U.S. World Business Lifestyle
Today: July 30, 2026
Today: July 30, 2026

Europe

Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Technology|World

Tesla wins bid to revive UK lawsuit for 5G patents licence

Elon Musk's Tesla on Monday won its bid to revive a London lawsuit brought against U.S. technology firm InterDigital and a patent licensing platform, seeking a patent

Tesla wins bid to revive UK lawsuit for 5G patents licence
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|MidEast|Technology|World

Saab wins $1 billion order for surveillance aircraft in Middle East

Saab has received an order for two GlobalEye surveillance aircraft from a country in the Middle East region worth 10.1 billion Swedish crowns ($1.04 billion), with deliveries

Saab wins $1 billion order for surveillance aircraft in Middle East
Business|Economy|Europe|World

Porsche to axe one in five jobs by 2035 as China, EV woes bite

German luxury carmaker Porsche will cut around one in five jobs by 2035, with 9,000 positions to be axed in total, as parent Volkswagen

Porsche to axe one in five jobs by 2035 as China, EV woes bite
Business|Economy|Europe|Fashion and Beauty|Finance|Stock Markets|World

LVMH's Arnault dismisses reports of family rift

Bernard Arnault, the billionaire chairman of French luxury group LVMH, has dismissed media reports of a bitter succession battle among his five children,

LVMH's Arnault dismisses reports of family rift
Business|Economy|Europe|World

UK retailers report smallest sales drop since January, CBI says

British retailers reported the smallest downturn in sales in six months in July but remained gloomy overall due to continued cost pressures, the Confederation of British

UK retailers report smallest sales drop since January, CBI says
Business|Environment|Europe

In a German forest, 2 brothers keep the ancient tradition of charcoal burning alive

Immo Feldmer continues the ancient tradition of charcoal burning in Germany's Harz Mountains

In a German forest, 2 brothers keep the ancient tradition of charcoal burning alive
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|World

ECB's Kazimir: September rate hike likely needed even if outlook improves

The European Central Bank will need to raise interest rates at least once more to contain inflation and a deterioration in the outlook could warrant more tightening than

ECB's Kazimir: September rate hike likely needed even if outlook improves
Crime|Europe|World

Second suspect in Berlin pride attack released, prosecutors say

A second suspect detained in connection with a deadly car-ramming attack on Berlin's Pride celebrations over the weekend has been released, the German federal prosecutors'

Second suspect in Berlin pride attack released, prosecutors say
Arts|Business|Education|Europe|Travel|World

Gdynia, Poland's interwar modernist port city, wins UNESCO heritage status

The centre of the modernist Baltic port city of Gdynia, built almost from scratch during the two decades between World War One and World War Two, was added to UNESCO's

Gdynia, Poland's interwar modernist port city, wins UNESCO heritage status
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|MidEast|Stock Markets

European shares steady as tech weakness offsets US-Iran optimism

European shares ended little changed on Monday as losses in technology stocks, led by ASML, stifled a rally fuelled by easing U.S

European shares steady as tech weakness offsets US-Iran optimism
Business|Economy|Europe|World

German business sentiment rises more than expected in July, Ifo survey shows

German business morale grew more than expected in July as the outlook for companies improved across sectors, a survey showed on Monday, although they

German business sentiment rises more than expected in July, Ifo survey shows
Europe|Political|World

Kremlin says it has seen nothing tangible on any new Ukraine peace proposals

The Kremlin said on Monday that it had not seen any specific information regarding new proposals for a peace settlement in Ukraine ahead of a meeting in Washington between

Kremlin says it has seen nothing tangible on any new Ukraine peace proposals
Europe|Political|Technology|World

Ukraine wants prototype of European missile defence system by mid-2027, official says

Ukraine wants a prototype for a European anti-ballistic system codenamed Freyja to be ready within the first half of next year, a senior official said, as Kyiv

Ukraine wants prototype of European missile defence system by mid-2027, official says
Crime|Europe|World

The suspect in the deadly Berlin Pride attack is killed in a confrontation with police

German authorities say the suspect in the deadly Berlin Pride attack that killed one person and left 29 injured was shot and killed by police during a confrontation in a suburb of the city

The suspect in the deadly Berlin Pride attack is killed in a confrontation with police
Crime|Europe|Political|World

Russia strikes Kyiv, other Ukraine cities; Russian-held areas also hit

The Ukrainian capital Kyiv came under ballistic missile attack from Russian forces early on Sunday, local

Russia strikes Kyiv, other Ukraine cities; Russian-held areas also hit
Crime|Europe|Political|World

Iran foreign minister says Ukraine's attack on Iranian vessel 'cannot go unanswered'

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Sunday a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian commercial vessel "cannot go unanswered".

Iran foreign minister says Ukraine's attack on Iranian vessel 'cannot go unanswered'
Environment|Europe|World

Wildfires in France drive 250,000 people from their homes and creep toward wine city of Bordeaux

A raging wildfire in southwest France has forced the evacuation of 55,000 more people overnight

Wildfires in France drive 250,000 people from their homes and creep toward wine city of Bordeaux
Crime|Europe|World

Suspect in Berlin Pride attack shot dead during operation, police say

Berlin police shot dead the suspect being sought over the Pride attack in the German capital, they said on X, after he tried to attack them with a bladed weapon at an

Suspect in Berlin Pride attack shot dead during operation, police say
Business|Europe|Political|World

Germany's Merz will propose conservative Bilger as new transport minister

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will propose that conservative parliamentary director Steffen Bilger replace Patrick Schnieder as transport minister as part of an ongoing cabinet

Germany's Merz will propose conservative Bilger as new transport minister
Crime|Europe|Lifestyle|World

Suspect in Berlin Pride attack shot dead by police

German police said a 21-year-old man with a record of Islamist extremist activity was shot dead on Sunday, a day after he

Suspect in Berlin Pride attack shot dead by police
Environment|Europe|World

Wildfires threaten Bordeaux as France and Spain battle blazes

Wildfires advanced towards the outskirts of the historic French city of Bordeaux, at the heart of the country's winelands, on

Wildfires threaten Bordeaux as France and Spain battle blazes
Business|Crime|Europe|World

Vessel sinks a week after being struck by Russian fire, Ukrainian officials say

An international cargo vessel sank off the coast of Ukraine's Black Sea port of Odesa on Sunday, a week after Ukrainian officials said it had been struck by Russian forces.

