A busy week in European politics sees France considering nuclear deterrence, a shift in Italy's gambling policy, and the EU doubling down on its electric vehicle goals. Here's a quick rundown of the key developments.
Macron Floats Nuclear Deterrence for Europe
French President Emmanuel Macron has suggested that France is ready to discuss nuclear deterrence for Europe, potentially extending the protection of French nuclear weapons to the continent. According to reports from the AP news agency, Macron indicated that France is open to negotiating on the issue. This move could significantly alter Europe's security landscape, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions.
This isn't the first time the topic of shared nuclear defense has been raised, but Macron's willingness to negotiate marks a significant step forward. The details of such an arrangement remain unclear, but the offer signals a commitment to European security amidst growing global uncertainty.
Salvini's Gambling U-Turn
In Italy, Matteo Salvini, a prominent political figure, appears to have softened his stance on gambling, particularly in relation to soccer. Il Fatto Quotidiano reports that Salvini, who once vehemently opposed gambling in past electoral rallies, now seems more open to its presence, aligning with practices in other European countries. This represents a stark contrast to his earlier pronouncements, including a 2015 statement that "gambling ruins millions of people." The shift in attitude has raised eyebrows and sparked debate about the motivations behind the change.
The change in stance has been noticeable with the appearance of gambling advertisements in football. "We will do like other European countries," Salvini has reportedly said, signaling a clear departure from his previous hardline position.
EU Reaffirms 2035 Combustion Engine Ban
The European Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to phasing out combustion engines by 2035. The Commission will allocate €1.8 billion to support the development of a secure and competitive supply chain for raw materials used in battery production. This funding aims to bolster the European Union's transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and ensure the bloc remains competitive in the global EV market.
The EU's goal is that all new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles sold within the Union will have zero CO2 emissions from 2035 onwards. This ambitious target requires significant investment and innovation in battery technology and charging infrastructure.
Philippines: Campaign Materials Banned
In the Philippines, politicians and campaign materials have been banned from AKAP distribution activities. This move aims to ensure fair and transparent distribution processes and prevent the misuse of government programs for political gain. The ban is part of ongoing efforts to promote ethical conduct and accountability in the Philippines.
This ban reflects a broader trend towards stricter regulations on political campaigning and a greater emphasis on transparency in government operations.