Regional Summary
Europe’s Governing Classes Are Losing Ground Faster Than They Can Rearm Governments across western Europe are racing to show strength abroad while their domestic support crumbles. From France’s nuclear grandstanding to Britain’s by-election humiliation, the gap between military ambition and political authority is widening — and no leader can close it. Emmanuel Macron offers the starkest case. He will stand at the Île Longue submarine base to declare France Europe’s nuclear guardian, a claim boosted by American unreliability under Donald Trump. Yet three-quarters of French voters disapprove of this president. His party was shut out of Washington’s planning when America and Israel struck Iran. He could not prevent Mr Trump’s ambassador from snubbing the French foreign ministry. France produced a thousand military drones in under a year — impressive for a medium power — but Mr Macron attacked the European Commission’s decision to implement the Mercosur trade deal as “unacceptable,” revealing a leader who wields vetoes more easily than influence. Marine Le Pen, meanwhile, is calmly arranging her succession with Jordan Bardella, as though she were already president with only a court verdict standing in her way. Britain’s Labour Party lost one of its safest seats to the Green Party while Reform UK pushed it into third place, less than a year after its supposed restoration to dominance. Keir Starmer vowed to fight on, but his government’s response to the Iran crisis — allowing defensive use of British bases while refusing offensive strikes — captured the broader posture: partial commitment dressed up as principle. David Lammy, the foreign secretary, plans to clear eighty thousand court cases with artificial intelligence and fewer jury trials. The plan looks ambitious on paper, yet it arrives alongside a royal scandal, a chancellor with nothing to announce, and a prime minister whose authority ebbs with each vote count. The Bank of England hints at rate cuts, but easier money cannot substitute for political credibility. Germany shows how institutional safeguards can collapse when most needed. A Cologne court blocked the domestic intelligence service from classifying the Alternative for Germany as a confirmed extremist organisation, handing the far right a propaganda victory even as its own members resign over nepotism scandals. Friedrich Merz, the chancellor, visited Beijing to complain about an eighty billion euro trade deficit and flew to Washington to manage tariff threats, projecting diplomatic seriousness. But his defence minister admitted the German army is “absolutely undersized” and below a “survival threshold,” while a drone purchase worth 540 million euros drew controversy because of a Trump-linked investor. Germany is simultaneously too weak to deter and too entangled to decouple. Italy and Spain complete the picture. Iranian missiles struck a Kuwaiti base hosting three hundred Italian troops, the most direct threat to Italian forces in years, yet a leaked defence document conceded that Italy’s 170,000-strong military needs to nearly double — over eighteen years and seven billion euros. Giorgia Meloni’s coalition is fraying as her party drops to 28% and a breakaway movement led by Roberto Vannacci peels off voters from both governing partners. In Madrid, Yolanda Díaz’s decision not to lead the left alliance into 2027 leaves a vacuum in the governing coalition just as Santiago Abascal purges Vox into a disciplined vehicle for far-right advance across Spain’s south. Polling shows Vox displacing the Socialists as the second party in provinces the left once owned. Even Scandinavia, with its strong institutions and high public trust, cannot escape this drift. Sweden’s navy disabled a Russian drone threatening a French carrier in its waters — an impressive debut as a NATO member — but the centre-right coalition’s poll numbers are sliding, the Liberal Party risks falling below the parliamentary threshold, and the Sweden Democrats are deferring contentious migration pledges until after the next election. Norway raised its Ukraine aid to twelve billion kroner while calling American strikes on Iran illegal, a posture that advertises moral seriousness but also diplomatic isolation. European governments are spending more on defence, talking louder about sovereignty, and losing the voters whose consent makes any of it sustainable. Military budgets can be legislated; legitimacy cannot.Country Summaries
France
France is becoming Europe’s nuclear protector in the biggest shift since Charles de Gaulle founded the Fifth Republic. Emmanuel Macron, the president, will outline the country’s role in European nuclear defence in a speech on March 2nd at the Île Longue submarine base, following talks with Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, about nuclear cooperation. This follows doubts about American reliability under Donald Trump.
France is clashing more with Washington. Charles Kushner, the US ambassador, refused to come to the Foreign Ministry after embassy comments about the death of far-right militant Quentin Deranque. France temporarily barred him from direct government access. When America and Israel struck Iran this week, killing Supreme Leader Khamenei, they did not tell France or ask for help. Mr Macron called emergency defence councils and called for a UN Security Council meeting.
Mr Macron faces a domestic crisis. His approval ratings hit a record low, with 77% of French citizens judging him negatively. Only 23% consider him a good president — a sustained slump since the June 2024 dissolution.
The opposition is preparing for 2027. Marine Le Pen said she would not campaign for president if sentenced to wear an electronic bracelet. The July 7th appeal verdict will decide whether millions who want to vote for her can do so. She and Jordan Bardella made a rare joint appearance at the Agricultural Salon, showing unity as Mr Bardella emerges as her likely successor.
