Independent European news, selected, rewritten and voiced for EUR RADIO.
1. Ancient pottery cache unearthed by workers beneath Tbilisi’s Rustaveli Avenue
Workers renovating Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi have discovered a cache of pottery dating back approximately 1,000 years. This significant find was made during ongoing excavations in Georgia’s capital, shedding light on the region’s rich historical heritage.
2. EU Unblocks European Peace Fund for Military Aid to Ukraine
The European Union has unblocked the European Peace Fund, allowing member states to be reimbursed for weapons supplied to Ukraine. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas confirmed the decision, emphasizing the fund’s importance in supporting Ukraine amid ongoing conflict.
3. UK to open new refugee sponsorship routes in October
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced the introduction of new “safe and legal” routes for refugees. Under a controlled scheme, charities and nonprofit organizations will be permitted to sponsor refugees, reinforcing the UK’s commitment to compassionate international obligations.
4. Former German vice chancellor accuses Israel of war crimes in Gaza
Former German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck has publicly accused Israel of committing war crimes in Gaza. Speaking to ARD, Habeck stated there is substantial evidence supporting these claims while also stressing the importance of combating antisemitism.
5. Turkey stand-up comic set for release after being convicted of insulting Erdoğan
An Istanbul court has sentenced a well-known comedian to nearly 19 months for insulting President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan but has ordered his release due to time served. The court has imposed a travel ban, restricting him from leaving Turkey as the case continues.
6. Donald Trump has proposed trilateral arms-control negotiations involving the United States, Russia, and China during discussions with Xi Jinping in Washington. This initiative comes amid ongoing tensions between the US and Russia, highlighting a potential shift in diplomatic strategies.
7. Ukrainian forces have successfully regained territory and captured prisoners of war in a recent frontline offensive. According to military officials, a strategic deception led Russian troops to misallocate their resources, allowing Ukraine to execute a decisive strike toward Nove.
8. South Korea has summoned Ukraine’s acting ambassador following the transfer of two captured North Korean soldiers to Seoul, as announced by President Zelensky. The South Korean government expressed strong regret over the disclosure, emphasizing that the transfer was intended to remain confidential.
The European Union is exploring a NATO-style response to hybrid attacks from Russia, as discussions are set to take place on how EU institutions can collaborate with member states. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas emphasized the need to identify which tools within the EU’s arsenal could be utilized in response to threats such as drone incursions.
In related news, Russia has announced a $20 million bounty for information regarding Major Robert “Madiar” Brovdi, the commander of the Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces. This reward, publicized via post-Soviet criminal networks, highlights the significant combat effectiveness of Brovdi and reflects ongoing tensions in the region.
Turning to the weather. In Riga, 10 to 17 degrees with overcast feels like. In London, 14 to 19 degrees with overcast feels like. In Paris, 18 to 24 degrees with overcast low. In Brussels, 16 to 21 degrees with overcast low. In Berlin, 14 to 25 degrees with partly cloudy feels like. In Stockholm, 11 to 17 degrees with overcast feels like. In Madrid, 16 to 23 degrees with overcast feels like.