Meanwhile in Europe

November 13, 2025: EU Firewall Crumbles on Green Cuts, Energy Corruption Scandal in Ukraine Amidst €140B Loan Debate; UK Starmer 'Fire Staff' Row; German Mandatory 18yo Military Exam Deal


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Today's, November 13, 2025. The most immediate concern is the potential collapse of the central political firewall, as the center-right European People’s Party (EPP) prepares to team up with far-right groups to push through significant cuts to green reporting requirements for businesses.

This collaboration could cement the EPP’s role as the Parliament's power-broker, swinging right on green rules while still relying on centrists for other priorities, such as the 2040 climate target.

Meanwhile, leaders are struggling to address the financial and political fallout from the $100 million corruption scandal revealed in Ukraine's energy sector, which has already led to ministerial resignations in Kyiv.

This toxic development comes as EU finance ministers meet to discuss advancing the crucial €140 billion reparations loan for Ukraine, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz publicly calling on President Zelenskyy to "sort out Kyiv’s corruption problems".

Adding to the tense European environment, Germany has also reached a domestic compromise to institute a mechanism for "emergency conscription," requiring all 18-year-old men to undergo a military medical exam starting in 2027.

Across the Channel, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been forced to address a highly scrutinized "briefing-gate" row after alleged attacks on the Health Secretary were leaked to the press. Although Downing Street staff insisted the briefings did not come from No. 10, Starmer read his team the "riot act," clarifying he would fire anyone caught slagging off ministers.

This political skirmish has overshadowed the government’s major announcements regarding mini-nuclear plants and AI growth zones.

On the other side of the Atlantic, Washington saw some relief as President Donald Trump signed legislation overnight to successfully end the 43-day government shutdown.

Finally, amidst the political chaos, the European Parliament is also moving forward with social reforms, expected to pass a measure today allowing pregnant and new-mother MEPs to use proxy voting, while also voting on a groundbreaking report aimed at defining and countering the threat of transnational repression on European soil.

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Meanwhile in EuropeBy Meanwhile in Europe