CES “News from Europe” collects interesting and timely news articles from around Europe. You can get an overview from the recaps or click the link to see the full article. Be sure to check back weekly for the next installment.
Week of December 1, 2025
- Italian fashion giant Prada buys Versace – at a discount
This Thursday, Prada, the renowned Italian fashion house, announced its acquisition of Versace, a former competitor in the luxury fashion industry. The deal was made at a price significantly lower than the previous price paid by the brand’s former owners, Capri Holdings, when it acquired Versace in 2018. This announcement follows the departure of Donatella Versace, Versace’s creative chief, who stepped down in March after 27 years in the fashion industry. With this acquisition, Prada expands its already sizable portfolio, which includes rising luxury brands like Miu Miu and other established global labels. - Greek sheep and goat cull raises fears of feta cheese shortage
An outbreak of sheep and goat pox in Greece has led to the culling of 417,000 animals, raising concerns of a potential feta cheese shortage. Initially detected in August 2024 in Northern Greece, the disease has spread across multiple regions and large-scale farms within the state, devastating local herders. Under Greece’s current regulations, the detection of a single case requires an entire herd to be culled as a part of preventative measures. With 80% of Greece’s sheep and goat milk going to feta production, small dairy farmers are already struggling to source the milk needed for the EU product designated cheese. Many herders are now calling for Greece to adopt mass vaccination programs, like those seen in Turkey and Bulgaria, instead of culling, as they continue to lose thousands of animals and significant capital. - Former EU foreign policy chief arrested in corruption probe | AP News
The European Union’s former foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, was arrested on fraud and corruption charges following an investigation. Belgian authorities arrested Mogherini after raiding diplomatic offices in Brussels this Wednesday. This development comes as the EU continues to pressure Ukraine to address widespread corruption, largely threatening to weaken the EU’s international optics as it seeks more influence in Ukrainian dealings. Mogherini has not issued a public statement, but her lawyer, Mariapaola Cherchi, stated that she is confident that her client will be cleared ‘on the basis of such a clear interrogation, without any tension on either side.’ This case is one of many corruption scandals that the EU has faced in recent years, including the arrest of a close aide to a prominent lawmaker, Maximilian Krah, following allegations of being a Chinese agent. - Putin accused of feigning interest in Ukraine peace efforts | AP News
Ukraine and many European nations have accused Russia of ‘feigning interest’ in peace talks, as negotiations continue to stall between the two nations. Nearing four-years, the Ukrainian and Russian war has seen minimal progress toward meaningful concessions as tensions escalate and casualties continue to grow on both sides. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that Russian President, Vladimir Putin, ‘should end the bluster and the bloodshed and be ready to come to the table and to support a just and lasting peace,’ a far cry to the Kremlin’s claims that European leaders are sabotaging United States headed peace efforts. These accusations follow the controversial US peace proposal that Ukraine and its European allies said blindsided them and favors the Russian state. - UK courts: Justice minister plans judge-only courts for lower-level cases | CNN
UK courts are considering removing the longstanding right to trial by jury for lesser criminal cases. With the UK’s judicial system heavily stalled, thousands of criminal cases are backlogged and jails are having to release offenders early due to overflowing populations. The proposal, spearheaded by Justice and Deputy Minister David Lammy, seeks to establish “Swift Courts” that would expedite trial proceedings by 20% by allowing judges to sit alone, without juries, for trials of lesser offenses. Critics of Lammy’s plan argue that replacing juries is not the solution for larger systematic issues, stating the plan is under ‘the mistaken belief that radical equals effective.’ - Jūrmala’s residents protest against ‘deforestation disguised as cleanup’ / Article
Residents of the popular Latvian seaside town of Jūrmala are protesting what they say are storm cleanups that cause ‘more damage than the storm itself.’ In the region, machine-powered cutters are standard for clearing fallen, or damaged trees. Protesters state that these machines significantly contribute to deforestation in the town, since removing one damaged tree often leads to numerous healthy trees being cut down with it. In response to the resident’s complaints, Jūrmala’s municipality has approved an investigation into the effectiveness and appropriateness of the cutters. Despite this, residents continue to raise concerns, with some claiming that the timber from deforested trees could be sold for a profit.
