Good morning from European Pulse. As the continent wakes up to a new week, several stories are set to dominate the news cycle. Here’s what you need to know this Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
Political developments across the EU
In Brussels, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to meet with EU energy ministers later today to discuss the bloc's winter preparedness. With gas storage levels at 85% capacity, the focus will be on ensuring solidarity among member states, particularly for those most vulnerable to supply disruptions. The meeting comes ahead of a broader summit scheduled for late September.
Meanwhile, in Paris, the Élysée Palace has confirmed that President Emmanuel Macron will address the nation on Thursday. Speculation is rife that he will announce a reshuffle of his government, following weeks of internal tensions within the ruling coalition. The address is expected to focus on domestic reforms, including pension adjustments and housing policy.
In Berlin, the Bundestag is set to debate a new climate package proposed by the coalition government. The legislation aims to accelerate the phase-out of coal in the eastern states, with a proposed €40 billion fund to support affected regions. Opposition parties have criticized the plan as insufficient, while environmental groups have welcomed it as a step in the right direction.
Economic and business news
On the economic front, the European Central Bank is closely monitoring inflation figures released this morning. Preliminary data from Eurostat shows that inflation in the eurozone held steady at 2.3% in July, slightly above the ECB's target. Analysts expect the bank to maintain its current interest rate policy at its next meeting in September, but a rate cut is not entirely off the table.
In corporate news, the German automotive giant Volkswagen has announced a major investment in a new battery plant in Zaragoza, Spain. The €3 billion facility is expected to create 5,000 jobs and will supply electric vehicle batteries to several European manufacturers. This move is seen as a boost to the EU's efforts to build a self-sufficient battery supply chain.
Across the Channel, the UK's Office for National Statistics reported that the economy grew by 0.4% in the second quarter, slightly beating forecasts. The services sector led the growth, while manufacturing remained sluggish. The Bank of England is expected to keep interest rates unchanged at its next meeting.
Culture and society
In cultural news, the Edinburgh International Festival kicked off over the weekend, drawing performers and audiences from across the globe. This year's program includes a retrospective on the works of Scottish filmmaker Lynne Ramsay, as well as a series of concerts celebrating the music of the Balkans. The festival runs until the end of August.
In Italy, the city of Venice has announced new measures to manage tourism, including a reservation system for day-trippers during peak season. The move aims to reduce overcrowding and protect the city's fragile infrastructure. Local authorities have also pledged to invest in affordable housing for residents, as the population continues to decline.
Meanwhile, in Poland, the annual Warsaw Uprising commemorations took place yesterday, marking the 82nd anniversary of the 1944 revolt. President Andrzej Duda laid a wreath at the memorial, and a minute of silence was observed across the city. The event serves as a reminder of the country's wartime history and its enduring spirit.
Looking ahead
As the day progresses, we'll be following these stories and more. For a deeper dive into yesterday's key events, you can revisit our midday bulletin from August 3 and our evening briefing from August 2. We'll also be updating you on the latest from the Beirut exhibition that has been drawing attention for its cultural significance.
Stay with European Pulse for comprehensive coverage of the stories that matter to Europe. Our team of correspondents across the continent is working to bring you the latest updates as they happen.