Vessel sinks a week after being struck by Russian fire, Ukrainian officials say
Europe|Travel|World

Five Bosnian climbers confirmed dead on Russia's Mount Elbrus

Five Bosnian climbers died on Russia's Mount Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe, after being caught in a violent storm, but the bodies of three people have not yet

Five Bosnian climbers confirmed dead on Russia's Mount Elbrus
Americas|Business|Europe|Finance|Political|Travel|World

Exclusive: In a Ukrainian bomb shelter, Laura Loomer explains shift on Russia’s war

Laura Loomer became infamous for spreading conspiracy theories online

Exclusive: In a Ukrainian bomb shelter, Laura Loomer explains shift on Russia’s war
Environment|Europe|World

Displaced from wildfires in Spain share their stories of uncertainty and narrow escapes

Elvira Menéndez knows how lucky she is that her house is not a charred ruin like so many others in Spain and France, devastated by raging wildfires

Displaced from wildfires in Spain share their stories of uncertainty and narrow escapes
Crime|Europe|Lifestyle|World

A fatal attack on Berlin's Pride festival leaves locals wondering how their city will recover

A fatal attack on Berlin’s Pride festival has left locals wondering how their city will recover

A fatal attack on Berlin's Pride festival leaves locals wondering how their city will recover
Europe|Political|World

Romania scrambles F-16 jets and downs a suspected Russian drone, the third in 3 days

Romania has shot down a suspected Russian drone after it crossed into its airspace

Romania scrambles F-16 jets and downs a suspected Russian drone, the third in 3 days
Europe|Travel|World

Deep underground, the Nazis built a city for thousands of soldiers. Now it’s a tourist attraction

Deep underground, the Nazis built a city for thousands of soldiers. Now it’s a tourist attraction

Deep underground, the Nazis built a city for thousands of soldiers. Now it’s a tourist attraction
Europe|Sports|World

Norris ends wait for F1 win in Hungary as Antonelli stretches championship lead

Lando Norris ended an eight-month wait for a Formula 1 victory with strong pace and a dose of good fortune to win the Hungarian Grand Prix

Norris ends wait for F1 win in Hungary as Antonelli stretches championship lead
Crime|Europe|Political|World

2 dead in Ukraine from Russian attacks, 4 more in Russian-held area hit by Ukrainian drones

Russian ballistic missiles struck Kyiv early Sunday, igniting fires and wounding at least three civilians

2 dead in Ukraine from Russian attacks, 4 more in Russian-held area hit by Ukrainian drones
Business|Europe|Political|World

Ukraine sees highest civilian casualties since 2022

Ukraine sees highest civilian casualties since 2022

Ukraine sees highest civilian casualties since 2022
Arts|Entertainment|Europe|Lifestyle|Travel

Concerned for her kids’ safety, she traded the hustle of Las Vegas for life on a sleepy Italian island

Concerned for her kids’ safety, she traded the hustle of Las Vegas for life on a sleepy Italian island

Concerned for her kids’ safety, she traded the hustle of Las Vegas for life on a sleepy Italian island
Arts|Crime|Entertainment|Europe|Lifestyle|Political|World

Berlin Pride attack prompts grief and solidarity with LGBTQ community

Members of Berlin's LGBTQ community and others voiced grief, anger and solidarity on Sunday after a vehicle rammed into crowds at the city's annual

Berlin Pride attack prompts grief and solidarity with LGBTQ community
Environment|Europe|World

French firefighters battle to keep blazes from Bordeaux

Firefighters battled to control wildfires threatening the French city of Bordeaux on Sunday, while authorities evacuated increasing numbers of

French firefighters battle to keep blazes from Bordeaux
Arts|Education|Environment|Europe|Health

Finnish architects' humanist take on modernism recognised by UNESCO

A sanatorium designed to foster a soothing environment to help tuberculosis patients recover was among a series of sites by Finnish architect

Finnish architects' humanist take on modernism recognised by UNESCO
Europe|Travel|World

Normandy's D-Day World War Two beaches become UNESCO heritage site

The Normandy D-Day beaches where Allied forces landed on June 6, 1944, to fight Adolf Hitler's Nazi troops and go on to liberate France have become a UNESCO protected world

Normandy's D-Day World War Two beaches become UNESCO heritage site
Economy|Europe|Political|World

Romania shoots down third Russian drone, as president calls breaches 'intolerable'

A Romanian F-16 fighter jet pilot shot down a Russian drone over the Black Sea, the defence ministry said on Sunday, the latest in a series of breaches of the NATO

Romania shoots down third Russian drone, as president calls breaches 'intolerable'
Crime|Europe|World

Vehicle mows down crowd at Berlin Pride festival, killing one

One person has been killed and 17 injured, with some in life-threatening condition, after a vehicle mowed down a crowd

Vehicle mows down crowd at Berlin Pride festival, killing one
Crime|Europe|Political|World

Major vehicle-ramming incidents in Germany since 2016

Germany has seen a series of vehicle-ramming incidents since a 2016 attack on Berlin's Breitscheidplatz Christmas market, prompting repeated security alerts around public

Major vehicle-ramming incidents in Germany since 2016
Crime|Entertainment|Europe|World

Van slams into crowd at Berlin Pride festival, killing 1 and injuring 16, as police identify suspect

A van has slammed into people gathered for Berlin’s famed LGBTQ+ event, killing one person, injuring at least 16 others and prompting police to call off the celebrations and a concert in the German capital hours after they had begun

Van slams into crowd at Berlin Pride festival, killing 1 and injuring 16, as police identify suspect
Crime|Europe|World

Police identify Islamist as suspect in Berlin Pride attack, seeking his arrest

A suspected perpetrator of the apparent car attack on Pride celebrations in Berlin on Saturday night has been identified as a member of the city's "Islamist scene" but he

Police identify Islamist as suspect in Berlin Pride attack, seeking his arrest
Americas|Europe|Sports|US|World

Athletics-Hiltz wins US championships 1,500m title once again

Nikki Hiltz survived a three-way sprint finish to win a fourth successive outdoor U.S. national

Athletics-Hiltz wins US championships 1,500m title once again
Crime|Europe|World

Berlin Pride parade called off after car hits crowds, police say

A car drove into a crowd near Berlin's Pride celebrations on Saturday evening, injuring several people, Berlin police said.

Berlin Pride parade called off after car hits crowds, police say
Crime|Environment|Europe|World

France and Spain battle wildfires as more than 250,000 people are forced to flee homes

France is using a massive cargo aircraft to dump flame retardants on a wildfire near the wine country city of Bordeaux

France and Spain battle wildfires as more than 250,000 people are forced to flee homes
Europe|World

Iran says Ukrainian attack on vessel in Caspian Sea killed sailor

Iran's Foreign Ministry condemned on Saturday a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea, saying it resulted in an explosion that killed one sailor and

Iran says Ukrainian attack on vessel in Caspian Sea killed sailor
Europe|Political|World

Ukraine's Zelenskiy: Russia wants to bring in 30,000 North Korean troops to conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Saturday that Russia wanted to bring in 30,000 North Korean troops to take part in its more than four-year-old conflict and was

Ukraine's Zelenskiy: Russia wants to bring in 30,000 North Korean troops to conflict
Environment|Europe|Health|World

Wildfires force evacuations outside Bordeaux as Spanish blazes cause first death

Wildfires on the coast of southwestern France moved inland towards Bordeaux on Saturday, forcing the

Wildfires force evacuations outside Bordeaux as Spanish blazes cause first death
Europe|World

Latest Russian and Ukrainian attacks kill a total of 15 people, officials say

Ukrainian forces attacked holiday camps in the partly Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia region, killing 12 people, including four children

Latest Russian and Ukrainian attacks kill a total of 15 people, officials say
Arts|Europe|Interview|World

After being ‘bamboozled by Russian propaganda,’ Laura Loomer says she’s all in for Ukraine

After being ‘bamboozled by Russian propaganda,’ Laura Loomer says she’s all in for Ukraine

After being ‘bamboozled by Russian propaganda,’ Laura Loomer says she’s all in for Ukraine
Crime|Europe|Political|World

Israeli troops round up Palestinians in West Bank village after shootout involving settlers

Israeli forces arrested dozens of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, after at least four Palestinians and two Israeli soldiers were killed

Israeli troops round up Palestinians in West Bank village after shootout involving settlers
Europe|Health|Lifestyle|Sports

Less booze, more moves: Inside the UK’s new Gen Z social scene

Less booze, more moves: Inside the UK’s new Gen Z social scene

Less booze, more moves: Inside the UK’s new Gen Z social scene
Europe|Travel|World

The global battle for Italian citizenship rights just got a potential lifeline

The global battle for Italian citizenship rights just got a potential lifeline

The global battle for Italian citizenship rights just got a potential lifeline
Business|Economy|Europe|Food

Swiss cheesemakers try to fill hole in sales from US tariffs

The Alpine farmers who make one of Switzerland's most famous cheeses are seeking to fill the hole in

Swiss cheesemakers try to fill hole in sales from US tariffs
Environment|Europe|World

High winds could make fighting Spanish wildfires harder, officials say

Winds will pick up in Spain on Saturday, with gusts of up to 60 kph (38 mph), complicating the fight against out-of-control wildfires west of Madrid, the Interior Ministry

High winds could make fighting Spanish wildfires harder, officials say
Crime|Europe|Political|World

The ICC looks ahead after the ouster of its chief prosecutor

Supporters of the International Criminal Court are trying to chart a course forward following the removal of the global institution’s chief prosecutor over allegations of sexual misconduct

The ICC looks ahead after the ouster of its chief prosecutor
Europe|World

Italy defence minister offers ousted Ukraine counterpart Fedorov adviser role

Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said he has offered Mykhailo Fedorov, recently sacked as Ukraine's defence minister, a role as an adviser in Italy.

Italy defence minister offers ousted Ukraine counterpart Fedorov adviser role
Europe|World

Ukraine is still fortifying its border with Belarus years after Russia invaded from there

Ukraine is still fortifying its border with Belarus more than four years after Russia used the country to launch its assault on Kyiv

Ukraine is still fortifying its border with Belarus years after Russia invaded from there
Environment|Europe|World

More than 200,000 people flee raging wildfires in France and Spain, some escaping by boat

Massive forest fires are raging out of control in southwestern France and central Spain, forcing authorities to evacuate around 200,000 people

More than 200,000 people flee raging wildfires in France and Spain, some escaping by boat
Crime|Europe|Political|US|World

NYC stabbings suspect arrested on hate crime charges in both attacks

A suspect in two stabbings on New York City streets has been arrested on attempted murder and other charges

NYC stabbings suspect arrested on hate crime charges in both attacks
Crime|Europe|Political|World

International Criminal Court members dismiss prosecutor Khan over sexual misconduct allegation

Member states of the International Criminal Court voted to dismiss prosecutor Karim Khan for serious misconduct, the ICC said on Friday.

International Criminal Court members dismiss prosecutor Khan over sexual misconduct allegation
Crime|Europe|Political|World

ICC member states vote to dismiss chief prosecutor Khan

ICC member states vote to dismiss chief prosecutor Khan

ICC member states vote to dismiss chief prosecutor Khan
Crime|Europe|Political|World

UN assembly approves mandate extension for rights chief, despite US warning

The U.N. General Assembly on Friday voted overwhelmingly to extend the term of U.N.

UN assembly approves mandate extension for rights chief, despite US warning
Crime|Europe|World

Russian missile strike kills 10 at Ukrainian defence event

A Russian ballistic missile strike on Friday in Ukraine's Kyiv region killed 10 people and injured close to 100 at the site of a defence industry event that President Volodymyr

Russian missile strike kills 10 at Ukrainian defence event
Europe|Political|World

Ukrainians back ousted defence minister as political crisis brews

Protesters in Kyiv on Friday announced an open-ended rally demanding that President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reappoint ousted defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov

Ukrainians back ousted defence minister as political crisis brews
Environment|Europe|World

Tens of thousands flee fires in France, blazes merge outside Madrid

Tens of thousands of people fled wildfires in southwest France by car and boat on Friday, and

Tens of thousands flee fires in France, blazes merge outside Madrid
Crime|Europe|Political|World

Who is Karim Khan, the barrister at the centre of the ICC's internal crisis?

