Rights groups have slammed the dialogue, labeling it "meaningless," but the EU says it is important "to have a frank discussion."

Europe is becoming more aware of itself as an economic and trading power – that’s the message from France’s secretary of state for European affairs, Laurence Boone. She talks about the new tools the EU has given itself to take on unfair competition, especially from Chinese companies, but she also downplays the warnings of a possible conflict with the United States over subsidies.

"We will stand by Ukraine's side as long as it takes," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tells DW.

Brussels stopped short of labeling Revolutionary Guards a terrorist group in its latest raft of Iran sanctions. Meanwhile, the UK summoned a top Iranian diplomat over alleged threats to UK-based reporters.

Estonia wants Brussels to find and fund more ammunition for Kyiv. The European Commission believes its recent experience with COVID vaccines will work for much-needed missiles for Ukraine.

Syrians and Afghans applied for asylum in the highest numbers in 2022, following an easing of COVID-19 restrictions and a rise of political insecurity in their respective countries.

The United States announced sanctions against hundreds of Russian individuals and firms. The EU however could not agree on measures.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are in Tallinn. Estonia's Independence Day coincides with Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Among the EU's latest package of Russian sanctions, members of the Wagner Group mercenary company were included for alleged crimes committed in Africa. The group's exact African footprint is disputed, but it's growing.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have jointly announced in-person talks, in London on Monday. This comes amid long-running post-Brexit negotiations on Northern Ireland.

The EU published its peace plan for Serbia and Kosovo on Monday after tense mediation talks in Brussels. "Progress was made today," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said.

The British prime minister rushed to Northern Ireland a day after his EU agreement to tout the country as "the world's most exciting economic zone." But he needs to convince the unionist DUP to back the agreement.