France is building the military muscle to match its ambitions. The country’s forces produced 1,000 military drones in under a year at less than 1,000 euros each, adapting rapidly to lessons from Ukraine.
On economics, France remains defensive. Mr Macron attacked Ursula von der Leyen’s decision to apply the EU-Mercosur trade agreement provisionally, calling it an “unacceptable unilateral choice.” Both the National Rally and France Unbowed filed censure motions against the government over its energy strategy, but both failed by wide margins.
Other Stories
Other Stories
- Lecornu conducts mini-government reshuffle with new Culture Minister — Sébastien Lecornu, the prime minister, completed a government reshuffle, bringing in four new ministers including Catherine Pégard as culture minister, replacing Rachida Dati. The reshuffle also brought in Jean-Didier Berger and other appointments while being described as a minor adjustment. (radiofrance.fr)
- Louvre president resigns after October heist, Macron appoints replacement — Laurence des Cars resigned as president of the Louvre following criticism over the October jewellery heist and subsequent staff strikes. Macron accepted her resignation and quickly appointed Christophe Leribault, former Versailles director, as her replacement to restore stability to the world’s most visited museum. (franceinfo.fr)
- US Ambassador Kushner skips Quai d’Orsay summons over Quentin Deranque comments — Charles Kushner, the US ambassador, failed to appear at French Foreign Ministry summons after controversial embassy comments about the death of far-right militant Quentin Deranque. France temporarily barred Mr Kushner from direct government access, though he later called to arrange a meeting with Jean-Noël Barrot, the foreign minister. (lemonde.fr)
- Mélenchon faces antisemitism accusations over Epstein pronunciation comments — Jean-Luc Mélenchon sparked controversy at a Lyon meeting by commenting ironically on the pronunciation of Jeffrey Epstein’s name, suggesting ‘Epstine’ sounds more Russian. The comments drew widespread condemnation across the political spectrum for perceived antisemitic undertones, adding to existing tensions around France Unbowed. (liberation.fr)
- Le Pen and Bardella demonstrate unity at Agricultural Salon amid 2027 succession planning — Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella made a joint appearance at the Agricultural Salon, their first together in years, displaying unity while Mr Bardella emerges as Ms Le Pen’s likely successor for 2027. The visit served as a demonstration of their complementary roles and the National Rally’s agricultural policy positions. (lefigaro.fr)
- EU moves forward with Mercosur trade agreement despite French opposition — Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, announced provisional application of the EU-Mercosur trade agreement without waiting for European Parliament approval, drawing sharp criticism from Mr Macron who called it an unacceptable ‘unilateral choice.’ France has consistently opposed the deal over agricultural concerns. (lemonde.fr)
- National Rally parliamentary assistant fired for extremist social media posts linked to neo-Nazi groups — Lisette Pollet, a National Rally deputy, fired her parliamentary assistant Vincent Claudin after discovering racist, antisemitic and homophobic posts on social media. Mr Claudin was revealed to have belonged to the far-right Lyon Populaire group and was a friend of deceased militant Quentin Deranque, raising questions about National Rally vetting procedures. (lemonde.fr)
- Macron asks Trump to lift sanctions on EU officials including Thierry Breton — Emmanuel Macron wrote to Donald Trump requesting the lifting of sanctions imposed on European officials including Thierry Breton, a former EU commissioner, and Nicolas Guillou, a judge at the International Criminal Court (ICC). The sanctions were imposed over alleged ‘extraterritorial censorship’ related to EU digital regulations. (lemonde.fr)
- Banking sector faces regulatory crackdowns and fraud prevention measures — Two Caisse d’Epargne regional banks were fined a total of 9.2m euros for improper banking practices. Separately, the Banque de France announced new measures to combat banking fraud, including ‘white list’ services to protect consumers from unauthorised debits. (lefigaro.fr)
- Former intelligence engineer acquitted of delivering classified information to foreign company — A former engineer at the General Directorate for External Security (DGSE) was acquitted by a Paris court of delivering classified data to a German startup but convicted of improperly extracting and reproducing secret defence documents. He received 18 months suspended sentence and a 4,000-euro fine, raising questions about intelligence service security protocols. (lefigaro.fr)
- Macron calls for EU to advance on 20th sanctions package against Russia — Emmanuel Macron urged the European Union to move forward with a 20th sanctions package against Russia, which is being blocked by Viktor Orban of Hungary. Mr Macron emphasised continued pressure on Russia and implementation of the 90bn-euro loan to Ukraine as the war approaches its fourth anniversary. (lefigaro.fr)
- Macron announces new budget minister in government personnel changes — Emmanuel Macron appointed David Amiel, 33, as France’s new budget minister, replacing Amélie de Montchalin who was moved to head the Court of Auditors. The appointment represents continued shuffling of key economic positions in the Lecornu government. (politico.eu)
Notes
Notes
Macron to deliver major nuclear deterrence doctrine speech at submarine base
February 25 – March 01, 2026
US-Israeli strikes on Iran escalate Middle East conflict as Macron calls for diplomacy
February 28, 2026
US Ambassador Kushner skips Quai d'Orsay summons over Quentin Deranque comments
February 23–24, 2026
Mélenchon faces antisemitism accusations over Epstein pronunciation comments
February 27 – March 01, 2026
Le Pen and Bardella demonstrate unity at Agricultural Salon amid 2027 succession planning
February 26, 2026
RN parliamentary assistant fired for extremist social media posts linked to neo-Nazi groups
February 25, 2026
Former DGSE engineer acquitted of delivering classified information to foreign company
February 23, 2026
Other
United Kingdom
Labour collapsed to third place in one of its safest seats this week, as the Green Party won its first Westminster by-election and Prince Andrew was arrested on his 66th birthday.