Karim Khan became one of the best-known international prosecutors in May 2024 when he announced he was seeking arrest warrants for Israeli

Who is Karim Khan, the barrister at the centre of the ICC's internal crisis?
Business|Economy|Europe|World

ECB facing mid-sized inflation shock, will get to 2% in year or so, Lane says

The European Central Bank still considers the current inflation shock to be medium-sized, which requires some policy action but not aggressive moves, and it will get

ECB facing mid-sized inflation shock, will get to 2% in year or so, Lane says
Business|Economy|Europe|Political|World

Residents enter shattered south Lebanon town after Israeli withdrawal

Residents began entering the southern Lebanese town of Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh on Friday, some inspecting damaged homes

Residents enter shattered south Lebanon town after Israeli withdrawal
Arts|Crime|Europe|Fashion and Beauty|World

No sign of violence in death of Epstein-linked French modelling scout, prosecutors day

An autopsy found no signs of violence in the death of modelling scout Daniel Siad, who had ties to the late convicted U.S. sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, French prosecutors

No sign of violence in death of Epstein-linked French modelling scout, prosecutors day
Arts|Business|Crime|Economy|Education|Election|Entertainment|Europe|Finance|Political|Sports|Technology|US|World

White House says Trump, Zelenskiy to meet in Washington next week

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy are scheduled to meet in Washington on Tuesday, a White House official said on Friday.

White House says Trump, Zelenskiy to meet in Washington next week
Crime|Education|Europe|World

Estonian town wraps school windows in film to protect children from military drones

Schools in Estonia's Tartu, where children have already experienced a drone heading towards them from the Russian border, are putting protective

Estonian town wraps school windows in film to protect children from military drones
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance

Commerzbank chairman says bank is ready for takeover talks with UniCredit

Commerzbank Chairman Jens Weidmann on Friday invited UniCredit to open talks on the terms of a merger, as the German lender abandoned its

Commerzbank chairman says bank is ready for takeover talks with UniCredit
Europe|Sports|World

Jürgen Klopp starts Germany coach job with talk of resigning

Germany has hired Jürgen Klopp to coach its national team, giving the ex-Liverpool manager a daunting task to turn around the fortunes of a squad which failed yet again at the World Cup

Jürgen Klopp starts Germany coach job with talk of resigning
Asia|Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|MidEast|Stock Markets|World

A crude summer

It's all about central banks this week and rising energy prices will likely keep rate-setters as distant as Tokyo, Washington and London on their toes even if they welcome

A crude summer
Crime|Environment|Europe|Science|World

Spain declares national emergency over wildfires near Madrid and in Avila

The Spanish government on Thursday night declared a national emergency after a series of wildfires threatened communities near Madrid and in the neighbouring province of

Spain declares national emergency over wildfires near Madrid and in Avila
Business|Crime|Economy|Europe|MidEast|Political|World

Beleagured Turkish opposition attempts to regroup with new party

Turkish opposition leader Ozgur Ozel and 90 other breakaway lawmakers launched a new political party on Friday, seeking to regroup to challenge President Tayyip Erdogan

Beleagured Turkish opposition attempts to regroup with new party
Business|Europe|Political|World

Russia says it will wait for new Trump proposals on ending Ukraine war

Russia believes U.S.

Russia says it will wait for new Trump proposals on ending Ukraine war
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|World

Bank of England to hold steady this year but Iran war inflation risks persist: Reuters poll

The Bank of England will not shift its key interest rate from 3.75% on Thursday according to all 70 economists in a July 21-24 Reuters poll, and likely

Bank of England to hold steady this year but Iran war inflation risks persist: Reuters poll
Arts|Celebrity|Crime|Entertainment|Europe|World

US singer Chris Brown pleads guilty to affray over London nightclub incident

U.S. singer Chris Brown pleaded guilty on Friday to a charge of affray over what prosecutors described as a bottle attack on a producer in a London nightclub

US singer Chris Brown pleads guilty to affray over London nightclub incident
Arts|Crime|Europe|World

Two policemen injured in Malta shooting

Two policemen were shot and injured on Saturday in an incident at a construction site in St Julians, six miles from Malta's capital Valletta.

Two policemen injured in Malta shooting
Crime|Europe|MidEast|World

EU sanctions Iranian judges, leading cyber group figure

The European Union sanctioned five Iranian judges over alleged human rights violations, as well as a leading figure in a cyber group accused of helping the regime

EU sanctions Iranian judges, leading cyber group figure
Entertainment|Europe|Lifestyle|Sports|World

With swords, axes and shields, fighters go head-to-head in medieval combat world championship

With swords, axes and shields, competitors from 30 countries are going head-to-head in the grounds of a Danish fortress in a modern version of old-fashioned battle

With swords, axes and shields, fighters go head-to-head in medieval combat world championship
Europe|Technology|World

From steppe to sea, a Ukrainian drone unit hunts Russian ships

In a field in southern Ukraine, soldiers scrawled sardonic messages on a sleek grey attack drone that

From steppe to sea, a Ukrainian drone unit hunts Russian ships
Business|Economy|Europe|Political|World

European Commission gives guarded welcome to new Trump tariffs

The European Commission gave a guarded welcome to new tariffs imposed by the United States on Friday, saying that the outcome was in line with a trade deal the two sides

European Commission gives guarded welcome to new Trump tariffs
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Stock Markets|World

Euro zone firms struggle to raise consumer prices after Iran shock, ECB poll shows

Euro zone companies are struggling to raise prices for consumers already struggling with a rise in fuel costs, with fierce competition from China compounding tough

Euro zone firms struggle to raise consumer prices after Iran shock, ECB poll shows
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|World

ECB survey shows broadly unchanged inflation outlook

Euro zone inflation expectations remained broadly unchanged over the past three months and price growth is seen falling quickly next year before returning back to the 2%

ECB survey shows broadly unchanged inflation outlook
Business|Economy|Europe|World

