When populists win in Prague, that’s nothing peculiarly ‘east European’. It’s the new normal of the western world | Timothy Garton Ash

Kaja Kallas, the EU's top diplomat, has expressed dissatisfaction regarding the upcoming peace summit between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. Her concerns stem from an ICC arrest warrant issued for the Russian president, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy. This situation is significant as it underscores the challenges the EU faces in navigating relations with Russia while promoting peace efforts, raising questions about the effectiveness of such summits.

Prague is set to ban electric scooter rentals starting January 2026, following complaints from residents about chaos on sidewalks. The city's deputy mayor criticized the scooters for contributing to the disorder, prompting city councillors to approve new regulations for shared transport. This decision is significant as it reflects the city's efforts to manage urban mobility and ensure pedestrian safety, especially in a city that attracts millions of visitors each year.

The EU is considering a new scheme to expedite the accession process for Ukraine, Moldova, and Montenegro, which could significantly alter its traditional principles. This move is seen as a response to the ongoing geopolitical situation and aims to strengthen ties with these nations. However, it raises questions about the integrity of the EU's foundational values and how they balance expansion with adherence to established criteria.

France's organic farming sector is facing a significant crisis, with a sharp decline in the share of organic farmland over the past two years. Many farmers are abandoning organic practices in favor of industrial methods, resulting in only 10 percent of farmland being organic, far below the 21 percent target for 2030. This situation has led to frustration among organic farmers, who feel neglected by the government. However, there are hints of potential recovery, suggesting that the situation might improve in the future.

The European Union has announced a ban on the transit of Russian gas, set to take effect in 2026, with a transition period for existing contracts. This decision reflects the bloc's ongoing efforts to reduce dependency on Russian energy sources amid geopolitical tensions. The implications of this ban are significant, as it could lead to increased energy prices and a scramble for alternative supplies, impacting both consumers and businesses across Europe.

Russian officials, including Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharov, have accused the EU of attempting to escalate tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict and undermine a potential summit between Putin and Trump. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing geopolitical struggles and the complexities of international relations, particularly in the context of the Ukraine crisis.

Tufan Erhürman's significant victory in the Turkish Cypriot presidential election is a hopeful sign for the peace process in Cyprus. His pro-European stance and commitment to reviving stalled reunification talks could bring new energy to negotiations that have been at a standstill. This election outcome not only reflects the Turkish Cypriots' desire for change but also raises expectations for a more collaborative approach towards resolving the long-standing division of the island.

Hungarian MEP Andras Laszlo has criticized European politicians for acting like 'jealous children' due to their perceived neglect by former President Donald Trump. This statement highlights the ongoing tensions between Hungary and the EU, as Laszlo suggests that the lack of attention from Trump is causing frustration among European leaders. It matters because it reflects the broader political dynamics in Europe and the influence of American politics on international relations.

Kaja Kallas, the EU's top diplomat, has expressed dissatisfaction regarding the upcoming peace summit between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. Her concerns stem from an ICC arrest warrant issued for the Russian president, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy. This situation is significant as it underscores the challenges the EU faces in navigating relations with Russia while promoting peace efforts, raising questions about the effectiveness of such summits.

In a recent statement, US President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about China's intentions regarding Taiwan, suggesting that China 'doesn't want' to invade the island. This comes after warnings from the Pentagon about a potential takeover. Trump's remarks highlight a desire for positive relations with China, emphasizing his intention to be 'good to China.' This is significant as it reflects ongoing tensions in US-China relations and the delicate balance of power in the Taiwan Strait.

The Metropolitan Police have announced a significant policy change, deciding to cease investigations into non-crime hate incidents. This decision follows the case of Graham Linehan, co-creator of Father Ted, who faced wrongful arrest over his social media posts regarding trans issues. The Crown Prosecution Service has dropped the case, highlighting concerns about the implications of policing speech. This shift is important as it may redefine how hate incidents are approached, balancing public safety with freedom of expression.

In a heartfelt meeting, the King reached out to survivors of the Manchester synagogue attack, expressing his deep sadness over the tragic event. This gesture highlights the importance of community support and solidarity in the face of violence, reminding us all of the need for compassion and resilience.

The recent agreement between the US and Australia on rare earth minerals marks a significant step in securing supply chains amid China's tightening grip on these critical resources. This deal, negotiated over the past few months, not only strengthens economic ties between the two nations but also aims to reduce dependency on China for essential materials used in technology and defense. It's a strategic move that highlights the importance of collaboration in ensuring resource security.

Donald Trump has stirred controversy by reposting an AI-generated video that depicts him flying a fighter plane and dumping sludge on protesters labeled as 'No Kings.' This move has drawn criticism and raises concerns about the use of deepfake technology in political discourse. It highlights the ongoing debate about misinformation and the ethical implications of using AI in media, especially in a politically charged environment.