European Union

For the first time in 40 years, the Portuguese presidential election will go into a second round. On 8 February, the socialist candidate António José Seguro (31 percent) will face off against the right-wing populist André Ventura (23.5 percent). The candidate of the ruling conservative PSD party came in fifth in the first round of voting on Sunday. Portuguese media take stock.

US President Donald Trump welcomed Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado to the White House on Thursday to discuss the future of her country, Venezuela. At the end of the meeting, Machado presented the president with the Nobel Peace Prize medal she received last year, citing his commitment to the freedom of the Venezuelan people. Commentators are appalled.

Without modernizing district heating systems, Europe will not achieve its climate goals. PTEC emphasizes the need for technological neutrality, phased transition, continued use of cogeneration units, integration of RES, energy storage, and Power-to-Heat technologies to ensure system security.

European Parliament’s spokespersons will hold a last-minute briefing on the 19 - 22 January plenary session today at 16.30.

Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

European Parliament’s spokespersons will hold a last-minute briefing on the 19 - 22 January plenary session today at 16.30.

Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP

In today's edition: IMO Net Zero Framework, EU-Mercosur, Austrian demands electricity reform

The Fund warns the single currency area is still plagued by “structural headwinds”, while the global economy is vulnerable to a sudden collapse in US stocks

In today's edition: Big AI training data disclosures, DNA's dark fibre, Democracy Shield, Italy targets Activision

Plus Greenland, Commission drones, & Russian air defences

In today's edition: Biotech, tobacco taxation, and the week ahead

Rapporteur René Repasi (S&D, DE) will brief journalists on 20 January at 15.00 on Parliament’s proposal for a new legal framework to support EU innovation and competitiveness.
Committee on Legal Affairs

Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP