the core mission of territorial solidarity, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring no region and no European citizen is left behind.”
Next steps
Negotiations with the Council were authorised with 31 in favour, 9 against, and 1 abstention. They will be announced during Parliament’s July 7-11 plenary session, and if there are no objections, they can proceed.
Background
The Commission’s proposal would amend the European Regional Development Fund, Cohesion Fund and Just Transition Fund. The Commission estimates that it will lead to €16.1bn in additional pre-financing paid out in 2026. The proposal does not introduce new resources, so these funds are front-loaded from subsequent years.
In parallel, the Employment and Social Affairs Committee is discussing similar proposals in the context of the European Social Fund +.
Question for written answer E-002284/2025/rev.1 to the Commission Rule 144 Auke Zijlstra (PfE)
On 5 June, Moldpress, the Moldovan Government’s official news agency, published an article quoting the Romanian chair of the EP delegation to the EU-Moldova Parliamentary Association Committee: ‘We will stand by the Republic of Moldova, just as they have stood by us. We will defend together the European path of the Republic of Moldova and Romania’s European path.’ In addition, the article states: ‘The official assured that our country will continue to receive support in the European integration process.’[1]
In light of the above:
1.Does the Commission also consider the European future of Romania and Moldova to be inextricably linked? How does this view fit with both historical and recent (political) developments in the two countries and their relations?
2.What is the Commission’s take on the second statement above? This statement appears to be at odds with the nature of the facility for Moldova, which is based on conditional support.
3.Can the Commission confirm that the decision on whether to grant financial assistance to Moldova indeed lies with the Commission?
Question for written answer E-002284/2025/rev.1 to the Commission Rule 144 Auke Zijlstra (PfE)
On 5 June, Moldpress, the Moldovan Government’s official news agency, published an article quoting the Romanian chair of the EP delegation to the EU-Moldova Parliamentary Association Committee: ‘We will stand by the Republic of Moldova, just as they have stood by us. We will defend together the European path of the Republic of Moldova and Romania’s European path.’ In addition, the article states: ‘The official assured that our country will continue to receive support in the European integration process.’[1]
In light of the above:
1.Does the Commission also consider the European future of Romania and Moldova to be inextricably linked? How does this view fit with both historical and recent (political) developments in the two countries and their relations?
2.What is the Commission’s take on the second statement above? This statement appears to be at odds with the nature of the facility for Moldova, which is based on conditional support.
3.Can the Commission confirm that the decision on whether to grant financial assistance to Moldova indeed lies with the Commission?
Question for written answer E-002277/2025/rev.1 to the Commission Rule 144 Auke Zijlstra (PfE)
According to the Commission Recommendation of 4 June 2025 for a Council Recommendation on the economic, social, employment, structural and budgetary policies of the Netherlands, the Netherlands income tax system treats certain assets differently from others, which affects the distribution of capital and distorts economic decisions. The recommendations state that assets in the form of housing receive preferential treatment, which stimulates demand in the market for owner-occupied housing, but reduces the disposable income of households[1].
This then exposes households to greater economic risk during economic shocks as disposable income is placed under pressure by high mortgage repayments during the mortgagor’s years of active employment.
However, a recent European Parliament study found that, after Belgium, the Netherlands has the second lowest exposure to interest rate changes in the EU. Only 15 % of Dutch households have variable mortgage rates, which means that Dutch households are actually better armed against economic shocks and sudden increases in interest rates[2].
1.Why did the Commission not take into account the stabilising factor of the high proportion of fixed-rate mortgages in the Netherlands in its assessment of economic risk?
2.Does the Commission agree that, in times of economic downturn, owner-occupied housing is the best ‘store of value’ for families with average incomes, as opposed to share portfolios, for example?
[2] BERG, Tobias and HASELMANN, Rainer, Assessing real estate risks and vulnerabilities:Hidden cracks in the financial system?, Economic Governance and EMU Scrutiny Unit (EGOV) Directorate-General for Economy, Transformation and Industry, PE 764.351 – April 2025, p. 14.