Euro zone consumers cut inflation expectations in June

Euro zone consumers cut their inflation expectations last month, likely encouraged by a truce in the Middle East that had brought down energy prices but proved short

Euro zone consumers cut inflation expectations in June
Business|Europe|Food|Health|Science|Technology|World

Nestle pushes for simpler US food labels to shed 'Frankenstein' ingredients image

As shoppers increasingly scrutinise ingredient labels to avoid products perceived as heavily processed, Nestle, maker of Nescafe coffee and

Nestle pushes for simpler US food labels to shed 'Frankenstein' ingredients image
Asia|Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Technology|World

Temasek eyes defence deals as Europe boosts military spending, executive says

Singaporean state investor Temasek is looking to increase its investments in defence as the war in Ukraine prompts European

Temasek eyes defence deals as Europe boosts military spending, executive says
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Stock Markets|World

French private sector contraction eased in July, flash PMIs show

France's private sector contraction eased in July, with services output slowing only marginally, although inflation, borrowing costs and geopolitics all remained concerns as

French private sector contraction eased in July, flash PMIs show
Business|Economy|Europe|World

German business activity returns to growth after four months, PMI shows

Germany's private sector has returned to growth in July for the first time in four months, driven by a marked upturn in manufacturing output, a survey

German business activity returns to growth after four months, PMI shows
Europe|Political|World

Top German court says Afghan resettlement pledges cannot be revoked en masse

Germany's top court ruled on Friday that the government could not simply cancel an entire swathe of resettlement places promised to

Top German court says Afghan resettlement pledges cannot be revoked en masse
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|World

ECB policymakers warn about growing inflation risks

Inflation risks are high and the European Central Bank may need to raise interest rates again in response to the Iran crisis, three policymakers said on Friday, but all

ECB policymakers warn about growing inflation risks
Business|Economy|Europe|World

Euro zone business activity returns to growth in July for first time in four months, PMI shows

Euro zone business activity returned to growth in July for the first time in four months, driven by a rebound in new orders, but may be derailed by high

Euro zone business activity returns to growth in July for first time in four months, PMI shows
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Stock Markets|World

European shares gain as SAP lifts tech stocks; Middle East on watch

European shares rose on Friday after registering their steepest one-day loss in two weeks in the previous session, as investors drew comfort

European shares gain as SAP lifts tech stocks; Middle East on watch
Business|Economy|Europe|World

UK retail sales get surprise boost from hot weather and World Cup

British retail sales rose unexpectedly in June as shoppers increased their spending on air conditioning and clothing, official data showed on Friday,

UK retail sales get surprise boost from hot weather and World Cup
Americas|Business|Economy|Europe|Travel|World

Spanish hotel chain Melia completes exit from Cuba

Spanish hotel group Melia said it has ceased all operations of its 34 hotels in Cuba on Friday amid the hardening of U.S. sanctions and the island’s

Spanish hotel chain Melia completes exit from Cuba
Africa|Americas|Europe|MidEast|Political|World

UN rights chief Volker Turk faces opposition to new term

United Nations Human Rights chief Volker Turk, an outspoken critic of Russia's war in Ukraine and Israel's conduct in

UN rights chief Volker Turk faces opposition to new term
Business|Economy|Europe|Technology|World

Wildberries, 'Russia's Amazon,' says Ukrainian drones struck three more of its warehouses

Russian e-commerce giant Wildberries, Moscow's answer to Amazon, said on Friday three more of its warehouses had been attacked by Ukraine overnight, part

Wildberries, 'Russia's Amazon,' says Ukrainian drones struck three more of its warehouses
Business|Europe|Technology|World

TikTok charged with breaching EU tech rules on online safety for kids, EU says

ByteDance's social media platform TikTok has been charged with breaching EU online content rules due to design features which could expose children to

TikTok charged with breaching EU tech rules on online safety for kids, EU says
Europe|Political|World

Italy's far-right general extends rise in opinion polls

Italy's new far-right movement is maintaining strong momentum, an opinion survey showed on Friday, siphoning support from parties in the ruling coalition and

Italy's far-right general extends rise in opinion polls
Business|Economy|Europe

Volkswagen makes case for deep cuts as Chinese competitors close in on Europe

Volkswagen must deepen cost cuts to remain competitive against Chinese brands increasingly taking aim at the German auto group's home market, CEO Oliver

Volkswagen makes case for deep cuts as Chinese competitors close in on Europe
Economy|Europe|Health|Political

Germany's Merz picks first woman chief of staff in shake-up before state elections

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz named Health Minister Nina Warken as his new chief of staff on Friday, as part of a reshuffle intended

Germany's Merz picks first woman chief of staff in shake-up before state elections
Americas|Europe|Political|World

US lawmakers lobby to hold European security meeting in South Carolina, not Serbia

A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers is pushing to hold a meeting of up to 57 nations about European security in South Carolina rather than Serbia next

US lawmakers lobby to hold European security meeting in South Carolina, not Serbia
Environment|Europe|Travel|World

France sends boats to evacuate tourist hotspot Cap Ferret as wildfires rage

France sends boats to evacuate tourist hotspot Cap Ferret as wildfires rage

France sends boats to evacuate tourist hotspot Cap Ferret as wildfires rage
Business|Europe|Technology|World

EU finds TikTok violates its digital rule book by failing to protect privacy of minors

The European Commission has found TikTok did not adequately protected children’s privacy rights on its platform by allowing adults to view the accounts of minors

EU finds TikTok violates its digital rule book by failing to protect privacy of minors
Business|Economy|Environment|Europe|Finance|Stock Markets|Technology|World

Volkswagen profits drop 10% as embattled automaker considers massive job cuts

Volkswagen profits drop 10% as embattled automaker considers massive job cuts

Volkswagen profits drop 10% as embattled automaker considers massive job cuts
Business|Europe|Technology|World

China slaps export controls on 14 EU entities in retaliation for Russia-related sanctions

China says it's adding 14 European entities to an export control list in retaliation for the European Union penalizing 14 Chinese enterprises as part of its latest round of sanctions against Russia

China slaps export controls on 14 EU entities in retaliation for Russia-related sanctions
Crime|Election|Europe|Political|World

Laura Loomer meets Zelenskyy in Ukraine after her major reversal on the war

Laura Loomer, President Donald Trump's ally with a reputation for incendiary social media comments, has sat down with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after a dramatic about-face regarding the war

Laura Loomer meets Zelenskyy in Ukraine after her major reversal on the war
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Political|Stock Markets|World

ECB considering several options to mitigate losses, sources say

The European Central Bank is considering several options to mitigate its financial losses, in a tense debate that is expected to

ECB considering several options to mitigate losses, sources say
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|World

ECB leaves rates on hold, but keeps door open to further rate hikes

The European Central Bank kept borrowing costs on hold on Thursday but left room for more tightening in the coming months as a widening conflict in the Middle East pushed

ECB leaves rates on hold, but keeps door open to further rate hikes
Business|Economy|Europe|Health|Political|World

Germany's Merz could announce cabinet reshuffle on Friday, sources say

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz could announce a cabinet reshuffle on Friday, triggered by the abrupt exit ​of party heavyweight Jens Spahn in a row over a surrogacy baby,

Germany's Merz could announce cabinet reshuffle on Friday, sources say
Europe|Political|World

Ousted Ukrainian defence chief digs in against Zelenskiy

Ousted Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov said on Thursday he would accept no other government position besides his former job,

Ousted Ukrainian defence chief digs in against Zelenskiy
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|World

ECB will discuss raising banks' minimum reserves, Lagarde says

The European Central Bank will discuss raising banks' minimum reserve requirements, ECB President Christine Lagarde said on Thursday, opening the door to a move that

ECB will discuss raising banks' minimum reserves, Lagarde says
Environment|Europe|Science|World

France wildfire forces thousands to flee as tinder box conditions persist in warming Europe

A fast-moving wildfire has forced more than 10,000 people from homes and campsites near France's Atlantic coast, as extreme heat and

France wildfire forces thousands to flee as tinder box conditions persist in warming Europe
Crime|Europe|Political|Technology|World

EU countries to restore interim measure on allowing Big Tech to fight online child pornography

EU countries endorsed a proposal on Thursday to reintroduce a temporary measure allowing Google, Meta and other online platforms to detect and remove

EU countries to restore interim measure on allowing Big Tech to fight online child pornography
Economy|Europe|Finance|Political|World

Spanish parliament rejects government's 2027 spending plan

Spain's lower house rejected the government's proposed 2027 spending framework on Thursday, dealing a fresh blow to its efforts to approve a state budget before the end of

Spanish parliament rejects government's 2027 spending plan
Business|Economy|Europe|Technology|World

Boeing pips Airbus in low-key Farnborough jet order race

Boeing edged Airbus in a subdued series of order announcements at the Farnborough Airshow this week, as the global

Boeing pips Airbus in low-key Farnborough jet order race
Business|Crime|Europe|Political|World

Spain's Zapatero says seized jewels worth $1.5 million were a 'courtesy gift'

Spanish former Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero said on Thursday that €1.3 million ($1.5 million) of jewellery seized by police as part of an investigation was a

Spain's Zapatero says seized jewels worth $1.5 million were a 'courtesy gift'
Americas|Crime|Europe|Political|World

Fate of ICC chief prosecutor heads to unprecedented vote as US sanctions keep him out of New York

Diplomats from around the world are gathering at United Nations headquarters in New York on Friday to decide whether to permanently remove the embattled chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court

Fate of ICC chief prosecutor heads to unprecedented vote as US sanctions keep him out of New York
Business|Economy|Europe|Political|World

‘Up in smoke’: Attacks on ‘Russia’s Amazon’ bring Putin’s war closer to home

‘Up in smoke’: Attacks on ‘Russia’s Amazon’ bring Putin’s war closer to home

‘Up in smoke’: Attacks on ‘Russia’s Amazon’ bring Putin’s war closer to home
Environment|Europe|World

Wildfire spreads near popular French tourist town as thousands are evacuated

About 20,000 people have been evacuated from towns and vacation resorts along the French Atlantic coast

Wildfire spreads near popular French tourist town as thousands are evacuated
Business|Europe|Sports

Man City signs England international Elliot Anderson for $155M

Manchester City has officially completed the signing of England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a reported 116 million pounds ($155 million)

Man City signs England international Elliot Anderson for $155M
Europe|Sports|World

France expected to announce Zinedine Zidane as its new coach early next week

The French Football Federation will announce the new national coach next Tuesday

France expected to announce Zinedine Zidane as its new coach early next week
Arts|Entertainment|Europe

A 4-hour Elon Musk documentary and a dark CIA comedy lead Venice Film Festival lineup

The Venice Film Festival's lineup includes a four-hour documentary about Elon Musk and Martin McDonagh's dark CIA comedy

A 4-hour Elon Musk documentary and a dark CIA comedy lead Venice Film Festival lineup
Crime|Europe|World

UK police sorry for 'missed opportunity' to stop deadly synagogue attack as associate jailed

British police apologised on Thursday for a "missed opportunity" to possibly stop a deadly attack on a Manchester synagogue last year, as an associate of the

UK police sorry for 'missed opportunity' to stop deadly synagogue attack as associate jailed
Business|Europe|Technology|World

Europe fines Google $1 billion for ‘harming’ rivals in a first under sweeping online law

Europe fines Google $1 billion for ‘harming’ rivals in a first under sweeping online law

Europe fines Google $1 billion for ‘harming’ rivals in a first under sweeping online law
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Stock Markets|World

Europe's central bank holds rates steady amid swings in oil prices

The European Central Bank is leaving interest rates unchanged amid uncertainty about how volatile energy prices will affect inflation

Europe's central bank holds rates steady amid swings in oil prices
Business|Economy|Europe|Technology|World

Google hit with $1 billion EU fine, in 'constructive' talks to avoid more penalties

Alphabet's Google was fined a total of €890 million ($1 billion) on Thursday for flouting European Union rules aimed at reining in the power of Big Tech,

Google hit with $1 billion EU fine, in 'constructive' talks to avoid more penalties
Economy|Europe|Political|World

EU targets Russian banks in new sanctions package over Ukraine war

The European Union approved its 21st sanctions package against Russia over its war in Ukraine, imposing curbs on the

EU targets Russian banks in new sanctions package over Ukraine war
Environment|Europe|Political|World

Protesters clash with Albanian police in demonstrations triggered by Kushner resort plan

Albanian police used water cannons and tear gas on Thursday to disperse protesters who threw eggs and bottles at officers, in the latest flare-up of demonstrations

Protesters clash with Albanian police in demonstrations triggered by Kushner resort plan
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Stock Markets|World

ECB keeps rates unchanged but September hike firmly in play

The European Central Bank kept interest rates unchanged as expected on Thursday but held the door open to another increase in

ECB keeps rates unchanged but September hike firmly in play
Business|Crime|Europe|World

Czech army helicopter with five soldiers on board crashes, one dead

A Czech military helicopter crashed in the east of the country on Thursday, killing one of the five soldiers on board, the army said. 

