The EU has responded firmly to President Trump’s announcement of tariffs on several European countries over the Greenland dispute, expressing solidarity with Denmark and warning of a “dangerous spiral” that could damage transatlantic relations and even lead to suspension of parts of the trade agreement with the US. France, Sweden and the UK have rejected intimidation and pledged a coordinated European response, while the President of the European Council is coordinating a joint position and EU leaders have convened an emergency meeting to weigh diplomatic, economic and political options.

A concise, practical guide to voting in this Sunday’s presidential election. It explains how to complete ballot papers correctly, what constitutes a spoilt vote, polling hours, ID and postal-vote rules, and how votes are counted and announced. The piece also outlines options for non-participation and places the 2026 presidential contest in its wider democratic and policy context.

The government has committed €110 million to support lithium extraction projects despite strong public opposition. Environmental groups describe the funding as a 'blank cheque' paid for by taxpayers, arguing it risks local ecosystems and undermines sustainability claims. The injection of public funds raises wider questions about fiscal priorities, state backing for critical minerals, regulatory oversight and democratic legitimacy amid popular resistance.

Two of the maternity hospitals with the highest number of births in Portugal are private institutions, a shift that analysts link to the country’s rising caesarean rate, now at a record high. The expansion of deliveries in the private sector appears to be a key driver of growing caesarean use nationally, while within the SNS the public unit with the most births is Maternidade Alfredo da Costa. The pattern raises questions about clinical practice variation between sectors, implications for maternal and neonatal outcomes, and the need for policy and oversight to address incentives and standardise care.

Seixal has moved to secure legal assistance for residents and businesses affected by recent power cuts that have damaged households, disrupted economic activity and impaired essential services. The municipality’s intervention aims to help affected parties understand consumer and utility law, gather evidence of losses and pursue claims or compensation, while scrutinising the responsibilities of suppliers and the adequacy of emergency responses.

Soaring housing costs are forcing households to share single properties, with extremes of up to six families under one roof, while many workers are taking on additional employment — including third jobs — to meet rent and mortgage bills. The situation points to a shortage of affordable accommodation, rising pressure on the local property market and public services, and wider impacts on health, education and the labour market.

A new free trade agreement with South American partners is set to boost Portuguese exports of wine and olive oil by reducing tariffs and opening distribution channels. The deal also creates new market access for Portuguese cheese, presenting export opportunities for dairy producers. However, the agreement could put pressure on domestic beef, pork and poultry sectors, which may face increased competition and potential job and price impacts. Policymakers and industry groups will need targeted measures to support vulnerable meat producers while maximising gains for high-value agri-food exporters.

The Draghi Report's ambitions force Europe to confront uncomfortable realities: it is falling significantly behind global competitors. The analysis argues that the ‘race’ has been underway for years and that closing the gap requires urgent, active policy choices — including structural reforms, targeted investment and a renewed focus on competitiveness across the single market.

A police officer previously implicated in torture had access to unauthorised ammunition from batches not assigned to the PSP; these rounds were untraceable to the force and could facilitate serious firearms offences. The case exposes weaknesses in ammunition control, record-keeping and oversight within the PSP, increasing public safety risks and underscoring the need for stricter inventory procedures, forensic tracing and accountability measures.

Locating a high-speed rail station in Barreiro should be viewed not as a political concession but as a strategic, evidence-led decision in national spatial planning. A station there would strengthen public transport links across the Tagus, rebalance regional development, integrate the south bank into the Alta Velocidade network and deliver long‑term economic and mobility benefits that align with coherent infrastructure and urban‑planning objectives.