Europe
Russia / USA: resumption of nuclear testing in tit-for-tat decisions
Vladimir Putin’s announcement that Russia may resume nuclear testing marks one of the most dangerous escalations in global security since the Cold War. He has instructed senior military and intelligence officials to prepare…
Netherlands: winners and losers after election
The Netherlands’ latest election has upended expectations, signalling both renewal and deep division in Dutch politics. After two years of turmoil and paralysis, centrist liberal party D66, led by 38-year-old Rob Jetten, surged…
France: two citizens released by Iran after more than three years
Iran’s release of French citizens Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, after more than three years in detention, marks a cautious diplomatic breakthrough between Tehran and Paris. The couple, accused of espionage by Iran…
Spain / France: ‘game-changer for women’s health’
A groundbreaking approach to diagnosing endometriosis offers potential to revolutionise research and treatment of the disease. Affecting one in ten women, endometriosis often goes undiagnosed for years. Traditionally, diagnosis involves invasive procedures like…
Spain: trauma and anger continue, one year after Valencia floods
In October 2024, devastating floods swept through Spain’s Valencia region, leaving 229 people dead and countless others traumatised. Among the victims were Miguel and Sara, a father and daughter who perished together while…
Zelenskyy joins European summit as EU and US ramp up Russia sanctions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined European Union leaders in Brussels as both the EU and the US announced fresh sanctions on Russia for refusing a ceasefire. Arriving at the summit, Zelenskyy reaffirmed that…
Dublin: Three gardaí injured and 23 people arrested in second night of Citywest public disorder
Serious unrest broke out for a second consecutive night near the Citywest Hotel in Dublin, leaving three gardaí hospitalised and 23 people arrested. Around 500 people, mostly young men and teenagers, were involved…
France: Death threats for former President Sarkozy in prison
Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy has received death threats just one day after beginning his five-year prison sentence for criminal conspiracy at La Santé prison in Paris. A video circulated online appeared to…
France: a nun has become a powerful evangelist, thanks to social media
Sister Albertine, a young French nun, has become a surprising yet powerful online evangelist. Through videos, social media posts and candid personal sharing, she invites many - especially younger people - to encounter…
Spain: a different approach to Africa and to migrants
In contrast to many Western nations, Spain is charting an independent path on migration and relations with Africa. While the USA, UK, France, and Germany are reducing development aid, prime minister Pedro Sánchez…
