Slovakia profiting from war with Russian gas transit gambit, Kyiv charges – POLITICO

Sir Keir Starmer has the opportunity to make history at his meeting with Donald Trump by showing Churchillian strength and standing up for Britain and Europe, according to political biographer Sir Anthony Seldon. Seldon believes that this visit could be Starmer's "finest hour" and urges him to pledge a major increase in Britain's defence spending while also demonstrating Europe's power to be a challenge to America and Russia. Trump values strength and despises weakness, with...

In Germany's election, opposition leader Friedrich Merz vows to revive the economy and defend Europe's interests, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes for a comeback. The campaign focuses on the economy and migration, with polls showing Merz's Union bloc leading over the far-right Alternative for Germany. Merz promises a strong voice for Germany in the EU, aiming to end the country's three years in opposition and make a comeback. Full Article

Police in Spain rescued 48 South American women who were lured to the country with false job offers and forced into sexual exploitation at clubs. A total of 48 arrests were made, with most of the detainees, including the alleged leaders, held near Alicante. The victims were recruited in Colombia and Venezuela, deceived with promises of work in the cleaning or beauty sectors, and were subjected to strict surveillance and limited outings. Six of the...

Britain will impose new sanctions on Russia to mark the third anniversary of Putin's invasion of Ukraine, with Sir Keir Starmer planning a "triple whammy" of measures including military aid and crackdown on Russian dirty money. The sanctions aim to target Russia's revenues and military capabilities, with the UK working with US and European partners to achieve a "sustainable, just peace" in Ukraine amid growing rift between the US and Europe over support for Zelensky,...

An illegal party with 350-500 people occurred in an old warehouse near Menen, ending at 6:30 a.m. after negotiations led by Police Chief Didier Vandecasteele to ensure safety and order. The police monitored the event, opting for a gradual approach to prevent panic or accidents, ultimately allowing the party to end peacefully. Concerns about safety were raised due to the lack of approval and proper security measures in the unsafe warehouse, with officials closely watching...

German voters are choosing a new government in an election dominated by concerns over the economy, migration, and the future of Ukraine and Europe's alliance with the US. The center-right opposition is favored to win, with polls showing a strong result for a far-right party. Germany's electoral system is likely to result in a coalition government, with negotiations expected to take weeks or even months before the next chancellor is elected. Full Article