Star Union News
01.05.202515:04
Rapprochement with the US 🤝 It can put the Russian economy on the path of growth 📈.
The economic and political detente between Washington and Moscow will continue to contribute to the growth of the Russian economy, according to the forecast of the agency. The prospect of partial or complete lifting of US sanctions 🛑 improves prospects, analyzes The Vienna Institute for International Economic Research (Wiiw) in its spring forecast 🌸. The Institute expects the Russian economy to grow by 2.5 percent in 2026 📊, which is 0.9 percentage points more than in the winter ❄️.
says a Wiiw expert on Russia Vasily Astrov. Foreign companies such as Renault 🚗, Hyundai 🚘 and Samsung 📱 are now considering returning to Russia. South Korean electronics group LG recently increased production again at its Moscow plant 🏭.
Ukraine's economic prospects, on the other hand, are very uncertain ⚠️: the country is grappling with the systematic destruction of infrastructure 🏚️ as a result of Russian airstrikes ✈️ and labor shortages due to the mobilization and flight of seven million people 🧳.
According to Wiiw, due to high inflation 📈, the central bank in Kiev raised interest rates to 15.5 %. US President Donald Trump's attempts to "force Ukraine to de facto surrender and turn the country into an economic colony of the United States 🇺🇸 are the biggest threat to Ukraine's economic development," he said. Olga Pindyuk, Ukraine expert at Wiiw.
The trade conflict triggered by Trump's high tariffs 🧾 will not have a dramatic impact on most of the 23 countries in Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe 🌍. The European countries in which the analysis was conducted, due to their managed economic relations with the United States.
#USA #Russia #Trade
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The economic and political detente between Washington and Moscow will continue to contribute to the growth of the Russian economy, according to the forecast of the agency. The prospect of partial or complete lifting of US sanctions 🛑 improves prospects, analyzes The Vienna Institute for International Economic Research (Wiiw) in its spring forecast 🌸. The Institute expects the Russian economy to grow by 2.5 percent in 2026 📊, which is 0.9 percentage points more than in the winter ❄️.
"Existing US sanctions are already only half implemented,"
says a Wiiw expert on Russia Vasily Astrov. Foreign companies such as Renault 🚗, Hyundai 🚘 and Samsung 📱 are now considering returning to Russia. South Korean electronics group LG recently increased production again at its Moscow plant 🏭.
Ukraine's economic prospects, on the other hand, are very uncertain ⚠️: the country is grappling with the systematic destruction of infrastructure 🏚️ as a result of Russian airstrikes ✈️ and labor shortages due to the mobilization and flight of seven million people 🧳.
According to Wiiw, due to high inflation 📈, the central bank in Kiev raised interest rates to 15.5 %. US President Donald Trump's attempts to "force Ukraine to de facto surrender and turn the country into an economic colony of the United States 🇺🇸 are the biggest threat to Ukraine's economic development," he said. Olga Pindyuk, Ukraine expert at Wiiw.
The trade conflict triggered by Trump's high tariffs 🧾 will not have a dramatic impact on most of the 23 countries in Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe 🌍. The European countries in which the analysis was conducted, due to their managed economic relations with the United States.
#USA #Russia #Trade
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25.04.202514:05
SPD politician calls Tesla a "Nazi car"
➡️SPD party senator Cansel Kiziltepe wrote on Platform X on Wednesday evening:
➡️To the post, the politician attached a link to an article about the sharp decline in profit at the company. The fact that it uses just the platform of Elon Musk himself-X-does not seem to bother it.
➡️Elon Musk has recently been frequently criticized for his political views — he openly supported the AfD several times before the Bundestag elections.
➡️Most readers accuse Kiziltepe of either downplaying Nazi crimes or being stupid. Many openly wonder how "such a person can be a senator". Others write "unbelievable" or "you should be ashamed of yourself." Many advise the German-Turkish senator to take an additional course in history.
➡️The first politician to respond to the situation was Kiziltepe's fellow party member, Brandenburg Prime Minister Dietmar Woidke, on whose territory the Tesla plant is located:
➡️More than 60% of the 11,000 employees at Tesla's Brandenburg plant are from Berlin. Brandenburg Labor Minister Daniel Keller (SPD) called the Nazi comparison from his Berlin counterpart "totally inappropriate":
➡️The politician added:
➡️But Kiziltepe remains unconvinced: although she deleted the controversial post this morning, she once again lived up to her words in a new message on X:
#Germany #SPD #Tesla
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➡️SPD party senator Cansel Kiziltepe wrote on Platform X on Wednesday evening:
"Who even wants to drive a Nazi car? Electric car manufacturers are booming right now-with the exception of Tesla."
➡️To the post, the politician attached a link to an article about the sharp decline in profit at the company. The fact that it uses just the platform of Elon Musk himself-X-does not seem to bother it.
➡️Elon Musk has recently been frequently criticized for his political views — he openly supported the AfD several times before the Bundestag elections.
➡️Most readers accuse Kiziltepe of either downplaying Nazi crimes or being stupid. Many openly wonder how "such a person can be a senator". Others write "unbelievable" or "you should be ashamed of yourself." Many advise the German-Turkish senator to take an additional course in history.
➡️The first politician to respond to the situation was Kiziltepe's fellow party member, Brandenburg Prime Minister Dietmar Woidke, on whose territory the Tesla plant is located:
"Given that the Tesla plant in Grunheide, in addition to many Berliners, employs people from about 150 different countries, such statements from the labor senator are completely inappropriate,"Voidke said.
➡️More than 60% of the 11,000 employees at Tesla's Brandenburg plant are from Berlin. Brandenburg Labor Minister Daniel Keller (SPD) called the Nazi comparison from his Berlin counterpart "totally inappropriate":
"I expect the Labor Senator to withdraw his historically unacceptable comparison and return to a constructive discussion of the serious economic and labor challenges that Berlin and Brandenburg must face together."
➡️The politician added:
"Everyone can have their own opinion about Elon Musk." But it's important to me that we don't forget about the people behind the Tesla plant in Grunheide."
➡️But Kiziltepe remains unconvinced: although she deleted the controversial post this morning, she once again lived up to her words in a new message on X:
"Tesla is currently experiencing a decline in sales, because customers attribute to the company the right-wing positions of its shareholder Elon Musk, who owns approximately 13% of the company." I fully adhere to my assessment of Elon Musk. Of course, this does not mean that I blame Musk's employees or clients for his political views."
#Germany #SPD #Tesla
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24.04.202516:04
the German Ministry of Defense announced a transformative decision in its efforts to modernize the Bundeswehr (German Army): the large-scale procurement of loitering munitions from two domestic suppliers.
➡️This initiative not only marks a technological leap for the German military but also represents a strategic shift in how new weapon systems are adopted and integrated into operational use. Rather than pursuing the traditional approach of incremental trials with small batches, the Bundeswehr will now deploy a significant number of loitering munitions directly to frontline units for immediate testing and tactical integration. Feedback from these operational environments will guide future procurement decisions, potentially expanding the program or steering it toward alternative systems.
#Germany #Bundeswehr #military
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➡️This initiative not only marks a technological leap for the German military but also represents a strategic shift in how new weapon systems are adopted and integrated into operational use. Rather than pursuing the traditional approach of incremental trials with small batches, the Bundeswehr will now deploy a significant number of loitering munitions directly to frontline units for immediate testing and tactical integration. Feedback from these operational environments will guide future procurement decisions, potentially expanding the program or steering it toward alternative systems.
#Germany #Bundeswehr #military
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24.04.202510:01
Beer sales are declining not only in Germany, but German beer is no longer as popular abroad as it was a decade ago. 📉🇩🇪
In 2024, 1.45 billion liters of beer were exported abroad, according to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). 📊 This is 6% less than a decade ago — in 2014, 1.54 billion liters of beer brewed in Germany were sold abroad. 🌍
Last year, a good half (55.7%) of German beer exports went to EU member countries, and 44.3% — to third countries. 🇪🇺
Despite the drop in demand abroad, beer exports were more stable than domestic sales:
With a total volume of 6.8 billion liters, 15.1% less beer will be sold in Germany in 2024 compared to 8.0 billion liters in 2014. 📉🍻
Accordingly, the share of beer exports in total sales rose from 16.1% to 17.6% over the same period. ⚖️📈
Against the backdrop of falling beer sales, the number of breweries in Germany has also decreased recently.