Week of November 17, 2025
- U.S. and Russia draw up peace plan for Ukraine | AP News
The United States and Russia have created a peace plan for Ukraine. The agreement, requiring major concessions from Ukraine, has caused substantive criticism from European diplomats who insist they and Kyiv should have been consulted. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas added ‘For any plan to work, it needs Ukrainians and Europeans on board.’ According to a senior US official, the plan has been on the drawing board for months, amounting more pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who continues to amp up the state’s defenses against Russian troops. The plan seems highly favorable to Moscow. Concessions include granting Russia control of the occupied Donbas region and urging Ukraine to abandon weaponry, provisions Zelenskyy has denounced. - Christmas market in Germany opens after last year’s deadly attack in Magdeburg | AP News
This Thursday, Christmas markets in the German city of Magdeburg have reopened, nearing a year after a fatal car-ramming killed six people and wounding many more. A significant part of German culture and holiday tradition, merchants and visitors alike are hopeful for the reopening of the Christmas markets. Earlier this month, the suspect in the car-ramming, Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, was charged with six counts of murder and 338 counts of attempted murder, his session schedule for March. - Ethiopia receives 12 historic artefacts held in Germany for 100 years
12 historic artifacts have been returned to Ethiopia after being kept by a German family for 100 years. Returned to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University, the artifacts hold significant historical and cultural value to Ethiopia, with crowns and paintings among the artifacts. Professor Ramon Wyss, who’s father was born during the family’s diplomatic stationing in Ethiopia says his intentions for returning the artifacts are to ‘share their beauty with the public and preserve the culture and history…’ This repatriation follows recent calls for artifacts sourced from colonial plunders to be returned to their African homelands. - Gustav Klimt painting becomes second most expensive artwork sold at auction
A painting by Gustav Klimt has sold for $236.4 million in New York. The piece, “Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer” is among Gustav Klimt most prized works. Painted between 1914-1916, the piece was looted by the Nazis and later returned to Lederer’s brother, a friend and the subject of Klimt’s portrait. Now, the painting almost destroyed by Nazis has become the second most expensive artwork to be sold at auction after a heated 20-minute bidding battle. The painting depicts an heiress wearing a white robe standing in front of a blue tapestry with Asian designs. The auction house, Sotheby’s, is renowned for high-status and high-value sales, with a sculpture of a gold toilet being sold for $12.1 million just an hour after the Klimt’s sale. - Leaders of ethnically split Cyprus agree to work towards reviving talks | Reuters
The rival leaders of the ethnically split Cyprus have agreed to open talks. On Thursday, Greek Cypriot leader, Nikos Christodoulides, and Turkish Cypriot leader, Tufan Erhurman, met in the split capital Nicosia. This meeting takes place following Erhurman’s landslide victory in the recent Turkish Cypriot presidential election. His campaign focused on reviving stalled UN negotiations regarding the reunification of the divided state. Cyprus has been split since 1974 following a Turkish invasion and subsequent Greek-inspired coup, ushering in UN peacekeeping forces. Talks between the divided halves have often been brief and stalemated throughout the years, with the last meeting between the two taking place in 2017. A spokesperson for the UN missions says the leaders ‘expressed their readiness to work towards the next informal meeting in a broader format to be convened by the U.N. Secretary General.’ - ‘Fake’ carbonara sauce causes outrage in Italy | CNN
A carbonara sauce manufactured in Belgium has sparked outrage in Italy. The sauce, appearing in a store in European Parliament, uses non-typical ingredients including replacing the standard pork jowl with smoked pancetta. These ingredients have attracted much criticism from Italy, an outspoken advocate for the protection of cultural foods from imitation. Italy’s agriculture minister, Francesco Lollobrigida has taken to X to denounce the sauce, claiming it ‘represents the worst of Italian-sounding products,’ with other groups claiming the fake Italian products cost the country 120 billion euros. As Italy bids for its cuisine to be recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity product, fake Italian products continue to become a large point of contention between Rome and companies wishing to make Italian products with alternate recipes.
Week of November 10, 2025
- 5,200 Cheeses Go for Gold in Switzerland
The World Cheese Awards, held in Bern, Switzerland, drew a record-breaking field of over 5,200 cheeses from 46 countries this year. Judging was rigorous: about 265 experts in blind-tasted entries, assessing aroma, texture, flavor, and mouthfeel. The competition included intense aromas; judges noted smells like “stinky socks” and “sick dog” as they worked their way through rows of monumental wheels and soft wedges. In the end, the winner was a Swiss cow-milk cheese: the Gruyère AOP Vorderfultigen Spezial from the small dairy Bergkäserei Vorderfultigen, aged over 18 months. - Poland’s President Makes a Far-Right Play in 100 Days
In his first 100 days in office, Poland’s new President Karol Nawrocki has been positioning himself strongly toward the nationalist and far-right end of the political spectrum. Nawrocki won the presidency in June, backed by the conservative nationalist party of Law and Justice (PiS) and also by far-right groups. In the legislative arena, he has used his veto powers quickly: Within his first month, he vetoed multiple draft laws backed by the government of Donald Tusk, including one on support for Ukrainian refugees and another loosening regulations around windfarms. - Napoleon’s Lost Sparkle: Brooch from Waterloo Fetches $4.4 M
A diamond brooch once lost by Napoleon Bonaparte during his retreat from the Battle of Waterloo was sold at auction in Geneva for more than 3.5 million Swiss francs (about US $4.4 million). The brooch (also wearable as a pendant) features an oval diamond over 13 carats surrounded by smaller cut diamonds. According to the auction house of Sotheby’s, the jewel belonged to Napoleon’s personal belongings that were abandoned on muddy roads as his carriages were stalled while fleeing, among the retreating possessions after the Battle of Waterloo. The buyer was a private collector; the identity of the seller was not disclosed. - Underground Spider City found on Greece-Albania Border
Researchers discovered what’s believed to be the world’s largest known spider-web, spanning about 1,140 square feet (≈106 m²) in a dark zone of Sulfur Cave on the Greece Albania border. The web houses an estimated 110,000 + spiders, composed of about 69,000 individuals of the common house-spider species Tegenaria domestica and about 42,000 of the sheet-weaver species Prinerigone vagans. What makes this remarkable is that these spiders, normally solitary and aggressive (especially toward other species), are cohabiting peacefully in this dense colonial web structure. - Deadly Waves: Fierce Tidal Surge Hits Tenerife’s Coastline
A powerful tidal surge struck the coast of Tenerife in the Canary Islands on Saturday, resulting in three deaths and 15 injuries. The fatalities included a man and a woman who were swept into the Atlantic Ocean at the municipalities of La Guancha and Puerto de la Cruz, and a third man whose body was later found floating near a beach in Granadilla. Authorities had issued warnings ahead of time: strong winds, tidal surge risk, and advice for people to stay off coastal paths, avoid the turbulent sea, and not attempt to photograph or video the rough conditions. - “No means No” – Italy Redefines Sexual Violence
Italy’s Chamber of Deputies Justice Commission has approved a bipartisan amendment to its sexual violence law that centers on “free and current” consent rather than just physical coercion. Under the new text, anyone who performs (or causes) sexual acts without the free, conscious, unequivocal, and revocable consent of the other person faces 6 to 12 years in prison. The amendment clarifies that consent gained through coercion, abuse of authority, threats, deception, or by exploiting a person’s physical or mental vulnerability is not valid.
