Matthew Coles
- European News
Polish protests erupt over restrictive abortion laws after pregnant woman dies
Protests have erupted across Poland as thousands of citizens voice their disapproval for the nation’s highly restrictive abortion laws, following the sepsis-related death of a five-month pregnant woman. Demonstrators marched to the health ministry headquarters in Warsaw on Wednesday, chanting slogans such as “Stop killing us” and holding placards stating “Hell for women.” The death of the woman, Dorota Lalik,…
- European News
Ukraine reclaims 100 sq km in counteroffensive: Putin cites catastrophic losses
Ukrainian forces have reclaimed approximately 100 square kilometres of territory during the counteroffensive’s nascent stages in the 68th week of Russia’s invasion. Vladimir Putin, Russia’s president, has asserted that Ukraine is experiencing “catastrophic” losses, with Kyiv’s casualties being tenfold higher than Moscow’s. The ongoing counteroffensive efforts involve softening the Russian front lines using methods ranging from small arms and rocket…
- European News
Serbian arrest of armed Kosovo police stirs tension, claims of kidnapping
Tensions have heightened as Serbian officials claim they have apprehended three armed Kosovo police officers within Serbian borders, whilst Kosovo authorities assert the officers were patrolling within their territory and were consequently “kidnapped.” Kosovo’s Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, held Serbia responsible for the abduction and called for the officers’ release, claiming they were detained within Kosovo’s borders. In response, Serbian…
- European News
Germany returns ancestral remains, artefacts to New Zealand in heartfelt gesture
In a poignant gesture, Germany has returned the ancestral remains of 95 Indigenous New Zealanders, along with artefacts and cultural treasures, to their homeland. The remains of the Maori and Moriori individuals, including six mummified tattooed heads known as toi moko, were received at Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, in a private ceremony. Craig Hawke, New Zealand’s Ambassador to…
- European News
Global displacement hits 110 million, UNHCR cites Ukraine and Sudan conflicts
A staggering 110 million people across the globe now find themselves displaced, with the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Sudan contributing significantly to this figure, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The agency’s annual report revealed that approximately 19 million individuals were forced to flee their homes last year, marking the largest annual increase ever recorded.…
- European News
Russian Major-General killed in Ukrainian missile strike, says official
In a significant development, a high-ranking Russian officer has reportedly been killed during a Ukrainian missile strike, as Kyiv continues its counteroffensive against Russian forces. According to Vladimir Rogov, a Russian-backed official in Ukraine, Major-General Sergei Goryachev, Chief of Staff of Russia’s 35th Army, was killed in the southern Zaporizhia region on the frontlines where Ukrainian forces have been regaining…
- European News
Ukraine advances in counteroffensive, NATO pledges support, US announces US$325m aid
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the progress of his troops as they advance near the city of Bakhmut in the east and on the southern front. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has also acknowledged Ukraine’s progress in its counteroffensive against Russia, promising increased support from NATO leaders in their upcoming meeting. In contrast, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that…
- European News
Football mourns ex-Italian PM Berlusconi’s impact on AC Milan
The football world mourns the passing of former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi, aged 86, who left a lasting impact on AC Milan and the sport itself. Former Dutch internationals Marco van Basten and Ruud Gullit paid their respects, reminiscing about Berlusconi’s influence on their careers and the game during their time at AC Milan. Berlusconi’s 1986 acquisition of AC…
- European News
US lawmakers urge relocating US-Africa summit over South Africa-Russia ties
A group of American legislators has urged for the relocation of the upcoming US-Africa trade summit, initially set to take place in South Africa later this year. The lawmakers cited concerns over South Africa’s “deepening military relationship” with Russia as the reason for their request. In a letter addressed to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other high-ranking officials,…
- European News
Putin hints at Ukraine sanitary zone amid escalating border attacks
Russian President Vladimir Putin has hinted at the possibility of expanding military operations in Ukraine to safeguard Russian territory on the border. This comes as Ukrainian forces report progress in their counteroffensive against Russian troops. Putin shared his perspective on the conflict during an open meeting with military journalists and bloggers, revealing that Ukraine has allegedly lost 160 tanks and…
- European News
Belarus to receive Russian tactical nuclear weapons amid Ukraine conflict
Belarus is set to receive Russian tactical nuclear weapons in the coming days, as announced by President Alexander Lukashenko. The deployment comes shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin declared the weapons would be stationed in Belarus on July 7-8. Lukashenko expressed his readiness to host the arms and emphasised that he would not hesitate to use them in response to…
- European News
Ukraine intensifies counteroffensive, reclaims territory from Russian forces
Ukraine’s forces have demonstrated their prowess in masking strategic intentions, keeping the Russian military guessing with feints, disinformation, and troop shuffling. As the summer season progresses, Kyiv’s forces are intensifying their counteroffensive, achieving some notable successes. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently praised the troops for liberating territory from Russian occupiers, with at least seven villages reclaimed, according to Ukrainian officials. As…