Hannah Spencer won Gorton and Denton with 14,980 votes, pushing Labour behind Reform UK. She overturned one of Labour’s biggest majorities since the war in a seat the party had held for nearly a century. Keir Starmer vowed to “keep on fighting” but his leadership is under pressure.
The royal crisis deepened. Prince Andrew was arrested for suspected misconduct in public office over his Jeffrey Epstein ties. King Charles issued a statement supporting the investigation, but royal expert Andrew Lownie warned the monarchy faces collapse and called for Charles to abdicate.
David Lammy, the justice secretary, announced reforms to tackle court pressures. Courts would use more artificial intelligence, cut jury trials for cases carrying under three years, and sit more days to clear an 80,000-case backlog. The Law Society warned that decisions “with serious consequences” must be made by humans, but Mr Lammy cited Margaret Thatcher’s reforms as precedent.
Mr Starmer let Washington use British bases for defensive operations against Iran while refusing to back offensive strikes. Iran fired missiles at British bases in Cyprus, with strikes in Bahrain landing several hundred yards from 300 UK personnel. John Healey, the defence secretary, vowed to deploy British troops to Ukraine before year-end following a peace deal. AUKUS deepened as HMS Anson arrived for the first British submarine maintenance in Australia.
Andrew Bailey, the Bank of England governor, hinted at rate cuts as inflation nears the 2% target, while Rachel Reeves, the chancellor, prepared a Spring Statement with no major announcements despite pressure after her party’s by-election defeat.
Other Stories
Other Stories
- Kemi Badenoch clashes with Martin Lewis over Conservative student loan reforms — Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, faced criticism from Martin Lewis, the finance expert, over her proposals to cut student loan interest rates, with Lewis arguing the plans would only benefit high earners. The confrontation occurred during a live TV interview. (telegraph.co.uk)
- Nigel Farage proposes electoral reforms banning foreign citizen voting after by-election defeat — Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, unveiled plans to ban Commonwealth citizens from voting and end postal voting on demand, claiming the Gorton and Denton by-election was marred by “sectarian cheating” and family voting irregularities. (telegraph.co.uk)
- King Charles delivers routine Olympic congratulations amid ongoing health treatment — King Charles sent congratulatory messages to Team GB and Commonwealth athletes after the 2026 Winter Olympics, while also making routine appearances and continuing his cancer treatment with a reduced schedule. (dailymail.co.uk)
Notes
Notes
Green Party delivers historic by-election victory, pushing Labour to third place in Gorton and Denton
February 27, 2026
Starmer faces crisis over Iran policy as UK takes defensive role while refusing to endorse US-Israeli strikes
February 28 – March 01, 2026
Prince Andrew arrest triggers royal crisis with calls for King Charles to abdicate
February 22–24, 2026
Rachel Reeves prepares low-key Spring Statement amid economic pressures and business concerns
February 25 – March 01, 2026
David Lammy unveils justice system overhaul with AI courts and reduced jury trials
February 24, 2026
Nigel Farage proposes electoral reforms banning foreign citizen voting after by-election defeat
March 01, 2026
AUKUS partnership advances with HMS Anson maintenance visit and reactor component purchases
February 22–23, 2026
Defence Secretary John Healey announces troop deployment to Ukraine and addresses Iran missile threats
February 22 – March 01, 2026
King Charles delivers routine Olympic congratulations amid ongoing health treatment
February 22–25, 2026
Other
Germany
Germany
