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Poland Secures $51.5 Billion EU SAFE Defence Loan to Bolster Military Capabilities

Poland Secures $51.5 Billion EU SAFE Defence Loan to Bolster Military Capabilities

Poland has secured €43.7 billion ($51.5 billion) in financing through a loan agreement under the European Union's Security Action for Europe (SAFE) programme. This agreement, signed on May 8, 2026, marks the largest single allocation of funds within the initiative and positions Poland as the first EU member state to access the SAFE programme. The funding is aimed at modernizing and expanding Poland's national military forces amid increased geopolitical tensions, particularly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Polish government plans to channel these funds through the National Development Bank to support the Armed Forces Support Fund, which will facilitate new contracts for national defense production plants, increase domestic employment, and contribute to the Polish economy. The SAFE programme was developed following a Council of Ministers resolution to enhance the combat readiness of the Polish Armed Forces, bolster the national defense industry, and reinforce internal security.

Germany sceptical on Putin's suggestion of Schroeder role in Ukraine peace talks

Germany sceptical on Putin's suggestion of Schroeder role in Ukraine peace talks

BERLIN, May 10 (Reuters) - Germany dismissed on Sunday a suggestion from Russian President Vladimir Putin that former Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder could coordinate talks with the European Union to secure a peace deal in Ukraine.

EU Dismisses Putin's Proposal for Gerhard Schröder as Ukraine Peace Mediator

EU Dismisses Putin's Proposal for Gerhard Schröder as Ukraine Peace Mediator

The European Union has rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin's suggestion to appoint former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a mediator in peace talks aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine. Schröder, who has previously held senior positions in Russian energy projects, is seen as too closely aligned with Russian interests to be an impartial negotiator. EU's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, emphasized that allowing Russia to appoint a negotiator on behalf of Europe would be unwise, citing Schröder's history as a lobbyist for Russian state-owned companies. The proposal comes amid ongoing tensions and a stalled peace process, with both Russia and Ukraine accusing each other of violating ceasefire agreements.

European Hesitation on Iran Sanctions Raises Concerns Amid Strategic Vulnerability

European Hesitation on Iran Sanctions Raises Concerns Amid Strategic Vulnerability

The European Union is facing criticism for its hesitant approach towards imposing sanctions on Iran, despite the country's current strategic vulnerability. The article highlights the need for Europe to take decisive action against Iran's regime, which has been involved in exporting terror and repressing its citizens. The EU has been urged to designate Hezbollah entirely as a terrorist organization and to enforce sanctions against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The article argues that Europe has a significant stake in the situation due to the threat to global energy flows and the safety of European citizens, particularly in light of Iran's military cooperation with Russia. The recent deaths of French service members in Lebanon underscore the risks posed by Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran.

Greek Authorities Investigate Explosive Drone Found in Waters, Raising Security Concerns

Greek Authorities Investigate Explosive Drone Found in Waters, Raising Security Concerns

Greek authorities are conducting an investigation into an explosive-laden drone discovered in the waters off the western coast of Greece. The drone, suspected to be of Ukrainian origin, was found by a fisherman near the island of Lefkada. Greek defense minister Nikos Dendias stated that the drone likely came from a foreign state, though he did not specify which one. The drone, equipped with satellite communication systems, can carry up to 300kg of explosives and travel for up to 60 hours. The discovery has prompted concerns about Greece's maritime security, given its extensive coastline. The drone was detonated at sea by bomb disposal experts, and further examination is being conducted at a naval base on the Greek mainland.

Russia and Ukraine trade blame for continued fighting as US-brokered ceasefire nears its end

Russia and Ukraine trade blame for continued fighting as US-brokered ceasefire nears its end

Moscow and Kyiv have accused each other of disregarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s request to stop their attacks

Slovak Prime Minister Urges Zelensky to Call Putin for Direct Talks Amid Ceasefire

Slovak Prime Minister Urges Zelensky to Call Putin for Direct Talks Amid Ceasefire

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has suggested that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky should initiate a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin if he wishes to engage in direct talks. This statement came after Fico's visit to Moscow, where he attended Victory Day events and met with Putin. Fico conveyed that Zelensky had expressed a willingness to meet Putin in any format during a previous personal meeting in Armenia. Fico emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts over military conflict, supporting the extension of a U.S.-backed three-day ceasefire that began on May 9. Despite the ceasefire, Russia reportedly violated it with attacks on Ukraine on May 10. Fico's visit to Moscow was notable as he was the only European Union leader present for the Victory Day celebrations, although he did not attend the parade itself. His visit follows a series of discussions with Zelensky, including a face-to-face meeting in Yerevan.

Moscow marks Victory Day with a scaled down Red Square parade under tight security

Moscow marks Victory Day with a scaled down Red Square parade under tight security

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed confidence in victory in Ukraine

Moscow marks Victory Day with a Red Square parade under tight security

Moscow marks Victory Day with a Red Square parade under tight security

Russian President Vladimir Putin is overseeing a military parade commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II on Red Square

Magyar sworn in as Hungary's prime minister on promises of change

Magyar sworn in as Hungary's prime minister on promises of change

By Gergely Szakacs BUDAPEST, May 9 (Reuters) - Centre-right leader Peter Magyar was sworn in as Hungary's prime minister on Saturday, propelled into office on promises of change after years of economic stagnation and strained ties with key allies under his predecessor Viktor Orban.

Kremlin Signals Putin's Willingness for European Talks Amid Economic Struggles

Kremlin Signals Putin's Willingness for European Talks Amid Economic Struggles

The Kremlin has announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to negotiations with European countries, but he expects them to initiate the dialogue. This development follows the collapse of relations after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia is not responsible for the reduction of ties with Europe to zero and emphasized that the initiative for dialogue should come from Brussels and individual European capitals. This statement comes amid Russia's recent territorial losses and economic challenges, including manpower attrition and falling oil revenues due to Ukrainian strikes. European Council President António Costa has indicated that the European Union sees potential for future negotiations with Putin, although no concrete signs from Russia have been observed yet.

Analysis-Trump's feuds, tensions with allies likely to outlast Iran war

Analysis-Trump's feuds, tensions with allies likely to outlast Iran war

By Matt Spetalnick and Andrea Shalal WASHINGTON, May 9 (Reuters) - With his decision to pull some U.S. troops from Germany, his threats to draw down forces elsewhere in Europe and his downplaying of Iran’s recent attacks on an important Gulf partner, President Donald Trump's latest moves foreshadow