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An international development bank announced Thursday that Ukraine’s economic expansion will be significantly slower this year following Russia’s systematic targeting of the nation’s power grid throughout the winter months, creating major hurdles for businesses entering the fifth year of conflict.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Redevelopment dramatically reduced its 2026 economic growth projection for Ukraine to just 2.5%, cutting its September forecast of 5% in half due to the ongoing crisis.

According to the EBRD, the economic consequences from Russia’s coordinated missile and drone strikes against electrical facilities and infrastructure—which have forced citizens to endure freezing temperatures and extended blackouts—will continue affecting the nation’s economic performance through 2027.

EBRD Chief Economist Beata Javorcik explained that the reduced projections are “linked to the destruction of critical infrastructure, particularly energy infrastructure.” She noted, “That’s impacting Ukraine today, but it will also impact Ukrainian performance next year because it will take time to make the repairs.”

“Typically in winter businesses have been coping with shortages of electricity but this year the problem was much bigger,” Javorcik stated. “If you have a power outage, you can’t produce because you have no electricity.”

She praised Ukrainian resilience, saying citizens face “an incredible challenge. They deserve a lot of respect for being able to endure this and not lose hope and continue to support their country in the fight.”

The bank’s previous projections anticipated Ukraine could begin reconstruction-related economic activity in 2026, though it didn’t specify whether this required an end to hostilities. This timeline has now been pushed back to 2027 as peace remains out of reach.

Throughout the conflict, the EBRD has facilitated generator purchases and provided credit guarantees for small and medium enterprises, helping Ukrainian banks extend over $3 billion in business financing during wartime.

The bank’s report identified additional economic pressures including workforce shortages from mass emigration and military conscription, adverse weather conditions that hurt grain shipments, and the loss of certain European Union trade benefits. While the EU initially waived import duties when fighting began in February 2022, restrictions were later placed on politically sensitive products like sugar and vegetable oils during a trade agreement review.

Ukraine’s economy contracted by 29% during the war’s first year and remains approximately 20% smaller than pre-conflict levels. Consumer and business expenditure have declined as millions fled the country and major enterprises operate in Russian-occupied territories. The Ukrainian government depends on international loans and grants to fund pensions and salaries for teachers and healthcare workers, while domestic tax revenue primarily supports military operations.

Founded in 1991 to assist former communist nations’ transition to market economies following the Cold War’s end, the London-based EBRD represents 77 countries, the European Union, and the European Investment Bank. The organization has since extended operations to additional regions. The Ukraine assessment was included in the EBRD’s broader economic forecasts covering Eastern Europe, former Soviet states, Central Asia, the western Balkans, and sub-Saharan Africa.

BERLIN — A German administrative court ruled Thursday that the nation’s domestic intelligence service must halt its classification of the Alternative for Germany political party as a confirmed extremist organization while legal proceedings continue.

Germany’s BfV intelligence service made its original determination about the Alternative for Germany party, known as AfD, back in May. The agency declared the party posed a danger to Germany’s democratic institutions, stating it “disregards human dignity” through what officials called “ongoing agitation” targeting refugees and migrants.

The AfD quickly challenged the ruling in Cologne’s administrative court, where the intelligence agency maintains its headquarters. Following the legal challenge, the agency put its classification on hold, which would have permitted expanded surveillance of party operations, while awaiting the court’s decision.

Thursday’s court injunction prevents the BfV from officially categorizing and handling the AfD as a confirmed extremist organization until judges reach a final verdict on the party’s legal complaint. Court officials have not announced when they expect to issue their final ruling.

In its statement, the court acknowledged that based on current evidence, it believes there are sufficient indications of “efforts against the free democratic fundamental order” within the party’s ranks. However, judges determined these activities don’t define the organization to such an extent that “a fundamental anticonstitutional tendency can be established in its overall picture.”

The AfD secured second place in Germany’s national election one year ago and currently serves as the largest opposition party in the country’s parliament. Party leadership anticipates strong performance in upcoming state elections throughout this year.

The intelligence service’s original designation drew criticism from the U.S. administration last year, which prompted a sharp response from Germany’s Foreign Ministry.

AfD co-leader Alice Weidel celebrated Thursday’s court decision in a social media post on X, calling it “a great victory not just for AfD, but also for democracy and the rule of law!”

London’s renowned Oxford Street, a global shopping landmark in the city’s West End, is set for a major transformation as officials move forward with plans to create a pedestrian-only zone aimed at breathing new life into the struggling retail corridor.

Mayor Sadiq Khan announced Thursday that all vehicles, including bicycles, will be prohibited from a crucial 0.7-mile section of the famous street, spanning from Oxford Circus to Marble Arch on the western end.

Construction on the pedestrian conversion of this portion of the 1.2-mile shopping district is scheduled to begin during summer months, with officials targeting the end of 2024 for the first car-free area to open to the public.

“I am delighted to be moving forward with my bold vision to transform Oxford Street into a world-leading urban space for shopping, leisure and outdoor events,” Khan stated.

The bustling commercial strip welcomes approximately 500,000 daily visitors and houses major retail anchors including Marks & Spencer and John Lewis flagship locations, plus iconic destinations like Selfridge’s department store.

However, the district that once ranked as a mandatory tourist stop comparable to Paris’s Champs-Élysées has seen its appeal diminish in recent years due to the growth of e-commerce and competing large-scale shopping centers throughout the metropolitan area. Escalating operational expenses, especially rent and business taxes, have added to the challenges.

According to the mayor’s office, the pedestrianization proposal garnered “extensive support from the business community” through consultations conducted by Transport for London, the agency responsible for the capital’s transit systems.

The modifications will create logistical hurdles for transportation officials who must redirect bus routes and taxi services that currently use Oxford Street as a thoroughfare.

“In densely developed and historic cities like London there will always be keen competition for the limited road space available, resulting in contentious political decisions as to who gets priority,” explained Steve Gooding, director of motoring research charity at the RAC Foundation.

This represents a long-awaited victory for Labour mayor Khan, who previously attempted to pedestrianize portions of Oxford Street in 2018 but was blocked by Conservative local government officials.

To ensure success this time, Khan secured authorization from the Labour national government to create a new Mayoral Development Corporation with planning authority, while Transport for London assumed control of the roadway from local council oversight.

LONDON — Lawmakers in Jersey have become the second British territory to pass legislation permitting assisted dying, even as comparable measures for England and Wales remain stuck in parliamentary gridlock.

Following three days of legislative discussion, Jersey’s States Assembly approved its Assisted Dying Law Thursday with a vote of 32 in favor and 16 opposed. The measure now awaits the ceremonial sign-off from King Charles III before taking effect.

Under Jersey’s new law, terminally ill individuals who have resided on the island for at least one year may choose to end their lives if they have six months or less to live — or up to 12 months in cases involving neurodegenerative conditions. Medical doctors or registered nurses would be permitted to administer the life-ending medications.

This approach differs significantly from the stalled British Parliament legislation, which would require terminally ill individuals to self-administer approved substances rather than having medical professionals perform the procedure.

Critics of assisted dying measures contend that vulnerable populations including disabled, elderly, sick, and mentally distressed individuals might face coercion to end their lives to avoid becoming burdens on family members or society.

Jersey, home to approximately 100,000 residents and located in the English Channel near France’s northwestern coast, follows the Isle of Man in approving such legislation. The Isle of Man passed its assisted dying law in March of last year but continues waiting for royal approval, as the UK Ministry of Justice must first review the legislation.

According to government officials, the approval process can extend significantly for legislation deemed complex or sensitive, or when legal and constitutional questions arise.

Both island territories maintain self-governing status while depending on the United Kingdom for military defense and certain international relations matters.

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill received approval from the House of Commons in London last June but has encountered significant obstacles in the House of Lords, where more than 1,000 proposed amendments have created delays. Bill supporters characterize these amendments as deliberate obstruction tactics by opponents, while some House of Lords members argue they are conducting essential review processes to improve what they consider potentially dangerous legislation.

Welsh legislators provided their endorsement Tuesday for the UK Parliament to advance the assisted dying bill.

Scottish lawmakers are scheduled to vote on their own version of assisted dying legislation in March.

Authorities in Italy have taken a 50-year-old man from Burundi into custody in connection with the brutal killings of three Italian Catholic missionary nuns that occurred over a decade ago in Africa’s Burundi.

Guillaume Harushimana faces allegations of planning, organizing, and providing logistical assistance for the deaths of three elderly nuns: 83-year-old Olga Rachietti, 75-year-old Lucia Pulici, and 79-year-old Bernadetta Boggian. The religious women were killed in two separate incidents that took place on September 7-8, 2014, in Bujumbura, Burundi’s largest commercial city.

