Russian officials warned of severe environmental damage as volunteers rushed to clean up a fuel oil spill in the Kerch Strait near Moscow-occupied Crimea, with over 71,000 tons of contaminated sand and soil removed along 56 kilometers of shoreline. President Vladimir Putin called the spill an “ecological disaster,” as wildlife rescue efforts continue and concerns are raised about inadequate state support for volunteers experiencing health issues from toxic fumes. The spill, which may have killed over 20 dolphins, highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine over control of the strait, with Ukraine calling for additional sanctions on Russian tankers.
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Von der Leyen botches €2tn EU budget proposal with chaotic infighting
Ursula von der Leyen's proposed €2tn budget for the EU (2028-2034) has faced significant internal dissent within the European Commission, highlighting her ultra-centralized decision-making style. Despite her concessions to address concerns, including new taxes and funding allocations, the chaotic negotiations raise fears about future discussions with EU member states, as many remain dissatisfied with the process. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Ursula von der Leyen's plan for a huge EU budget has caused...
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