Week of November 3, 2025
- EU agrees on flexible 90% carbon emissions reduction by 2040 ahead of U.N. climate talks | AP News
Ahead of COP30, the United Nation’s 30th annual climate conference, the European Union committed to a 90% cut in carbon emissions by 2040. Despite its carbon credit provisions several nations opposed the agreement, among them Hungary, Slovakia and Poland. Environmentalists and other activist groups largely criticized the agreement, particularly provisions allowing states to buy carbon credits from less-developed countries, claiming it ‘makes it someone else’s problem.’ The agreement was largely debated between ministers of 27 nations in an overnight session on Wednesday taking place in Brussels. - German nurse convicted of murdering 10 patients to reduce his workload | CNN
This Wednesday, a German palliative nurse was convicted of the murder of 10 patients. Taking place over the course of a year, prosecutors argued the nurse injected elderly patients with lethal sedatives, or painkillers to reduce his workload during overnight shifts. The court named his crimes particularly severe, with an additional 27 surviving victims identified. The former nurse was sentenced to life in prison with minimal possibility of parole after 15 years. - Ukraine faces potential fall of Pokrovsk to Russia after 18-month battle of attrition – ABC News
Ukraine faces the potential risk of losing the critical city of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine to Russian forces after an extended 18-month battle. Since Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion, Pokrovsk has become an important focus in the Kremlin’s attempts to capture Ukraine’s eastern oblast of Donetsk. For months, Russia has amped pressure to the city, achieving blocking two key supply routes, making it difficult for Ukrainian forces to bring supplies amidst heightened drone fire. Ukrainian troops have attempted to counteract Russian offences, launching aerial operations in Russian occupied territory. Despite, Ukrainian efforts, Russian control of the city seems likely. This could lower Ukrainian morale and open routes for Russian offensives to reach other cities within the Donetsk Oblast. While Ukraine has avoided mass surrender, except for the Russian siege of Mariupol, the increasingly dire situation in Pokrovsk could force the state’s hands. - Paris residents can enter lottery to share cemetery space with Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde | CNN
The city of Paris announced plans to introduce a lottery for burial spots one of its most prestigious cemeteries. Among those buried in the cemetery include notable politicians, musicians and artists. This unique initiative aims to encourage the restoration of decaying tombs and offer Parisians a rare opportunity to secure burial sites within the city. Winners of the lottery will obtain rights to restore and buy 30 designated tombs in three cemeteries located throughout the city. Despite previous efforts, legal constraints have barred city hall from implementing earlier solutions for the deteriorating cemeteries. - Cristiano Ronaldo plans to retire from football for family reasons | Football News | Al Jazeera
Legendary Portuguese soccer player, Cristiano Ronaldo says he will retire ‘soon.’ Speaking to a TV talk show in the United Kingdom, the Al Nassr striker admits it will be difficult to retire from his over two-decade-long career. With six kids and a nearing wedding, he states family considerations as primary reasons for his decision to leave the sport. Cristiano Ronaldo is an all-time leading goal scorer with 952 for his club and national teams combined. Ronaldo states he is targeting 1,000 goals before fully retiring. - Centrist D66 party takes home win in Dutch election – ABC News
Legendary Portuguese soccer player, Cristiano Ronaldo says he will retire ‘soon.’ Speaking to a TV talk show in the United Kingdom, the Al Nassr striker admits it will be difficult to retire from his over two-decade-long career. With six kids and a nearing wedding, he states family considerations as primary reasons for his decision to leave the sport. Cristiano Ronaldo is an all-time leading goal scorer with 952 for his club and national teams combined. Ronaldo states he is targeting 1,000 goals before fully retiring.