According to prosecutors in Parma, Italy, the murders were directed by General Adolphe Nshimirimana, who served as the head of Burundi’s secret police at the time. The general was later killed in 2015. Harushimana allegedly served as one of the general’s assistants and carried out the deadly orders.

Investigators believe the nuns may have been targeted for several possible reasons: their refusal to offer medical assistance to Burundian militia forces operating in Congo, disagreements regarding funding for a youth facility in the Kamenge area, or as part of some form of ritual killing.

Four individuals are believed to have directly participated in the murders, according to prosecutors. Two suspects admitted their involvement during radio broadcasts, while a third person, described as the general’s personal security guard, was questioned in Parma and partially acknowledged the crimes. A fourth suspect remains unidentified.

Burundian officials have not yet provided any response to requests for comment regarding the arrest. Attempts to reach Harushimana for his statement were unsuccessful.

Italian legal authorities revealed they had resumed their investigation into these murders during 2024, following new information discovered in a book written by investigative reporter Giusy Baioni. This led them to interview additional nuns who had never been questioned by Burundian investigators.

Harushimana’s connection to the case had previously surfaced during earlier investigations. He had secured permission to travel to Italy in 2018 for educational training in the northern Italian city of Parma.

During that 2018 visit, he was brought in for questioning by authorities in Parma but maintained his innocence. He insisted he was not in Burundi when the murders occurred and presented passport documentation showing he had left the country as proof of his absence during the killings.

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Hospital officials confirmed that two Palestinians lost their lives and five others sustained injuries during an Israeli attack Thursday in an area east of Gaza City. Fadel Naeem, who serves as director of Al-Ahli Hospital, reported receiving the casualties at his medical facility.

Israeli military representatives did not provide immediate statements regarding the incident.

Fatal Israeli attacks have consistently undermined the ceasefire agreement that began on October 10th. The growing number of Palestinian casualties has led many Gaza residents to express that the conflict appears to continue without pause.

In a separate incident Thursday, Israeli military forces reported killing a Palestinian individual who had crossed the boundary separating the Israeli-controlled section of Gaza from areas where most Palestinians are concentrated. These types of shootings have become routine occurrences in the region since the ceasefire implementation.

Military officials characterized the deceased individual as a militant who threatened their personnel. This description is typically used when describing most Palestinians shot near the boundary line, despite civilian casualties including young children, according to a military representative who spoke anonymously to follow military protocols.

The Committee to Protect Journalists issued a report Wednesday stating that 2025 recorded the highest number of journalist and media worker deaths since the organization started tracking this data over thirty years ago. The report documented at least 129 journalist and media worker fatalities, with Israel responsible for two-thirds of these deaths.

Among the conflict’s casualties was Mariam Dagga, a 33-year-old freelance contributor to The Associated Press. Dagga and four additional reporters died when Israeli forces targeted Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza, killing 17 additional individuals in the same strike.

Gaza’s Health Ministry reported Wednesday that 618 Palestinians have died since the ceasefire began, raising the total death count to 72,082 since Israel’s military campaign started. The ministry operates under Hamas leadership but maintains comprehensive casualty documentation that United Nations agencies and independent analysts consider generally credible. However, their records do not separate civilian and militant casualties.

The ceasefire agreement shows mixed results, with significant obstacles remaining on crucial issues. Following initial chaotic weeks, officials note increased Palestinian movement through the reopened Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt. However, the Palestinian technical committee designated to manage Gaza’s daily operations has not gained entry to the territory. International peacekeeping forces intended to maintain Gaza security are being planned but no personnel have been stationed there yet.

Israel and Hamas continue disagreeing about the timeline and extent of Israeli military withdrawal and Gaza’s demilitarization following nearly twenty years under Hamas control.

The conflict originated when Hamas-led fighters attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing approximately 1,200 people, predominantly civilians. The 251 individuals taken hostage during that attack have been returned to Israel through various ceasefire negotiations. The remains of Israeli police officer Ran Gvili, the final body held in Gaza, were recovered and returned in January, facilitating progress in ceasefire discussions. The war has generated global demonstrations and genocide accusations that Israel rejects.

The head of the United Nations World Food Program revealed Thursday she plans to resign from her position within three months, citing health concerns that are preventing her from fully performing the demanding role.

Cindy McCain, 71, experienced a mild stroke last October and returned to the organization’s Rome headquarters in early January to continue her leadership duties. However, according to a WFP statement, the extensive responsibilities of directing the global anti-hunger agency have proven too challenging for her ongoing recovery process.

“With a heavy heart, I am announcing my intention to step down as the executive director of the World Food Program,” McCain stated. “Serving this incredible organization has been the honor of a lifetime.”

McCain highlighted the organization’s capacity to rescue lives in the world’s most perilous and impoverished regions, where assistance is desperately needed. She expressed that leaving the agency represents “one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make.”

“But my health has not recovered to a level that allows me to fully serve the enormous demands of this job,” she explained.

The outgoing director emphasized the organization’s achievements during her tenure, noting that “over the past three years, we have delivered life-saving and life-changing assistance for millions of the world’s most vulnerable people — and this unwavering commitment will be more important than ever in the years to come.”

McCain began her five-year appointment as head of the world’s premier humanitarian agency in March 2023. Prior to this role, she served as the U.S. representative to UN food and agriculture agencies during the Biden administration.

As the late Republican Senator John McCain’s widow, she made headlines when she crossed party lines to support Biden’s 2020 presidential campaign, becoming an important Democratic ally after former President Trump repeatedly attacked her husband and his military record.

McCain has represented the World Food Program during its efforts to assist nearly 150 million individuals facing conflicts, natural disasters, and climate change consequences this year. The agency remains one of the rare UN organizations that maintains support from both political parties.

Under McCain’s leadership, the WFP has addressed major humanitarian emergencies stemming from the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

McCain took over from David Beasley, the former South Carolina governor who guided the organization through difficult periods including the coronavirus pandemic and the worldwide food shortage triggered by Russia’s Ukrainian invasion.

OSLO, Norway — Norway’s 89-year-old King Harald V has been released from a Spanish hospital following successful treatment for a leg infection, according to an announcement from the royal palace on Thursday.

The Norwegian royal palace confirmed that Harald, who celebrated his 89th birthday just last weekend, was discharged from the Tenerife hospital during Thursday. Officials stated that the monarch and Queen Sonja plan to continue their private holiday, with no timeline established for their return to Norway.

Harald’s hospitalization began Tuesday, prompting his personal physician, Bjørn Bendz, to fly to Tenerife on Wednesday. According to Bendz, the king received treatment for an infection affecting his leg.

Palace officials reported Thursday that Harald’s condition improved rapidly and he responded favorably to medical care. Bendz plans to stay in Tenerife for several additional days to observe the king’s progress.

This health scare follows a similar incident from two years prior, when the monarch became ill while vacationing with the queen in Malaysia. During that episode, Harald required emergency pacemaker surgery and was transported back to Norway via medical aircraft for a permanent device implantation.

Harald has served as Norway’s king since ascending to the throne in 1991. This latest medical episode occurs during a challenging period for Norway’s royal family.

Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who is married to heir apparent Crown Prince Haakon, has recently faced renewed questions regarding her past interactions with deceased convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Additionally, Mette-Marit’s son from a prior relationship is currently facing trial in Oslo on several serious charges, including allegations of rape.

The leader of the World Economic Forum announced his resignation Thursday amid growing controversy surrounding his documented connections to deceased sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

Børge Brende, who previously served as Norway’s foreign minister, revealed his decision to leave his role as president and CEO of the organization famous for hosting the high-profile Davos summit each January in Switzerland.

“I am grateful for the incredible collaboration with my colleagues, partners, and constituents, and I believe now is the right moment for the Forum to continue its important work without distractions,” Brende stated in the organization’s official announcement.

The resignation follows the recent disclosure of documents showing Brende had multiple dining encounters with Epstein and maintained communication with the convicted criminal. Brende held Norway’s top diplomatic position from 2013 through 2017 and joins other high-profile Norwegians facing questions after the latest batch of Epstein-related files became public.

While Thursday’s resignation statement avoided mentioning the scandal directly, the WEF had launched an internal investigation earlier this month to examine the extent of Brende’s relationship with Epstein.

Speaking to Norwegian media outlet NRK previously, Brende maintained his cooperation with investigators, emphasizing that his encounters with Epstein occurred only in professional contexts and that he remained unaware of Epstein’s criminal activities at the time.

