A sector at a crossroads. US tariffs, bumpy consumer demand, competition from China and uncertainty over the EU’s environmental regulations all seen as headwinds Europe’s automakers at this year’s #IAAmobility expo in Munich.

It’s a defensive alliance but the NATO chief’s charm offensive continues. Closing this summit Mark Rutte says President Trump (daddy) is a man of strength and a man of peace.

On deck for the NATO Summit.
Focus here on defending spending and capabilities.

Boosting annual spending from 2% to 5%

Pledged for Ukraine

Expect Iran crisis to dominate conversations on the margins of the summit.

Deputy President Mashatile is in Paris for trade talks. Amid growing tensions with the U.S. he tells me South Africa isn’t giving up on Washington but that it’s important to consolidate other markets.

More on @sabcnews.bsky.social

Researchers estimate 80,000 dolphins and thousands of grebes have died in the Black Sea in the aftermath of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Full story to come on @cna-poster.bsky.social

Routine win for Dynamo in the Kyiv derby. Yarmolenko amongst the goals.

Partial ceasefire or not- a very familiar soundtrack for Kyiv’s residents continues to play. Air alerts in effect

“Bring him home” Duterte’s supporters tell me ahead of his first ICC court appearance.
He’s charged with crimes against humanity over his war on drugs policy

- a €3.5 billion aid package for 🇺🇦
- a 16th round of sanctions on 🇷🇺

EU officials say support for Ukraine is unwavering but a recognition that more action is needed for Kyiv’s security and Europe’s more broadly.

“MNATOGA” — U.S. Secretary of Defence, Pete Hegseth