Overview

• Donald Trump has threatened to impose 50% tariffs on EU imports starting June 1 unless trade negotiations progress, with the EU preparing countermeasures targeting $95 billion of U.S. exports.
• European leaders were reportedly 'shocked' by Trump's recent call with Vladimir Putin, during which he appeared to backtrack on demands for a ceasefire in Ukraine and additional sanctions on Russia.
• Russia continues its military offensive in Ukraine, with recent attacks killing at least 12 civilians and injuring dozens, marking one of the most intense aerial assaults since the conflict began.
• U.S. intelligence assessments indicate that Russia's military capabilities are weakening due to significant losses, with analysts urging immediate international pressure on Moscow.
• Trump's wavering commitment to Ukraine has raised concerns among EU leaders, as bipartisan efforts in the U.S. Senate push for harsher sanctions on Russia if it does not engage in good-faith negotiations.