Germany pursues an independent foreign policy through diplomacy with major powers, even as domestic politics weaken the safeguards against extremism. Friedrich Merz, the chancellor, visited China and showed continued engagement despite trade friction, while criticism of Donald Trump’s Russia policy shows Germany pulling further away from Washington. Military modernisation continues with major arms purchases despite tension over foreign investment. A court blocked the intelligence service from classifying the Alternative for Germany (AfD) as extremist, removing a key monitoring tool while corruption scandals continue to damage the party—contradictory trends that give the far-right legal standing while undermining its credibility. Domestic regime — significant The Cologne Administrative Court weakened Germany’s system for containing extremism this week when it blocked the intelligence service from classifying the AfD as “secured right-wing extremist.” The court found insufficient evidence despite acknowledging “strong suspicion” of anti-constitutional activities. AfD leadership celebrated this as a “great victory.” The ruling removes a key tool for monitoring a party that holds 151 seats in the 630-seat Bundestag. It comes as the AfD faces its most serious corruption scandal yet. The Bundestag held a debate on AfD cronyism this week, revealing multiple cases of party members employing relatives of other AfD politicians. Martina Uhr, a Bundestag member, was forced to resign from the Lower Saxony delegation. The party faces calls for resignations and internal investigations. These contradictory trends create uncertainty about the overall impact on the AfD’s standing. The party suffers credibility damage from corruption but gains institutional legitimacy through legal victories. Alignment/Diplomatic — minor Mr Merz completed his first visit to China as chancellor, meeting President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang on February 24-26. He criticised Germany’s €80 billion trade deficit with China as “unhealthy” and blamed Chinese overcapacity, while announcing an Airbus deal and asking Beijing to use its influence to end the Ukraine war. The visit shows continued engagement despite rivalry. Boris Pistorius, the defence minister, accused Mr Trump of “buddy-like” behaviour with Vladimir Putin around the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion. He warned that Mr Trump’s approach undermines Ukraine support and NATO solidarity. The criticism shows Germany pulling further away from American positions under the new administration. Security/Defence — minor The Bundestag budget committee approved buying kamikaze drones for €540 million from German firms Helsing and Stark Defence. The purchase faced criticism over an investment by Peter Thiel, a Trump associate, in Stark Defence. The committee imposed additional oversight requirements. The procurement continues military modernisation despite political friction over foreign investors. Economic/Tech — none No significant developments this week. The structural tension between fiscal orthodoxy and eurozone integration remains unchanged. Institutional — none No significant institutional developments this week. Germany’s approach to institutional innovation within existing EU frameworks remains as previously assessed.Sources & Other Stories
Sources & Other Stories
Sources:
- Welt: AfD court ruling
- Tagesschau: AfD classification decision, AfD nepotism debate, drone procurement
- Zeit: AfD nepotism resignations, Merz China visit
- Politico Europe: Merz China trade deficit criticism
- Web.de: Pistorius Trump criticism
- Süddeutsche Zeitung: Pistorius Ukraine war comments
- Presidential election date set: Bundestag President Julia Klöckner announced that Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s successor will be elected on January 30, 2027. Separately, renovating Bellevue Palace will cost over €601 million and take eight years.
- Iran crisis response: Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Germany cannot evacuate stranded Germans from the Middle East due to closed airspace following Iran-US-Israel military confrontation.
- CDU congress: The CDU held its federal party congress in Stuttgart on February 20-21, approving a minimum age of 14 for social media platforms and rejecting a sugar tax proposal. Merz received 91.17% support in leadership vote.
- Merz-Trump meeting: Merz met with Trump in Washington on March 2 for their second meeting since taking office. The meeting focused on tariff threats against Europe and Ukraine policy.
- Organised crime plan: Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil announced a new action plan against organised crime on February 25, including enhanced cooperation between customs and BKA.
- Bundeswehr recruitment: The Bundeswehr recruited 3,131 minors in 2025, the highest number since data collection began in 2011, drawing opposition criticism.
- Baden-Württemberg controversy: CDU lead candidate Manuel Hagel faced criticism after a 2018 video surfaced showing inappropriate comments about a female student.
