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Six European Union nations are calling for substantial reductions to the upcoming long-term EU budget of nearly two trillion euros. Led by countries often referred to as the thrifty group, the coalition argues that funds should be redirected towards priorities like defence rather than increasing institutional staff.

Aid organizations including UNICEF, the Red Cross, CARE Netherlands, and Save the Children are rapidly expanding relief efforts after devastating flash floods struck the Nepal–Tibet border region. With roads destroyed and communities cut off, emergency teams are focusing on medical care, food, clean water, and support for separated children.

The Trump administration is weighing a new wave of semiconductor import tariffs, potentially extending duties to a broad range of tech products. The American tech sector warns the move could undermine the country’s AI ambitions and strain an already fragile supply chain.

The Scientific Council for Government Policy (WRR) warns that Europe must overhaul its trade and innovation policies as major powers increasingly use economic leverage as geopolitical pressure. Without decisive action, the EU risks losing industrial capacity, deepening dependency, and compromising values such as privacy and environmental protection.

The KNMI has issued a nationwide code yellow warning for heavy thunderstorms on Thursday evening and overnight into Friday. The severe weather system will bring strong wind gusts, large hail, and torrential rainfall moving from south to north. Authorities warn of potential localized flooding and advise residents and commuters to take precautions.

Philips has received 34 million dollars from the US government to develop AI-powered robotics for remote stroke surgeries. The technology will allow specialist surgeons to operate on patients from distant control cockpits. Although clinical deployment remains years away, Philips plans to launch the system in the United States before expanding into Europe.

Airlines Corendon and Transavia have strongly criticized scheduled increases to the Dutch flight tax. Operators warn that high duties are driving Dutch travelers to book flights from neighboring German airports. The planned January tax increases will raise passenger charges up to €72 on long-haul flights

The government says it has completed next year’s budget, but securing support in parliament remains a major challenge. While ministers continue talks with opposition parties, several have already questioned whether an agreement is close.