Week of October 27, 2025
- Russia Launches Massive Drone and Missile Strike on Ukraine’s Power Grid
According to Ukrainian officials, Ukraine was hit by a major assault from Russia that included more than 650 drones and over 50 missiles, targeting the country’s energy infrastructure ahead of winter. The strikes damaged multiple power facilities across Ukraine, cutting electricity and by extension secondary systems like water, sewage and heating in all regions of the country. At least six people were killed, including a 7-year-old girl, and about 18 others were wounded (some children aged 2 to 16). - Louvre Update: Five More Arrests
French authorities have arrested five additional suspects in connection with the robbery of the French crown jewels from the Louvre’s Apollo Gallery, bringing the total number of detainees to seven. The theft occurred on 19 October 2025 when four men, apparently posing as maintenance workers, used a stolen furniture-lift truck to access the façade of the Louvre, climbed into the gallery, broke display cases with power tools, and fled on scooters. The jewels stolen are valued at about US $102 million (≈ €88 million) and include historic pieces, only one piece has been recovered. - Sagrada Familia Becomes the World’s Tallest Church
The iconic basilica in Barcelona, designed by Antoni Gaudí, the Sagrada Família, has officially reached a height of 162.91 meters (534 ft) after installation of a new segment on its central “Tower of Jesus Christ”. This height surpasses the Ulmer Münster in Germany, which had held the record at 161.53 meters (530 ft). The construction of the Sagrada Família began in 1882 and remains unfinished; the final height is projected to reach 172 meters (564 ft) once the tower is completed in the coming months. Although the height has been achieved, work continues its interior, facades and other towers; complete construction is expected to span many more years. - Hungary Signals Shift
Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union faces a major roadblock in Hungary, where the government has publicly pledged to veto negotiations opening for Kyiv. Hungarian officials say that admitting Ukraine, a country currently at war, into the EU would mean “this war becomes our war”, raising concerns that the bloc would be dragged into the conflict. At the same time, Hungary is actively supporting enlargement of the EU to the Western Balkans (Serbia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina) and for Moldova and Georgia. - Golden Monkeys Debut at European Zoos
China has sent a group of golden monkeys (a primate species native to China) to European zoos, in what observers describe as an extension of its “animal-diplomacy” practice beyond the iconic giant pandas. European zoos receiving the golden monkeys view it as an opportunity for increased visitation, educational programming, and enhancement of conservation messaging, while China bolsters its global image as a conservation actor. - Vatican to Reconcile with Canada
The Vatican plans to return a “few dozen” culturally important artifacts to Indigenous communities in Canada. These items come from the Vatican Museum’s ethnographic collection, known as the Vatican Museums’ Anima Mundi collection, and include pieces such as an Inuit kayak, wampum belts, war clubs and ceremonial masks. The artifacts were originally sent by Catholic missionaries as “gifts” for a 1925 Vatican exhibition during the Holy Year, but many historians and Indigenous leaders question the voluntariness of those transfers given the colonial context.
Week of October 20, 2025
- King Charles lands in Rome for historic visit to meet Pope Leo
King Charles and Queen Camila have arrived in Rome for a meeting with Pope Leo. The historic meeting between the Holy See and the largely Anglican nation, comes amidst heightened tensions and recent allegations related to Prince Andrew. This visit is the first occasion a British monarch will pray with the Pope since the Reformation in the 16th century. Focusing on bridging inter-religious dialogue and connection, the King’s spokesperson hailed this meeting as essential in ‘times of such global challenge,’ with other British representatives commenting on the Pope and the King’s ability to find ‘common ground,’ with differing approaches. - EU agrees on new sanctions against Russia | AP News
After the first meetings of this week’s EU summit in Brussels, EU members agreed to instate new sanctions on Russia, targeting their oil tanker fleets and imports of natural gas. Energy revenue is pivotal for the Russian war effort; potential sanctions could surge inflation and largely devalue the Russian ruble. These sanctions come a day after US President Trump issued his own sanctions on the Russian oil industry in hopes of pushing the warring nation toward the negotiation table. Among the items on the docket, issues relating to the Ukrainian and Russian war dominate talks as the nearing four-year war begins to threaten neighboring nations, many EU and NATO members. As the summit heads into its third day, other agenda topics include Gaza relief and Palestinian recognition as well as a plan to push billions in aid from frozen Russian assets toward the Ukrainian war effort. - Louvre reopens after jewel heist as police search for thieves
For the first time since the over $102 million heist of the Louvre’s most prized jewels, the museum reopens to the public as police continue their investigation. According to French authorities, 100 investigators search for the four thieves who made off with eight precious jewels in a daylight robbery Sunday, October 19th. Culture Minister, Rashida Dati addressed the French Senate’s cultural committee expressing this robbery exposed serious weaknesses in the museum’s security. Receiving over nine million visitors per year, the Louvre is a staple of French culture and heritage, with many visitors and locals alike having mixed feelings over its reopening, some hailing the heist as ‘kinda insane,’ while others condemn the act and point to the museum’s need for security upgrades. - Swarms of Russian drones plunge parts of Ukraine into darkness, as Zelensky turns to
Europe again | CNN
With decreasing temperatures, Russia attacks Ukraine’s energy grid in northeast regions. Continuous barrages of overnight munitions are largely affecting millions of homes in Ukrainian cities nearing the Belarussian and Russian borders, leaving families without water and power. According to Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Russia aims to ‘terrorize’ people with colder temperatures and cripple essential facilities. In response, Ukraine aims to develop better air defense mechanisms and longer range missiles, countering Russian offensives with their own targets on key Russian infrastructure. Despite Trump pushback, recent meetings between him and Zelenskyy have opened a ‘starting point’ to ceasefire talks. Consequently, European bodies develop a plan to push billions in aid from frozen Russian assets toward the Ukrainian war effort. As Russia strengthens its allyship with Hungary, Ukrainian and European authorities are wary about a summit hosted in Budapest by close Kremlin ally, Viktor Orban. - New Tove Jansson show explores the timeless world of the Moomins
In celebration of 80 years since the creation of the beloved Moomins by Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson, the Architecture and Design Museum in Helsinki, opens a new show entitled Escape to Moominvalley, exploring the world of the Moomins and Tove Jansson’s creative genius. The Moomin’s, expanded over the course of 25 years, reflect the ideas, feelings, connections and surroundings of Jansson. In the exhibition, visitors can explore a recreation of a cottage built by Tove and her partner, Tuulikki Pietila, on the Finnish Island of Klovharun, a notable influence in the creation of Moominvalley. The exhibition also includes works by other artists and creators, acting as aids to contextualize many circumstances and dilemmas featured in the renowned books. The exhibition will remain open until September 27th, 2026. - Baltic States sign semiconductor MoU to boost investment, research, and Europe’s tech independence
On Wednesday, October 22nd, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with aims to strengthen cooperation between the Baltic nations within the semiconductor industry. Semiconductors are materials that have electrical conductivity and are essential in the manufacturing of memory chips and microprocessors needed for everyday technology like computers and smartphones. The agreement brings together industry experts from many Baltic universities and institutions to mutually boost innovation, research and startups in the semiconductor industry. Amidst geopolitical and supply chain uncertainties, representatives point to the agreement as a ‘step towards establishing a stronger, more resilient semiconductor ecosystem.’