Other Stories
Other Stories
- Presidential election date set for January 30, 2027 as Steinmeier palace renovation costs revealed — Bundestag President Julia Klöckner announced that Steinmeier’s successor will be elected on January 30, 2027. Separately, it was revealed that renovating Bellevue Palace will cost over 601 million euros and take 8 years, meaning the next president will spend their entire term in temporary quarters. (t-online.de)
- Iran crisis response: Wadephul rules out evacuation of stranded Germans from Middle East — Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Germany cannot evacuate stranded Germans from the Middle East due to closed airspace following Iran-US-Israel military confrontation. The Foreign Office issued strong travel warnings and Wadephul criticized Iran’s regime as terroristic. (bild.de)
- CDU party congress in Stuttgart approves social media age limits and other policies — The CDU held its federal party congress in Stuttgart on February 20-21, approving a minimum age of 14 for social media platforms, rejecting a sugar tax proposal, and making various other policy decisions. Merz received 91.17% support in leadership vote. (spiegel.de)
- Merz meets Trump in Washington amid tensions over tariffs and Ukraine — Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with US President Donald Trump in Washington on March 2 for their second meeting since Merz took office. The meeting focused on Trump’s tariff threats against Europe and Ukraine policy, with Merz seeking clarity on US positions. (welt.de)
- Klingbeil announces action plan against organized crime with new powers for authorities — Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, along with Interior Minister Dobrindt and Justice Minister Hubig, announced a new action plan against organized crime on February 25. The plan includes enhanced cooperation between customs and BKA, new digital powers, and easier asset seizure from criminal organizations. (spiegel.de)
- Bundeswehr recruitment of minors reaches record high with over 3,000 17-year-olds — The Bundeswehr recruited 3,131 minors in 2025, the highest number since data collection began in 2011. Opposition politicians criticized the practice while the defense ministry defends recruiting 17-year-olds with parental consent to address personnel shortages. (zeit.de)
- Baden-Württemberg CDU candidate Hagel faces criticism over old sexist comments — CDU lead candidate Manuel Hagel for Baden-Württemberg’s March 8 state election faced criticism after an old 2018 video surfaced showing him making inappropriate comments about a female student. The controversy emerged as polls show the race tightening between CDU and Greens. (spiegel.de)
Notes
Notes
Merz conducts first China visit as Chancellor, meets Xi Jinping amid trade tensions
February 25, 2026
Court blocks intelligence service from classifying AfD as 'secured right-wing extremist'
February 26, 2026
Presidential election date set for January 30, 2027 as Steinmeier palace renovation costs revealed
February 25–26, 2026
Iran crisis response: Wadephul rules out evacuation of stranded Germans from Middle East
March 01, 2026
Bundestag committee approves Kamikaze drone procurement despite Peter Thiel concerns
February 23–25, 2026
CDU party congress in Stuttgart approves social media age limits and other policies
February 22, 2026
Klingbeil announces action plan against organized crime with new powers for authorities
February 25, 2026
Other
Italy
Iranian missiles hit a Kuwaiti air base with more than 300 Italian troops this week, the most direct threat to Italian forces in years. The attack shows how Italy’s global military commitments expose it to conflicts it cannot control.
No Italians were hurt when the missiles struck Al Salem base during Iran’s retaliation against US-Israeli attacks. But Giorgia Meloni, the prime minister, convened emergency meetings and prepared evacuation plans for 500 Italians in Iran. Antonio Tajani, the foreign minister, blamed Iran for provoking the attack, while Matteo Salvini endorsed the American action, saying “those who intervened did well.” The measured response alongside Mr Salvini’s hawkish stance followed Italy’s usual pattern: support allies while keeping the coalition together.
The incident shows a deeper problem. Italy has 12,000 troops across 40 missions worldwide, but a leaked defence ministry document this week admitted that the country’s 170,000-strong armed forces are “absolutely undersized” and below the “survival threshold.” The ministry wants to add 100,000 soldiers by 2044, at a cost of up to €7 billion, nearly doubling personnel spending. The 18-year timeline shows Italy’s military challenge.
External pressure is creating internal strain. Guido Crosetto, the defence minister, was stranded in Dubai with his family during the Iran crisis when flights were suspended. The Five Star Movement demanded his resignation, calling it an “institutional question” and evidence of government irrelevance. Mr Crosetto eventually returned on a military aircraft, paying triple the standard rate. The opposition questioned government competence during a security emergency.
Coalition support continues to slide. New polling shows Fratelli d’Italia down to 28% and the Lega to just 6.1%, while Roberto Vannacci’s new party reached 3.6%. Mr Vannacci’s movement is drawing voters from both coalition parties, fragmenting the government’s right flank. Even the opposition Democratic Party fell to 20.7%, suggesting broader voter volatility.
Yet institutions keep functioning. The constitutional referendum campaign is intensifying ahead of the March 22-23 vote on judicial reform, with polls showing 53.3% support for the government’s position. The competitive race shows democracy working normally despite the political pressure.