Question for written answer E-002277/2025/rev.1 to the Commission Rule 144 Auke Zijlstra (PfE)
According to the Commission Recommendation of 4 June 2025 for a Council Recommendation on the economic, social, employment, structural and budgetary policies of the Netherlands, the Netherlands income tax system treats certain assets differently from others, which affects the distribution of capital and distorts economic decisions. The recommendations state that assets in the form of housing receive preferential treatment, which stimulates demand in the market for owner-occupied housing, but reduces the disposable income of households[1].
This then exposes households to greater economic risk during economic shocks as disposable income is placed under pressure by high mortgage repayments during the mortgagor’s years of active employment.
However, a recent European Parliament study found that, after Belgium, the Netherlands has the second lowest exposure to interest rate changes in the EU. Only 15 % of Dutch households have variable mortgage rates, which means that Dutch households are actually better armed against economic shocks and sudden increases in interest rates[2].
1.Why did the Commission not take into account the stabilising factor of the high proportion of fixed-rate mortgages in the Netherlands in its assessment of economic risk?
2.Does the Commission agree that, in times of economic downturn, owner-occupied housing is the best ‘store of value’ for families with average incomes, as opposed to share portfolios, for example?
[2] BERG, Tobias and HASELMANN, Rainer, Assessing real estate risks and vulnerabilities:Hidden cracks in the financial system?, Economic Governance and EMU Scrutiny Unit (EGOV) Directorate-General for Economy, Transformation and Industry, PE 764.351 – April 2025, p. 14.
Question for written answer E-002206/2025/rev.1 to the Commission Rule 144 Sophie Wilmès (Renew), Hilde Vautmans (Renew), Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez (Renew), Dan Barna (Renew), Billy Kelleher (Renew)
In March 2025, US embassies in several EU Member States sent a letter to a number of private European companies that have contracts with the US Government, asking them to clarify whether they run DEI programmes that violate US President Trump’s executive order against race- and sex-based preferences and ending equal opportunities programmes (Executive Order No 14173). The letter sought to clarify that the executive order applies to any firm doing business with the US Government, including non-US companies. The document also stated that the existence of such programmes could prevent these companies from working with the US Government in the future.
The media reported that companies in Belgium, France and Italy received this letter, with the French Government denouncing it as ‘unacceptable interference’. A number of companies have said they will comply with the request, such as GSK in Belgium.
In this context:
1.Is the Commission aware of the Member States in which companies have received this letter and which companies have accepted or refused the request?
2.What is the Commission doing to address this situation?
3.What is the Commission doing to prevent European companies from being subject to interference from non-EU countries that advocate values contrary to our own?
The European Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, as laid down in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU). In order to ensure that these values are respected, Article 7 TEU provides for an EU mechanism to determine the existence of, and possibly sanction, serious and persistent breaches of EU values by a Member State. It has only been activated in relation to Poland and Hungary so far. The EU is also bound by its Charter of Fundamental Rights and is committed to acceding to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. Following the emergence of threats to EU values in some Member States, the EU institutions are strengthening their toolbox to counter democratic backsliding and protect democracy, the rule of law, fundamental rights, equality and minorities across the Union.
VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, proudly joins ETHMilan 2025 as the official Viscoti Sponsor, aligned with its expansion strategy in Europe and beyond. Held on June 24 at the iconic Museo Nazionale Scienza e Tecnologia in Milan, Italy, ETHMilan brings together developers, founders, and thinkers shaping the decentralized future.
This event follows hot on the heels of Bitget’s high-profile MotoGP partnership, marking a powerful back-to-back showcase of the brand’s expanding influence—on the track and on the blockchain stage. ETHMilan’s timing couldn’t be better, as it underscores Bitget’s commitment to blending mainstream visibility with meaningful industry engagement.
ETHMilan 2025 gathered more than 1,000 participants and featured over 50 speakers, including notable names like Alessandro Mazza, Marco Monaco from TAC, Stefano Rossi from PwC Italia, and Filippo Moraschi (FolksFinance). As one of Italy’s largest Web3 conferences, ETHMilan has staged impactful panels on DeFi, DAOs, Ethereum scaling, and creative tech innovation.
As part of this year’s program, Bitget’s Chief Operating Officer, Vugar Usi Zade, took to the stage to discuss how centralized exchanges (CEXs), blockchain, and crypto infrastructure are redefining the global financial system. In a cycle where institutions and regulations are finally catching up with the technology, Vugar shared insights on how CEXs are adapting, shifting from transactional platforms to ecosystem enablers.
