72,000 foreigners with Sephardic Jewish ancestry granted Spanish citizenship

A body has been found in the search for missing British businessman Campbell Scott, who disappeared in Kenya while attending a conference for Fico at the JW Marriott hotel in Nairobi. The 58-year-old was last seen on 16 February and was reported missing after failing to return to the hotel, with initial reports suggesting he was strangled. Kenyan police believe Scott visited a gay bar before disappearing, and his body was discovered in the Makongo...

The European Union has begun easing energy, transport, and banking sanctions against Syria in order to help revive the country's economy, contingent on the new government's commitment to peace. The EU will suspend sanctions targeting oil, gas, electricity, transport, and banking while reducing limitations on luxury goods exports. The decision is part of efforts to support Syria's political transition, economic recovery, and stabilization, with the possibility of re-imposing sanctions if necessary. Full Article

Former US secretary of state John Kerry warns that Sir Keir Starmer faces a challenging situation when meeting with Donald Trump at the White House to discuss the war in Ukraine and European defense commitments. Starmer plans to increase Britain’s defense budget, but Kerry emphasizes the tough choices and spending implications. The meeting is deemed crucial by former British ambassador Peter Westmacott due to the Ukraine crisis and its impact on European security. Full Article

Sir Keir Starmer agrees with Donald Trump's call for NATO allies to increase their defense budgets, stating that the UK and Europe need to do more for their defense and security. Ahead of a meeting with President Trump, the UK Prime Minister plans to outline a pathway to spending 2.5% of Britain's GDP on defense and is prepared to contribute to a peacekeeping force in Ukraine if needed. Sir Keir will meet with Trump to...

The ECB extended liquidity lines with eight non-euro area central banks until January 2027, based on a new framework. The Governing Council reviewed the Eurosystem's 2024 climate stress test results and approved amendments to include the TARGET Analytical Environment in the T2 Currency Participation Agreement. Additionally, the Council approved the ECB's 2024 financial statements and recommended external auditors for the years 2025 to 2029. Full Article

Britain will ban Russian elites with ties to Putin's regime, citing them as a threat to national security and tools for Russian aggression. The crackdown will target those who support Putin or benefit from the Russian state, with the goal of increasing pressure on Putin amid the war in Ukraine. The ban is part of a broader strategy including sanctions and military aid to tighten the screws on Russia and protect Britain's national security. Full...