FT News Briefing Ukraine and Israel vie for EU’s attention
Oct 23, 2023
Toyota is on the brink of mass-producing next-gen solid-state batteries, signaling a shift in automotive tech. Meanwhile, the European Union is caught in a delicate balancing act, addressing the urgent needs arising from the wars in Ukraine and Israel. Israeli startups are facing tough times due to the ongoing conflict, which affects their workforce and investment opportunities. The resilience of the Israeli tech sector is tested as companies navigate uncertainty and plan for a challenging future.
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EU's Divided Attention
- The EU faces the challenge of balancing support for two major conflicts: the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict.
- This marks the first time since February 2022 that Ukraine isn't the EU's primary concern.
Divisions within the EU
- While the EU maintains consensus on supporting Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas conflict has exposed divisions among member states.
- This division raises questions about the EU's ability to effectively support both conflicts simultaneously.
Toyota's Battery Breakthrough
- Toyota is nearing mass production of solid-state batteries, which could significantly increase the range and decrease charging times of electric vehicles.
- These batteries, however, are sensitive to moisture and oxygen, posing manufacturing challenges.