The appearance aligns with Bitget’s broader push to shape the discourse around crypto maturity, user trust, and long-term utility. “ETHMilan is more than a developer event—it’s a signal that Milan is becoming a serious node on the global Web3 map,” said Vugar. “Bitget is here not just to participate, but to help drive the conversations that move the industry forward.”
Bitget also hosted a breakfast reception at the Museum of Science & Technology, offering builders and industry leaders a space to connect over key themes like compliance, CeFi/DeFi evolution, and everything else crypto-related.
The event marks another milestone in Bitget’s expansion across Europe, where it continues to operate under increasing regulatory clarity, including licenses in Italy, Lithuania, Georgia, and several other markets. With over 120 million users globally and a daily trading volume of $20 billion, Bitget’s presence at ETHMilan reflects its commitment to driving adoption.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.
Risk Warning:Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to ourTerms of Use.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, proudly joins ETHMilan 2025 as the official Viscoti Sponsor, aligned with its expansion strategy in Europe and beyond. Held on June 24 at the iconic Museo Nazionale Scienza e Tecnologia in Milan, Italy, ETHMilan brings together developers, founders, and thinkers shaping the decentralized future.
This event follows hot on the heels of Bitget’s high-profile MotoGP partnership, marking a powerful back-to-back showcase of the brand’s expanding influence—on the track and on the blockchain stage. ETHMilan’s timing couldn’t be better, as it underscores Bitget’s commitment to blending mainstream visibility with meaningful industry engagement.
ETHMilan 2025 gathered more than 1,000 participants and featured over 50 speakers, including notable names like Alessandro Mazza, Marco Monaco from TAC, Stefano Rossi from PwC Italia, and Filippo Moraschi (FolksFinance). As one of Italy’s largest Web3 conferences, ETHMilan has staged impactful panels on DeFi, DAOs, Ethereum scaling, and creative tech innovation.
As part of this year’s program, Bitget’s Chief Operating Officer, Vugar Usi Zade, took to the stage to discuss how centralized exchanges (CEXs), blockchain, and crypto infrastructure are redefining the global financial system. In a cycle where institutions and regulations are finally catching up with the technology, Vugar shared insights on how CEXs are adapting, shifting from transactional platforms to ecosystem enablers.
The appearance aligns with Bitget’s broader push to shape the discourse around crypto maturity, user trust, and long-term utility. “ETHMilan is more than a developer event—it’s a signal that Milan is becoming a serious node on the global Web3 map,” said Vugar. “Bitget is here not just to participate, but to help drive the conversations that move the industry forward.”
Bitget also hosted a breakfast reception at the Museum of Science & Technology, offering builders and industry leaders a space to connect over key themes like compliance, CeFi/DeFi evolution, and everything else crypto-related.
The event marks another milestone in Bitget’s expansion across Europe, where it continues to operate under increasing regulatory clarity, including licenses in Italy, Lithuania, Georgia, and several other markets. With over 120 million users globally and a daily trading volume of $20 billion, Bitget’s presence at ETHMilan reflects its commitment to driving adoption.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.
Risk Warning:Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to ourTerms of Use.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
UK to provide hundreds of air defence missiles for Ukraine with money from seized Russian assets
The UK will boost Ukraine’s air defence with 350 missiles using funds from seized Russian assets, helping to protect Ukrainians from Putin’s attacks.
UK to provide 350 ASRAAM air defence missiles using £70m of funding raised from the interest on seized Russian assets
The new package of missiles can be used with UK-provided air defence launchers, helping to protect Ukrainian citizens from Russian missile and drone attacks
Comes as the Prime Minister and Defence Secretary visit The Hague for an annual summit of NATO leaders, with de-escalation in the Middle East and support for Ukraine topping the agenda
The UK will boost Ukraine’s air defence with 350 missiles using funds from seized Russian assets, helping to protect Ukrainians from Putin’s attacks.
The ASRAAM missiles can be fired using the RAVEN Ground Based Air Defence System supplied by the UK to Ukraine, with five more RAVEN systems due for imminent delivery, bringing the total to 13.
Initially used as air-to-air missiles fired from fighter jets, RAF engineers adapted ASRAAM in just three months to be launched from the back of a UK designed and built truck, working with a British defence industry team from MBDA UK, based in Bolton.
