War on words: The period since October 2023 has been dubbed ‘the most deadly period for journalists since records began’ in 1992. Alongside this, the International and European Federation of Journalists has spoken out against increasing restrictions of press freedom across Europe, such as the unlawful deployment of spyware against journalists, and the use of lawsuits (SLAPPs) to hamper investigative work. What safeguards should the EU implement to protect press freedom and safeguard journalists in conflict zones?