Czech army helicopter with five soldiers on board crashes, one dead
Economy|Europe|Political|World

Shipowners halt calls at Ukraine's Black Sea ports, wary of Russian strikes

Shipowners halted vessel arrivals at Ukraine's Black Sea ports due to intensified Russian strikes, Kyiv said, as President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned Moscow might escalate

Shipowners halt calls at Ukraine's Black Sea ports, wary of Russian strikes
Crime|Economy|Europe|Political|Travel|World

Crimea brings back public street phones for emergency calls

Russian-controlled Crimea has installed public street phones for emergency calls to the police and ambulance service, providing an alternative to mobile

Crimea brings back public street phones for emergency calls
Business|Economy|Europe|World

UK factory orders remain in doldrums, cost pressures jump, CBI says

British manufacturing orders continued to deteriorate in July at the joint-fastest rate since September 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a survey on

UK factory orders remain in doldrums, cost pressures jump, CBI says
Business|Economy|Environment|Europe|World

French business confidence improves in July despite Middle East conflict, heatwaves

French business confidence rose to a four-month high in July despite a new flare-up in the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and record heatwaves at home, a monthly survey showed on

French business confidence improves in July despite Middle East conflict, heatwaves
Election|Europe|Political|World

Sweden's far right party says it won the arguments. Now it wants a share of power

After championing huge policy shifts in Sweden by propping up a minority centre-right government for four years, the far-right Sweden Democrats say

Sweden's far right party says it won the arguments. Now it wants a share of power
Election|Europe|Interview|Political|World

Sweden's far-right leader Akesson brought fringe party to brink of power

It's no coincidence that it sounded like the start of a rock concert when Swedish far-right leader Jimmie Akesson strode onto the stage to chants of "

Sweden's far-right leader Akesson brought fringe party to brink of power
Business|Economy|Europe|Political|US|World

Rubio says US committed to helping end Ukraine war after meeting Lavrov

U.S.

Rubio says US committed to helping end Ukraine war after meeting Lavrov
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Stock Markets|World

European shares post biggest drop in two weeks on oil surge, rate-hike concerns

European shares suffered their steepest one-day drop in over two weeks on Thursday, weighed down by lacklustre earnings,

European shares post biggest drop in two weeks on oil surge, rate-hike concerns
Business|Economy|Environment|Europe|Technology|World

Renault's hit EV helps fend off Chinese rivals as quarterly sales rebound

Renault Group sales rebounded in the second quarter as strong demand for its Renault 5 electric vehicle helped the French automaker

Renault's hit EV helps fend off Chinese rivals as quarterly sales rebound
Environment|Europe|Travel|World

More than 10,000 evacuated in southwestern France as wildfire spreads

More than 10,000 people were evacuated overnight in southwestern France as a rapidly spreading wildfire scorched through 2,000 hectares of land west of the city of

More than 10,000 evacuated in southwestern France as wildfire spreads
Business|Economy|Europe|Health

Switzerland's Galderma lifts full-year guidance after sales jump

Swiss skincare firm Galderma on Thursday reported a 24.6% jump in sales in the first half of 2026 and nudged up its full-year guidance, even as it flagged a potentially

Switzerland's Galderma lifts full-year guidance after sales jump
Economy|Europe|World

Immigrant employment in the EU reaches record high, study shows

Immigrant employment in the European Union rose to a record high in 2025, narrowing the gap with workers born in the country but leaving significant

Immigrant employment in the EU reaches record high, study shows
Business|Economy|Europe|Technology

Nokia Q2 profit beat as sales from AI, cloud doubled 

Nokia reported a bigger than expected rise in its quarterly comparable operating profit on Thursday, as the Finnish telecom gear maker got a boost

Nokia Q2 profit beat as sales from AI, cloud doubled 
Business|Economy|Europe|Finance|Food|Stock Markets

Nestle sheds water stake as it eyes faster growth

Nestle on Thursday said it expects to raise around €3 billion ($3.43 billion) from a joint venture with investment firm Platinum Equity for its water and

Nestle sheds water stake as it eyes faster growth
Business|Economy|Environment|Europe|Finance

Nestle to raise €3 billion from spin off of its water business

Nestle said on Thursday it expects to raise around €3 billion ($3.43 billion) from spinning off its water business into a 50-50 joint venture with U.S. investment firm

Nestle to raise €3 billion from spin off of its water business
Environment|Europe|Science|World

Spain, France battle wildfires as intense heat grips Southern Europe

Firefighters battling wildfires in Spain and France on Wednesday said the risk of more

Spain, France battle wildfires as intense heat grips Southern Europe
Environment|Europe|World

Firefighters battle one of Spain's biggest-ever wildfires during heat wave across the Mediterranean

Firefighters in central Spain are battling a massive wildfire in Guadalajara, which has burned over 32,000 hectares

Firefighters battle one of Spain's biggest-ever wildfires during heat wave across the Mediterranean
Business|Economy|Europe|Technology

Ford and Geely strike deal for EV production at Spanish plant, newspaper reports

Ford Motor and China's Geely have struck a landmark deal under which the U.S. automaker will sell part of its Almussafes plant near Valencia, paving the way for

Ford and Geely strike deal for EV production at Spanish plant, newspaper reports
Crime|Economy|Europe|World

