A recent European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) survey reveals growing public support for increased national defence budgets across 12 European countries, especially in Poland, Denmark, and the UK. However, many remain sceptical about achieving independence from US defence support by 2030. The survey also highlights Europe’s continued support for Ukraine, regardless of shifting US policies. Trump’s rhetoric has raised concerns, but is seen as temporary. NATO’s upcoming summit will address a proposal to increase the defence spending target to 5% of GDP, though countries like Spain resist committing to this figure.
POPE CAUTIONS ON HARMS OF AI FORN YOUTH
Pope Leo XIV, addressing the Rome Conference on AI, raised urgent concerns about artificial intelligence’s impact on young minds. Cautioning against AI’s “soulless” simulations and data overload, he warned it could impair creativity, critical thinking, and real-world engagement. The pontiff, a trained mathematician, urged policymakers to preserve human dignity, especially among children. He emphasized the irreplaceable value of human memory, emotion, and social interaction, calling for AI to remain a human-serving tool. Amid viral deepfakes impersonating him online, Leo’s voice adds moral weight to the growing debate over ethical AI governance and youth protection.
UK WARNS IRAN ON BLOCKADE
The UK has cautioned Iran against closing the Strait of Hormuz or escalating attacks on U.S. bases following American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Foreign Secretary David Lammy called any retaliation a “catastrophic mistake,” emphasizing the strait’s importance, through which 30% of global oil shipments pass. The IMF has warned of a potential 20–30% oil price surge if the route is disrupted. EU and U.S. officials echo concerns, urging Iran to avoid economic “suicide.” Meanwhile, global leaders, including the UK, France, and Germany, call on Iran to return to nuclear negotiations and de-escalate tensions.
ISRAEL STRIKES EVIN PRISON
The Iran-Israel conflict has entered its eleventh day, marked by intense airstrikes and deepening hostilities. Israel launched a major offensive targeting central Tehran, including the infamous Evin prison and routes to the Fordow nuclear facility. The UN’s nuclear watchdog confirmed significant damage to Fordow’s underground structures following U.S. bombings. President Trump hinted at possible regime change in Iran, intensifying tensions. In response, Iranian leaders vowed retaliation, although Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has yet to comment. Multiple waves of missile attacks have also been reported across Israeli territory, indicating a prolonged and dangerous escalation in the region.
US BASES ON HIGH ALERT
Following President Trump’s airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Tehran has declared US military bases in the Middle East as legitimate targets. Bases in Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Syria, and the UAE—home to thousands of US troops and key military assets—are now on high alert. Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, condemned the strikes and warned against regional escalation. Iran’s possible retaliation risks dragging Gulf states into conflict. The IMF has already warned of economic fallout, particularly if the Strait of Hormuz is blocked, underlining the broader geopolitical and energy stakes at play.
