Author

Elena Marku

World editor

Elena tracks how international negotiations become domestic politics, from sanctions and security funding to climate finance and regional power blocs.

European Union flags outside the Berlaymont building in Brussels

World

Brussels weighs a security fund with civilian strings

Defense spending is rising, but diplomats are attaching procurement rules, audit clauses, and industrial guarantees to keep the coalition intact.

By Elena MarkuJul 12, 2026 / 7 min

Vehicles and trucks near an international border crossing

World

Border towns ask for a seat in trade talks

Jul 7, 2026 / 6 min

World

Island governments negotiate climate aid with audit clauses

Jun 30, 2026 / 7 min

Flags outside a foreign ministry building

World

Capitals debate whether sanctions need sunset clauses

Jun 22, 2026 / 6 min

Elena Marku

Brussels weighs a security fund with civilian strings

Border towns ask for a seat in trade talks

Island governments negotiate climate aid with audit clauses

Capitals debate whether sanctions need sunset clauses

The morning briefing for people who follow power.