The Latest Breaking News from Jacob Kirkegaard

White House sources say exemption for Budapest to continue buying Russian oil will apply for a year. The move represents a political win for Orbán heading into an election in April, with the Hungarian economy in dire straits. Low energy prices could be a determining factor in the campaign.

Until Europe can defend itself, it's not likely to be invited to a great power dialogue, experts have told Euronews.

France should be in a strong position as Europe reels from the energy crisis, drawing on the renowned nuclear industry that supplies the lion’s share of its power. But France’s nuclear sector has been going through a tricky time, as a significant proportion of its reactors have had to close…

Those in Europe’s inflation hotspot remain calm about rising prices, but a lack of government intervention could fuel further increases – and discontent

While Europe scorches in the heatwave, some of its leaders are securing new gas suppliers to try to ensure the heating stays on this winter as the war in Ukraine forces the continent to confront its dependence on Russian gas. But analysts warn that new gas sources will not solve…