Other Stories
Other Stories
- Defence Minister Crosetto stranded in Dubai during Iran crisis sparks political controversy — Defence Minister Guido Crosetto was stranded in Dubai with his family during the Iran crisis when flights were suspended, creating a political controversy over his absence during a security emergency. He eventually returned via military aircraft, paying triple the standard rate. (repubblica.it)
- Political fallout continues over Rogoredo police shooting case as Salvini shifts positions — The arrest of police officer Carmelo Cinturrino for the murder of a drug dealer in Rogoredo sparked political controversy, with Salvini initially defending him “without ifs and buts” then backing down when corruption allegations emerged. The case influenced debate over police legal protections. (ilfattoquotidiano.it)
- Political polling shows decline for centre-right parties as Vannacci’s new party gains ground — Recent polls show Fratelli d’Italia dropping to 28% (-1.4%) and Lega falling to 6.1% (-1.9%), while Roberto Vannacci’s new Futuro Nazionale party reaches 3.6%. The Democratic Party also declined slightly to 20.7%, suggesting volatility in the political landscape. (fanpage.it)
- President Mattarella participates in judicial training events amid referendum campaign — Sergio Mattarella, the president, opened the training year at the Superior School of Magistrates in Naples and spoke at events about healthcare equity, maintaining institutional neutrality during the judicial reform referendum campaign. (tg24.sky.it)
- Meloni gives Bloomberg interview defending government’s economic record — Giorgia Meloni, the prime minister, told Bloomberg that Italy is now stable with spreads at 60 basis points representing “hard currency for growth.” She said Trump tariffs would be an error that Americans will pay for, and declared the state’s role in Monte dei Paschi finished. (lastampa.it)
- Banca d’Italia adds BPER and MPS to systemically important institutions list — The Bank of Italy updated its list of nationally systemically important institutions, adding BPER Bank and Monte dei Paschi di Siena following recent bank consolidation operations. The two groups must maintain a 0.5% capital buffer starting April 1st. (teleborsa.it)
- Salvini endorses Iran attack while supporting Ermal Meta at Sanremo — Matteo Salvini, the deputy prime minister, endorsed the US-Israel attack on Iran saying “those who intervened in Iran did well,” while also praising Albanian-Italian singer Ermal Meta at Sanremo as an example of successful integration, showing contrasting positions on foreign policy and immigration. (open.online)
- Electoral law reform debate intensifies as FdI announces amendment for voter preferences — Fratelli d’Italia announced it will introduce an amendment to add voter preferences to the new electoral law, after initially agreeing to blocked lists. The move appears tactical to address criticism, while the broader proportional system with majority bonus remains the core reform. (ilfattoquotidiano.it)
- Banca d’Italia warns against fake deepfake videos of Governor Panetta promoting investments — The Bank of Italy filed a complaint with judicial authorities over the circulation of fake images, videos and articles using Governor Fabio Panetta’s name and image to promote fraudulent investment platforms, some created using deepfake AI technology. (ilfattoquotidiano.it)
- M5S demands Crosetto resignation over Dubai incident while questioning Italy’s international relevance — The Five Star Movement called for Defence Minister Crosetto’s resignation over being stranded in Dubai during the Iran crisis, with Senator Patuanelli calling it an “institutional question” that demonstrates Italy’s marginality in international affairs. (ansa.it)
Notes
Notes
US-Israel attack Iran as Italian military personnel in Kuwait base hit by missiles
February 28 – March 01, 2026
Defense Minister Crosetto stranded in Dubai during Iran crisis sparks political controversy
February 28 – March 01, 2026
Political fallout continues over Rogoredo police shooting case as Salvini shifts positions
February 23–25, 2026
Justice system referendum campaign intensifies with polls showing narrow lead for Yes vote
February 22 – March 01, 2026
Political polling shows decline for center-right parties as Vannacci's new party gains ground
February 22 – March 01, 2026
President Mattarella participates in judicial training events amid referendum campaign
February 23–28, 2026
Electoral law reform debate intensifies as FdI announces amendment for voter preferences
February 27–28, 2026
Banca d'Italia warns against fake deepfake videos of Governor Panetta promoting investments
February 26, 2026
M5S demands Crosetto resignation over Dubai incident while questioning Italy's international relevance
March 01, 2026
Other
Spain
Yolanda Díaz stepped back from leading Spain’s left alliance into the 2027 election, opening a leadership vacuum in the governing coalition just as the far right tightens its hold on the opposition.
Ms Díaz, the second vice president, announced she would not stand as the left coalition’s candidate while remaining in government until the end of the legislature. Her decision creates succession questions for Sumar, the umbrella group she leads, and may allow Podemos to rejoin the alliance after being sidelined.
Even as the left fragments, Santiago Abascal is tightening his control over Vox with purges. Mr Abascal forced out Javier Ortega Smith, the party’s Madrid spokesman, and José Ángel Antelo, its leader in Murcia, for defying his orders. Former leaders have criticised his “authoritarian leadership style,” but the purges leave Mr Abascal with near-total control of the party.
The strategy appears to be working. Polling shows Vox displacing the governing Socialist Party as the second party in southern provinces including Almería, Málaga, Murcia and Alicante. The Socialists have lost 69 seats in regional parliaments since Pedro Sánchez struck deals with nationalist parties to stay in power, while the far-right party keeps gaining ground.
The government declassified 153 documents about the failed 1981 coup attempt, revealing that six intelligence agents participated and later tried to cover it up. The armed forces face staff shortages, with personnel 13,000-23,000 below approved levels. Spanish banks reported strong profits, with BBVA handling €134 billion in sustainable business, up 44% from last year.
