EU Splits as Major South American Trade Deal Approved

European Union member states have approved a major trade agreement with the South American bloc Mercosur. The deal passed despite significant internal divisions and ongoing protests from environmental and farmer groups. According to reports, several EU countries voted against the agreement. France, Poland, Austria, Hungary, and Ireland all reportedly opposed the deal. Belgium chose to abstain from the vote. The agreement aims to cut tariffs on most goods traded between the two economic areas. Proponents argue it will boost economic growth. Critics warn it could harm EU farmers and fail to protect the Amazon rainforest. The deal still requires final approval by the European Parliament, where it faces strong opposition.