Week of October 6, 2025
- Hungarian writer László Krasznahorkai wins Nobel Prize in literature | AP News
Hungarian writer László Krasznahorkai has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Literature, becoming the first laureate in literature from Hungary since 2002. Announced by the Swedish Academy on October 9th, the prize continues the weeklong series of Nobel announcements running from October 6th to 13th. With a nearly four decade long literary career, Krasznahorkai is acclaimed for his absurdist and surreal style, exploring the ‘utter hopelessness of the condition of human existence.’ He now joins other influential writers such as Toni Morrison and Ernest Hemingway in receiving this prestigious award. - Rome’s Colosseum opens Commodus Passage to public after 2,000 years | AP News
For the first time in 2,000 years, the elusive Commodus Passage will be open to visitors of Rome’s renowned Colosseum. Named after Emperor Commodus, the passage was onceused by Roman emperors to enter the arena obscured. Structural conservation began in October 2024, ending in September 2025, including the installation of a new lighting system to mimic the original natural light and restoration of original decorative elements. Restoration will resume in 2026, attempting to provide visitors with an authentic immersion into the lives of Roman emperors. - Irish Presidential Election: Who are the runners and riders?
Following Michael D. Higgins’ decade long presidential tenure, the Irish presidential
election yields two new candidates running on October 24th. The election of either candidate, both females, would mark the second ever election of a female president in Ireland. An independent candidate, Catherine Conolly is left-wing backed and has served in multiple capacities in the Irish government including the lower house of Irish Parliament, Dáil Éireann. Her opponent, Heather Humphreys, represents the center-right Fine Gael. Humphreys has served in various positions as a cabinet minister and member of the Dáil. A third candidate, Jim Gavin, representing Fianna Fail, withdrew following allegations of
owing a former tenant 3,300 euros. Ireland follows a single transferrable voting system where voters rank candidates in order of preference, among other particularities. - A Russia-like crackdown in Georgia is targeting protesters, the media – Los Angeles Times
Starting when Georgia ceased talks on joining the European Union, the Caucasian country has experienced nearly a year of anti-government protests. As the ruling, pro-Russia Georgian Dream party continues to push repressive policies and suppress dissent, protesters continue to flood Tblissi and adjacent cities in the face of steep fines, police beatings and prison. Since the summer, authorities have arrested ten opposition leaders, froze the bank accounts of seven rights groups, sued several independent TV channels and petitioned the Constitutional Court to deem the main opposition party, United National
Movement, unconstitutional. This marks a stark democratic backsliding that jeopardizes Georgia’s former moves toward a more European, independent and pro-human rights future. - Denmark plans to ban social media for users under 15, as PM says platforms are ‘stealing
childhood’ | CNN Business
At the opening of Danish Parliament, Danish Prime Minister, Mette Fredericksen, announced Denmark’s intent to ban social media for children under 15, with the option for parents to approve social media for children over 13. Stressing the laws importance, Fredericksen pointed to many negative effects of social media including children struggling to concentrate and read as well as children viewing inappropriate content. This is not Fredericksen, or the Parliament’s first proposal to ban children’s access to technology. Previously, lawmakers voted to ban cell phones from primary schools and after-school programs. Many countries are following suit, with states such as Australia and Norway proposing and enacting similar legislation. - Russia fires 500 drones at Ukraine in deadly overnight attack, Zelenskyy says – ABC News
At least five people were killed and over 500 munitions were launched at Ukraine by Russia during a fatal overnight attack this week. According to Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, many regions across western Ukraine, including Lviv and Odesa were affected by the nightly attack. Zelenskyy and local officials said Russian missiles and drones hit numerous civilian and important infrastructure facilities. As the war between Ukraine and Russia heads into its third year, overnight attacks, such as this one, become increasingly common.
Week of September 29, 2025
- Czechs Vote in Crucial Election
Czechs have begun voting in a pivotal election that could return populist leader Andrej Babiš to power. His ANO party is leading polls with over 30%, campaigning on higher wages, faster growth, and cutting support for Ukraine. Even if victorious, Babiš would struggle to form a majority and may need backing from far-right or far-left parties. His comeback bid is shadowed by fraud charges and conflict-of-interest concerns, while Europe watches closely for the election’s impact on EU unity and Ukraine policy. - Heavy Rains Threaten Flooding Across Southeastern Europe
A low-pressure system over the Mediterranean has moved northeast into southeastern Europe, bringing prolonged rainfall, storms, and strong winds. Red warnings have been issued for Serbia, southwest Romania, parts of Greece, and nearby islands, with 48-hour rainfall totals expected to reach 80–130 mm. Cold air influx has also caused heavy snowfall in the Dinaric Alps, with some forecasts estimating up to 80 cm. Earlier in the week, regions of Spain and the Balearic Islands suffered severe flooding spurred by remnants of Hurricane Gabrielle. - All the Buzz in Athens
At 37, Chatzilias was an avid honey eater, enjoying it with bread and tea in the mornings and substituting it for sugar in cookies and other desserts. Unsatisfied with standard storebought options, he enrolled in beekeeping classes in 2020 and soon turned his passion into a profession. In Athens, beekeepers are placing hives on rooftops and terraces to produce local urban honey, taking advantage of the city’s green spaces and Mediterranean flora. The initiative helps pollinate urban plants, supports biodiversity, and connects residents with nature in dense city settings. - Europe’s Food System Struggles
Europe’s current food production and consumption patterns are placing heavy stress on the environment, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity loss, soil degradation, and deforestation abroad. Many European diets remain heavily reliant on animal products and intensive agriculture, which require vast inputs that amplify ecological damage. While there is increasing awareness and some policies push toward more sustainable farming, organic production, and reduced meat consumption, progress is slower than what scientists say is needed to avoid runaway climate and ecological harm. - EU Commission Weighs Fund to Help Women Access Abortion Across Borders
The European Commission is considering establishing a voluntary fund to cover costs for women who need to travel abroad for safe abortions when access is restricted in their own countries. The proposal comes in response to a citizens’ initiative, My Voice, My Choice, which gathered over 1 million signatures across the EU. While the fund would help with travel and medical costs, it would not create a binding right to abortion across the EU. - France Pushes EU for Military Mobility Coordinator
France is calling for the European Union to establish a military mobility coordinator and formally designate “mobility corridors” so troops and equipment can be moved rapidly if conflict intensifies. These “mobility corridors” are roads, bridges, tunnels, rail lines that meet technical, size, weight, and structural standards to handle military convoys without bottlenecks. The European Commission is preparing a legislative package on military mobility that aims to simplify procedures, improve coordination among member states, and invest in infrastructure upgrades.
