Eurotopics.net

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has used a special constitutional provision to push through the 2026 budget without a vote in the National Assembly. He justified the move stressing that the situation was deadlocked, but "France needs a budget". The left and the far-right Rassemblement National promptly tabled a motion of no confidence.

Donald Trump has invited numerous countries to join his "Board of Peace", which according to the US president will not only deal with the situation in Gaza, but also serve as a permanent body for conflict resolution. The possible participation of leaders such as Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenka is particularly controversial. Commentators also warn that the Board could be used to permanently weaken the UN.

The World Economic Forum (WEF), which brings together leading figures from business, politics and science, is taking place this week at the Swiss resort of Davos under the motto "Spirit of dialogue". All eyes are now on US President Donald Trump, who before boarding his plane to head to the meeting today said he believed a solution would be found in the dispute over Greenland that would make Nato and the US 'very happy'.

In its final report, a commission of experts appointed by Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner has called for Austria to extend its military service, which at six months is currently the shortest compulsory military service in Europe. Of three models put forward, the commission has recommended eight months of basic military service plus two months of subsequent training. The decision now rests with the politicians.