Other Stories
Other Stories
- Pedro Sánchez denies cardiovascular health rumors after media reports spark political controversy — Libertad Digital published reports claiming Sánchez was being treated for cardiovascular issues at Hospital Ramón y Cajal. Moncloa initially denied the claims, and Sánchez later responded with a video rejecting the lies and celebrating his birthday with a bike ride to show his health. (libertaddigital.com)
- Government declassifies 23-F coup documents revealing intelligence agent involvement and new details — The Spanish government declassified 153 documents about the 1981 coup attempt, revealing that six agents from Spain’s intelligence service actively participated in the coup and tried to cover it up. The documents also provide new details about King Juan Carlos I’s role during the events. (elmundo.es)
- PP leader Feijóo attempts negotiations with Vox amid document framework controversy — Alberto Núñez Feijóo presented a framework document for negotiations with Vox to form regional governments in Extremadura and Aragón, but Santiago Abascal rejected the proposal, calling it offensive and claiming it treats Vox ‘like savages.’ The tensions complicate potential government agreements. (abc.es)
- King Felipe VI activities include diplomatic events and stance on Juan Carlos I return — King Felipe VI participated in various official events including the Mobile World Congress and made statements about requiring Juan Carlos I to regain tax residency in Spain if he wants to return. Argentine TV also spread false rumors about a relationship with Juliana Awada. (theobjective.com)
- ERC-PSC budget tensions in Catalonia over personal income tax transfer demands — The Republican Left of Catalonia (ERC) threatens to reject Salvador Illa’s budget proposal unless the central government transfers full personal income tax collection to Catalonia as agreed in the investiture pact. Illa approved the budget project without ERC support, creating uncertainty about parliamentary approval. (cronicaglobal.elespanol.com)
- Julio Iglesias sues Yolanda Díaz over sexual harassment comments — Singer Julio Iglesias filed a lawsuit against Second Vice President Yolanda Díaz for her comments about sexual harassment allegations made by former employees. Díaz defended workers’ rights and denounced workplace violations. (eldiario.es)
- Plus Ultra investigation reveals intelligence service connections through consultancy payments — Investigation into Plus Ultra airline reveals that former intelligence service communications director Sergio Sánchez was involved in a consultancy that paid José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero and his daughters 661,000 euros. The case highlights connections between intelligence services and business networks. (elconfidencial.com)
Notes
Notes
Pedro Sánchez denies cardiovascular health rumors after media reports spark political controversy
February 23–28, 2026
Government declassifies 23-F coup documents revealing CESID agent involvement and new details
February 23–25, 2026
Yolanda Díaz announces she won't be candidate for 2027 elections, ending her leadership of the left
February 25, 2026
PP leader Feijóo attempts negotiations with Vox amid document framework controversy
February 23–24, 2026
King Felipe VI activities include diplomatic events and stance on Juan Carlos I return
February 24–28, 2026
Vox internal crisis as Abascal purges critical leaders including Ortega Smith and Antelo
February 27–28, 2026
Spanish banking sector reports record profits and digital transformation advances
February 25 – March 01, 2026
Spanish Armed Forces face chronic personnel shortage despite recruitment efforts
February 24–26, 2026
Other
Norway
Norway increased its military support for Ukraine to 12 billion kroner while condemning American and Israeli attacks on Iran as illegal — moves that put Oslo at odds with key allies.
Jonas Gahr Støre, the prime minister, announced the drone and unmanned systems package during a visit to Kyiv on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion, signing a partnership agreement with Volodymyr Zelensky. The trip included stops at Ukrainian training camps in Poland. Yet even as Mr Støre increased Norway’s support for Ukraine, Espen Barth Eide, the foreign minister, criticised the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, saying they were not justified as preemptive action and warning of escalation to a wider Middle East war.
The government responded similarly at home, adjusting policy under pressure. Jens Stoltenberg, the finance minister, raised the wealth tax threshold from 10 million to 14 million kroner following widespread criticism of the housing wealth tax model. Parliament also agreed to investigate a lobby register for the first time in 25 years, with the Labour Party and Conservative Party switching positions after the Epstein scandal revelations. Only the Progress Party remains opposed to the measures.
Parliamentary oversight of the Epstein affair continues, with the control committee receiving responses from Mr Støre and Mr Barth Eide but planning further hearings on unanswered questions. The scandal appears to have triggered other reforms — the lobby register proposal had been championed by the Liberal Party for decades without success.
Norway’s institutions did well elsewhere. The Government Pension Fund Global posted a record $248 billion profit with a 15.1% return, with US tech stocks and AI investments leading the gains. The fund, now worth $2.2 trillion, has introduced AI-based screening for environmental and governance risks. Equinor is selling several Angolan oil fields to focus on growth in Brazil and the United States. Meanwhile, 25,000 Norwegian and allied soldiers began the Cold Response 2026 exercise, a major NATO training operation in the Arctic that runs until March 19.