Although there were 1,459 breweries in the country in 2024 — an increase of 7.4% from 1,359 in 2014 — their number has declined almost continuously since peaking in the pre-coronavirus period. 🦠
In 2019, there were 1,552 breweries. Compared to the previous year, the number of breweries in 2024 decreased by 3.4%
(2023: 1,511 breweries).
#Germany #Beer #economy
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In 2024, 1.45 billion liters of beer were exported abroad, according to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). 📊 This is 6% less than a decade ago — in 2014, 1.54 billion liters of beer brewed in Germany were sold abroad. 🌍
Last year, a good half (55.7%) of German beer exports went to EU member countries, and 44.3% — to third countries. 🇪🇺
Despite the drop in demand abroad, beer exports were more stable than domestic sales:
With a total volume of 6.8 billion liters, 15.1% less beer will be sold in Germany in 2024 compared to 8.0 billion liters in 2014. 📉🍻
Accordingly, the share of beer exports in total sales rose from 16.1% to 17.6% over the same period. ⚖️📈
Against the backdrop of falling beer sales, the number of breweries in Germany has also decreased recently.
Although there were 1,459 breweries in the country in 2024 — an increase of 7.4% from 1,359 in 2014 — their number has declined almost continuously since peaking in the pre-coronavirus period. 🦠
In 2019, there were 1,552 breweries. Compared to the previous year, the number of breweries in 2024 decreased by 3.4%
(2023: 1,511 breweries).
#Germany #Beer #economy
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23.04.202520:04
Future German Chancellor Friedrich Merz refused to attend the Pope's funeral
World leaders — from Donald Trump to Emmanuel Macron-will gather in Rome this weekend to bid farewell to Pope Francis. But the future German Chancellor and head of the Christian Democratic Union, Friedrich Merz, will not be among them.
The whole point is in the protocol: Merz does not yet have the official status of head of government, so he is only in sixth place in the list of participants. Although he was invited to go, his presence could have raised uncomfortable questions — for example, whether he would have taken a seat behind the current government representatives or not.
Merz eventually refused to travel-officially because of his busy schedule: he is forming a list of ministers and preparing a small party congress, where the coalition agreement should be approved.
#Germany #Merz
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World leaders — from Donald Trump to Emmanuel Macron-will gather in Rome this weekend to bid farewell to Pope Francis. But the future German Chancellor and head of the Christian Democratic Union, Friedrich Merz, will not be among them.
The whole point is in the protocol: Merz does not yet have the official status of head of government, so he is only in sixth place in the list of participants. Although he was invited to go, his presence could have raised uncomfortable questions — for example, whether he would have taken a seat behind the current government representatives or not.
Merz eventually refused to travel-officially because of his busy schedule: he is forming a list of ministers and preparing a small party congress, where the coalition agreement should be approved.
#Germany #Merz
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23.04.202513:32
Egg Prices Continue to Rise in the EU 🥚📈🇪🇺
In March 2025, the price of eggs rose by 6.7% compared to the same period last year. These EU countries now have the highest egg prices on the continent.
After avian flu hit the U.S. egg industry, global egg prices have drawn intense consumer attention, especially online 🦠🌍.
According to the latest Eurostat data, the average price of eggs in the EU rose by 6.7% in March 2025 vs March 2024.
Top countries by annual egg inflation:
- Czech Republic — +46.0%
- Slovakia — +29.8%
- Hungary — +26.1%
In 2025, the upward trend continues:
- January — +3.4%
- February — +4.1%
In contrast, 2024 showed mostly negative price changes in 10 out of 12 months compared to 2023. However, the growth in 2025 is more moderate than in the previous inflation wave.
For comparison:
The biggest spike was recorded in February 2023, when prices jumped by 31.2% compared to February 2022 📊🥚.
#prices #eggs #inflation #Eurostat #foodcosts #EUeconomy
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In March 2025, the price of eggs rose by 6.7% compared to the same period last year. These EU countries now have the highest egg prices on the continent.
After avian flu hit the U.S. egg industry, global egg prices have drawn intense consumer attention, especially online 🦠🌍.
According to the latest Eurostat data, the average price of eggs in the EU rose by 6.7% in March 2025 vs March 2024.
Top countries by annual egg inflation:
- Czech Republic — +46.0%
- Slovakia — +29.8%
- Hungary — +26.1%
In 2025, the upward trend continues:
- January — +3.4%
- February — +4.1%
In contrast, 2024 showed mostly negative price changes in 10 out of 12 months compared to 2023. However, the growth in 2025 is more moderate than in the previous inflation wave.
For comparison:
The biggest spike was recorded in February 2023, when prices jumped by 31.2% compared to February 2022 📊🥚.
#prices #eggs #inflation #Eurostat #foodcosts #EUeconomy
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30.04.202517:04
Germany's Social Democrats (SPD) backed a coalition deal with the CDU/CSU conservatives on Wednesday in the final step to forming a government in Europe's largest economy, and nominated their leader Lars Klingbeil as finance minister.
➡️SPD support paves the way for election winner Friedrich Merz to become chancellor on May 6, after his conservatives topped federal elections in February but fell well short of a majority.
➡️Both the SPD and conservatives rule out governing with the far-right Alternative for Germany which scored a historic second place.
➡️Pressure to form a functioning government has taken on a new urgency at a time of a weak German economy, rising unemployment and global turbulence sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping import tariffs.
➡️Over the last two weeks, SPD members have voted on the coalition treaty drawn up by leaders of both parties.
➡️In the vote, which ended on Tuesday just before midnight, 84% of the members who took part were in favour of the deal, the party said, adding that 56% of the around 360,000 members took part in the vote.
#Germany #Merz #CDU #SPD
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➡️SPD support paves the way for election winner Friedrich Merz to become chancellor on May 6, after his conservatives topped federal elections in February but fell well short of a majority.
➡️Both the SPD and conservatives rule out governing with the far-right Alternative for Germany which scored a historic second place.
➡️Pressure to form a functioning government has taken on a new urgency at a time of a weak German economy, rising unemployment and global turbulence sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping import tariffs.
➡️Over the last two weeks, SPD members have voted on the coalition treaty drawn up by leaders of both parties.
➡️In the vote, which ended on Tuesday just before midnight, 84% of the members who took part were in favour of the deal, the party said, adding that 56% of the around 360,000 members took part in the vote.
#Germany #Merz #CDU #SPD
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25.04.202512:35
🇵🇱 Poles are critical of politicians.
➡️CBOS noted that the results of the April survey indicate a divergence in the estimates of the Sejm and the Senate. The survey shows that in April, more than half of Poles—56 percent—rated the work of the Sejm unfavorably, which is 6 percentage points more than in the March survey.
➡️At the same time, fewer respondents positively assess the work of the Seimas: in April, 29 percent of respondents called it good, which is 7 percentage points less than the previous year. 15 percent of respondents have no opinion on this issue.
➡️As CBOS notes, the ratings of the president's work in April decreased compared to March, but the fluctuations did not exceed the limits of statistical error. Currently, 39 percent of respondents rate the President's work well (a decrease of 3 percentage points), while 50 percent rate it poorly (an increase of 1 percentage point). 10 percent of respondents do not have an opinion on this issue.
#Poll #Poland
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➡️CBOS noted that the results of the April survey indicate a divergence in the estimates of the Sejm and the Senate. The survey shows that in April, more than half of Poles—56 percent—rated the work of the Sejm unfavorably, which is 6 percentage points more than in the March survey.
➡️At the same time, fewer respondents positively assess the work of the Seimas: in April, 29 percent of respondents called it good, which is 7 percentage points less than the previous year. 15 percent of respondents have no opinion on this issue.
