Eurozone News
LAST UPDATE: July 19, 2025
Trump’s Fed Threat Risks Price Stability, Incoming ECB Rate Setter Says
Incoming ECB policymaker Martin Kocher warned that Trump’s threats against the Fed could destabilize global price stability.
Insight
Highlights the importance of central bank independence; political interference in the Fed threatens worldwide financial confidence.
French PM aims to soften opposition to his budget to avert new crisis
The French PM plans amendments and outreach to win support for the state budget and avoid parliamentary stalemate.
Insight
Shows political pragmatism and the fragility of governance; amendments aim to reassure both investors and EU partners.
Portugal’s government postpones decision on central bank chief’s future
The ruling party delayed naming a successor for the central bank governor after failing to reach consensus.
Insight
Indicates political tensions and the challenge of preserving central bank independence amid government influence.
Friedrich Merz condemns ‘unacceptable’ backlash against liberal judge in Germany
Chancellor Merz rebuked attacks on liberal judge Brosius–Gersdorf as defamation, despite delays in her confirmation vote.
Insight
Signals defense of judicial independence and pushback against politicized smear campaigns within conservative circles.
Germany presses ahead with deportations to Afghanistan
Germany deported 81 Afghan men convicted of crimes to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan in its second such flight since 2021. The move, supported by Qatar and involving technical coordination with Taliban authorities, is part of Chancellor Merz’s tougher migration stance.
Insight
Germany is signaling a hardline shift on immigration, using deportations as political leverage. The U.N. warned of safety risks, underscoring the tension between domestic policy and international human rights concerns.
Only 16% of Italians would fight for their country, survey shows
A CENSIS survey found only 16% of Italians aged 18–45 would be willing to fight for Italy, despite nearly one-third expecting possible war involvement within five years. Support for defence spending and nuclear armament is low, though 49% favour NATO and 58% support an EU defence system.
Insight
The results reveal a disconnect between perceived security threats and willingness to engage militarily. While public support exists for collective defence, individual commitment remains weak, complicating national defence planning.