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Other Stories
- King Harald hospitalized in Spain with infection, discharged after treatment — 89-year-old King Harald was hospitalized in Tenerife on February 24 while on vacation with Queen Sonja. He was treated for a skin infection and dehydration. His personal physician traveled to Spain, and he was discharged on February 26, continuing his vacation in the Canary Islands. (apnews.com)
- Foreign Minister Barth Eide condemns Iran attacks, warns of Middle East escalation — Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide condemned US-Israeli attacks on Iran as violating international law and expressed deep concern about escalation to a wider Middle East war. He criticized the attacks as not meeting criteria for preemptive strikes and called for diplomatic solutions. (regjeringen.no)
- Controversy over Foreign Minister’s son employment at Paris embassy — Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide faced criticism over his son’s employment as an intern at the Norwegian embassy in Paris. Questions were raised about proper handling of conflicts of interest, with calls for investigation by parliament’s control committee. (nettavisen.no)
- Støre opens door to Norway hosting Olympics again — Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed openness to Norway bidding for the Olympics again during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The statement received support from Norwegian sports organizations, though he emphasized the importance of unity in the sports movement. (nrk.no)
- Progress Party leader Listhaug calls for Iranian regime change, warns against EU policies — Fremskrittspartiet leader Sylvi Listhaug expressed hope that attacks on Iran would lead to the fall of the Islamic regime, while also warning against EU policies including a proposed 25% tax on Norwegian electricity bottleneck revenues. (nettavisen.no)
- Cold Response 2026 military exercise begins with 25,000 troops — Norway’s Armed Forces launched the major Cold Response 2026 exercise from March 9-19, involving 25,000 Norwegian and allied soldiers training for defense of Norway and neighboring areas. The exercise will affect civilian traffic and includes various military activities across northern Norway. (forsvaret.no)
Notes
Notes
Støre visits Kyiv on invasion anniversary, announces 12 billion NOK drone support package
February 22–28, 2026
Foreign Minister Barth Eide condemns Iran attacks, warns of Middle East escalation
February 28 – March 01, 2026
Finance Minister Stoltenberg adjusts housing wealth tax, raises threshold to 14 million NOK
February 27, 2026
Parliament receives responses on Epstein investigation, further hearings planned
February 23 – March 01, 2026
Parliament decides to investigate lobby register after Arbeiderpartiet changes position
February 25, 2026
Progress Party leader Listhaug calls for Iranian regime change, warns against EU policies
February 23–28, 2026
Equinor explores sale of Angolan assets, reports strong financial performance
February 23 – March 01, 2026
Other
Sweden
Sweden used technical equipment to disable a Russian drone that approached a French aircraft carrier visiting Malmö, marking the country’s first documented operational response to Russian provocation since joining NATO. The naval vessel HMS Rapp intercepted the drone launched from the Russian intelligence ship Zhigulevsk as it neared the Charles de Gaulle. Pål Jonson, the defence minister, confirmed technical data showed Russian origin, while Ulf Kristersson, the prime minister, called it “Russian behaviour we recognise from other places” and “very difficult to see as coincidence.” The incident showed Sweden moving beyond routine alliance business to active joint operations with allied forces.
Even as his navy was countering Russian probes, Mr Kristersson was showing Sweden’s alliance credentials elsewhere. He travelled to Kiev on February 24 for the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion, meeting Volodymyr Zelensky and joining Nordic-Baltic leaders in the ceremony. Sweden is now the third-largest military donor to Ukraine, and Mr Kristersson said the country needed “more of everything” to make the war cost Russia “too much in money and lives.” He also criticised Hungary for blocking EU aid. When US-Israeli strikes hit Iran, Mr Kristersson convened the National Security Council while Maria Malmer Stenergard, the foreign minister, said Sweden supported the Iranian people against a regime that threatens “even Sweden” through criminal organisations.
But at home, the Tidö coalition — the four-party right-wing government — faces pressure ahead of the September 2026 election. The coalition continues to disagree over revoking permanent residence permits, with Jimmie Åkesson, leader of the Sweden Democrats, suggesting delays until after the election while maintaining controversial rhetoric. Mr Kristersson defended the government’s migration policy changes amid criticism over “teenage deportations,” showing tensions in the coalition over its defining policy area. Polls show close competition between Mr Kristersson and Magdalena Andersson, the Social Democratic opposition leader, for voter confidence, with Mr Kristersson’s Moderate Party around 17% — its second-worst showing since 2018. Separate polls show the Liberal Party risks falling below the parliamentary threshold, threatening the right bloc’s viability.
The Wallenberg family is reportedly leading a consortium to secure 10 billion kronor in new capital for struggling steel company Stegra, with sources calling the family’s contacts with both investors and the state crucial for the rescue effort. The move shows the central role of the Wallenberg business empire in Swedish industrial policy during crisis periods.
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Other Stories
- Ebba Andersson wins historic Olympic gold in cross-country skiing — Swedish cross-country skier Ebba Andersson won her first Olympic gold medal in the inaugural women’s 50km mass start classic race at the Milano Cortina Olympics. Swedish media called the victory redemption after falls cost Sweden gold in the relay. (espn.com)
- Politicians criticize Leif GW Persson for supporting accused in minister threats case — Criminologist Leif GW Persson faced sharp criticism from Ms Malmer Stenergard and Mr Åkesson after expressing support for a man accused of threatening ministers. The controversy highlighted tensions over threats against politicians. (tv4.se)
Notes
Notes
Politicians criticize Leif GW Persson for supporting accused in minister threats case
February 22–25, 2026
Other