Week of September 22, 2025
- Countries are recognizing Palestinian statehood. What does that mean?
This week, France, the United Kingdom, Australia and other nations joined 148 existing UN member states in recognizing an independent Palestinian state. As the ongoing humanitarian and political issues of the nearing two-year war between Israel and Palestine dominate the United Nations General Assembly agenda, members continue to develop their individual stances. This increased recognition could facilitate furthered diplomatic endeavors between Palestine and the Western world, as well as signify a symbolic shift in Western foreign relations that historically have been more favorable toward Israel. The number of states recognizing Palestine has reached 153.
Man arrested in connection with cyber-attack on airports
A man has been arrested in connection with cyber-attacks impacting Collins Aerospace baggage and check in software, a popular software utilized by many European airports. These cyber-attacks caused flight delays and cancellations throughout European airports, including Heathrow and Brussels, as ransomware was deployed on several airport’s automatic check-in systems. Affected airports have continued to experience disruptions, as Collin’s staff work to rebuild systems and eliminate the ransomware.- Denmark’s leader apologizes to Indigenous girls and women in Greenland for forced contraception | AP News
Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, delivered a somber address in Nuuk, Greenland, apologizing to indigenous girls and women in Greenland for forced contraception. In the 1960’s many women and girls, as young as 12, were subject to forced implantations of Intrauterine Devices (IUD) by Danish medical personnel as part of numerous Danish colonial policies aimed at dehumanizing Greenlandic populations. This apology comes ahead of an investigation into the abuses faced by Greenlandic women. As Denmark aims to pacify relations between the artic providence, residuals of colonial abuses continue to strain positive connections. - Moldova’s prime minister claims a Russian plot in a decisive election | AP News
Ahead of Moldova’s parliamentary elections, Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean, warns of Russia’s attempts to influence election results, accusing the Kremlin of violating the state’s ‘sovereign will.’ Following a decisive win of the pro-European, Party of Action and Solidarity in 2021, Recean alleges Russia’s alleged attempts to decrease support for the party and bolster support for pro-Russian replacements. The Prime Minister’s allegations include the arrangement of a widespread fraudulent vote-buying scheme, largescale online misinformation campaigns and cyberattacks on critical voting infrastructure. As Moldova continues a westward political shift, being granted EU candidate status in 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the state faces push-back from Russia and internal Russian-friendly opposition. Russia denies all allegations of interference. - France’s Nicolas Sarkozy sentenced to five years in prison for Libya campaign funding scheme | AP News
On Thursday, September 25th, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy was sentenced by a French court to five years in prison following accusations of illegally financing his 2007 presidential campaign with funds from Libya in exchange for diplomatic favors. The court stated Sarkozy and close associates, which were also found guilty of adjacent charges, held secret meetings and maintained correspondence with Libyan officials in 2005. Involved Libyan officials are believed to be responsible for several terrorist attacks on European airliners. While the court could not determine if the money funded Sarkozy’s campaign, the court ruled that a ‘corrupt scheme can still be a crime even if money wasn’t paid or cannot be proven.’ While Sarkozy maintains his innocence, last year he was also convicted of illegally financing his 2012 presidential campaign. - Queer art exhibition in Germany shines a spotlight on marginalized modernist artists | AP News
A new queer art exhibition in Düsseldorf, Germany named “Queer Modernism. 1900-1950,” was unveiled this week. The exhibition, which will run until February 2026, highlights 130 works from 34 artists whose queer existences and perspectives were oppressed in the art and worldly canon in the early 20th century. The exhibition features photographs, paintings, sculptures, films and drawings which depict themes of daily life, queer resistance, and desire.
Week of September 15, 2025
- Amsterdam Cleans Up by Cutting Bins
Amsterdam has introduced a surprising strategy in response to rising litter complaints following the launch of a deposit-return scheme for bottles and cans: the city is removing some litter bins. Officials say that bins are often vandalized or rummaged through by people looking for refundable containers, which causes bins to be pulled open frequently and litter to blow out. Around 12,000 bins are in the city, but removals will focus on streets with many takeaways (where businesses already have rules to help with litter control) and locations near underground waste containers.