The UK, together with allies, is stepping up its support for Ukraine – providing £4.5 billion of military support this year – more than ever before. This support is vital to European security but is also supporting economic growth across the UK, supporting the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change and delivering a defence dividend across the UK.
The missiles will be funded using £70m worth of interest generated from seized Russian assets under the Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) scheme.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
“Russia, not Ukraine, should pay the price for Putin’s barbaric and illegal war, so it is only right we use the proceeds from seized Russian assets to ensure Ukraine has the air defence it needs.
“The security of Ukraine is vital to the security of the UK and the Euro-Atlantic area, and our support will never waiver.
“My message to President Putin is clear: Russia needs to stop its indiscriminate attacks on innocent Ukrainian people and return to the negotiating table.”
It comes as the Prime Minister, Defence Secretary and Foreign Secretary join NATO leaders for the Alliance’s annual summit in the Hague, where they will meet counterparts to discuss de-escalation efforts in the Middle East, as well as further military support for Ukraine.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP said:
“Ukrainians are continuing to fight with huge courage – civilians and military alike. I am committed to ensuring Ukraine has the support they need to put them in the strongest possible position to secure peace.
“Russia’s indiscriminate missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities show that Putin is not serious about peace, and it’s right that we use funds from seized Russian assets to help Ukraine defend itself from this onslaught.
“These air defence missiles will save Ukrainian lives, using equipment developed jointly by British military engineers and our defence industry – showing how we are delivering on our Strategic Defence Review’s commitment to learn lessons from Ukraine.”
In March, the Prime Minister announced a historic £1.6 billion deal to provide more than five thousand air defence missiles for Ukraine – creating 200 new jobs and supporting a further 700. Defence supports more than 434,000 skilled jobs in the UK.
The UK will also invest a record £350m this year to increase the supply of drones to Ukraine from a target of 10,000 in 2024 to 100,000 in 2025.
The UK has sent around 400 different capabilities to Ukraine, with a £150 million package including drones, tanks and air defence systems announced on 12 February 2025, a £225 million package including drones, boats and munitions announced on 19 December 2024, and 650 lightweight multirole missiles announced on 6 September 2024.
The UK is absolutely committed to securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and are engaging with key allies in support of this effort.
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: OSCE Mission Hands Over Specialized Vehicles to Kosovo Police to Improve Public Safety and Security
The OSCE Mission in Kosovo handed over five specialized vehicles to the Kosovo Police K9 unit on 24 June 2025 to enhance the operational capabilities of police canine teams.
The vehicles, specially modified to support the safe and efficient transport of police dogs and their handlers during critical missions, will improve the mobility and responsiveness of K9 teams deployed in various security operations.
In addition, the Mission has overseen essential repairs to the existing kennels used by the K9 unit. These upgrades include improved ventilation systems, structural reinforcements, and enhanced sanitation facilities to ensure the wellbeing and readiness of the police dogs. The kennel repairs are a vital part of maintaining high standards of care and ensuring that the canine officers are in optimal condition to perform their specialized duties.
“The safety and security of all communities living in Kosovo remains our key priority,” said Ambassador Gerard McGurk, Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, speaking at the handover event. “The delivery of specialized vehicles and the renovation of the K9 kennels represent tangible steps towards strengthening public safety and building trust across all communities in Kosovo,” he added.
Kosovo Police General Director, Colonel Gazmend Hoxha, said that the longstanding co-operation with the OSCE has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of the Kosovo Police. He underlined that the partnership is vital for improving the police’s ability to detect and confiscate illicit arms and explosives, ultimately contributing to a safer and more secure Kosovo.
The initiative is part of an extra-budgetary project funded by the Government of Germany and the European Union, focused on strengthening the canine capacity of Kosovo’s police services to detect and confiscate small arms and light weapons (SALW), ammunition, and explosives — key priorities for maintaining public safety and security. As part of the same project, the Mission built a training polygon for the K9 unit in 2023.
Through this support, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo is contributing to the long-term development and modernization of the police K9 unit. These improvements not only enhance operational efficiency but also demonstrate a shared dedication to security, professionalism, and the welfare of police dogs. The strengthened K9 capacity will play a crucial role in countering illegal arms trafficking and explosives, thereby fostering a safer environment for all people of Kosovo.