Sergei Tikhanovsky, the main opponent of the Belarusian regime, was released on 21 June after more than five years in detention. His release, which took place simultaneously with that of 13 other political prisoners, comes in the wake of a visit to Minsk by a US envoy, signalling a possible diplomatic rapprochement. Looking haggard and emaciated, Sergei Tikhanovsky made his first public appearance at a conference in Vilnius, Lithuania, where he plans to continue supporting the opposition. Despite this gesture, around 1,200 political prisoners remain in detention in Belarus, highlighting the fact that the human rights situation there continues to be critical.

On 20 June, the European Commission decided to exclude Chinese companies from public tenders for medical equipment worth more than €5 million. This decision is in response to restrictions imposed by China on European companies. It covers a wide range of medical supplies, from masks to medical robots, in a market worth €150 billion. The aim is to encourage China to lift discrimination against medical devices from the European Union.

On 16 June, ministers discussed the REPowerEU roadmap to end the European Union's energy dependence on Russia. They emphasised the importance of investing quickly in renewable energy, infrastructure and networks. The Polish Presidency adopted conclusions to strengthen the Energy Union, ensure security of supply and promote strategic autonomy. Other topics such as methane regulation and the protection of energy infrastructure were also discussed.

At a meeting on 19 June, Eurogroup ministers formally admitted Bulgaria to the euro area as of 1 January 2026. They discussed the resilience of the euro area economies and the challenges facing the financial sector with Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF. They emphasised the need for prudent fiscal policies and the continuation of the digital euro project. On 20 June, finance ministers supported a reform of the customs union, discussed the 2025 budgetary recommendations, approved the fiscal trajectories of several countries and adopted the recommendation on the enlargement of the euro area. They also welcomed progress on financial services and took note of the revised recovery plans in several Member States.

On 19 and 20 June, ministers responsible for employment, social policy, health and consumer affairs (EPSCO) adopted a position on a directive aimed at improving the conditions of traineeships, as well as measures to strengthen gender equality in the digital age and to better integrate older people into the labour market. In the area of health, ministers supported the protection of young people's mental health and discussed the future Critical Medicines Act. Finally, they discussed preventive measures against alcohol and tobacco use.

Until 23 November, the Rheinisches Landesmuseum and the Stadtmuseum Simeonstift in Trier are hosting the first major national exhibition dedicated to Marcus Aurelius. Featuring over 300 exceptional objects from numerous international museums, this exhibition is a unique event celebrating Marcus Aurelius, a major figure in history, emperor and Stoic philosopher.

The 30th edition of the West Cork Chamber Music Festival is taking place until 6 July in Bantry, County Cork, in a spectacular seaside setting. Over ten days, renowned international artists and young Irish talent will perform in three daily concerts, accompanied by masterclasses and other events.

On 19 June, Eutelsat announced a €1.35 billion capital increase, supported by the French government and several shareholders. The operation aims to finance its ambitions in satellite internet via OneWeb and the European Iris² programme. The French government will double its stake, thereby strengthening its strategic control. The recapitalisation will also significantly reduce the group's debt. This move is part of a broader effort to build a European space champion to rival Starlink.

On 20 June, Romanian President Nicușor Dan appointed Ilie Bolojan as Prime Minister, calling for a stable and reformist government. In a formal address in Bucharest, the President stated that the government's priority must be to correct the financial deficit by reducing and rationalising spending.

On 16 June, the European Commission published its 2025 report on the Digital Decade, assessing progress towards the 2030 targets. While progress has been made in the digitisation of businesses and public services, gaps remain, particularly in 5G infrastructure, digital skills and cybersecurity. The Commission calls for increased investment and the removal of barriers to innovation. Member States are invited to engage in dialogue on the proposed recommendations.

On 20 June, the European Environment Agency presented its report on bathing water quality in Europe. 96% of bathing waters meet minimum quality standards, with 85% rated as 'excellent' and only 1.5% as 'poor', levels that have remained stable over the past year. Monitoring is based on more than 22,000 sites in 2024, ranked according to bacteria levels.

On 19 June, the Dutch Parliament officially recognised the deportation of Crimean Tatars by the Soviet regime in 1944 as genocide. Approximately 190,000 people were deported to Central Asia, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians. The event, known as 'Sürgünlik', is considered an attempt at ethnic cleansing. The recognition aims to preserve historical memory and support the rights of Crimean Tatars.

On 16 June, the Council and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement to strengthen the cross-border application of the GDPR. The text harmonises the rules on the admissibility of complaints, guarantees the rights of complainants and entities subject to complaints, and introduces clear deadlines for investigations. A fast-track mechanism is provided for simple cases, aimed at speeding up processing without involving all European actors.

On 17 June, the Council and the European Parliament reached an agreement to strengthen the mechanism to suspend the visa waiver programme for certain third countries. This measure aims to better combat abuses such as the increase in irregular entries, citizenship acquisition programmes and hybrid threats. The temporary suspension may last up to 12 months, renewable for 24 months, with the possibility of targeting only those responsible rather than the entire population. This reform aims to improve the European Union's responsiveness and effectiveness in addressing migration and security challenges.