WEF leadership, including co-chairs André Hoffmann and Larry Fink, confirmed the completion of their independent investigation conducted by external legal counsel, stating: “The findings stated that there were no additional concerns beyond what has been previously disclosed.”

The organization announced that Alois Zwinggi will take over leadership responsibilities on an interim basis.

American and Iranian representatives gathered in Geneva Thursday for their third attempt at nuclear negotiations, while President Trump simultaneously positions warships and military aircraft throughout the Middle East as diplomatic pressure.

Trump’s special Middle East representative Steve Witkoff, a real estate mogul and presidential ally, is working alongside Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to persuade Tehran to suspend uranium enrichment activities – a critical component in nuclear weapon development – and reduce long-range missile manufacturing.

Despite previous American strikes in June that damaged three Iranian nuclear facilities, Tehran maintains its commitment to continue uranium enrichment. Iranian officials have warned that any future American military action would result in retaliation against all US military installations across the Middle East, with additional threats directed toward Israel.

These current discussions represent the third diplomatic effort since last year’s 12-day military conflict between Israel and Iran, with failure potentially triggering broader regional warfare throughout the Middle East.

Iranian foreign ministry officials described the exchange of proposals between both nations as “very constructive” during Thursday’s session. Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei announced that negotiations temporarily halted around 1630GMT Thursday, allowing “both delegations needed to hold consultations with their respective capitals.”

Baghaei confirmed discussions centered on Iran’s nuclear activities and sanctions relief but declined to elaborate on specific details.

The Swiss-based indirect negotiations include Oman’s foreign minister and the International Atomic Energy Agency director, representing the UN’s nuclear oversight body. Diplomatic observers consider these talks the final opportunity for peaceful resolution, as Washington has assembled naval and air forces in the Middle East to compel Iranian cooperation.

Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, serving as mediator, reported that both parties have shared “creative and positive ideas” and expressed optimism for additional progress when discussions resume later Thursday.

Diplomatic convoys carrying Iranian and American delegations departed the Omani residence in Geneva following several hours of indirect morning negotiations.

A prominent adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader suggested Thursday that immediate agreement remains possible if talks concentrate exclusively on Iran’s pledge to avoid nuclear weapons development.

“If the main issue of the negotiations is Iran’s non-development of nuclear weapons, this is consistent with the Supreme Leader’s fatwa (religious declaration) and Iran’s defense doctrine, and an immediate agreement is within reach,” Ali Shamkhani posted on X Thursday.

Shamkhani emphasized that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi possesses “sufficient support and authority” to finalize any agreement during current negotiations.

Oman’s Foreign Ministry confirmed presenting Iranian proposals to US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner during Thursday’s Geneva session, publishing photographs showing Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi meeting with both American representatives.

The ministry described discussions as “constructive,” noting that al-Busaidi addressed American inquiries regarding Iran’s nuclear program and necessary guarantees for reaching agreement.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei told state television that negotiations would concentrate solely on nuclear issues, similar to previous rounds, with possible participation from the International Atomic Energy Agency director general.

“Our positions are clear: the lifting of sanctions and the peaceful use of nuclear energy,” Baghaei stated.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham strongly opposed any uranium enrichment concessions to Iran, advocating for regime change instead.

“If media reports are true that there is a consideration of allowing Iran to have very small enrichment of uranium for face-saving purposes: screw that,” Graham posted on X Wednesday evening.

The South Carolina senator labeled Iran’s government “the largest state sponsor of terrorism” and expressed desire to “see the people of Iran change the regime – it’s long overdue.”

Before departing for Geneva negotiations, Foreign Minister Araghchi told India Today Wednesday that he believes a “fair, balanced, and equitable deal” remains achievable based on previous talks’ foundations, though Iranians approach current discussions with increased caution following Israel’s June attack during earlier US-Iranian negotiations.

“The wounds of that aggression is still alive in our minds,” Araghchi explained. “This time, we are obviously more careful.”

Araghchi dismissed reports of Iran developing intercontinental missiles as “fake news,” confirming the country limited missile range to 2,000 kilometers for defensive purposes only. He emphasized Iran’s commitment to uranium enrichment for peaceful purposes while offering permanent assurance of peaceful intentions in exchange for complete sanctions termination.

The USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, departed a Greek naval base Thursday while heading toward the Middle East, where American forces continue accumulating as Iranian tensions intensify.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian assured Thursday that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons because the country’s religious leader has declared such intentions contrary to national policy.

“The religious leader of a society can’t lie,” Pezeshkian stated on state television from northern Iran. “When he announces that we won’t have nuclear weapons, it means we won’t. Even if I want to do that, I can’t, because of my beliefs.”

A recent AP-NORC poll revealed that approximately half of American adults remain “extremely” or “very” concerned about Iran’s nuclear program as a direct threat to the United States, though only about one-quarter express high confidence in Trump’s judgment regarding military force abroad.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio commented Wednesday that Iran continues attempting to rebuild nuclear program elements, stating Tehran is “trying to get to the point where they ultimately can” enrich uranium while also pursuing “intercontinental ballistic missiles.”

PRAGUE – Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis delivered a firm rejection Thursday of NATO’s push for increased military spending, declaring his government will not pursue higher defense expenditures despite mounting alliance pressure.

The populist leader’s ANO party assumed control in December and is currently advancing a revised 2026 budget through the nation’s parliament. The administration has drawn criticism for its approach to military funding.

During the previous year’s campaign, Babis had already dismissed NATO’s agreement to incrementally boost defense spending to 5% of gross domestic product as unrealistic.

When questioned during a Thursday online interview with news platform Denik.cz about whether his administration planned to increase military spending, Babis responded emphatically: “Certainly not.”

“Our priority is the health of our citizens, so that they live long lives,” he stated.

The prime minister secured electoral victory by pledging to focus on improving citizens’ quality of life through higher wages, reduced taxes, and expanded benefits.

The current government’s 2026 budget proposal reduces defense expenditures to 2.1% of GDP, down from the former center-right government’s target of 2.35%. Defense Minister Jaromir Zuna assured Wednesday that army modernization efforts would remain unaffected by the cuts.

The outgoing administration, which strongly backed Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, had aimed to progressively increase military spending to 3% of GDP by 2030.

While the new government continues supporting a Czech-initiated program that sources large-caliber ammunition for Ukraine through international donations from nations including Germany, it has ceased contributing its own budget resources to the effort.

Hungary’s April 12 election represents a critical decision point for the nation’s future direction, according to opposition leader Peter Magyar, who frames the choice as one between European integration and alignment with authoritarian governments.

Magyar leads the centre-right Tisza party, which polling shows has gained ground against nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has maintained control for 16 years while promoting what he terms “illiberal democracy.”

Speaking during a campaign stop in Salgotarjan, a former mining community, Magyar criticized Orban’s close relationships with Russia and former Soviet nations like Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan. He also questioned Hungary’s decision to gain observer membership in the Organisation of Turkic States.

“This will be a referendum: I think it is clear that the choice is between Europe or the Turkic council and dictators,” Magyar stated following a rally that drew hundreds despite cold conditions. “It is about whether Hungary continues these 16 years of decline … or we set off to Europe and development, joining the Poles, Slovenians, Czechs and the Baltic states.”

Orban has defended his approach by positioning Hungary as a connector between “Eastern traditions and Western institutions,” arguing for pragmatic pursuit of economic opportunities.

A major campaign issue involves approximately 17 billion euros in European Union funding that has been withheld due to concerns about rule-of-law violations under Orban’s administration. Nearly 11 billion euros remains available under the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility, but access expires at the end of August.

Magyar pledged that his administration would quickly negotiate with Brussels to unlock these suspended funds by addressing rule-of-law requirements. “I very much hope that we will be able to sign a deal quickly and after an agreement in principle, perhaps even before the legislation is approved, they can start disbursing the funds,” he explained.

Financial markets have responded positively to the possibility of a Tisza victory, with Hungary’s forint currency strengthening partly due to expectations of renewed EU funding access, according to analysts.

Regarding international relations, Magyar promised to pursue “constructive and friendly” ties with the United States under the Trump administration. “Europe is in a very difficult situation economically, socially and in security policy, so we must work together with the Trump administration … and I will seek the same,” he said.

President Trump has publicly backed Orban as “a truly strong and powerful Leader,” while Secretary of State Marco Rubio described U.S.-Hungary relations under Orban as entering a “golden era.”

On the Ukraine conflict, Magyar expressed optimism about achieving a ceasefire “perhaps even before the Hungarian elections,” followed by a comprehensive peace agreement with international security guarantees for Ukraine. However, ongoing Trump administration mediation efforts between Moscow and Kyiv have not yet produced signs of ending the four-year war.

Orban has characterized the election as a fundamental choice between “war or peace,” claiming through state-controlled television that Tisza would involve Hungary in the Ukraine war. Magyar’s party disputes this characterization.

Magyar clarified that while a Tisza government would not deploy troops or weapons to Ukraine, it “would support the peace process.”

The election outcome will also serve as an indicator for far-right movements across Europe as the EU confronts challenges including an increasingly aggressive Russia, the ongoing Ukraine war, and diplomatic complexities arising from Trump’s “Make America Great Again” agenda.

CAIRO – Three Palestinians died Thursday in separate incidents involving Israeli military action in Gaza, highlighting continued tensions despite an ongoing ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

Health officials in Gaza report that two Palestinians were killed and several others injured when an Israeli airstrike targeted a group in the Tuffah neighborhood of Gaza City. Israeli military officials have not yet provided comment regarding this northern Gaza incident.

In a separate event in southern Gaza, Israeli forces killed what they described as a militant who had entered an Israeli-controlled zone within the territory and presented an immediate danger to their troops, according to military statements.

Israeli officials characterized this southern incident as a breach of the U.S.-mediated ceasefire that took effect in October, following negotiations between the warring parties.

The current conflict began after Hamas launched an assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in 1,200 deaths according to Israeli records. The subsequent war has devastated Gaza’s infrastructure and left the territory in ruins.

Gaza’s health ministry reports that Israeli military actions have resulted in over 72,000 deaths, predominantly civilians, since the conflict began. Officials also state that at least 460 people have died from Israeli fire since the ceasefire took effect last October.

Israeli authorities report four of their soldiers have been killed by militants in Gaza since the truce began. Each side continues to accuse the other of ceasefire violations.

The Gaza agreement entered its second phase in January, which calls for Israel to pull back additional troops from the territory while Hamas transfers administrative control of Gaza.

Norway’s 89-year-old monarch, King Harald, is scheduled to leave a Spanish hospital on Thursday following treatment for health complications that arose during his vacation, according to an announcement from the royal palace.

The elderly king, who holds the distinction of being Europe’s oldest reigning head of state, was hospitalized Tuesday on the island of Tenerife after developing a leg infection and becoming dehydrated during his private getaway.

According to palace officials, King Harald and Queen Sonja plan to extend their personal visit to Tenerife, with no timeline established for their return to Norway.

The monarch’s personal doctor will stay on the Spanish island for several additional days to keep watch over the king’s condition, the palace statement indicated.

MOSCOW – A top Russian official warned Thursday that Britain’s plan to station troops in Ukraine following any ceasefire agreement would actually extend the conflict rather than bring it to a close.

Maria Zakharova, who serves as Russia’s foreign ministry spokeswoman, made the statement in response to recent announcements from both France and Britain regarding their intentions to deploy military personnel to Ukraine after hostilities with Russia cease.

In a recent newspaper column, British Defence Minister John Healey expressed his desire to oversee such a deployment, writing: “I want to be the defence secretary who deploys British troops to Ukraine – because this will mean that this war is finally over.”

However, Zakharova directly challenged this assessment during a briefing with reporters. “Contrary to Healey’s misconception, the deployment of British troops to Ukraine will not mean the end of the war, but rather a prolongation of the conflict and an increase in the risk of a large-scale military confrontation involving many more states,” she stated.

The spokeswoman also reiterated Moscow’s previous stance that Russia would consider any international military forces stationed in Ukraine as valid military targets.

Relatives of victims from the devastating 2017 Grenfell Tower blaze are taking legal action against the UK government, demanding officials halt demolition work to save wall sections containing what they believe are handprints left by those who perished or escaped the inferno.

The deadly blaze consumed the 24-floor public housing building in an upscale London neighborhood during the early morning hours of June 14, 2017, claiming 72 lives. Crews started tearing down the structure last September in a process expected to span two years.

Images obtained by Reuters reveal soot-covered corridor walls displaying multiple visible handprints on one level. Workers also discovered Arabic writing stating “Allahu Akbar” (meaning “God is greatest”) on a separate floor, along with additional handprints in another stairway.

“These sections on the walls in the stairwell hold the voices of that night – and we will not let them be erased, silenced, or this tragedy be sanitised,” declared Karim Khalloufi, whose sister died in the fire.

The bereaved families have submitted a formal legal challenge seeking a judicial review, which would allow a court to evaluate whether the government’s actions are legally sound.

They point to commitments made by former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner in 2025, who indicated tower portions could be saved for memorial purposes if residents desired it.

Grenfell Next of Kin, representing immediate family members of more than half the deceased, is pushing officials to protect these wall sections while memorial discussions continue with relatives and designers.

Legal representatives for the families report the government refuses to preserve materials above the ninth floor, citing the sensitive nature and loss of life. However, both the handprints and Arabic inscription were discovered beyond this designated level.

A government spokesperson from MHCLG stated officials remain dedicated to “ensuring what happened at the tower is remembered, with the community’s voice at the heart of our work,” emphasizing that demolition activities are being conducted with careful consideration for those impacted.

SWEIDA PROVINCE, Syria — In a significant development toward potential peace, Syrian government troops and Druze militia forces completed a prisoner exchange Thursday, releasing detainees captured during violent summer confrontations that left hundreds dead.

The prisoner swap marks the first substantial breakthrough in diplomatic efforts led by the United States and Jordan to negotiate a political agreement between the opposing forces.

Government officials released 25 detainees while Druze-controlled regional leaders freed 61 prisoners at a checkpoint in the al-Matuna region of northern Sweida province. The International Committee of the Red Cross oversaw the exchange process.

Syrian Interior Ministry spokesman Noureddine al-Baba explained to reporters that negotiators reached the prisoner agreement “through the combined efforts of international and local parties, and it reflects the Syrian state’s commitment to all its citizens, from all backgrounds and affiliations and across all provinces.”

Stephan Sakalian, who leads the ICRC delegation in Syria, said he “hopes that this operation will pave the way toward possible further releases and dialogue between all parties on other humanitarian concerns,” including determining what happened to individuals who disappeared during the conflict.

The violence erupted in mid-July when armed militias loyal to Druze leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri fought with local Bedouin tribes, prompting government military intervention that essentially supported the Bedouin side.

The fighting resulted in hundreds of civilian deaths, predominantly among the Druze population, with many killed by government soldiers. Tens of thousands of residents from both Druze and Bedouin communities fled their homes during the conflict.

Following the violence, numerous militia groups united under al-Hijri’s leadership, establishing effective autonomous control over large portions of the province with backing from neighboring Israel.

After former Syrian President Bashar Assad’s removal by Islamist-led rebel forces in December 2024, Syria’s new leadership has faced challenges in reunifying the nation and establishing authority throughout its territory.

Last month’s agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, which governs much of northeastern Syria, represented a major step toward consolidation — leaving Sweida as the primary region still operating outside central government authority.

The Druze faith originated as a 10th-century branch of Ismailism, which stems from Shiite Islam. More than half of the world’s approximately one million Druze population resides in Syria, with most others living in Lebanon and Israel, including the Golan Heights territory that Israel captured from Syria in 1967 and subsequently annexed.

KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) — Two women have been taken into custody by Ugandan authorities following neighbor complaints about same-sex conduct, marking what appears to be among the initial detentions under the nation’s harsh anti-LGBTQ legislation passed in 2023, according to police officials Thursday.

Authorities in Arua, located in Uganda’s northwest region, apprehended the pair on February 18th following reports that residents frequently observed them in intimate displays. Police spokesperson Josephine Angucia stated that when law enforcement responded, they discovered the couple “red-handed on the cement floor.”

Both women have since been released on police bond while the investigation proceeds, and formal charges have not yet been filed, Angucia confirmed.

The disputed Anti-Homosexuality Act gained backing from many Ugandans while drawing sharp criticism from human rights advocates and international observers. Supporters argued the measure was essential for child protection.

Though the law doesn’t make LGBTQ identity itself illegal, it establishes capital punishment for “aggravated homosexuality,” a term covering sexual contact involving HIV-positive individuals, minors, and other vulnerable populations.

The Arua arrests highlight troubling developments under the new legislation, according to Frank Mugisha, a leading LGBTQ advocate in Uganda. “We have seen a surge in a targeted crackdown that goes beyond just arrests; it has fueled a dangerous cycle of blackmail and extortion,” Mugisha stated.

Uganda already prohibits same-sex relations through older colonial-era statutes that criminalize acts “against the order of nature.”

Across Africa’s 54 nations, homosexuality faces legal restrictions in many countries. Senegal, located in West Africa, is currently working to strengthen penalties for same-sex conduct.

A coalition of five prominent United Nations member countries issued a strong condemnation Thursday, declaring that attacks carried out by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces paramilitary organization in al-Fashir display characteristics consistent with genocide.

Foreign ministers representing the Sudan core group within the UN Human Rights Council determined that the RSF’s violent actions amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, while also exhibiting genocide indicators, according to their official statement distributed through Germany’s foreign ministry.

The participating nations—Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom—announced their intention to establish a collaborative alliance aimed at stopping additional mass violence throughout Sudan.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, whose father sold carpets in Isfahan, has likened his country’s diplomatic approach to marketplace haggling – a method that demands “patience and great time.”

However, the clock may be ticking for this seasoned diplomat as he confronts the most crucial talks of his lengthy career, working to secure a nuclear agreement that could prevent military strikes threatened by President Donald Trump.

Since becoming Iran’s chief diplomat in 2024, Araqchi has drawn on his experience from the 2015 nuclear negotiations with global powers – the same accord that Trump abandoned in 2018.

Sources within Iran’s political circles indicate that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has complete trust in Araqchi, with many considering him among the Islamic Republic’s most influential foreign ministers to date.

Iran’s religious leadership appears to have faith in his diplomatic skills as American military presence increases across the Middle East, coming just eight months after U.S. forces struck Iranian nuclear facilities.

In his 2024 publication “The Power of Negotiation,” Araqchi explained that Iranians’ diplomatic method is often called “the style of the bazaar,” which involves “continuous and persistent bargaining.” He included a personal note about his deceased mother’s skill at negotiating prices.

However, he warned against excessive demands, writing: “When you sell snow under the sun, bargaining more than necessary is a loss.”

MILITARY BUILDUP ‘CANNOT PRESSURIZE US’

During nuclear discussions more than ten years ago, Araqchi built his reputation as an expert in challenging negotiations. The original agreement required Iran to accept strict limits on its nuclear activities in return for lifting economic sanctions.

International diplomats who participated in those discussions have characterized him as focused, well-informed on technical matters, and direct in his communication.

Last year, he headed Iran’s team during unsuccessful discussions with the United States before American airstrikes occurred.

The soft-spoken Araqchi participated in Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution as a young person and served in the Iran-Iraq conflict during the 1980s before pursuing diplomacy.

A longtime acquaintance described him as composed and patient, while also being argumentative and determined.

This past Sunday, Araqchi expressed optimism about achieving “a diplomatic solution based on a win-win game.”

During his CBS News “Face the Nation” appearance, he stated: “So there is no need for any military buildup,” emphasizing that military pressure “cannot pressurize us.”

KEEPS DISTANCE FROM ‘POLITICAL FRAYS AND INFIGHTING’

Trump has shown impatience with negotiators’ inability to reach an agreement. “They want to make a deal, but we haven’t heard those secret words ‘We will never have a nuclear weapon’,” Trump declared during Tuesday’s State of the Union address.

Iran has consistently rejected accusations of pursuing nuclear weapons.

Araqchi spearheaded failed attempts to revive the 2015 agreement during President Joe Biden’s 2021-25 term, until a more hardline official took his place.

Shortly after, he received appointment as secretary of Iran’s Strategic Council on Foreign Relations – an important advisory group to Khamenei, bringing him closer to Iran’s highest decision-maker.

Born in Tehran during 1962 to an affluent religious merchant household, Araqchi was just 17 when the Islamic Revolution swept through Iran, inspiring radical passion among many young people.

Motivated by the removal of the American-supported Shah’s royal government and hopes for transformation, he joined the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran’s elite military force, to serve in the 1980-88 conflict with Iraq.

He began working at the foreign ministry in 1989 and held ambassador positions in Finland from 1999 to 2003 and Japan from 2007 to 2011, before taking the foreign ministry spokesperson role in 2013.

After earning his political science doctorate from Britain’s University of Kent, he became deputy foreign minister in 2013.

As a committed Muslim, Araqchi has worked under various presidents with approaches ranging from moderate to conservative.

Though he maintains insider status with strong connections to Khamenei, Araqchi has stayed away from “political frays and infighting” among different groups, according to a high-ranking Iranian official.

“He has good relations with the Supreme Leader, the Revolutionary Guards and all political factions in Iran,” the official explained.

American and Iranian representatives engaged in indirect diplomatic discussions Thursday in Geneva, addressing Tehran’s nuclear program in what many consider a final opportunity for peaceful resolution before potential military action.

Special Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff conducted message exchanges with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, working to persuade Iran to cease uranium enrichment activities that could lead to nuclear weapons development and to reduce or eliminate long-range missile production. President Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, participated in the discussions.

The diplomatic session continued for approximately three hours before American representatives departed the venue. According to Iranian state media, negotiations will continue following a recess.

These current negotiations represent a renewal of diplomatic efforts between Witkoff and Araghchi, who conducted several discussion rounds last year before talks broke down when Israel initiated military operations against Iran in June. Oman, the Arabian Peninsula nation that has historically facilitated communications between Iran and Western powers, is once again serving as mediator.

Iran insists the discussions should concentrate exclusively on nuclear matters, while America seeks complete cessation of Iranian uranium enrichment. However, Washington’s agenda extends beyond nuclear concerns to include ballistic missile capabilities, Tehran’s support for regional proxy groups, and additional security issues.

Military escalation remains a significant concern for regional stability. Iranian officials have declared that any American military strike would result in targeting all U.S. military installations throughout the Middle East, potentially endangering thousands of American military personnel. Tehran could also launch retaliatory attacks against Persian Gulf allies of America or Israel. Recent days have seen oil prices increase partly due to these escalating tensions.

The United States has deployed naval vessels and aircraft to the Middle East region as a show of force designed to encourage Iranian cooperation in reaching a diplomatic agreement.

COPENHAGEN – Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced Thursday that the Scandinavian nation will conduct parliamentary elections on March 24.

The announcement was made from the Danish capital as the country prepares for its upcoming electoral process.

The International Monetary Fund announced Wednesday it will provide Egypt access to approximately $2.3 billion from a previously authorized loan package, recognizing the nation’s success in achieving economic stability and curbing inflation through comprehensive reform efforts.

According to the IMF’s Wednesday statement, the funding release comes after evaluating Egypt’s reform initiatives, which the organization says have generated “a broad-based economic recovery” in the Arab world’s most populated nation. The Fund reported Egypt’s gross domestic product expanded by 4.4% between 2024 and 2025.

Egypt’s original $3 billion emergency loan, granted in 2022, was expanded to $8 billion in 2024 as officials worked to address severe foreign currency shortages and runaway inflation that reached 38% in September 2023.

By January, inflation had dropped significantly to 11.9%, according to the Washington-based organization’s statement.

Egypt implemented several anti-inflation strategies, including allowing the Egyptian pound to float freely and raising interest rates.

Despite these gains, the IMF cautioned that advancement “has been uneven.” The Fund emphasized that excessive state control over the economy persists, stating that “decisive efforts to reduce the state’s footprint in the economy will be essential.”

Egypt’s financial struggles stem from multiple crises including the COVID-19 pandemic, consequences from Russia’s comprehensive attack on Ukraine, and the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

The situation worsened when Houthi militants from Yemen began targeting Red Sea shipping lanes, dramatically reducing Suez Canal income—a crucial source of foreign currency for Egypt. These attacks diverted maritime traffic around Africa’s southern tip instead of through the canal.

Government statistics show approximately 30% of Egypt’s population of over 108 million people live below the poverty threshold.

COPENHAGEN, Denmark — Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen revealed Thursday her decision to schedule parliamentary elections for March 24 in the Scandinavian nation.

The upcoming vote will decide the makeup of Denmark’s Folketing, the country’s parliament, for the following four-year period. The legislative body contains 179 members total — with 175 positions allocated to representatives from Denmark proper, while Greenland and the Faroe Islands, both semi-autonomous regions within the kingdom, each receive two seats.

While Denmark’s constitution requires parliamentary elections at minimum once every four years, the prime minister holds the authority to schedule them earlier. The most recent election took place November 1, 2022, leading to an unusual three-party governing alliance that spans both sides of the political spectrum.

Since mid-2019, Frederiksen, who belongs to the center-left Social Democratic party, has served as Denmark’s leader. Her current administration includes partnerships with Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen’s Liberal Party and the centrist Moderate party headed by Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, who previously held the prime minister position.

BOGOTA, Colombia — The United Nations issued a stark warning Thursday that Colombia faces the possibility of sliding back into the severe human rights crisis that plagued the country before a landmark 2016 peace agreement with its largest rebel organization brought improved security.