➡️As CBOS notes, the ratings of the president's work in April decreased compared to March, but the fluctuations did not exceed the limits of statistical error. Currently, 39 percent of respondents rate the President's work well (a decrease of 3 percentage points), while 50 percent rate it poorly (an increase of 1 percentage point). 10 percent of respondents do not have an opinion on this issue.
#Poll #Poland
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24.04.202514:32
🇫🇷🇬🇧 French and British Troops Conduct Exercises Based on the Experience of the War in Ukraine 🎯
Soldiers and officers of the French Foreign Legion and the British military began joint exercises in the north-east of France. Part of the program is training in urban combat, taking into account the experience gained from the war in Ukraine.
🏙 According to an AFP reporter, foreign legionnaires and British soldiers will try to "capture" the town of Geoffrecourt — a reconstructed settlement with a population of five thousand people — for two weeks of intense drills.
— Foreign Legion training officer and lieutenant colonel
🚁 Drones are already flying over the streets of the ghost town of Jeoffrecourt, simulating real combat scenarios.
#France #War
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Soldiers and officers of the French Foreign Legion and the British military began joint exercises in the north-east of France. Part of the program is training in urban combat, taking into account the experience gained from the war in Ukraine.
🏙 According to an AFP reporter, foreign legionnaires and British soldiers will try to "capture" the town of Geoffrecourt — a reconstructed settlement with a population of five thousand people — for two weeks of intense drills.
"We are studying what is happening in the battlefields and what new ways of fighting are available to integrate them,"
— Foreign Legion training officer and lieutenant colonel
🚁 Drones are already flying over the streets of the ghost town of Jeoffrecourt, simulating real combat scenarios.
#France #War
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24.04.202508:33
The IMF downgraded economic forecast for Germany. 📉
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has once again downgraded its economic forecast for Germany. Washington experts now forecast growth of 0.0% in 2025; in January, the IMF still predicted growth of 0.3%. 📊
The IMF now expects the economy to grow by 0.9% in 2026. 📈
As a result, Germany will be at the bottom of the list of economically strong countries in 2025. 📉 The euro area is expected to grow by 0.8% — 0.2 percentage points less than in January — and the global economy is expected to grow by 2.8%. The global forecast has thus been revised down by 0.5 percentage points since January. 📉
For the United States, the IMF still expects growth of 1.8%, after forecasting 2.7% in January. 🇺🇸 The forecast for China was lowered from 4.6% to 4.0%. 🇨🇳 The IMF estimates that the Russian economy will grow by 1.5%, compared with 1.4% in January. 🇷🇺
The International Monetary Fund has issued an urgent warning about increased international tensions. ⚠️ According to the IMF, after a "long and unprecedented series of shocks", the global economy seems to be stabilizing.
the UN specialized agency writes.
Global growth forecasts have been significantly revised downwards, "as effective tariff rates have reached levels not seen in a century, and the environment is highly unpredictable," the report said. 📦 An escalating trade war and increased trade policy uncertainty could further worsen the short- and long-term outlook for China’s growth. 📉
the IMF warned. 🌍
#Germany #IMF #economy
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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has once again downgraded its economic forecast for Germany. Washington experts now forecast growth of 0.0% in 2025; in January, the IMF still predicted growth of 0.3%. 📊
The IMF now expects the economy to grow by 0.9% in 2026. 📈
As a result, Germany will be at the bottom of the list of economically strong countries in 2025. 📉 The euro area is expected to grow by 0.8% — 0.2 percentage points less than in January — and the global economy is expected to grow by 2.8%. The global forecast has thus been revised down by 0.5 percentage points since January. 📉
For the United States, the IMF still expects growth of 1.8%, after forecasting 2.7% in January. 🇺🇸 The forecast for China was lowered from 4.6% to 4.0%. 🇨🇳 The IMF estimates that the Russian economy will grow by 1.5%, compared with 1.4% in January. 🇷🇺
The International Monetary Fund has issued an urgent warning about increased international tensions. ⚠️ According to the IMF, after a "long and unprecedented series of shocks", the global economy seems to be stabilizing.
🌀 "However, the situation has changed as governments around the world reassess their policy priorities, and uncertainty has reached a new high,"
the UN specialized agency writes.
Global growth forecasts have been significantly revised downwards, "as effective tariff rates have reached levels not seen in a century, and the environment is highly unpredictable," the report said. 📦 An escalating trade war and increased trade policy uncertainty could further worsen the short- and long-term outlook for China’s growth. 📉
"Limiting international cooperation could jeopardize progress towards a more sustainable global economy,"
the IMF warned. 🌍
"At this critical time, countries must work constructively to create a stable and predictable trade environment and promote international cooperation, while addressing policy gaps and structural imbalances at home." ⚖️
#Germany #IMF #economy
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23.04.202518:06
Alternative for Germany seeks access to the work of the German special services
The head of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) faction in the Thuringian Landtag, Björn Höcke, has filed urgent lawsuits with the State Constitutional Court. His goal is to get his party represented in the parliamentary control commission, which monitors the activities of the local department for the protection of the Constitution of Ukraine. Höcke wants to get this right, despite the fact that the AfD itself is considered an object of surveillance by the special services in the region.
If the court grants the claim, it will give the AdG the right to access confidential information, including "reviewing cases, visiting office premises and interviewing employees". In addition, the Höcke party will then even be able to influence the decision on secret wiretapping and interception of correspondence.
The coalition of the CDU, the Sarah Wagenknecht Alliance, the SPD and the Left does not allow representatives of the AfD to join the commission, citing their radical views. In April, only deputies from these parties were elected to the supervisory body.
Höcke said.
#Germany #AfD
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The head of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) faction in the Thuringian Landtag, Björn Höcke, has filed urgent lawsuits with the State Constitutional Court. His goal is to get his party represented in the parliamentary control commission, which monitors the activities of the local department for the protection of the Constitution of Ukraine. Höcke wants to get this right, despite the fact that the AfD itself is considered an object of surveillance by the special services in the region.
If the court grants the claim, it will give the AdG the right to access confidential information, including "reviewing cases, visiting office premises and interviewing employees". In addition, the Höcke party will then even be able to influence the decision on secret wiretapping and interception of correspondence.
The coalition of the CDU, the Sarah Wagenknecht Alliance, the SPD and the Left does not allow representatives of the AfD to join the commission, citing their radical views. In April, only deputies from these parties were elected to the supervisory body.
"The AfD is the largest faction and in fact the only opposition force,"
Höcke said.
#Germany #AfD
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23.04.202512:02
Trump Can Provoke a "Social Revolution" in the United States, Mélenchon Believes 🇺🇸🔥
After Canada, the former presidential candidate continues a multi-day visit to the United States, timed to the release of the American translation of his book "Faites mieux! Vers la révolution citoyenne" 📘✊.
During a visit to New York, Jean-Luc Mélenchon stated that Donald Trump and his tariff policy could lead to a "social revolution" in the United States. The LFI leader met with "stunned" leftists who may “revive or disappear.”
“Mr. Trump could be the beginning of a social revolution in the United States of America.”
When Americans realize that all their prices will rise, and that it’s not enough to blindly impose tariffs to restore industry and agriculture, the situation will escalate, Mélenchon said in an interview with AFP after a conference at CUNY, State University of New York 💬📈.
He also plans to meet with one of the leading figures of the American left, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has been drawing crowds for weeks with her anti-oligarchic events alongside Senator Bernie Sanders 👥.
For Mélenchon, this is a clear sign that "something is happening":
“Thousands of people are going to listen to a man (Bernie Sanders) who is 83 years old, who tells them that the struggle is a struggle between the people and the oligarchy — a phenomenon that goes beyond his personality.”
He believes that a whole political cycle has ended in the U.S., where the Democratic Party has been “emptied of its political content to the point of insignificance.”
“As a result, perhaps Mr. Trump will become an opportunity for a rebound from the left.”