MI6: UK Intelligence Warns of Russian War Escalation
MI6 leadership has issued a stark warning that Russia’s war efforts are entering a “dangerous new phase,” with signs that the conflict could be escalating both internally and externally. Intelligence agencies report Russia is likely preparing for a prolonged fight, including efforts to maintain pressure on Ukraine and destabilize neighboring countries. The UK’s spy service emphasizes that current global responses are outpaced by Moscow’s evolving strategy.- Mysterious Envelope from Czechoslovakian Founding Father
An envelope belonging to Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, the founding father and first president of Czechoslovakia, has been discovered. It was handed over in 2005 by Antonín Sum, a former secretary of Masaryk’s son Jan, with instructions that it not be opened for 20 years. Inside were five pages of handwritten notes in Czech and English. Historians believe the documents express his acceptance of death, reflections on the country’s political tensions, and personal thoughts about his legacy. - Sagrada Família to Become Europe’s Tallest Church
Barcelona’s Sagrada Família is set to complete its central “Tower of Jesus Christ” by the end of 2025 or early 2026, reaching a height of 172 meters (564 feet). That will make it taller than any other Christian church in Europe, surpassing the Ulm Minster in Germany. While the tower is the most prominent finishing touch, work on facades and interiors will continue for several more years. - Russian Jets Invade Estonia’s Airspace
Three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets entered Estonian airspace over the Gulf of Finland and stayed for about 12 minutes, officials say. The aircraft lacked flight plans and did not use two-way radio communications with Estonian air traffic controllers. Estonia has lodged a diplomatic protest, and EU leaders condemned the violation, calling it a dangerous provocation. - Poland Triggers NATO Article 4
Poland has invoked Article 4 of the NATO Treaty to consult its allies after multiple Russian drones violated its airspace. Authorities reported at least 19 drone incursions, several of which were shot down by Polish forces, with debris discovered near the Belarusian border. The move underscores rising tensions, as Article 4 allows member states to call for consultations when their security or territorial integrity is under threat. NATO allies quickly expressed solidarity with Poland, condemning Russia’s actions as reckless and destabilizing.
Week of September 8, 2025
- RTÉ: Ireland threatens to withdraw from Eurovision if Israel participates
Irish broadcaster RTÉ confirms Ireland’s intention to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest if Israel continues to participate. Ireland joins a growing list of countries, including Spain, Slovakia and Iceland, who have threatened to withdraw over Israel’s participation in Eurovision. As the ongoing war in Israel and Palestine continues to wage, Eurovision’s organizers, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), have faced increasing pressure from participant countries to reevaluate Israel’s inclusion in the contest over ethical and political concerns involving Israel’s actions in the war. - European operation identifies alleged Belarusian spy ring | Belarus | The Guardian
A joint European operation, spearheaded by Central European authorities, identified an alleged Belarusian spy ring, that involved a high-ranking Moldovan intelligence officer. Eurojust, the European Union’s criminal justice arm, linked the spy ring to the Belarusian KGB, Belarus’s intelligence agency. While exchanged information remains unspecified, European intelligence speculates the information could be associated with the state’s increasing interest in Belarusian nationals residing abroad and Belarus’ involvement in Russian operations.
Poland says Russian drones shot down in its airspace during attack on Ukraine – CBS News
On September 10th, Polish and NATO forces downed Russian drones violating Polish airspace. This comes as the first NATO intervention to Russian drones, or missiles entering NATO airspace since the start of the war. As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia only intensifies in its third year, surrounding nations, including Poland, continue to grow uneasy over a potential Russian offensive. Ukrainian authorities warn of Russian escalation, referring to the recent violation of Polish airspace as “targeted.” Poland has formally requested to invoke Article 4 of NATO’s founding treaty, which calls for urgent consultation when a member state feels its security is threatened.- France hit by protests and disruption as new prime minister takes office | CNN
Another wave of anti-government protests hit France on Wednesday, September 10th. The French capital, Paris, along with other French cities experienced flareups as protesters blockaded streets, set public buildings ablaze and shouted anti-police and anti-government sentiments. These protests come as new, Macron-elected Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, enters office. He succeeds François Bayrou, who was ousted by a parliamentary vote of no-confidence on September 8th over controversy surrounding his budgetary plans. French President, Emmanuel Macron and his government allies have recently come under scrutiny as they push unpopular reforms like raising the retirement age and perceived economic mismanagement. - European Central Bank leaves rates unchanged as economy weathers Trump’s tariffs | AP News
The European Central Bank (ECB) left interests rates, set at 2%, unchanged. Expecting a worse disruption from U.S. President, Donald Trump’s, higher tariffs, the European economy has been able to withstand any major pressure from the sudden changes, as attention shifts to France’s current fiscal crisis. ECB raised rates to combat post-covid inflation. Since then, rates have declined as the European economy recovers. - Prince Harry meets King Charles for first time in over a year
Prince Harry joined his father, King Charles, for the first time in over a year for a private tea at Clarence House in London. Prince Harry, who has resided in California with his family since 2020, has voiced hope for reconciliation, especially as King Charles continues to face health-related issues. Prince Harry’s relationship with the royal family has been strained since 2016, when he began a relationship with now-wife, Meghan Markle, only to intensify with their engagement in 2017 and their departure of royal duties in 2020. This meeting is seen as a step toward mending the familial relationship between father and son.
