The European Union (EU) on Monday unveiled a 500 million euro initiative to attract foreign scientists, particularly from the U.S., amid American research funding cuts.
A major international science summit titled "Choose Europe for Science" convened in Paris on Monday, where the European Commission announced the initiative plan.
Held at the Sorbonne University, the event brought together top officials, including French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and leaders from major European universities and research institutions.
The initiative is seen as a direct response to mounting concerns within the global scientific community over reduced support for research in the United States.
Macron criticized recent decisions by the Trump administration to cut research projects and reduce funding for scientific research, calling it a surprising move for a country so reliant on scientific innovation. He said that Europe must become a safe haven for scientists in this context.
To that end, Macron announced an additional 100 million euros in funding through his country's "France 2030" national investment plan to support further the recruitment of international researchers, particularly those from the U.S.
Echoing Macron's remarks, von der Leyen confirmed that the EU will invest 500 million euros over the next three years to ensure Europe remains an attractive destination for global scientific talent.
Since the Trump administration took office, U.S. science policy has seen dramatic changes, including significant cuts to the National Science Foundation, reduced funding for climate research, and the cancellation of hundreds of projects focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. These moves have prompted growing unease among scientists in the U.S., with many now considering relocation.
In a related move, France launched the Choose France for Science platform on April 18 as part of the "France 2030" initiative. The platform is designed to help French universities and research institutions welcome international scientists to live and work in France.
EU launches 500 mln euro plan to retain scientists
The Iranian government is focusing on public concerns and maintaining stable supplies of essential goods amid recent protests, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a televised interview on Sunday.
In the city of Karaj, northwest of the capital Tehran, daily life has largely continued as normal. A video filmed by a local resident on Sunday shows food stores open and grocery shelves fully stocked.
"This is the block near my home, and there are some food stores here. Daily life continues here. Last night we did not see many protests in Karaj. Right now the city is very safe. This is a grocery store close to my home. All the food is available; nothing is in shortage. Here are noodles and different types of beans. Here are dairy products, cheese, and yogurt. I also checked other grocery stores and didn't see any shortages. Everything is available," said local resident Ali Reza.
Iranian officials have described recent disturbances as acts orchestrated by the "enemy," including some carried out by well-trained and armed "terrorists." The incidents have caused casualties among security personnel and civilians, as well as property damage.
The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani has directed authorities to severely punish the "terrorists."
Meanwhile, Iran's police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan said on Sunday that the police had raised alert levels and arrested several leaders of the troublemakers during the operations on Saturday.
President Pezeshkian noted in the interview that the normal demands of the Iranian people are reasonable and justified, but they must realize that triggering riots and carrying out terrorist acts are the enemy's attempts to undermine the country. He urged the public to remain vigilant.
Also on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that Tehran would regard U.S. and Israeli bases and facilities in the Middle East as "legitimate targets" if Washington takes military action against Iran. His remarks followed media reports saying U.S. President Donald Trump is "seriously considering authorizing a strike" against Iran.
Iranian state media reported that at least 109 members of Iran's security forces have been killed in clashes since the protests began 14 days ago. Meanwhile, human rights groups based outside the country said the number of protesters killed has exceeded 200, though the figure could not be independently verified.
The protests initially erupted over a sharp depreciation of the rial and sweeping subsidy reforms. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked agents and sanctions imposed by the United States.
Iranian president says government focusing on ensuring supplies amid protests
