European Union’s High Representative Kaja Kallas warned that direct US military involvement in the escalating Israel-Iran conflict could drag the entire Middle East into a broader war. Following a call with EU ministers, she emphasised the bloc’s commitment to de-escalation and diplomacy, distancing from Donald Trump’s aggressive stance. Kallas also urged attention on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, reaffirming Europe’s support for a peaceful resolution. The EU activated its Civil Protection Mechanism to evacuate citizens and continues maritime operations in the Red Sea. Kallas opposed Russia’s mediation role and supported lowering the Russian oil price cap amid rising global tensions.
US URGES IRAN TO “GIVE UP”
President Trump abruptly left the G7 summit in Canada on June 16, stressing the U.S. isn’t seeking a cease-fire but a “real end” to the escalating Israel-Iran hostilities. He rebuked CNN as “fake news” when questioned about his departure and distanced the U.S. from becoming militarily involved. Trump praised Israel’s strikes as successful and reiterated that Iran must “give up” its nuclear weapons or face possible crushing consequences. He refused to sign a G7 communique calling for de-escalation, highlighting division within the alliance. Meanwhile, global evacuations and regional tensions persist, and the U.S. shifts military posture in response.
G7 ‘USELESS’ NOW, SAYS KREMLIN
The Kremlin declared the G7 “useless” following President Trump’s remarks at the summit in Canada, where he criticized Russia’s 2014 expulsion from the then-G8. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov agreed, calling it a “big mistake” and claiming the G7 has “lost practical significance,” especially compared to broader platforms like the G20. Trump asserted that excluding Russia contributed to the Ukraine invasion, suggesting Putin felt “very insulted.” The comments signal growing disdain from Moscow for G7’s role in global affairs and attempt to undermine any anti-Russia actions or sanctions the summit might propose amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
EU SEALS GDPR UPDATE DEAL
The European Union has reached a deal to streamline cross-border investigations under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), introducing a 15-month deadline to resolve privacy complaints, which can be extended by 12 months in complex cases. The reforms aim to fix delays caused by multi-state coordination, especially when a company is based outside the investigating country. Officials hope to boost regulatory cooperation and restore trust in GDPR enforcement. While some, like consumer groups, call it progress, critics such as activist Max Schrems warn it weakens citizens’ rights and complicates procedures. The agreement still awaits final approval from the EU Parliament and member states.
VON DER LEYEN SLAMS CHINA TACTICS
At the G7 summit in Canada, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen accused China of using rare earths as economic weapons, calling out its “pattern of dominance, dependency, and blackmail.” Appealing directly to Donald Trump’s tough stance on Beijing, she proposed a united G7 front and new supply networks. Von der Leyen warned of a “new China shock” and labelled China’s WTO behaviour as the root of global trade disruption. Her remarks reflect EU frustration with China’s market distortions and aim to accelerate EU-US trade talks before a key July deadline amid broader geopolitical tensions.
