The EU evacuates burn victims after nightclub fire in North Macedonia
A fire in Kocani, North Macedonia, resulted in 59 deaths and over 155 injuries. The EUs Emergency Response Coordination Centre contacted local authorities for support. North Macedonia triggered the EU Civil Protection Mechanism for aid. Nine countries, including Croatia and Greece, offered immediate assistance. Patients have been evacuated to Hungary and Lithuania. The EU continues to coordinate aid and remains ready for further assistance.
Commissioner Hadja Lahbib expressed condolences and thanked countries for their rapid response.
Contact: Eva Hrnčířová – Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Daniel Puglisi – Tel.: +32 2 296 91 40
€699 million Spanish State aid for energy storage
The European Commission approved a €699 million Spanish scheme to support energy storage investments. This aligns with the European Commissions priorities and aims to reduce fossil fuel dependency. The scheme, partly financed by the ERDF, supports the construction of 1,800 MWh storage capacity through direct grants.
The scheme will be open to all storage technologies and is essential for the green transition.
Contact: Lea Zuber – Tel.: +32 2 295 62 98; Luuk de Klein – Tel.: +32 229 94774
€90 million Czech aid for affordable rental housing
The European Commission approved a €90 million Czech scheme for affordable rental housing under the RRF. The aid targets households with limited funds, young families, and essential workers. The scheme runs until June 2026, offering subordinated loans to support housing supply.
Contact: Lea Zuber – Tel.: +32 2 295 62 98; Luuk de Klein – Tel.: +32 229 94774
High-level event for European Health Data Space launch
The European Commission and Polish Presidency launch the EHDS, enhancing health data access across the EU. The system empowers patients to control their health records, supports research, and ensures data security.
Commissioner Várhelyi emphasized the importance of the EHDS for innovation and cross-border collaboration.
Contact: Eva Hrnčířová – Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Anna Gray – Tel.: +32 2 298 08 73
Europols Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment
Commissioner Brunner presents Europols report on serious crime threats in Europe. The report informs the EUs new Internal Security Strategy.
The event will be streamed online. Contact: Markus Lammert – Tel.: +32 2 296 75 33; Elettra Di Massa - Tel.: +32 2 298 21 61