Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for long-range missiles from Western allies, emphasizing the strategic importance of such support in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Despite positive signals, Zelensky criticized the indecision among countries like the US, UK, and France regarding missile use on Russian territory. Oleksandr Kornienko, a deputy representative of Ukraine's Rada, highlighted the critical need for these weapons since the war's onset. Meanwhile, Ukraine reports Russia's attempt to bolster its forces with North Korean soldiers, raising concerns about escalating the conflict. Zelensky presented his 'Victory Plan' to EU and NATO allies, urging timely military support to ensure Ukraine's success.

Cypriot President Nicos Christodoulides advocates for more strategic migration agreements with third countries, citing the EU's successful deal with Lebanon. He emphasizes the need for solutions aligned with international humanitarian law and suggests the UNHCR's involvement to ensure legitimacy. Cyprus is pushing for normalized relations with Syria to facilitate migrant returns, contingent on infrastructure development. Christodoulides also highlights the importance of resuming Cyprus reunification talks, which are crucial for EU interests and Euro-Turkish relations. Cyprus remains divided since Turkey's 1974 invasion.

Cypriot President Nicos Christodoulides advocates for more strategic migration agreements with third countries, citing the EU's successful deal with Lebanon. He emphasizes the need for solutions aligned with international humanitarian law and suggests the involvement of the UNHCR. Cyprus is pushing for normalized relations with Syria to facilitate migrant returns, contingent on infrastructure development. Christodoulides also highlights the importance of resuming talks with Turkish Cypriots, stressing the significance of resolving the Cyprus issue for EU interests and Euro-Turkish relations.

European Union member states are considering stricter migration policies, with the topic set for discussion at the upcoming EU summit in Brussels. The return of migration to the agenda is partly attributed to electoral considerations in several countries and opposition to the new Migration and Asylum Pact. Ursula von der Leyen has proposed accelerating returns and opening detention centers in third countries, aligning with the demands of 15 member states. However, challenges remain in finding partners for these centers and ensuring compliance with readmission terms. France and Poland are adopting tougher stances, with Poland considering suspending asylum rights temporarily. The EU Commission opposes unilateral suspension of asylum access, while Germany and the Netherlands are taking measures to control migration. The article highlights a shift towards stricter migration policies across EU member states.

The European Peace Facility, initially established to enhance EU defense capabilities and prevent conflicts, has shifted focus following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, now compensating EU countries for military aid to Kyiv. Hungary has been blocking a €6.6 billion fund transfer to Ukraine, citing political alignment with Donald Trump and potential future US policies. The EU is exploring ways to bypass Hungary's veto, such as making contributions to the fund voluntary.

The European Union is attempting to bypass Hungary's veto on military aid to Ukraine, which is to be disbursed through the European Peace Fund. Hungary has blocked the transfer of €6.6 billion, drawing criticism from other EU states and Ukraine. The fund, established in 2021, aims to enhance EU's conflict prevention and security capabilities. Its budget, initially €5 billion, has been increased to €17 billion for 2021-2027, with €11 billion allocated for Ukraine. Hungary's veto is influenced by its political ties and stance against further support to Ukraine. EU officials are exploring alternative plans to overcome this blockade.

The European Union is facing challenges in providing military aid to Ukraine through the European Peace Facility due to Hungary's veto. Hungary, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, has blocked the transfer of 6.6 billion euros, citing political reasons and its relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump. The EU is exploring alternative methods to bypass Hungary's veto, including voluntary contributions from member states and potential macro-financial aid linked to the EU budget. The situation remains under discussion among EU officials and diplomats.

The European Peace Facility (EPF) was established to enhance the EU's ability to prevent conflicts and strengthen international security. Hungary has been blocking the disbursement of €6.6 billion in military assistance to Ukraine through the EPF, drawing criticism from other EU member states. The facility's budget, initially set at €5 billion, has been expanded to €17 billion, with €11 billion earmarked for Ukraine. Hungary's veto is influenced by its political alignment with Donald Trump and opposition to increased support for Ukraine. EU officials are exploring ways to bypass Hungary's veto, including voluntary contributions and linking assistance to the EU budget.

Bruno Retailleau, the new French Minister of the Interior, advocates for a stricter immigration policy, aligning with right-wing and far-right sentiments. He emphasizes the need for European convergence to protect citizens from migration shocks and calls for the swift implementation of the European Pact on Asylum and Migration. Retailleau's stance reflects the political dynamics in France, where no party holds an absolute majority, and the influence of the far-right is significant. His approach resonates across Europe, where right-wing parties gain traction. Retailleau's comments on the rule of law sparked controversy, but he has garnered respect from Hungarian leader Viktor Orbán.

A train carrying Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and their assistants from Strasbourg to Brussels was evacuated due to a 'small explosion,' causing travel disruptions. The French transport company TER Grand Est reported smoke in the train, halting traffic temporarily. Efforts are underway to arrange alternative transport, with the European Parliament coordinating with relevant authorities. The incident occurred as MEPs were returning from a plenary session, but details on the number of affected members remain undisclosed.