UN officials expressed concern that escalating violence in Colombia’s countryside could jeopardize the integrity of the nation’s approaching elections.

The UN’s yearly assessment of Colombia’s human rights landscape reveals a dramatic increase in assaults on rural populations by insurgent organizations and narcotics traffickers competing for control of areas once held by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, which signed the peace accord with the government eight years ago.

The report documents an alarming 85% rise in forced displacement during 2025 compared to the previous year, with roughly 94,000 individuals compelled to abandon their communities.

Killings of human rights advocates climbed 9% over the past year, while armed organizations imposed 12% more lockdowns on rural settlements. These lockdowns prevent residents from hunting or working their land, while forcing schools and local businesses to close, severely disrupting civilian life.

“This report is an early warning,” stated Scott Campbell, who serves as the Colombia representative for the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. “There are a number of indicators that we are trying to draw attention to in order to prevent further degradation” of Colombia’s human rights conditions.

Though current human rights abuses don’t match the scale seen during Colombia’s most intense conflict with FARC rebels — when roughly 300,000 people annually fled violence — the assessment emphasizes that Colombia’s leadership must take stronger measures to shield civilians from unlawful armed organizations.

A continuing challenge involves illegal armed groups forcing children into their ranks, now utilizing social media networks to recruit young people.

While the UN documented 150 instances of forced child recruitment in 2025, officials believe this figure significantly underrepresents the actual scope, as many families fear reporting such cases due to potential reprisals.

The current government under left-leaning President Gustavo Petro, who previously belonged to Colombia’s M-19 guerrilla movement, has attempted to curb violence through peace talks with remaining rebel organizations under an approach called “total peace.”

However, the report observes that truces between Colombian authorities and insurgent groups have frequently failed to decrease attacks against civilians.

“We think it is very important that the government push for remedies to that,” Campbell noted.

With Colombia’s elections approaching, the assessment highlights dangerous conditions for political figures. The previous year saw 18 political leaders murdered and 126 attacks against political figures nationwide.

Last June, conservative presidential contender Miguel Uribe suffered a gunshot wound to the head during a campaign event in Bogota, representing the first assault on a Colombian presidential candidate in thirty years. Uribe succumbed to his injuries two months afterward.

“Violence and conflict, including the emergence of pre-electoral violence, have generated greater risks for the free and safe exercise of certain civil and political rights,” the assessment concluded.

Colombia will conduct congressional elections on March 8, with candidates vying for more than 300 legislative positions in both chambers.

Presidential elections will follow in May, with at least six candidates anticipated to compete.

To address Colombia’s human rights challenges, the report emphasizes that the incoming administration must prioritize complete execution of the 2016 FARC peace agreement.

While certain elements have been fulfilled — including FARC’s weapons surrender and establishing transitional justice mechanisms — other provisions remain incomplete.

These include establishing agricultural courts to handle land disputes and expanding programs designed to encourage farmers to abandon coca cultivation, cocaine’s primary ingredient.

“It’s crucially important at this juncture ahead of elections to make sure that the current government and the future government take concrete actions to make sure that Colombia moves forward,” Campbell emphasized.

He described the 2016 peace agreement as offering a “road map” toward a “Colombia of sustainable peace and respect for human rights.”

Nearly 8,000 migrants lost their lives or vanished while attempting treacherous journeys across dangerous routes worldwide in 2025, according to a United Nations agency that warns the actual number is probably much greater.

The International Organization for Migration released data Thursday showing that funding reductions have severely limited humanitarian organizations’ ability to monitor and document migrant deaths along routes including the Mediterranean Sea and Horn of Africa region.

As legal immigration options continue to diminish, more desperate individuals are turning to human smugglers for help, the organization explained. This trend comes as Europe, the United States, and other destinations increase border enforcement and pour resources into deterrence measures.

“The continued loss of life on migration routes is a global failure we cannot accept as normal,” IOM Director General Amy Pope said in a statement published on Thursday.

“These deaths are not inevitable. When safe pathways are out of reach, people are forced into dangerous journeys and into the hands of smugglers and traffickers. We must act now to expand safe and regular routes and ensure people in need can be protected, regardless of their status.”

While the documented fatalities dropped from approximately 9,200 in 2024 to 7,667 in 2025, this decrease doesn’t necessarily indicate improved safety. Instead, the IOM attributes the lower numbers to reduced irregular migration attempts, particularly throughout the Americas, combined with limited information access and budget constraints that have weakened death-tracking capabilities.

The Geneva-headquartered organization faces significant challenges after major U.S. funding reductions forced it to reduce or eliminate programs that directly support migrants.

Ocean crossings continue to represent the deadliest migration attempts, with the Mediterranean claiming at least 2,108 lives in 2025, while another 1,047 people died or disappeared along the Atlantic passage to Spain’s Canary Islands.

Asian routes accounted for approximately 3,000 migrant deaths, with more than half involving Afghan nationals. An additional 922 people perished while crossing from Yemen through the Horn of Africa toward Gulf States, marking a dramatic rise from the previous year. Ethiopian migrants comprised nearly all of these casualties, with many dying in three separate mass shipwrecks.

The deadly pattern has carried into 2026, with Mediterranean migrant deaths already reaching 606 by February 24, the IOM reported.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz concluded his first official trip to China on Thursday, acknowledging positive diplomatic relations while expressing concerns about trade imbalances that have significantly impacted German markets.

During his two-day inaugural visit to the high-tech city of Hangzhou, Merz toured several facilities including Chinese robotics company Unitree, where robotic dancers greeted him, along with a Siemens Energy location and demonstrations of autonomous Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

While recognizing these as “impressive examples of good cooperation, technological development,” Merz emphasized that “difficult issues” required frank discussion between the two nations.

“Above all, there are issues relating to competition – China has high capacities, some of which are now also posing a problem for Europe because they far exceed market demand,” Merz stated during his visit.

The German leader announced plans for continued dialogue, saying “We will have to discuss this in detail after my visit.” He indicated that Economy Minister Katherina Reiche would also travel to China and confirmed that structured government-to-government meetings with Beijing would commence before next year begins.

China has consistently disputed European claims regarding overcapacity issues, dismissing such allegations as “entirely unfounded.” Chinese officials argue that their capabilities in sectors like renewable energy actually support shared objectives, including environmental sustainability efforts.

The economic relationship between Germany and China has undergone dramatic changes over recent years. While China remains Germany’s primary trading partner, the trade dynamics have shifted considerably in the past five years.

Chinese companies, benefiting from what German authorities believe is an artificially low yuan currency value, have eliminated Germany’s historical trade advantages. This has resulted in Germany facing a substantial trade gap with China approaching 90 billion euros ($106 billion) in 2025.

Merz’s China visit occurs as traditional German foreign policy approaches face challenges due to U.S. President Donald Trump’s more aggressive stance toward European allies. The chancellor is scheduled to travel to Washington next month.

Accompanied by a substantial group of German business representatives, Merz held meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang on Wednesday. During these discussions, he committed to developing a “comprehensive strategic partnership” between the two countries.

However, his diplomatic mission, following similar visits by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, could not mask the substantial challenges affecting China-Europe relations. Merz acknowledged that “numerous tasks” still required attention.

German business executives argue that Chinese companies’ excess production capacity, supported by currency advantages and restricted market access policies, has created unfair competitive conditions. China’s control over critical sectors including semiconductor manufacturing and rare earth materials has also created supply chain risks for Western companies.

Despite these concerns, the advanced technology capabilities of Chinese firms, their deep integration in global manufacturing networks, and China’s massive consumer market make the country an essential economic partner.

Chinese Premier Li assured Merz on Wednesday that China would consider “reasonable demands” from Western businesses. Regarding currency concerns, Beijing has described itself as a “responsible major country” and denied any intention to gain trade advantages through currency manipulation.

BRUSSELS — Belgian defense officials announced Thursday they will install a sophisticated air defense system at the Port of Antwerp following a string of unauthorized drone incidents that have raised serious security concerns.

Throughout the previous year, Belgium experienced numerous unauthorized drone flights that resulted in temporary closures of several airports and a military installation.

The port of Antwerp also witnessed several drone sightings hovering over sensitive locations, including nuclear facilities, the BASF chemical plant, and the Europa container terminal, sparking concerns about the security of vital industrial and energy infrastructure.

While a Defense Ministry representative confirmed the deployment plans initially reported by Belgian news outlets, they refused to share specific operational details for security purposes, noting that the system would be procured in the near future.

“An air-defence system is coming to the port of Antwerp. It’s a NASAMS type,” Antwerp mayor Bart De Wever announced during a Wednesday event at the port of Antwerp-Bruges, as reported by the Gazet van Antwerpen newspaper.

