On 8 May, the European Commission launched a public consultation on a list of US imports worth €95 billion that could be subject to countermeasures if the ongoing negotiations with the United States fail. At the same time, the EU is initiating WTO proceedings against universal tariffs and those targeting the automotive sector, which it considers contrary to multilateral trade rules. It is also considering restricting certain exports to the United States, while exploring diplomatic solutions and alternative outlets.

At an informal Gymnich meeting in Warsaw on 7 and 8 May, foreign ministers and the EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, discussed crucial security issues. Alongside the United Kingdom, they reiterated their support for Ukraine and the need to maintain pressure on Russia through enhanced sanctions. Transatlantic cooperation, EU-US relations and hybrid threats to EU Member States and candidates for EU membership were also central to the discussions. Participants stressed the urgency of a more coordinated and proactive European response.

On 8 May, numerous commemorations were held across Europe to mark the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany's surrender. French President Emmanuel Macron presided over a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe, emphasising the importance of defending peace. He awarded the Legion of Honour to Jean Daikhowski, a figure of the Resistance and survivor of the Vel' d'Hiv. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a speech at the London Defence Conference, stressed the need to strengthen ties with European and American allies for the security of the United Kingdom and the European continent. German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier recalled the importance of remembering the past in order to build the future and renewed his support for Ukraine.

On 7 May, the European Union and Singapore signed an ambitious digital trade agreement aimed at facilitating online trade while protecting consumer rights. The agreement, which modernises digital trade rules, ensures reliable cross-border data flows, prohibits unjustified data localisation requirements, and strengthens regulatory cooperation. It is in line with both partners' commitment to promoting open, competitive and rules-based digital economies.

A Eurobarometer survey published on 8 May reveals that Europeans consider culture to be a key factor in unity and identity. 87% of respondents believe that cultural exchanges should play a central role in the European Union. Artistic freedom is considered important by 88% of citizens, although perceptions vary between countries. Nearly half of Europeans participated in an artistic activity in 2023, compared to 37% in 2013. There are growing concerns about the impact of AI on artists, with only 51% of respondents believing that artists are fairly remunerated. Citizens are calling for a greater role for the EU in supporting culture, making the arts more accessible and protecting heritage.

To mark the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, the De Gasperi and Schuman Foundations are organising an event in Rome on 13 May on the European legacy of Schuman and De Gasperi, the founding fathers of the European Union. Antonio Tajani, Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs, will conclude the proceedings.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk signed a treaty on enhanced cooperation between their two countries on 9 May in Nancy. The agreement aims to consolidate ties in the defence, energy, nuclear and cultural sectors. This strategic rapprochement reflects a shared desire to strengthen European sovereignty. The city of Nancy was symbolically chosen to highlight the historical roots of Franco-Polish relations.

'World peace cannot be safeguarded without creative efforts commensurate with the dangers that threaten it. The contribution which an organised and living Europe can make to civilisation is essential to the maintenance of peaceful relations.' These are the words of the Schuman Declaration of 9 May 1950, quoted by Jean-Dominique Giuliani to remind Europeans that the achievements of the European Union do not prevent international instability, which has long been forgotten. Amid this uncertainty, Europe remains a global benchmark for democracy and the rule of law in response to the rise of extremism and populism within its borders. It must therefore show strength and uphold its values in the face of global challenges.

On 8 May, MEPs adopted a measure allowing car manufacturers to smooth their CO2 emissions over the period 2025-2027, rather than having to meet strict annual targets. This flexibility aims to support a sector facing rapid technological change and fierce competition. The average reduction of 15% compared to 2021 remains unchanged. The text, which has already been approved by the Council, must now formally enter into force.

On 8 May, MEPs adopted new rules making it mandatory to screen foreign investments in sensitive sectors such as media, critical raw materials and infrastructure. All Member States will now have to apply harmonised screening mechanisms, and the European Commission will be able to intervene directly in high-risk situations. This reform aims to better protect the Union's security and economic sovereignty, while maintaining an attractive market for investment.

According to a joint report by the OECD and EUIPO published on 7 May, trade in counterfeit goods was worth $467 billion in 2021, posing a growing threat to consumer safety, the global economy and intellectual property. The sectors most affected include clothing, cosmetics and car parts. The report highlights the growing ingenuity of counterfeiters, who are exploiting new technologies and fast delivery channels. In response to this development, the authors call for enhanced international cooperation and better information sharing to combat this illicit trade.

On 12 May, Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, presented his 2025 report entitled 'Towards a New Democratic Pact for Europe'. The Secretary General's annual report assesses the state of democracy, human rights and the rule of law in the 46 member states of the Council of Europe in the two years following the publication of the last comprehensive report in 2023.

On 8 May, MEPs voted in favour of extending trade liberalisation measures with Ukraine, initially scheduled to expire on 5 June 2025. This decision maintains the suspension of customs duties and quotas until June 2028, particularly for the steel sector, in order to support the Ukrainian economy during the war. The aim is to guarantee Ukraine vital export revenues by continuing to open up the European market.

On 9 May, on Europe Day, in Lviv, an international coalition of 39 European states officially approved the creation of a special tribunal to prosecute Russian crimes of aggression against Ukraine. In the presence of Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, the states established an international tribunal with jurisdiction to prosecute senior officials for the crime of aggression against Ukraine.

The leaders of France, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom and Ukraine met in Kyiv on 10 May. The five leaders reiterated their commitment to negotiating a comprehensive and unconditional ceasefire lasting 30 days to allow diplomacy to take its course. They agreed to adopt tougher sanctions against Russia if it refuses a ceasefire, as well as a 17th package of European Union sanctions to be coordinated with sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom, Norway and the United States.

Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Sunday prayer on 11 May from St. Peter's Basilica. He said: 'I carry in my heart the suffering of the Ukrainian people. Let us do everything possible to achieve a just and lasting peace as quickly as possible.' The pontiff called for the release of prisoners of war and the return of Ukrainian children to their families, and welcomed the ceasefire between India and Pakistan.