“But it’s also possible that there will never be another left in the United States — as is happening in Italy,” he added ⚖️🗳.
In his view, the U.S. administration's policy can also affect France, as it will "worsen the social crisis":
“The fight over tariffs leads to imported inflation in every country, so the French will enter a more difficult period,” he warned.
“We will have to stand up. And we (France Insoumise) are the answer to this question.” 🇫🇷✊
#Trump #USA #Mélenchon #SocialRevolution #Tariffs #Politics
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After Canada, the former presidential candidate continues a multi-day visit to the United States, timed to the release of the American translation of his book "Faites mieux! Vers la révolution citoyenne" 📘✊.
During a visit to New York, Jean-Luc Mélenchon stated that Donald Trump and his tariff policy could lead to a "social revolution" in the United States. The LFI leader met with "stunned" leftists who may “revive or disappear.”
“Mr. Trump could be the beginning of a social revolution in the United States of America.”
When Americans realize that all their prices will rise, and that it’s not enough to blindly impose tariffs to restore industry and agriculture, the situation will escalate, Mélenchon said in an interview with AFP after a conference at CUNY, State University of New York 💬📈.
He also plans to meet with one of the leading figures of the American left, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has been drawing crowds for weeks with her anti-oligarchic events alongside Senator Bernie Sanders 👥.
For Mélenchon, this is a clear sign that "something is happening":
“Thousands of people are going to listen to a man (Bernie Sanders) who is 83 years old, who tells them that the struggle is a struggle between the people and the oligarchy — a phenomenon that goes beyond his personality.”
He believes that a whole political cycle has ended in the U.S., where the Democratic Party has been “emptied of its political content to the point of insignificance.”
“As a result, perhaps Mr. Trump will become an opportunity for a rebound from the left.”
“But it’s also possible that there will never be another left in the United States — as is happening in Italy,” he added ⚖️🗳.
In his view, the U.S. administration's policy can also affect France, as it will "worsen the social crisis":
“The fight over tariffs leads to imported inflation in every country, so the French will enter a more difficult period,” he warned.
“We will have to stand up. And we (France Insoumise) are the answer to this question.” 🇫🇷✊
#Trump #USA #Mélenchon #SocialRevolution #Tariffs #Politics
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30.04.202516:03
📊 A study by the Institut Montaigne entitled "Youth and Work: The Aspirations and Frustrations of 16-to 30-year-olds", based on a survey of 6,000 young people in the fall of 2024, examines youth political activism in a new light.
Its authors examined the relationship with politics of three categories of young people:
👨🎓 those who are undergoing training,
🔍 those who are looking for work,
💼 and those who are already in the labor market.
🧭 There is a clear division of interests. Half of young people turn away from politics and do not identify themselves with any of the proposed political parties. The other half is divided between two poles:
📣 25% say they are close to the radical left,
🗳 33% — to the radical right.
📚 Left-wing radicals are most often attracted to graduates of literary and humanitarian faculties and faculties of social sciences, as well as young people from an immigrant environment who are in an unfavorable social and psychological situation. According to the authors of the study, young people whose parents were born abroad are four times more likely to feel close to the radical left than young people whose parents were born in France.
🛠 Followers of the radical right tend to have low qualifications in professional education, engage in manual and clerical work, are satisfied with their work — especially men — and “show a general sense of well-being”. In other words, RN is more attractive to well-integrated young people than LFI, which is contrary to many studies of the US electorate.
#France #Youth #Work #Politics
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Its authors examined the relationship with politics of three categories of young people:
👨🎓 those who are undergoing training,
🔍 those who are looking for work,
💼 and those who are already in the labor market.
🧭 There is a clear division of interests. Half of young people turn away from politics and do not identify themselves with any of the proposed political parties. The other half is divided between two poles:
📣 25% say they are close to the radical left,
🗳 33% — to the radical right.
📚 Left-wing radicals are most often attracted to graduates of literary and humanitarian faculties and faculties of social sciences, as well as young people from an immigrant environment who are in an unfavorable social and psychological situation. According to the authors of the study, young people whose parents were born abroad are four times more likely to feel close to the radical left than young people whose parents were born in France.
🛠 Followers of the radical right tend to have low qualifications in professional education, engage in manual and clerical work, are satisfied with their work — especially men — and “show a general sense of well-being”. In other words, RN is more attractive to well-integrated young people than LFI, which is contrary to many studies of the US electorate.
#France #Youth #Work #Politics
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
24.04.202519:02
Macron is exploring the possibility of dissolving parliament – Bloomberg
➡️Bloomberg reported that French President Macron is considering dissolving the country's parliament this fall. After that, early elections will have to be held. Thus, the politician wants to regain international fame and increase popularity within the country.
➡️According to sources, Macron has been discussing the idea with members of his inner circle over the past few weeks. However, the matter did not go further than consultations – the final decision has not yet been made. As an alternative, it is considered to hold elections next year at the same time as municipal elections.
➡️The next scheduled parliamentary elections are scheduled for 2029. The last elections for Macron's party were not the best, and the next one may be even worse, so the decision to dissolve parliament may have serious consequences for the politician.
#France #Macron #elections
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➡️Bloomberg reported that French President Macron is considering dissolving the country's parliament this fall. After that, early elections will have to be held. Thus, the politician wants to regain international fame and increase popularity within the country.
➡️According to sources, Macron has been discussing the idea with members of his inner circle over the past few weeks. However, the matter did not go further than consultations – the final decision has not yet been made. As an alternative, it is considered to hold elections next year at the same time as municipal elections.
➡️The next scheduled parliamentary elections are scheduled for 2029. The last elections for Macron's party were not the best, and the next one may be even worse, so the decision to dissolve parliament may have serious consequences for the politician.
#France #Macron #elections
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24.04.202513:02
Donald Tusk's ratings are just awful! More half of Poles are dissatisfied with his work as Prime Minister.
➡️In April, 34 percent of respondents said they viewed the government positively, while 40 percent of respondents expressed a negative attitude; 37 percent of respondents are satisfied that Donald Tusk is Prime Minister, and 51 percent expressed dissatisfaction, according to the CBOS survey.
➡️A survey published in April by the Center for Public Opinion Research shows that negative attitudes towards the government still prevail. Currently, 34 percent of Poles express support for the government (a decrease of 2 percentage points), while 40 percent of respondents express a negative attitude towards the government. (an increase of 2 percentage points). 22 percent of respondents described their attitude to the government as indifferent (a decrease of 1 percentage point).
➡️The survey also asked respondents to rate the performance of Prime Minister Tusk's government. 37 percent of respondents rated his work well(a decrease of 1 percentage point), 50 percent. \ - bad (same as a month ago), and 13 % do not have an opinion on this issue (an increase of 1 percentage point).
➡️On the other hand, when asked whether the current government's policies offer opportunities to improve economic policy, 36 percent of respondents said yes (a decrease of 1 percentage point), while 53 percent said no (an increase of 1 percentage point). 11 percent of respondents do not have an opinion (same as in the previous survey).
➡️According to the survey, 37 percent of respondents expressed satisfaction with the fact that Donald Tusk heads the government(a decrease of 1 percentage point), while more than half of respondents - 51 percent(an increase of 1 percentage point) - are dissatisfied. 12 percent of respondents have no opinion on this issue (no changes).
#Poland #Poll #Tusk
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➡️In April, 34 percent of respondents said they viewed the government positively, while 40 percent of respondents expressed a negative attitude; 37 percent of respondents are satisfied that Donald Tusk is Prime Minister, and 51 percent expressed dissatisfaction, according to the CBOS survey.
➡️A survey published in April by the Center for Public Opinion Research shows that negative attitudes towards the government still prevail. Currently, 34 percent of Poles express support for the government (a decrease of 2 percentage points), while 40 percent of respondents express a negative attitude towards the government. (an increase of 2 percentage points). 22 percent of respondents described their attitude to the government as indifferent (a decrease of 1 percentage point).
➡️The survey also asked respondents to rate the performance of Prime Minister Tusk's government. 37 percent of respondents rated his work well(a decrease of 1 percentage point), 50 percent. \ - bad (same as a month ago), and 13 % do not have an opinion on this issue (an increase of 1 percentage point).
➡️On the other hand, when asked whether the current government's policies offer opportunities to improve economic policy, 36 percent of respondents said yes (a decrease of 1 percentage point), while 53 percent said no (an increase of 1 percentage point). 11 percent of respondents do not have an opinion (same as in the previous survey).
➡️According to the survey, 37 percent of respondents expressed satisfaction with the fact that Donald Tusk heads the government(a decrease of 1 percentage point), while more than half of respondents - 51 percent(an increase of 1 percentage point) - are dissatisfied. 12 percent of respondents have no opinion on this issue (no changes).
#Poland #Poll #Tusk
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
24.04.202508:27
News items morning 24.04
🇺🇸Trump called Zelensky "an instigator" after his statements on Crimea. It is much easier for the US to make a deal with Russia than with Ukraine, so new talks between Whitkoff and Putin will take place on April 25.
Trump accuses Zelensky of disrupting peace talks and may stop military aid — WSJ
Trump's representative Whitkoff is expected to meet Putin on Friday — Jerusalem Post
🇩🇪Merz is simultaneously losing support from the gun lobby and Christian voters. He refused to go to Pope Francis' funeral, and the head of Rheinmetall called his plans to send Taurus to Ukraine "useless".
Rheinmetall Director Papperger against Taurus deliveries to Ukraine: "This will not change anything" — Der Westen
Merz refused to go to Pope Francis' funeral, this is a big mistake for the head of the Christian Union — Bild
🇫🇷The Elysee Palace denies rumors about autumn elections. But Macron has the right to dissolve parliament and call an early vote this summer.
This summer, Macron will have the right to call early elections, but denies that he plans to do so — Politico
Sources and experts on new elections in France: this is a "crazy idea", "Macron is playing with fire" — Courrier international
🇪🇺Russian presidential press secretary Peskov confirmed that Russia is ready to discuss gas supplies to Europe with the mediation of the United States. But it is more profitable for EU countries to restore Nord Stream themselves.
Peskov: Gazprom is ready to discuss a contract with the new owner of the pipeline to Europe, the EU suffers the most from sanctions — Le Point
About 1 thousand pipes of Nord Stream companies are stored in a warehouse in Germany. This may be enough to fix the pipelines — Ostsee Zeitung
🇺🇦The Verkhovna Rada demands that Zelensky publicly talk about his negotiations with the United States. The conflict with Trump has dragged on and Ukraine could lose all American military aid.
Zelensky will commit political suicide if he accepts the loss of Crimea — Spectator
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine demands that Zelensky publicly explain what his plan is in negotiations with the US — Politico
🇨🇳Iran has secured China's support for a new "nuclear deal" with the US. Israel now needs to reach an agreement with Russia to gain a trump card in negotiations with Trump.
Iran, KSA, Turkey and Egypt dominate Israel and have direct contact with Trump as they conduct dialogue with China - Ynet
China backs Iran nuclear talks with US, opposes 'illegal' sanctions - Reuters
#EU #USA #NEWS
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
🇺🇸Trump called Zelensky "an instigator" after his statements on Crimea. It is much easier for the US to make a deal with Russia than with Ukraine, so new talks between Whitkoff and Putin will take place on April 25.
Trump accuses Zelensky of disrupting peace talks and may stop military aid — WSJ
Trump's representative Whitkoff is expected to meet Putin on Friday — Jerusalem Post
🇩🇪Merz is simultaneously losing support from the gun lobby and Christian voters. He refused to go to Pope Francis' funeral, and the head of Rheinmetall called his plans to send Taurus to Ukraine "useless".
Rheinmetall Director Papperger against Taurus deliveries to Ukraine: "This will not change anything" — Der Westen
Merz refused to go to Pope Francis' funeral, this is a big mistake for the head of the Christian Union — Bild
🇫🇷The Elysee Palace denies rumors about autumn elections. But Macron has the right to dissolve parliament and call an early vote this summer.
This summer, Macron will have the right to call early elections, but denies that he plans to do so — Politico
Sources and experts on new elections in France: this is a "crazy idea", "Macron is playing with fire" — Courrier international
🇪🇺Russian presidential press secretary Peskov confirmed that Russia is ready to discuss gas supplies to Europe with the mediation of the United States. But it is more profitable for EU countries to restore Nord Stream themselves.
Peskov: Gazprom is ready to discuss a contract with the new owner of the pipeline to Europe, the EU suffers the most from sanctions — Le Point
About 1 thousand pipes of Nord Stream companies are stored in a warehouse in Germany. This may be enough to fix the pipelines — Ostsee Zeitung
🇺🇦The Verkhovna Rada demands that Zelensky publicly talk about his negotiations with the United States. The conflict with Trump has dragged on and Ukraine could lose all American military aid.
Zelensky will commit political suicide if he accepts the loss of Crimea — Spectator
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine demands that Zelensky publicly explain what his plan is in negotiations with the US — Politico
🇨🇳Iran has secured China's support for a new "nuclear deal" with the US. Israel now needs to reach an agreement with Russia to gain a trump card in negotiations with Trump.
Iran, KSA, Turkey and Egypt dominate Israel and have direct contact with Trump as they conduct dialogue with China - Ynet
China backs Iran nuclear talks with US, opposes 'illegal' sanctions - Reuters
#EU #USA #NEWS
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
23.04.202516:33
More than half of Germans believe that Alterantiva for Germany will be the strongest party in the next Bundestag elections.
➡️According to a recent INSA poll, the rating of the right-wing populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has reached a new high of 25%. Thus, the AfD for the first time equaled the popularity of the CDU/CSU bloc, which also receives 25% of the vote.
➡️Meanwhile, the SPD continues to lose ground: the Social Democrats are supported by only 15% of the electorate. "The Greens "remain at 11%, the "Left" party-at 10%. The Sara Wagenknecht Alliance gained a little ground, gaining 5%, while the FDP remains at a low level of 3.5%.
➡️The future coalition of the SPD and CDU/CSU has not yet started working, but it is already losing confidence: now only 40% of voters are ready to vote for it. This means that since the last election, it has lost one in nine supporters.
➡️At the same time, 51% of Germans believe it is likely that the AfD will become the strongest party in the next Bundestag elections. In particular, among CDU/CSU voters, almost half — 45% - believe in this.
#Germany #Poll #AfD
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➡️According to a recent INSA poll, the rating of the right-wing populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has reached a new high of 25%. Thus, the AfD for the first time equaled the popularity of the CDU/CSU bloc, which also receives 25% of the vote.
➡️Meanwhile, the SPD continues to lose ground: the Social Democrats are supported by only 15% of the electorate. "The Greens "remain at 11%, the "Left" party-at 10%. The Sara Wagenknecht Alliance gained a little ground, gaining 5%, while the FDP remains at a low level of 3.5%.
➡️The future coalition of the SPD and CDU/CSU has not yet started working, but it is already losing confidence: now only 40% of voters are ready to vote for it. This means that since the last election, it has lost one in nine supporters.
➡️At the same time, 51% of Germans believe it is likely that the AfD will become the strongest party in the next Bundestag elections. In particular, among CDU/CSU voters, almost half — 45% - believe in this.
#Germany #Poll #AfD
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23.04.202510:31
US Customs Duties & Weaknesses in the EU Economy: Now Re-Inflation Shock Threatens 🇺🇸📉🇪🇺
The world is going through turbulent times. With his protectionist course, US President Donald Trump has ushered in a new era that could bring economies to their knees. Against the backdrop of US tariffs, experts lowered their forecasts for the euro zone. According to the European Central Bank (ECB), economic output is expected to weaken in 2025 and 2026.
