Kimberley Le Court First African Wins Tour de France Femmes Stage

Recent developments in Europe highlight economic growth, international trade tensions, and humanitarian concerns. France's economy grew by 0.3% in the second quarter, driven by increased household spending, while Air France-KLM reported higher operating profits despite uncertainties from U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies. French President Emmanuel Macron criticized the EU-US trade deal, suggesting it reflected the EU's diminished standing with the U.S. In Germany, Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed dissatisfaction with the trade agreement's outcomes, predicting significant economic damage due to tariffs, and announced plans for a humanitarian airlift to Gaza amid ongoing conflict. Germany also plans substantial budget increases aimed at infrastructure and defense investments, alongside measures to cut energy costs using its Climate and Transformation Fund. Meanwhile, the European Commission proposed a nearly doubled budget for the EU's 2028-34 research and innovation program, signaling a strong emphasis on science and technology funding.