- European News
Mother jailed for late-stage abortion ignites UK law reform debate
In a controversial case that has sparked a heated debate, a 44-year-old mother of three has been sentenced to 28 months in prison for procuring an abortion beyond the 24-week legal limit in the UK. The woman obtained the abortion pills through the post during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 when in-person services were limited due to social distancing measures.…
- European News
UK COVID-19 inquiry begins, scrutinising pandemic response and impact
The United Kingdom’s COVID-19 inquiry has commenced its main hearings, scrutinising the nation’s handling of the pandemic that led to one of the highest global death tolls. Heather Hallett, the chairwoman of the inquiry, emphasised the importance of acknowledging the suffering and loss experienced by many during her opening statement on Tuesday. The inquiry was initiated by former Prime Minister…
- European News
AI extinction risk warning: 350 experts urge human rights-based approach
The Center for AI Safety recently issued a public warning, signed by over 350 scientists, business executives, and public figures, stating that mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority, alongside other societal scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war. Notably, some signatories, including the CEOs of Google DeepMind and OpenAI, represent companies responsible for…
- European News
Three dead in Nottingham as van rampage suspect arrested
A tragic series of events unfolded in Nottingham, a city in the English midlands, as three individuals were discovered dead in separate incidents. British police have arrested a 31-year-old man on suspicion of murder, following reports that a van had attempted to run over three other people. Initially, two victims were found deceased in the city centre. Shortly after 4am…
- European News
RNZ apologises for publishing pro-Kremlin content on Ukraine invasion
The head of New Zealand’s national public service radio broadcaster, Radio New Zealand (RNZ), has issued an apology for publishing content favouring the Kremlin’s narrative on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Over a dozen wire agency articles were found to have been altered, prompting RNZ’s chief executive, Paul Thompson, to call it a “serious breach” of editorial standards and label…
- European News
Russian airstrike hits Kryvyi Rih civilians, causing destruction and injuries
A Russian airstrike has struck civilian targets in the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, resulting in significant destruction and potentially trapping individuals beneath the debris, according to a local authority. Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul reported on Telegram that several people sustained severe injuries in the attack, adding that there could be individuals trapped under the rubble. Social media videos, purportedly…
- European News
NATO launches largest air force exercise with 250 aircraft, 10,000 personnel
In an unprecedented show of unity, NATO has commenced its largest-ever air force deployment exercise, involving 25 member and partner countries. The German Air Force-led “Air Defender 23” exercises began on Monday, with approximately 250 military aircraft and up to 10,000 service members taking part. The drills are designed to improve interoperability and preparedness of NATO air forces in crisis…
- European News
Ukraine recaptures villages amid rainfall, Russia enlists Chechen forces
In the midst of heavy rainfall and fierce combat, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported progress and losses inflicted on Russian forces. Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar announced that the Ukrainian military had recaptured seven villages, covering an area of 90 square kilometres (35 sq miles) in eastern Ukraine. In contrast, Russia’s defence ministry did not acknowledge any Ukrainian advancements, stating…
- European News
UBS acquires Credit Suisse for $1.6tn, creating Swiss banking giant
UBS has finalised its emergency acquisition of struggling rival Credit Suisse, marking the largest banking deal since the 2008 global financial crisis and creating a Swiss banking behemoth with a balance sheet of US$1.6 trillion. The merger, which sees UBS overseeing US$5 trillion of assets, brings an end to Credit Suisse’s 167-year history, tainted in recent years by scandals and…
- European News
Ukraine reclaims seven villages in counteroffensive against Russian forces
Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian forces in the south and east of the country has reportedly made progress, with seven villages reclaimed since the weekend. Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar confirmed the recapture of these settlements, encompassing a total area of 90 square kilometres (35 sq miles) along the front line. However, these gains represent only a small portion of the…
- European News
EU mulls €1bn Tunisia loan to tackle economy and refugee influx
The European Union is considering a loan of over 1 billion euros to Tunisia, with the majority designated as “macro-financial assistance” aimed at rescuing the nation’s struggling economy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the potential package during her visit to Tunisia, accompanied by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte. The EU’s efforts…
- European News
Pakistanis in UK protest for free elections and Khan’s release
A throng of around 200 individuals assembled outside the Houses of Parliament in London on Sunday, displaying placards and green, black, and red flags. The slogan “Aaj nahi, to kub? [If not today, then when?]” reverberated through loudspeakers across Westminster, accompanied by well-known Pakistani tunes. The demonstration was arranged by Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members, a political party established in 1996 by…
- European News
Berlusconi dies at 86: Controversial ex-Italian PM leaves mixed legacy