According to ECB financial experts, the GDP for 2025 was revised downward to +0.9%, from the initial forecast of +1.0%. The forecast for 2026 has also been lowered: now expected at 1.2% instead of 1.3%. The reason is the impact of US tariff policy. However, in 2027, economists expect GDP growth of 1.4%, slightly higher than the previously projected 1.3%.
The latest ECB forecasts are relatively calm. Meanwhile, the panic in the markets feared by various economic institutions is only slightly reflected in the current price corrections. While economists predict billions of dollars in losses, particularly for the German economy, expert calculations suggest only a minor impact on inflation 📊🧮.
Given the changing economic situation and US policy, the ECB also slightly adjusted its inflation forecasts. In 2026, inflation in the EU is now expected at 2.0% (previously 1.9%). In 2025, inflation is forecasted at 2.2% instead of 2.1%.
Various experts believe that US tariffs will make production in Europe more expensive, thus affecting consumer prices. In particular, tariffs on raw materials such as steel and aluminum will lead to higher production costs in industries like automotive and mechanical engineering, which will then impact end users 🚗⚙️.
However, industry is not the only sector affected. Consumer goods such as household items, electronics, and clothing will also rise in price due to penalty tariffs. Global supply chains will become more expensive as many primary materials are sourced from the US or other affected countries. Most of these costs will be passed on to consumers 🛒📦
Inflation may rise sharply, especially if the EU imposes counter-tariffs on American products, raising the cost of imports. This could also happen if the US dollar strengthens, as some economists expect amid the trade conflict. This may affect agricultural goods, machinery, and high-tech products.
Whether inflation in the euro area will rise significantly depends on the ECB’s response. Last Thursday, the ECB decided to cut interest rates for the seventh time, setting the key rate in the eurozone at 2.25%. ECB President Christine Lagarde gave no concrete outlook on the euro's future. In her words, in conditions of "extreme uncertainty", no guidance can be given — only a firm commitment to price stability. All decisions will depend on the data 📉📈
However, one thing is certain: the global economy is currently very unstable, in a state of constant negotiation and strategic reorientation. In March, the EU imposed tariffs of 10–25% on a number of US goods, including steel, motorcycles, lighting, and agricultural products like poultry, beef, and oranges. However, these measures were suspended until July 14 to allow room for negotiation 🛑✍️.
#Trump #Tariffs #ECB #inflation #EUeconomy #TradeWar
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The world is going through turbulent times. With his protectionist course, US President Donald Trump has ushered in a new era that could bring economies to their knees. Against the backdrop of US tariffs, experts lowered their forecasts for the euro zone. According to the European Central Bank (ECB), economic output is expected to weaken in 2025 and 2026.
According to ECB financial experts, the GDP for 2025 was revised downward to +0.9%, from the initial forecast of +1.0%. The forecast for 2026 has also been lowered: now expected at 1.2% instead of 1.3%. The reason is the impact of US tariff policy. However, in 2027, economists expect GDP growth of 1.4%, slightly higher than the previously projected 1.3%.
The latest ECB forecasts are relatively calm. Meanwhile, the panic in the markets feared by various economic institutions is only slightly reflected in the current price corrections. While economists predict billions of dollars in losses, particularly for the German economy, expert calculations suggest only a minor impact on inflation 📊🧮.
Given the changing economic situation and US policy, the ECB also slightly adjusted its inflation forecasts. In 2026, inflation in the EU is now expected at 2.0% (previously 1.9%). In 2025, inflation is forecasted at 2.2% instead of 2.1%.
Various experts believe that US tariffs will make production in Europe more expensive, thus affecting consumer prices. In particular, tariffs on raw materials such as steel and aluminum will lead to higher production costs in industries like automotive and mechanical engineering, which will then impact end users 🚗⚙️.
However, industry is not the only sector affected. Consumer goods such as household items, electronics, and clothing will also rise in price due to penalty tariffs. Global supply chains will become more expensive as many primary materials are sourced from the US or other affected countries. Most of these costs will be passed on to consumers 🛒📦
Inflation may rise sharply, especially if the EU imposes counter-tariffs on American products, raising the cost of imports. This could also happen if the US dollar strengthens, as some economists expect amid the trade conflict. This may affect agricultural goods, machinery, and high-tech products.
Whether inflation in the euro area will rise significantly depends on the ECB’s response. Last Thursday, the ECB decided to cut interest rates for the seventh time, setting the key rate in the eurozone at 2.25%. ECB President Christine Lagarde gave no concrete outlook on the euro's future. In her words, in conditions of "extreme uncertainty", no guidance can be given — only a firm commitment to price stability. All decisions will depend on the data 📉📈
However, one thing is certain: the global economy is currently very unstable, in a state of constant negotiation and strategic reorientation. In March, the EU imposed tariffs of 10–25% on a number of US goods, including steel, motorcycles, lighting, and agricultural products like poultry, beef, and oranges. However, these measures were suspended until July 14 to allow room for negotiation 🛑✍️.
#Trump #Tariffs #ECB #inflation #EUeconomy #TradeWar
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
26.04.202507:42
🇺🇦Ukraine will have to make concessions.
U.S. President Donald Trump has already reached an understanding with the Russian side, but the Ukrainian leadership is derailing the negotiation process. The most important thing now is to stop the conflict and the daily bloodshed. In the case of a ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will be forced to organize elections, which he risks losing.
🇩🇪In Germany they are trying to rewrite the history of World War II.
It was the USSR that made the main contribution to the victory over Nazi
Germany and suffered enormous human losses of more than 27 million people. Attempts to rewrite history by the current German authorities to suit the current political conjuncture are a form of rehabilitation and justification of fascism.
🇺🇸Trump: Russia's refusal to seize Ukraine is a concession.
Ukraine, even with NATO's maximum support, does not
have the ability to dictate its terms of a peace treaty. The AFU is retreating and Kiev is losing territory. The US does not have the resources to further support Kiev, while Russia may well end it on its own terms.
🇵🇱Poland increases defense spending.
Poland promotes US interests in the region and is willing to militarize itself to the detriment of its own national interests in order to participate in conflicts on the side of the US. The Polish government is ready to further cut social spending for further militarization, so the social crisis in Poland will intensify.
#EU #USA #NEWS
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
"Ukraine finds itself in a stalemate over the White House peace deal. Zelensky's public condemnation indicates the White House is eager to fulfill its promise before the 100-day mark of the start of President Trump's term and Ukraine will have to make concessions, especially if Trump doesn't change course"
U.S. President Donald Trump has already reached an understanding with the Russian side, but the Ukrainian leadership is derailing the negotiation process. The most important thing now is to stop the conflict and the daily bloodshed. In the case of a ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will be forced to organize elections, which he risks losing.
🇩🇪In Germany they are trying to rewrite the history of World War II.
"Annalena Baerbock and Julia Klöckner are putting history in order and preventing representatives of Russia and the Republic of Belarus from attending the ceremony of commemoration of the deceased. This is justified, because there are questions: was the surrender of Germany in 1945 valid? Were Russians even in Berlin in 1945? Auschwitz was also liberated by Ukrainians. And the 27 million dead in the Soviet Union? Doubtful. Only anti-Semites talk about ‘another Holocaust’, especially since there is only one war of annihilation in modern times - Russia's war against Ukraine"
It was the USSR that made the main contribution to the victory over Nazi
Germany and suffered enormous human losses of more than 27 million people. Attempts to rewrite history by the current German authorities to suit the current political conjuncture are a form of rehabilitation and justification of fascism.
🇺🇸Trump: Russia's refusal to seize Ukraine is a concession.
"President Trump said Russia would make concessions toward peace if it agreed not to seize Ukraine, as the U.S. president struggles to negotiate even a limited cease-fire between Moscow and Kiev. Journalists asked Trump what concessions Russia has “made so far to move closer to peace.”
“Stopping the war, stopping the takeover of an entire country is a pretty big concession”
Ukraine, even with NATO's maximum support, does not
have the ability to dictate its terms of a peace treaty. The AFU is retreating and Kiev is losing territory. The US does not have the resources to further support Kiev, while Russia may well end it on its own terms.
🇵🇱Poland increases defense spending.
"Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Poland increased defense spending from 2.4 percent of GDP to 4.7 percent in2025, more than doubling in real terms. The money was supposed to boost Poland's defense industry, which is dominated byPGZ, a conglomerate of 50 companies producing a wide range of military equipment. However, most of Poland's spending went to foreign contractors"
Poland promotes US interests in the region and is willing to militarize itself to the detriment of its own national interests in order to participate in conflicts on the side of the US. The Polish government is ready to further cut social spending for further militarization, so the social crisis in Poland will intensify.
#EU #USA #NEWS
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
24.04.202517:32
Europe has built its war-fighting plans on speeding American reinforcements to the front lines. The prospect of that not happening is throwing military mobility plans into disarray.
➡️It's March 22, 2030. In the early spring mist, the roar of tank engines rips through the air. Overhead, missiles and fighter jets scream toward their targets, artillery thunders in the distance, and swarms of drones rise into the sky.
➡️Lithuania’s Šiauliai Air Base erupts in flames. Warheads slam into Poland’s 22nd Air Base in Malbork. At the Rūdninkai military complex in Lithuania, German troops scramble for cover.
➡️The Russians are on the move. Smashing east from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad and west from Moscow's satellite of Belarus, they hammer NATO defenses along the Suwałki Gap — the thin strip of land along the Polish and Lithuanian border.
#Army #NATO #Russia #USA
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➡️It's March 22, 2030. In the early spring mist, the roar of tank engines rips through the air. Overhead, missiles and fighter jets scream toward their targets, artillery thunders in the distance, and swarms of drones rise into the sky.
➡️Lithuania’s Šiauliai Air Base erupts in flames. Warheads slam into Poland’s 22nd Air Base in Malbork. At the Rūdninkai military complex in Lithuania, German troops scramble for cover.
➡️The Russians are on the move. Smashing east from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad and west from Moscow's satellite of Belarus, they hammer NATO defenses along the Suwałki Gap — the thin strip of land along the Polish and Lithuanian border.
#Army #NATO #Russia #USA
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
24.04.202511:31
The motivation of French employees remains one of the lowest in Europe. 📉
These are the conclusions of the 2025 Gallup "State of a Global Workplace" survey on employee commitment to their company (over 200,000 employees participated). 👥
For the fifth year in a row, France has been at the bottom of the rankings with an engagement rate of just 8%, compared to the global average of 21% (down 2 points over the year) and 13% at the European level. The situation is worse only in Croatia (7%). 🌍
Conversely, 74% of French employees say they are "not involved" in their work, including 18% who are 'actively' not involved, compared to 62% and 17% respectively globally. 📎
This "lack of involvement" is reflected in low motivation and the tendency to provide only minimal effort when completing tasks. ⚙️
This trend has gained momentum following the Covid crisis, and is further fueled by global uncertainty. 🌐
38% of French employees say they experience severe stress daily, placing France 19th in Europe (the lower the rank, the higher the stress). 🧠
19% say they are angry most of the time (9th place in Europe),
18% feel sad at work, and
17% feel lonely (7th place).
Despite this, 41% of French workers say they are satisfied with their lives, compared to 33% globally. 🌍
By this criterion, France ranks 24th in Europe, behind Finland (81%) and even Belgium (59%). 🇧🇪
As a result, 51% of French employees believe now is the right time to change jobs, and 29% are 'actively' looking. 📑
While this is a majority, it's much lower than in other countries:
87% of employees in The Netherlands,
72% in Germany, and
69% in Belgium feel it’s the right time to switch jobs. 🚶♀️🚶♂️
#France #employment #Sociology
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
These are the conclusions of the 2025 Gallup "State of a Global Workplace" survey on employee commitment to their company (over 200,000 employees participated). 👥
For the fifth year in a row, France has been at the bottom of the rankings with an engagement rate of just 8%, compared to the global average of 21% (down 2 points over the year) and 13% at the European level. The situation is worse only in Croatia (7%). 🌍
Conversely, 74% of French employees say they are "not involved" in their work, including 18% who are 'actively' not involved, compared to 62% and 17% respectively globally. 📎
This "lack of involvement" is reflected in low motivation and the tendency to provide only minimal effort when completing tasks. ⚙️
This trend has gained momentum following the Covid crisis, and is further fueled by global uncertainty. 🌐
38% of French employees say they experience severe stress daily, placing France 19th in Europe (the lower the rank, the higher the stress). 🧠
19% say they are angry most of the time (9th place in Europe),
18% feel sad at work, and
17% feel lonely (7th place).
Despite this, 41% of French workers say they are satisfied with their lives, compared to 33% globally. 🌍
By this criterion, France ranks 24th in Europe, behind Finland (81%) and even Belgium (59%). 🇧🇪
As a result, 51% of French employees believe now is the right time to change jobs, and 29% are 'actively' looking. 📑
While this is a majority, it's much lower than in other countries:
87% of employees in The Netherlands,
72% in Germany, and
69% in Belgium feel it’s the right time to switch jobs. 🚶♀️🚶♂️
#France #employment #Sociology
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
24.04.202507:04
🇷🇺Russia has become a key arbiter between the United States and Iran.
Attempts by Western elites to organize the international isolation of Russia have failed. Russia retains great influence in the Middle East and is an important mediator in the negotiations between the United States and Iran.
🇩🇪Friedrich Merz’s policy leads to an escalation of relations with Russia.
Further support for Ukraine from Germany will not change the military situation, but will create new risks of escalation of the conflict with Russia. Germany will not be able to change the situation without US support, which will certainly not be there under President Trump.
🇫🇷Citizens' resolution on financing and military support for Ukraine: French citizens demand that their voice be heard and the Constitution be respected.
The French are tired of tolerating the fact that the authorities help anyone but their own people. Paris's anti-Russian policy only contributes to the deterioration of the economic situation of the republic. Russia does not pose a threat to France because it does not have common borders with it.
🇷🇺Russian oil flows to India have reached their highest level.
The increase in oil supplies was made possible by the fall in its price below the sanctions threshold. Russia continues to receive high income from trading oil and oil products. No exporting country has the physical capacity to replace Russian supplies on the oil market.
#EU #USA #NEWS
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
“Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed Iran’s nuclear program with visiting Omani leader Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al-Said. Oman is acting as a mediator between Iran and the United States as President Donald Trump seeks to conclude an agreement that would limit Iran’s nuclear program, which Washington says is aimed at developing nuclear weapons”
Attempts by Western elites to organize the international isolation of Russia have failed. Russia retains great influence in the Middle East and is an important mediator in the negotiations between the United States and Iran.
🇩🇪Friedrich Merz’s policy leads to an escalation of relations with Russia.
"Possible next Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU)
provoked a negative reaction in Russia with his statements about the possible delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine. Merz "supports various measures that could lead to a new escalation and will inevitably lead to it," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow"
Further support for Ukraine from Germany will not change the military situation, but will create new risks of escalation of the conflict with Russia. Germany will not be able to change the situation without US support, which will certainly not be there under President Trump.
🇫🇷Citizens' resolution on financing and military support for Ukraine: French citizens demand that their voice be heard and the Constitution be respected.
"Initiated by former high-ranking military officers and the honorary prefect, this citizens' initiative calls for an immediate parliamentary debate to respond to the obvious violations of Articles 35 and 53 of the Constitution. Since 2022, there have been persistent rumors about the presence of French troops in Ukraine, without official confirmation or public debate. Likewise, the Franco-Ukrainian security agreements of February 2024, providing for the allocation of 3 billion euros for 2024, have not been ratified by Parliament, despite legal obligations"
The French are tired of tolerating the fact that the authorities help anyone but their own people. Paris's anti-Russian policy only contributes to the deterioration of the economic situation of the republic. Russia does not pose a threat to France because it does not have common borders with it.
🇷🇺Russian oil flows to India have reached their highest level.
