Proposed SEP Regulation is a boost for EU innovation – POLITICO

The European Parliament will soon take a position on the proposed EU Regulation on Standard-Essential Patents (SEPs), which aims to address imbalances, inefficiencies and uncertainties in the existing SEP licensing ecosystem. The implementation of such an impactful regulation for EU innovation begs on vital question — does the EU regulation on SEPs support the fundamental … Read more

Why the West is losing Ukraine – POLITICO

Not so dynamic duo Beyond fear, diplomats and experts pointed to the dynamic between Scholz and Biden as a driving force behind the West’s overriding strategy of incrementalism and escalation management, rather than a focus on strategic outcomes, in dealing with Ukraine. Despite a 16-year age difference, both men came of age politically during the … Read more

Ukraine signs security pacts with Germany, France – POLITICO

Despite that, the future of Ukraine’s successful defense “also depends on the United States,” the chancellor said, as he urged the U.S. Congress to approve a new multibillion-dollar aid package for Kyiv. Scholz also said that Germany was ramping up arms production to not only better support Ukraine but also ensure its own security. “If … Read more

Pay your 2 percent, UK’s Shapps tells NATO allies after Trump threat – POLITICO

The U.K. also announced a new plan Thursday to lead a coalition of 14 other European countries, including Turkey, on multinational defense procurement.  The two initiatives, according to the U.K. Ministry of Defence, “aim to increase defense industrial capacity across the Euro-Atlantic area, replenish stockpiles at pace, and continue support to Ukraine.” The U.S. and … Read more

With Trump looming, NATO defense chiefs gather to talk Ukraine – POLITICO

Russia, of course, remains the biggest problem for most NATO countries. Not only is Ukraine in need of more Western ammunition to sustain an existential fight against invading Russian forces, but Moscow has also significantly escalated its threat to NATO. On Tuesday it designated Prime Minister Kaja Kallas of Estonia, a frontline NATO state, a … Read more

Geert Wilders goes back to the drawing board – POLITICO

“Incredibly disappointing,” “very surprised” and “complete surprise,” were their reactions on X. “What you see is that everyone is busy with the blame game: trying to point at Omtzigt as the guilty party and feigning surprise,” even though there had long been palpable tension, Rachid Azrout, a political analyst at the University of Amsterdam, told POLITICO. … Read more

Leaders demand EU gets real about arming Ukraine – POLITICO

“The EU and its member states must renew their efforts and step up their military support,” the leaders wrote, and “it must continue to be a collective effort. “We call on friends and partners of Ukraine to recommit to sustainable long-term military support for Ukraine as a joint European responsibility,” they added. “Only then will … Read more

DUP agrees to drop boycott of Northern Ireland power-sharing – POLITICO

Back in London, Donaldson’s early hours statement was viewed with a touch of caution. One U.K. official, granted anonymity to discuss internal government thinking, said: “This is obviously good news, but this is only one step and there are about 10 things that could still go wrong. Put it this way, we were expecting a … Read more

As Meloni embraces Africa, Europe holds its breath – POLITICO

Heavy lifting ahead For her plan to work and to attract the necessary firepower, expertise and resources, Meloni needs buy-in from the EU. European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen, who could find herself in need of Meloni’s support after the June EU election to secure a second term, has confirmed she will attend the … Read more

Trump’s ghost stalks Davos – POLITICO

DAVOS, Switzerland — World leaders gathered together in the Swiss Alps this week are nervous that Donald Trump will be even more anti-global if he returns as United States president. And they have good reason to be wary. If polls prove correct, the front-runner for the Republican nomination is set to be crowned winner of the … Read more