Swiss court orders fresh ruling for whistleblowers in multi-billion fraud case

Switzerland's highest court has ordered a fresh ruling in the case of three men accused of breaching bank secrecy laws over leaked data that helped expose the cum-ex tax

Swiss court orders fresh ruling for whistleblowers in multi-billion fraud case
Arts|Crime|Entertainment|Europe|MidEast|US|World

Terrorism trial opens in stabbing of author Salman Rushdie

The man who was convicted of trying to kill Salman Rushdie is on trial again

Terrorism trial opens in stabbing of author Salman Rushdie
Arts|Business|Economy|Entertainment|Europe|World

European Union gives its greenlight to Paramount and Warner's mega merger with some conditions

The European Union has approved Paramount's $81 billion takeover of Warner Bros

European Union gives its greenlight to Paramount and Warner's mega merger with some conditions
Crime|Europe|US|World

Tate brothers arrested in Miami

U.S. Marshals arrest the Tate brothers in Miami as part of a UK extradition request.

Tate brothers arrested in Miami
Crime|Environment|Europe|World

How arsonists used cats to spread Italy’s wildfires

How arsonists used cats to spread Italy’s wildfires

How arsonists used cats to spread Italy’s wildfires
Arts|Business|Entertainment|Europe|World

Paramount secures EU nod for $110 billion Warner Bros deal, US hurdles ahead

Paramount Skydance Corp on Wednesday gained European Union antitrust approval for its $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery after agreeing to

Paramount secures EU nod for $110 billion Warner Bros deal, US hurdles ahead
Economy|Europe|Political|US|World

Zelenskiy speaks to US envoys, discusses weapons

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner spoke on Wednesday about the prospects for pursuing more active diplomacy and moving

Zelenskiy speaks to US envoys, discusses weapons
Crime|Europe|Political|World

Adolf Hitler’s birthplace in Austria reopens as a police station to deter Nazi pilgrimages

Adolf Hitler's birthplace in Austria has been inaugurated as a police station

Adolf Hitler’s birthplace in Austria reopens as a police station to deter Nazi pilgrimages
Arts|Business|Celebrity|Crime|Entertainment|Europe|Fashion and Beauty|Lifestyle|World

Model recruiter who introduced young women to Jeffrey Epstein found dead in France

Model recruiter who introduced young women to Jeffrey Epstein found dead in France

Model recruiter who introduced young women to Jeffrey Epstein found dead in France
Arts|Crime|Europe|World

Louvre reopens Apollo Gallery after a brazen heist, but no jewels are on display

The Louvre's Apollo gallery is reopening to the public for the first time since last year's crown jewels heist

Louvre reopens Apollo Gallery after a brazen heist, but no jewels are on display
Economy|Europe|Finance|Political|World

Italy optimistic about downward revision of 2025 deficit, minister says

Italy is "cautiously optimistic" about a downward revision of its 2025 deficit, the economy minister said on Wednesday, reviving hopes that the country

Italy optimistic about downward revision of 2025 deficit, minister says
Crime|Environment|Europe|World

Patchy warnings, outdated plans left victims of Spanish wildfire to fend for themselves

When 12 people died trying to escape a wildfire around the mountain village of Bedar and a nearby hamlet in southern

Patchy warnings, outdated plans left victims of Spanish wildfire to fend for themselves
Environment|Europe|Health|Science|World

France recorded 5,700 more deaths than usual during its historic June heat wave

France experienced at least 5,700 more deaths than usual during a historic heat wave last month, according to the public health agency

France recorded 5,700 more deaths than usual during its historic June heat wave
Crime|Europe|Political|World

From battlefield to bureaucracy, Ukraine's new military chief faces tests

Ukraine's new top general faces many challenges at a pivotal moment in the war with Russia, from fixing the military's manpower shortage and reforming its

From battlefield to bureaucracy, Ukraine's new military chief faces tests
Business|Europe|World

Italian unions agree workers' rights deal with Amazon

Italian unions have signed an agreement with Amazon.com covering leave, employee rights and video surveillance, the unions and the U.S. e-commerce giant said on Wednesday.

Italian unions agree workers' rights deal with Amazon
Business|Economy|Europe

EU airline ownership review set to harden controls in blow to easyJet bids

The European Union is preparing a review of airline ownership rules to prevent foreign investors from

EU airline ownership review set to harden controls in blow to easyJet bids
Business|Economy|Europe|World

Porsche supervisory board backs tougher restructuring

Porsche's supervisory board gave its blessing to the next round of restructuring measures on Wednesday, a company spokesperson said, with media reporting

Porsche supervisory board backs tougher restructuring
Celebrity|Crime|Europe|Fashion and Beauty|World

French modelling scout linked to Epstein found dead

Daniel Siad, a modelling scout with ties to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, has been found dead at his home outside Paris, prosecutors

French modelling scout linked to Epstein found dead
Crime|Europe|Sports|World

Southampton coach Eckert charged by FA over spying scandal that shocked English soccer

Southampton coach Tonda Eckert has been charged by the English Football Association for his part in the spying scandal that shocked English soccer last season

Southampton coach Eckert charged by FA over spying scandal that shocked English soccer
Europe|Political|World

Ukraine overhauls its military top brass for the fight against Russia

Ukraine is pushing on with its fight against Russia under new military leadership

Ukraine overhauls its military top brass for the fight against Russia
Crime|Europe|Political|World

UN rights chief condemns Nicaragua move to end elections

The United Nations human rights chief on Wednesday condemned what he described as a further deterioration of civil and political rights in Nicaragua, warning that proposed

UN rights chief condemns Nicaragua move to end elections
Europe|Political|World

Ukraine will step up counteroffensive actions, new top commander says

The new commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, Mykhailo Drapatyi, said on Wednesday he had been tasked with stepping up counteroffensive actions and launching new

Ukraine will step up counteroffensive actions, new top commander says
Europe|Political|World

German conservatives to appoint Merz confidant to lead faction after surrogacy row

Germany's ruling conservatives said on Wednesday they would appoint a close ally of Chancellor Friedrich Merz as their new parliamentary faction chief,

German conservatives to appoint Merz confidant to lead faction after surrogacy row