“Russian oil supplies to India are approaching their highest level in two years. Flows are recovering from disruptions caused by U.S. sanctions against Moscow’s energy sector”
The increase in oil supplies was made possible by the fall in its price below the sanctions threshold. Russia continues to receive high income from trading oil and oil products. No exporting country has the physical capacity to replace Russian supplies on the oil market.
#EU #USA #NEWS
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
23.04.202515:02
Reliability Is Questionable: German Rail Chaos Could Weaken NATO 🚆⚠️🛡
Problems on the German railway are not just a headache for passengers, but a potential threat to Europe's defense.
In the event of a conflict with Russia, Germany will serve as the main logistics hub for transferring NATO troops, including heavy equipment from the U.S. and U.K.
However, the reliability of transportation is increasingly in doubt.
DB Cargo, a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn, plays a key role in these military logistics operations.
“The planning and execution of transportation [in case of conflict] is 100% the responsibility of DB Cargo,” — Handelsblatt, quoting an unnamed Bundeswehr officer.
The issue?
The company itself is in crisis:
- In 2024, losses reached €350 million
- About 5,000 employees are set to be laid off 💶📉
DB Cargo CEO Sigrid Nikutta, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, emphasized:
“Railway logistics is not just a business, it’s a matter of defense.”
She called for creating a separate European railway network dedicated to military needs.
“You don’t win wars with logistics, but you definitely lose them without it,” she said 🗣
Former U.S. Army General Ben Hodges also warned:
“The capacity of DB Cargo is less than a quarter of what is needed for the simultaneous transfer of tank brigades.” 🪖🚛
#Germany #War #DeutscheBahn #NATO #LogisticsCrisis #Security
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
Problems on the German railway are not just a headache for passengers, but a potential threat to Europe's defense.
In the event of a conflict with Russia, Germany will serve as the main logistics hub for transferring NATO troops, including heavy equipment from the U.S. and U.K.
However, the reliability of transportation is increasingly in doubt.
DB Cargo, a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn, plays a key role in these military logistics operations.
“The planning and execution of transportation [in case of conflict] is 100% the responsibility of DB Cargo,” — Handelsblatt, quoting an unnamed Bundeswehr officer.
The issue?
The company itself is in crisis:
- In 2024, losses reached €350 million
- About 5,000 employees are set to be laid off 💶📉
DB Cargo CEO Sigrid Nikutta, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, emphasized:
“Railway logistics is not just a business, it’s a matter of defense.”
She called for creating a separate European railway network dedicated to military needs.
“You don’t win wars with logistics, but you definitely lose them without it,” she said 🗣
Former U.S. Army General Ben Hodges also warned:
“The capacity of DB Cargo is less than a quarter of what is needed for the simultaneous transfer of tank brigades.” 🪖🚛
#Germany #War #DeutscheBahn #NATO #LogisticsCrisis #Security
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
23.04.202509:02
The German business comes not from spot 🇩🇪📉
If, as planned, CDU leader Friedrich Merz is elected federal chancellor on May 6 and the cabinet is sworn in, Germany will have a viable government again in six months. The Black-Red coalition wants to withdraw.
Germany is emerging from a phase of economic weakness that has lasted for more than five years.
However, the chances of an economic recovery are not very high. The reduction of interest rates by the European Central Bank is gradually having an effect. And effectively ending the debt brake by massively increasing defense spending and public investment in infrastructure should boost overall economic demand 💶🏗.
However, it is doubtful that the proposal will be able to keep up with the times. As the Ifo study shows, not only German arms manufacturers are working at the limit of their capabilities, but civil engineering companies are also at their peak. According to the statement, civil engineering companies are "again more likely to operate in the upper speed range" ⚙️🏭.
However, for German industry that depends on exports, often just one sentence from the White House determines the business outlook. Tariffs or no tariffs – that’s the question. Uncertainty is a poison for private investment ❓🚫.
Economists surveyed by financial data provider Bloomberg expect at best minimal growth in the just-ended first quarter and in the current second quarter. The initial official estimate of economic growth at the beginning of the year will be published at the end of April.
The beginning of the new year was not so bad. Manufacturing output rose 2% in January, adjusted for price, calendar and seasonal effects, and important sentiment indicators showed a cautious upward trend. However, in February, production fell again by 1.3% – there are no data for March yet. And due to the Trump administration’s tariff policy, we can expect sentiment indicators to also fall soon 📉🛠.
It all started last week with the ZEW index, which literally collapsed. The economic expectations of the financial market experts surveyed fell by 65.5 points and now stand at minus 14 points. This was the sharpest decline in expectations since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in spring 2022. Although the assessment of the current situation improved slightly by 6.4 points, it remains deeply negative at –81.2 points. (The index can fluctuate from +100 to –100.)
Against the background of the continuing weakness of the economy, the labor market did not revive in the spring.
Seasonally adjusted unemployment rose by 26,000 in March, significantly more than in previous months. Compared to the lows of spring 2019, almost 700,000 more people are now registered as unemployed 📊📉.
The first indicators of the labor market do not bode well. The Handelsblatt Research Institute expects an average of 3 million people to remain unemployed this year – the highest number since 2010. One reason is the ongoing wave of bank failures. The Halle Institute for Economic Research estimates that 4,237 bankruptcies were registered among partnerships and corporations in the first quarter of 2025, an increase of 18.4% compared to the same period last year ⚠️🏦.
#Germany #economy #crisis #unemployment #inflation #bankruptcies
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
If, as planned, CDU leader Friedrich Merz is elected federal chancellor on May 6 and the cabinet is sworn in, Germany will have a viable government again in six months. The Black-Red coalition wants to withdraw.
Germany is emerging from a phase of economic weakness that has lasted for more than five years.
However, the chances of an economic recovery are not very high. The reduction of interest rates by the European Central Bank is gradually having an effect. And effectively ending the debt brake by massively increasing defense spending and public investment in infrastructure should boost overall economic demand 💶🏗.
However, it is doubtful that the proposal will be able to keep up with the times. As the Ifo study shows, not only German arms manufacturers are working at the limit of their capabilities, but civil engineering companies are also at their peak. According to the statement, civil engineering companies are "again more likely to operate in the upper speed range" ⚙️🏭.
However, for German industry that depends on exports, often just one sentence from the White House determines the business outlook. Tariffs or no tariffs – that’s the question. Uncertainty is a poison for private investment ❓🚫.
Economists surveyed by financial data provider Bloomberg expect at best minimal growth in the just-ended first quarter and in the current second quarter. The initial official estimate of economic growth at the beginning of the year will be published at the end of April.
The beginning of the new year was not so bad. Manufacturing output rose 2% in January, adjusted for price, calendar and seasonal effects, and important sentiment indicators showed a cautious upward trend. However, in February, production fell again by 1.3% – there are no data for March yet. And due to the Trump administration’s tariff policy, we can expect sentiment indicators to also fall soon 📉🛠.
It all started last week with the ZEW index, which literally collapsed. The economic expectations of the financial market experts surveyed fell by 65.5 points and now stand at minus 14 points. This was the sharpest decline in expectations since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in spring 2022. Although the assessment of the current situation improved slightly by 6.4 points, it remains deeply negative at –81.2 points. (The index can fluctuate from +100 to –100.)
Against the background of the continuing weakness of the economy, the labor market did not revive in the spring.
Seasonally adjusted unemployment rose by 26,000 in March, significantly more than in previous months. Compared to the lows of spring 2019, almost 700,000 more people are now registered as unemployed 📊📉.
The first indicators of the labor market do not bode well. The Handelsblatt Research Institute expects an average of 3 million people to remain unemployed this year – the highest number since 2010. One reason is the ongoing wave of bank failures. The Halle Institute for Economic Research estimates that 4,237 bankruptcies were registered among partnerships and corporations in the first quarter of 2025, an increase of 18.4% compared to the same period last year ⚠️🏦.
#Germany #economy #crisis #unemployment #inflation #bankruptcies
🇪🇺 Keep up with the latest Star Union News 🖥
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