Author name: ucofeurope

In today’s edition of The Capitals, read about Bulgaria expecting to be invited in the Eurozone, Czechia’s Bitcoin scandal triggering state security alert, and so much more.

A €40 million bitcoin scandal has rocked Czech politics, forcing a minister’s resignation and sparking fears the state was used to launder criminal cash.

The EU’s energy efficiency first principle is unfolding; meanwhile, French think-tank négaWatt argues a new principle would be beneficial, focused not just on how we use energy, but on how much energy we truly need.

Liberté toujours? As France sets its sights on a tobacco-free generation from 2032, it’s not unreasonable to critique the strategy for weaning people off the death sticks.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has spent years dismantling independent media, tightening control over information.

Four MEPs expressed concern over Slovak backsliding during a trip to Bratislava.

Billions of euros spent by NATO allies to buy military gear for Ukraine would count as “defence-related” spending under higher new spending commitments, sources told Euractiv.

Bulgaria sends mixed signals on cancer care, launching a screening programme while delaying access to vital diagnostic testing.

The agriculture and food sector plays a central role in ensuring food security in Europe. Securing its future is essential to building resilient, sustainable and competitive systems that empower farmers and support rural areas.

Labour groups say current EU rules are allowing construction companies to abuse subcontracted workers. Swedish centre-left MEP Johan Danielsson is urging the Commission to present a reform proposal.