A port representative emphasized the facility’s critical role in the nation’s economy, stating: “Given the importance of our port as an economic engine of Belgium, it is essential that the port is protected and secured, both digitally and physically.”

The NASAMS defense platform is engineered to neutralize threats from unmanned aircraft, military jets, and other close-range airborne dangers.

A Washington-based national security research organization has uncovered what it describes as a widespread Chinese disinformation campaign using hundreds of fake social media accounts to interfere in elections and political discussions across multiple nations.

The Foundation for Defense of Democracy reports that 35 social media accounts on X, along with nine Tumblr channels, launched attacks against Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during her February election victory. These accounts spread false corruption claims and depicted the conservative leader as an unstable, “cult-backed” figure pushing Japan toward military conflict, according to researcher Maria Riofrio from the foundation’s Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation.

The Japanese accounts represent just a fraction of a larger network comprising at least 327 fake profiles across various social media platforms. Since December, this network has promoted Beijing-friendly policies while attacking China’s critics and attempting to sway domestic politics in Japan, America, the Philippines, and Latin American countries, Riofrio’s analysis reveals.

A representative from Takaichi’s office confirmed awareness of suspicious foreign social media activity related to Japan’s elections.

“We consider this to be a national security threat that undermines the very foundations of democracy, including the fairness of elections and freedom of the press. We believe that countermeasures must be urgently prioritized,” the spokesperson stated.

Chinese Embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu in Washington dismissed the foundation’s findings as baseless.

“The Chinese government consistently opposes and combats the use of fake accounts and other tactics to manipulate public opinion or spread disinformation,” Liu told Reuters. “We urge the relevant parties to stop making unfounded accusations and smearing others based on speculation.”

Riofrio connected this recent activity to ongoing Chinese information warfare operations that cybersecurity experts have labeled Spamouflage or Dragonbridge. While these posts typically receive minimal engagement, they still reach users’ feeds and operators manipulate algorithms to increase visibility. One anti-Takaichi post claiming cult connections garnered only two likes but accumulated over 1,000 views.

The researcher emphasized that this activity shows “China has the political will to interfere in Japanese elections and internal affairs,” while noting similar operations targeting other nations, including America.

The Foundation for Defense of Democracy describes itself as a Washington nonprofit dedicated to “strengthening U.S. national security and reducing or eliminating threats posed by adversaries and enemies of the United States and other free nations.”

Nearly half of the 327 identified accounts have targeted President Donald Trump, spreading claims that his drug and border enforcement policies have worsened America’s fentanyl problem, contradicting progress allegedly made under the Biden administration while deflecting responsibility from China.

During early February, six coordinated accounts with fewer than 10 followers each generated hundreds of interactions and nearly 18,000 views through synchronized anti-Trump messaging about fentanyl, according to the analysis.

One network account, FentanylFreeA, established in December 2025, appears designed to mimic the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Fentanyl Free America initiative, using similar branding and identical graphics while attacking both America and India as sources of fentanyl precursor chemicals.

Neither the White House nor the DEA provided responses to requests for comment.

Security experts say the Spamouflage or Dragonbridge operations have been active since 2017, consistently targeting global audiences.

A Google Threat Intelligence Group representative identified Dragonbridge as “the most prolific pro-PRC information operations operator” they monitor as of early 2026, citing “its massive scale and assertive narrative agenda.”

While traditionally focused on targeting America, overseas dissidents, government critics, and international NGOs, Dragonbridge has intensified its Asia-Pacific activities, the Google spokesperson noted, including attacks on Japanese political leadership, Japan-Taiwan diplomatic relations, Vietnam’s South China Sea policies, India, and Philippine government officials.

OpenAI reported Wednesday that it disrupted attempts by a Chinese law enforcement official in mid-October to coordinate a multi-phase information attack against Takaichi.

Poland’s Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski delivered a pointed message to parliament Thursday, emphasizing that while his nation values its partnership with America, it refuses to be taken advantage of in the relationship.

Speaking to lawmakers in Warsaw, Sikorski acknowledged the United States as Poland’s primary military partner while addressing growing uncertainties about European security under President Donald Trump’s leadership.

“We look at the changes in the U.S. with understanding, but also concern,” Sikorski told lawmakers. “We have been and will continue to be a loyal ally of America. But we cannot be suckers.”

The foreign minister’s remarks illustrate the challenging position facing Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s European Union-friendly administration as they work to preserve vital Atlantic partnerships while Trump reshapes traditional security arrangements.

Sikorski emphasized the need for European nations to take greater responsibility for their own defense and stressed the importance of continental solidarity in facing threats.

“The threat to the sovereignty and security of the Republic of Poland comes from one direction – from the East, not the West… The hour has struck for Europe. Either we stand united, or we will be consumed by greater powers,” he declared.

The minister presented stark financial realities, estimating that protecting NATO’s eastern borders from potential Russian attack would require at least 1.2 trillion euros ($1.4 trillion) – twenty-four times Poland’s current defense spending. He argued this figure demonstrates that current aid to Ukraine costs far less than a potential conflict between Russia and NATO.

While Polish politicians across party lines view America as their nation’s key security guarantor, Tusk’s government has expressed criticism of Trump, contrasting sharply with the more supportive stance taken by Poland’s nationalist opposition and President Karol Nawrocki.

MOSCOW – Russian officials are expressing concern about rising tensions surrounding Cuba following a fatal maritime confrontation that left multiple people dead and injured.

The deadly clash occurred Wednesday when Cuban military forces engaged a speedboat registered in Florida that had entered Cuban territorial waters. Four Cuban exiles were killed and six others sustained injuries during the encounter, which began when those aboard the vessel fired upon a Cuban patrol boat.

Moscow has characterized the incident as an “aggressive provocation by the United States” amid already strained relations between Russia and Washington.

During a press briefing Thursday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized the need to address the underlying issues facing Cuban citizens while urging all parties to exercise caution.

“The situation around Cuba, as we can see, is heating up. The main thing is the humanitarian component. All humanitarian issues concerning Cuban citizens must be resolved, and no one should create obstacles,” Peskov stated to members of the media.

The Russian official also stressed the importance of maintaining stability in the region, adding: “As for security around the island, it is, of course, very important that everyone remain restrained and refrain from any provocative actions.”

Peskov highlighted that addressing the socio-economic and humanitarian challenges facing the Cuban population should be the top priority moving forward.

KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced Thursday that Russia conducted an overnight assault using 420 drones and 39 missiles against his nation, coinciding with preparations for continued peace discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian representatives in Geneva as the conflict enters its fifth year.

According to Zelenskyy, the overnight strike involved 11 ballistic missiles and focused on vital infrastructure and civilian neighborhoods throughout eight Ukrainian regions. Officials reported that dozens of individuals, including children, sustained injuries, though authorities have not yet released final casualty figures.

On Wednesday evening, Zelenskyy revealed he had conducted a telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, expressing gratitude for his “efforts and engagement” in advancing peace discussions.

The peace negotiations facilitated by the United States between Moscow and Kyiv remain ongoing but have reached an impasse regarding the status of Ukrainian territories that Russia has claimed.

Trump’s representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who had been addressing nuclear discussions with Iran in Geneva before focusing on the European conflict, were scheduled to meet with Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council chief. Both also participated in Trump’s conversation with Zelenskyy.

The United States continues working to maintain progress in its year-long effort to end hostilities and bridge the significant animosity between the opposing nations.

Officials from Ukraine and Europe have claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is pretending to engage in peace talks, hoping to dodge harsh U.S. actions like additional sanctions while continuing his military campaign.

According to Zelenskyy, Thursday’s discussions between American and Ukrainian representatives would focus on specifics of a potential post-conflict reconstruction plan for Ukraine and preparations for a possible three-way meeting with Moscow representatives, potentially scheduled for next week.

Zelenskyy also mentioned directing Umerov to explore options for a potential prisoner swap.

Vladimir Medinsky, who leads the Russian delegation in previous Ukrainian negotiations, announced Thursday that Russia had returned 1,000 bodies of deceased soldiers to Ukraine while receiving 35 bodies of its own fallen troops. He did not specify the timing of this exchange.

Zelenskyy reported that Russia targeted natural gas facilities in the Poltava region and power substations in the Kyiv and Dnipropetrovsk areas. Emergency response teams were deployed to five additional regions and the capital city.

According to Zelenskyy, Ukrainian air defense systems successfully intercepted the majority of Russian missiles, praising Western allies for providing additional air defense interceptors on schedule. Ukraine depends on international assistance to maintain its defense against Russia’s larger military forces.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called on partner nations to increase military support.

“When the whole world demands Moscow to finally stop this senseless war, Putin bets on more terror, attacks and aggression,” Sybiha said in a post on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

LONDON (AP) — Voters in northwest England cast ballots Thursday in a crucial special election that may shape the political fate of struggling Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The parliamentary contest in Greater Manchester’s Gorton and Denton district features a tight three-way battle between Starmer’s center-left Labour Party, the Green Party focused on environmental issues, and the far-right Reform UK movement. While Labour representatives have dominated this region for nearly the entire past century, Starmer’s administration has watched its approval ratings nosedive since taking power in July 2024.

Polling data and wagering odds suggest an extremely competitive race among Labour’s local councilor Angeliki Stogia, Reform UK’s Matthew Goodwin — a former academic turned political commentator — and Green Party candidate Hannah Spencer, who works as a plumber.

Reform UK, the anti-immigration movement headed by longtime far-right figure Nigel Farage, controls merely eight seats in the 650-member House of Commons compared to Labour’s 404 seats. However, the party has consistently led nationwide surveys for months, surpassing both Labour and the primary opposition Conservative Party.

The Green Party holds four parliamentary seats but has broadened its platform under “eco-populist” leader Zack Polanski to address Palestinian solidarity and drug legalization alongside environmental priorities.

Representatives from both Labour and the Greens argue their party offers the best chance to prevent a Reform victory.

“Voting Green is the only way to ensure Reform don’t win,” Spencer declared.

Starmer framed voters’ decision as one where the choice “could not be more stark: unity or division.”

Reform leader Farage urged constituents to “vote Reform to ditch Starmer.”

Predicting the election’s winner proves challenging in this diverse constituency, triggered by the departure of the district’s previous Labour representative. The area encompasses traditional working-class communities — historically Labour strongholds now leaning toward Reform — alongside significant populations of university students and Muslim residents. Many feel alienated by Labour’s centrist direction under Starmer and the government’s perceived hesitation in condemning Israel’s military actions against Hamas in Gaza, creating opportunities for Green Party growth.

Voting concludes at 10 p.m. local time (2200GMT), with final tallies expected early Friday morning.

Starmer has faced numerous challenges since guiding Labour to an overwhelming electoral triumph in July 2024. He has struggled to fulfill promises of economic expansion, public service improvements, and cost-of-living relief. Despite pledging transparent governance following 14 years of Conservative rule marked by scandals and instability, his tenure has featured policy reversals and controversial decisions regarding welfare reductions and other unpopular measures.

Britain’s next nationwide election isn’t required until 2029, making internal party opposition Starmer’s primary concern.

A Labour victory in Gorton and Denton might provide Starmer temporary relief from party critics contemplating leadership changes. Starmer recently survived a close call earlier this month when party dissatisfaction peaked following revelations about convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s connections to Peter Mandelson, the veteran Labour figure Starmer selected as Britain’s ambassador to the United States.

A defeat would highlight Labour’s deep unpopularity and the significant challenges the party faces from political opponents across the spectrum.

HAVANA (AP) — Cuban officials are providing glimpses into everyday life on the island as diplomatic tensions rise following a maritime confrontation involving armed individuals.

According to Havana authorities, the 10 individuals aboard a speedboat that engaged in gunfire with Cuban military personnel were Cuban nationals currently residing in the United States who allegedly attempted to illegally enter Cuban territory.

The incident has contributed to growing strain in U.S.-Cuba relations as both nations address the maritime security breach.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has made her stance on interest rates crystal clear by selecting two academics who strongly favor keeping borrowing costs low to serve on the Bank of Japan’s governing board.

The Wednesday announcement of nominations for professors Toichiro Asada and Ayano Sato caught financial markets off guard, as many expected Takaichi’s administration would choose more centrist candidates. The yen dropped following the news.

According to two sources with knowledge of the situation, Takaichi kept her selections secret even from the Finance Ministry, which traditionally plays a role in vetting potential board members.

Though the central bank may continue raising rates in the near term, these appointments could have lasting effects on monetary policy battles that may stretch across years or even decades.

Market experts warn that Takaichi’s direct involvement in monetary policy decisions increases the likelihood she’ll appoint more stimulus-friendly members when two rate-hike supporters finish their terms next year.

Should the dovish prime minister remain in office long enough, she would also control the selection of new Bank of Japan leadership when Governor Kazuo Ueda and his deputies’ terms conclude in 2028 — potentially pressuring an institution that has faced political meddling previously.

“If the government tries to politicise the Bank of Japan then the same thing we’ve seen in the U.S. could happen in Japan, which is bond selling as well as currency selling,” warned Yusuke Miyairi, a foreign exchange strategist at Nomura Securities in London.

“I wouldn’t say BOJ independence is threatened at the moment, but the government is trying to have more power in the BOJ’s policy decisions,” Miyairi added, noting the selections reveal more about Takaichi’s monetary policy philosophy.

Both parliamentary chambers must approve the nominations before they take effect. While Takaichi’s ruling coalition controls the lower house, it needs opposition support in the upper chamber where it lacks a majority.

Asada, a scholar famous for championing massive economic stimulus measures, will replace dovish board member Asahi Noguchi at the end of March.

Sato, also an academic, has promoted the advantages of expansionary government spending and loose monetary policy. She’ll take over in June when Junko Nakagawa, viewed as neutral to slightly hawkish on rates, steps down.

Both candidates belong to a circle of economists who have pushed for the expansionary fiscal and monetary approaches now embraced by Takaichi, and maintain connections with dovish former Bank of Japan officials including former deputy governor Masazumi Wakatabe.

The new appointments won’t immediately impact the central bank’s short-term policy choices. Neither nominee will participate in March’s policy meeting.

As a newcomer, Asada likely won’t make waves at his first meeting on April 27-28, while Sato’s initial opportunity to vote will come during July’s rate review.

Former Bank of Japan official Nobuyasu Atago suggested the newcomers’ perspectives may evolve once they confront the realities of policy-making amid market volatility, economic uncertainty and unexpected crises.

“Once they join, the board members shed their ideologies and become more practical,” explained Atago, who worked as staff for a board member during his central bank tenure.

“BOJ staff would barrage them with briefings, which could be overwhelming for newcomer academics,” he noted. “I think yen moves matter far more than the Takaichi nominations.”

Board member Noguchi exemplifies this transformation — he joined as a strong advocate for aggressive monetary easing but changed course and supported the Bank of Japan’s last two rate increases.

Nevertheless, the new members will likely influence policy discussions by altering the board’s makeup, which has increasingly favored near-term rate hikes as the yen’s decline keeps food inflation persistently elevated.

Noguchi represents the final member of the once-powerful stimulus advocates who gained influence by providing theoretical support for former premier Shinzo Abe’s “Abenomics” economic policies.

Two hawkish board members, Naoki Tamura and Hajime Takata, have actively pushed for additional rate increases in the near future, with Takata unsuccessfully proposing rate hikes at January’s meeting for the second consecutive time.

While uncertainty remains about how the newcomers will position themselves, analysts believe the most significant impact stems from Takaichi’s clear dovish signal through these nominations.

The Nikkei newspaper reported, without identifying sources, that Takaichi expressed dissatisfaction with the Bank of Japan’s December rate increase to her associates, worrying about effects on home loan rates and business investment.

Given the substantial political momentum Takaichi gained from her party’s overwhelming election victory earlier this month, analysts suggest the central bank would struggle to implement rate hikes without administration approval.

“Up till now, the Takaichi administration didn’t send clear communication on its view on monetary policy,” observed Takahiro Otsuka, senior fixed income strategist at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities in Tokyo.

“This nomination is a message it is pursuing a high-pressure economy,” he said, emphasizing efforts to stimulate growth through inflation.

DAMASCUS — Syrian authorities and Druze militia groups completed their first prisoner swap on Thursday since violent sectarian fighting broke out last summer in the southern city of Sweida, according to the Syrian government’s local media office.

Damascus authorities released 61 detained Druze faction members who had been held at Adra Central Prison near the capital, while the Druze National Guard Forces freed 25 Syrian government officials in return, the media office reported.

International Committee of the Red Cross officials oversaw the prisoner exchange operation.

Violent sectarian fighting between Druze militants and Sunni Bedouin tribal groups began in Sweida last July. The conflict escalated when forces from the Islamist-controlled government deployed to the provincial capital to stop the violence in the predominantly Druze region.

Israel, which supports the Druze population, launched airstrikes against President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s administration during the fighting.

Officials declared a complete ceasefire later that month to end the bloodshed, which claimed hundreds of lives over several days of intense combat.