Silvio Berlusconi, Italy’s former prime minister who recently passed away at 86 years old, was a controversial figure known for his political career, business empire, and numerous scandals. Throughout his life, he made headlines with his flamboyant personality and memorable quotes. In 2006, Berlusconi claimed to be the “Jesus Christ of politics,” stating that he sacrificed himself for everyone. He…
- European News
Pakistan welcomes first Russian crude oil shipment amid economic crisis
Pakistan has welcomed its first shipment of Russian crude oil, marking a new chapter in the relationship between the two nations. The cargo, containing 45,000 metric tonnes of crude oil, arrived in Karachi, with an additional 50,000 metric tonnes expected later this week. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the arrival as a “transformative day” for the economically troubled country. As…
- European News
Silvio Berlusconi dies at 86: Tributes pour in for Italy’s ex-PM
The passing of Silvio Berlusconi, Italy’s former prime minister and business magnate, at the age of 86 has prompted an outpouring of tributes from political figures, sports icons, and global leaders. Berlusconi’s impact on Italian politics and his notoriety for financial and sex scandals have made him a divisive figure in the country’s history. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his…
- European News
Dnipro River flooding escalates Russia-Ukraine tensions over dam destruction
The flooding of areas surrounding the Dnipro River has escalated tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as both nations point fingers at each other for the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam. Amidst the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been seeking support from NATO members in the form of weapons training and financing to strengthen Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia’s…
- European News
Former Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi dies at 86, leaving controversial legacy
The passing of former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi at the age of 86 marks the end of an era in Italian politics. Born in Milan on September 29, 1936, Berlusconi was a controversial figure known for his financial and sex scandals, but also for transforming the political landscape of Italy. Often compared to former US President Donald Trump, Berlusconi…
- European News
Russia’s defence ministry signs contract with Chechen special forces
A recent contract signing between Russia’s defence ministry and the Akhmat group of Chechen special forces has raised eyebrows, as the paramilitary group is currently involved in the Kremlin’s offensive near Mariinka, in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine. This development comes after Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of Russia’s Wagner group of private mercenaries, declined a similar contract offer. The signing…
- European News
China’s nuclear arsenal grows 17%, could match US, Russia by 2030
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has revealed that China’s stockpile of nuclear warheads has risen by 17% in 2022, with the nation’s arsenal expected to continue growing. The SIPRI Yearbook 2023 estimates that China’s nuclear arsenal increased from 350 warheads in January 2022 to 410 in January 2023. The report suggests that by 2030, China could potentially have…
- European News
Former Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi dies at 86 after leukemia battle
Italy mourns the passing of Silvio Berlusconi, its former Prime Minister and billionaire businessman, who died at the age of 86. Known for creating the country’s largest media company and transforming the political landscape, Berlusconi had faced several legal and sex scandals throughout his career. His health had been in decline in recent months, including a battle with COVID-19 in…
- European News
Swiss police face homicide charges in Black man’s 2018 death
A Swiss court case commences today, with six police officers facing homicide charges following the 2018 death of a Nigerian man, Mike Ben Peter, aged 39. The man suffered a heart attack after being pinned facedown for several minutes during his arrest. The officers, whose identities remain undisclosed due to Swiss privacy laws, are charged with “homicide by neglect” and…
- European News
Ukraine recaptures villages, Russia shoots down fighter jet amid flooding
In a significant development, Ukrainian forces have managed to recapture three villages from Russian control in the southeast region, marking the first liberated settlements since the launch of their latest counteroffensive. Meanwhile, Russia’s defence ministry announced that it had downed a Ukrainian Su-25 fighter jet in the Kherson region and repelled three Ukrainian attacks in Zaporizhia. The aftermath of last…
- European News
Wagner Group refuses Ministry contracts amid Russia’s defence directive
The Wagner Group, a Russian private military company, has declined to sign contracts with the Russian defence ministry, despite a directive issued by Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. The order, aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the Russian army fighting in Ukraine, required all “volunteer detachments” to sign contracts with the ministry by the end of June. Wagner Group founder Yevgeny…
- European News
Djokovic claims record 23rd Grand Slam at French Open
Novak Djokovic has achieved a historic milestone as he secured his men’s record 23rd Grand Slam title, defeating Casper Ruud 7-6 (1), 6-3, 7-5 in the French Open final. This victory further strengthens his claim to be the greatest player of all time in men’s tennis. The 36-year-old Serbian surpassed rival Rafael Nadal, who missed this year’s tournament due to…
- European News
Three Brits missing after Red Sea scuba boat catches fire in Egypt
Three British tourists have gone missing after a scuba diving boat they were on caught fire near Egypt’s Red Sea coast. The boat, named “Hurricane,” was carrying 12 crew members and 12 British passengers when it was engulfed in flames off the southern Red Sea resort town of Marsa Alam. Egyptian authorities have attributed the fire to an electrical short…
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