Category: Europe
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Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov resigned on Thursday (Dec. 11) after weeks of nationwide protests over economic policy and concerns about persistent corruption. He announced the decision minutes before parliament was expected to vote on a no-confidence motion. In a televised address, Zhelyazkov said the coalition had assessed the “current situation” and chosen to step…
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The UK has joined 26 Council of Europe members in calling for human rights laws to be “constrained” to allow Rwanda-style migration partnerships and expand deportations of foreign offenders. The informal statement urges revisions to Article 3 and Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), narrowing protections related to “inhuman or degrading…
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Czech President Petr Pavel has appointed Andrej Babis, leader of the ANO party, as prime minister, marking the former premier’s return nearly four years after leaving office. The ceremony at Prague Castle formalised a new coalition comprising ANO, the Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) party, and the Motorists’ party. Babis, 71, will become the oldest…
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Lithuania has declared a state of emergency after hundreds of smuggler balloons launched from Belarus repeatedly disrupted aviation and raised national security concerns. Authorities say the balloons, used to transport contraband such as cigarettes, have forced Vilnius Airport to close for more than 60 hours in recent weeks, affecting over 350 flights and 50,000 passengers.…
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in London on Monday (Dec. 8), with European leaders describing the moment as “decisive” for U.S.-led efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. Zelenskyy emphasised the need for sustained “unity” between Europe, the United States, and…
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The member states of the European Union have agreed its position on a new EU Return Regulation aimed at simplifying and accelerating the removal of third-country nationals who have no legal right to remain in member states. The proposal introduces EU-wide procedures, expanded enforcement tools, and the option to create return hubs in partner countries.…
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UK Defence Secretary John Healey has outlined the government’s new Atlantic Bastion programme, emphasising its role in strengthening Britain’s underwater surveillance and counter-submarine capabilities. Speaking in Portsmouth alongside, Healey said the initiative will give the UK and its allies a “leading edge” in maritime technology and deterrence. He highlighted increased Russian activity, including recent movements…
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Four people were arrested on Saturday (Dec. 6) after custard and apple crumble were thrown at a display case holding the Imperial State Crown at the Tower of London. Police responded shortly before 10:00 GMT, and the Metropolitan Police confirmed arrests on suspicion of criminal damage. The Jewel House was temporarily closed but later reopened;…
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France intercepted five drones flying over the Île Longue nuclear submarine base in Brittany on Thursday (Dec. 4) evening, heightening European concerns over foreign interference at critical infrastructure. Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin confirmed the incident, stressing that military sites are strictly off-limits. French authorities said the drones’ origin remains unknown. Public Prosecutor Frédéric Teillet later…
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Poland is expanding its Baltic Sea defence by acquiring three A26 Blekinge-class submarines from Swedish manufacturer Saab, a deal worth around €2.3 billion under the Orka modernisation programme. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said Sweden offered the best proposal based on price, capability and delivery, with the first submarine expected in 2030.…
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