Meanwhile in Europe: June 5, 2025 - Travel Bans, Spending Pressures, and Shifting Alliances Across Europe

Welcome back to "meanwhile in Europe". On this Thursday, June 5, 2025, the pressure is mounting across Europe and in transatlantic relations.We're diving deep into shockwaves from Washington, where President Donald Trump has unleashed a sweeping new travel ban impacting nearly 20 nations. This controversial move sets the stage for his crucial meeting with Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz, where Ukraine's fate, crippling trade tariffs, and explosive claims of MAGA interference in German politics are all on the table. Adding to the tension, Trump just spoke with Vladimir Putin about Ukraine's latest drone attack, with Putin warning of a response. Plus, hear why the U.S. is reportedly withholding air support for a British-French peacekeeping effort in Ukraine. Meanwhile, at NATO HQ in Brussels, defense ministers are debating a massive surge in spending targets, potentially pushing alliances towards a 5% GDP goal.Across the Channel in London, the Labour government is caught in a spending review squeeze. Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces heat over a proposed complex U-turn on pensioner winter fuel payments involving controversial clawbacks via tax returns. But it's not all cuts – the government is expanding free school meals to help another half a million children, while pushing a new pensions bill to create investment megafunds. Get ready for a major clash on immigration: the Conservative opposition is set to propose a law to block all small boat asylum claims and force judges to ignore the European Convention on Human Rights. And Labour's Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is also preparing her own legislation to tackle foreign criminals using the ECHR. We'll also have eyes on a critical by-election in Scotland.Tune in as we navigate the political currents from Paris, covering planned government legislation on child protection and a symbolic parliamentary move to repeal the pension reform. The Socialist Party is on edge as they decide their new leader in a photo finish race, and we examine the early maneuvering and potential pitfalls for candidates in the 2026 municipal elections, including allegations swirling around potential Paris contender Rachida Dati.Finally, from Berlin, delve into the controversy surrounding a key Armaments State Secretary appointment and the ongoing debate about reintroducing conscription as Germany grapples with ambitious new NATO defense targets. We'll also touch on a financial spat between states and the aftermath of recent incidents in the Bundestag. Plus, hear about Germany's reaffirmed support and arms deliveries for Israel.Don't miss this packed episode exploring the critical decisions, domestic battles, and international flashpoints shaping the continent right now.