Week of September 1, 2025
- Fashion World Mourns Designer, Giorgio Armani
Giorgio Armani, the iconic Italian fashion designer, has died at the age of 91, as confirmed by the Armani Group. Renowned for his minimalist style and mastery of soft tailoring, Armani built a global fashion empire that included Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, Armani Privé, and Armani Casa. His career began in medicine and military service before turning to fashion, ultimately launching his own label in 1975. Despite recent health struggles, Armani was preparing to celebrate the brand’s 50th anniversary later this month. His legacy endures not only in the elegance of his designs but also in his carefully
considered succession plan, which aims to preserve the continuity and vision of his iconic brand. - Putin’s Journey Towards Immortality
Russian President, Vladimir Putin, discussed with Chinese President, Xi Jing Ping, the future scientific possibilities of immortality. This conversation, picked up by an undisclosed microphone, has reintroduced the leader’s longstanding fixation on health and longevity. Putin, known for his use of alternate medicines and stringent dietary and fitness regimens, follows the suit of many modern and ancient leaders who have pursued delaying their mortality, including Alexander the Great and the First Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. - US Troops Stay in Poland
In a recent meeting with Polish President, Karol Nawrocki, President Trump assured that
U.S. troops stationed in Poland will remain. This comes after previous warnings of a
potential U.S. departure from the region. Thousands of troops are stationed in Poland, a
strong European ally to the United States, to bolster NATO presence and deter potential
Russian offensives. Nawrocki praises this U.S. presence as ensuring Poland’s security. - 26 Countries Agree to Send Aid to Post-War Ukraine
Following a meeting with the Coalition of the Willing, French President, Enmanuel Macron confirmed 26 countries, including Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom, have agreed to send aid to Ukraine. Exact contributions have yet to be confirmed, as states continue to individually assess their dealings with Ukraine and Russian. While also unspecified, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also confirmed U.S. assistance in dealings and aid. While most of Europe has vocalized support for Ukraine, some nations have formally complained about Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil fields, as a source of potential energy insecurity. - Potential Launch of Digital Euro
EU lawmakers have raised concerns that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán could use the EU’s midterm budget review to regain access to frozen funds, despite repeated assurances from the European Commission that blocked money will remain inaccessible. MEPs warn that Orbán might attempt to shift allocations from frozen programs into active ones, effectively bypassing sanctions tied to rule-of-law violations. Some estimates suggest this maneuver could unlock up to €1.68 billion for Hungary, sparking calls for tighter oversight. - Fashion Triumphs at the Louvre
The Louvre’s first-ever fashion exhibition, Louvre Couture, has become the museum’s second most visited showcase in history, drawing more than 1.059 million visitors between June and August 2025. Featuring around 100 garments from 1960 to 2025, the exhibition spanned nearly 9,000 square meters and included pieces from 45 renowned designers and fashion houses such as Givenchy, Alexander McQueen, Karl Lagerfeld, and Thom Browne. Surpassing expectations, the show narrowly trailed only the 2019–2020 Leonardo da Vinci retrospective, which holds the record with 1.072 million visitors.
Week of August 25, 2025
- Deadly Attack Hits Kyiv
At least 23 people, including four children, were killed in overnight missile strikes on Kyiv, marking the deadliest assault on the Ukrainian capital in months. The attacks damaged the EU delegation and British Council offices, prompting the UK and EU to summon Russian envoys in protest. Ukraine reported being targeted by 629 missiles and drones, though many were intercepted. - Russian Composer Rodion Shchedrin, Creator of ‘Anna Karenina,’ Dies at 92
Russian composer Rodion Shchedrin, renowned for ballets like Anna Karenina and the Carmen Suite, has died in Germany at age 92. Shchedrin and his wife of 57 years were central figures in Soviet and Russian cultural life. His works spanned opera, ballet, concertos, and choral music, blending Russian folk traditions with classical and avantgarde influences. The Bolshoi Theater called his passing “an irreparable loss for the entire world of art.” - Berlin’s Panda Twins Turn One
Berlin Zoo’s panda twins, born on August 22, 2024, celebrated their first birthday with bamboo “candles” and frozen vegetable treats. Named Meng Hao and Meng Tian, also known as Leni and Lotti, the cubs pay tribute to Marlene Dietrich and Berlin’s Charlottenburg district. They are the second pair of giant pandas born in Germany, following their elder brothers, Pit and Paule, who were born in 2019 and later returned to China. - Nature as a Shield: Can Restored Bogs Protect Europe?
In 2022, Ukraine’s strategic flooding of the Irpin River bogs near Kyiv stalled Russia’s advance, inspiring NATO countries along the eastern flank to consider reviving peatlands as both a defense measure and a climate solution. Bogs, once drained for farmland, release greenhouse gases and allow tanks to cross; when restored, they trap carbon and mire heavy vehicles. Countries like Finland and Poland are exploring bog restoration as a dual tool against climate change and potential Russian aggression. - Ancient Oaks Hold the Genetic Key to Saving Britain’s Woodlands
Scientists from The Woodland Trust and Arboricultural Association are studying the DNA of ancient oaks, such as the 800-year-old Druids Oak in Buckinghamshire, to uncover the genetic secrets behind their extraordinary resilience and long lifespans. Ancient oaks, some over 1,000 years old, support more wildlife than any other UK tree species, making them vital for biodiversity. By decoding their genomes, researchers hope to better protect these “living legends” from climate change and disease, while using their acorns to restore Britain’s depleted woodlands. - England Expands Childhood Vaccines
Beginning in January, children in England will be routinely offered a chickenpox vaccine for the first time, as part of the NHS immunization schedule. The combined measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) jab will make England join countries like Germany, Canada, the U.S., and Australia that already include it. Officials say the move will improve children’s health, reduce school absences, and save the NHS £15 million annually, while also cutting £24 million in productivity losses. Previously only available privately at around £150, the vaccine will now be accessible to all children.
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