Russians start voting on Putin's mandate

With Europe falling behind the US and losing ground to China, the special European Council will focus mainly on Europe's economic competitiveness in the global arena. But talks will also cover Ukraine, Turkey and the Middle East.

The controversial far-right "National Conservatism" conference taking place in Brussels was ordered to halt at the behest of the local neighbourhood mayor — in what critics described as a publicity victory for the populist right.

Orban and his administration are pursuing a strategy of running-down public education in Hungary. They have been explicit in their aims and how their assault on 'non-Christian' teachers is a small price to pay for the cultural shift they want.

Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi are coming up with reports on the EU's single market and competitiveness — but although 'competitiveness' has become a buzzword, there's no consensus on a definition for what it actually means.

Markus Pieper has decided not to take up his role as the EU's small and medium-sized enterprises envoy, in a surprise U-turn following strong criticism over his appointment.

The EU is hoping to put the international spotlight back on Sudan amid a war where half the population is at risk of famine. And Josep Borrell, EU foreign policy chief, also warned of Russia's presence in the country.