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The EU has approved a law to end Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports by the end of 2026 and pipeline gas by September 2027, aiming to cut Moscow's revenue amid ongoing tensions over Ukraine. Hungary and Slovakia oppose the measure and plan legal challenges.
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The EU has approved a law to halt Russian gas imports by late 2027, aiming to reduce dependency following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The law bans new Russian gas deals and phases out existing contracts, with Hungary and Slovakia opposing the measure. The US has increased LNG exports to Europe to fill the gap.
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The European Court of Justice is urged to annul the decision to release €10.2 billion to Hungary, citing incomplete judicial reforms. The European Commission had frozen the funds over concerns about democratic backsliding and corruption, but a legal opinion suggests the release was premature. The case highlights ongoing tensions over rule of law in the EU.
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The EU has announced it will provisional apply its trade agreement with Mercosur countries after ratification by Argentina and Uruguay, despite opposition from some EU states and pending European Parliament approval. The move aims to diversify trade amid global upheaval, with France strongly opposing the deal due to concerns over its farmers.
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EU foreign ministers are discussing suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement amid increasing criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and Lebanon. Spain, Slovenia, and Ireland have requested a debate on halting the deal, citing violations of international law and human rights. Germany and Italy oppose immediate suspension, emphasizing dialogue. The discussion reflects rising tensions within the EU over Israel's conduct.
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The European Court of Justice has ruled Hungary's 2021 law banning LGBTQ+ content from minors as discriminatory and contrary to EU values. The ruling marks a significant legal challenge for Hungary's new government, which has pledged to improve relations with the EU and restore democratic standards. The case highlights ongoing tensions over social policies and human rights in Hungary, with the court emphasizing that the law breaches fundamental EU principles of respect for human dignity and non-discrimination. The ruling could influence Hungary's future policies and its access to EU funds, which have been frozen over the law. The new government, led by Pe9ter Magyar, is expected to comply with the court's decision, but the legal and political implications remain significant today, April 21, 2026.