Hello, this is EUR Radio News.
1. Swiss tourist arrested in Bali
A Swiss tourist has been arrested in Bali for allegedly defaming the Nyepi New Year festival on Instagram. Police report that the man demeaned the religious significance of the holiday, which was celebrated last Thursday.
2. Hungary accused of briefing Moscow
Hungary faces accusations of briefing Moscow on sensitive discussions within the European Union. This allegation comes amid heightened tensions regarding energy policies and geopolitical strategies in the region.
3. Tight race in Slovenia’s elections
Preliminary results from Slovenia’s parliamentary elections show a tight contest between the ruling liberals and opposition right-wing populists. With about 99% of votes counted, the centre-left Freedom Movement, led by Prime Minister Robert Golob, is neck-and-neck with the opposition.
4. New climate report raises concerns
The World Weather Organization has released a report indicating a grim outlook for the global climate. The findings highlight a growing imbalance between the Earth’s energy intake and output, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent.
5. Germany recruits Indian workers
Germany is turning to Indian workers to address its ongoing labour shortage. An employment agency has successfully recruited young individuals who have begun their butchery apprenticeships in small towns along the Swiss border.
Next.
6. Kenyans who have been fighting illegally for Russia in Ukraine may soon be granted amnesty. Currently, serving in foreign armies is illegal in Kenya and can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years.
7. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed confidence that European nations will unite in their support for military efforts against Iran. Speaking on CBS, Rutte emphasized the importance of solidarity among NATO allies during challenging times.
8. A gas explosion in Istanbul has led to the collapse of two houses, resulting in multiple injuries. Nine residents have been rescued and hospitalized, while emergency teams continue to search for two individuals believed to be trapped under the debris.
Next.
Fico has indicated that Slovakia may align with Hungary in blocking EU aid to Ukraine. Speaking at an EU meeting in Alden Biesen, the Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed his agreement with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has already taken steps to halt financial support for Ukraine.
In other news, US-born Pope Leo XIV has described the ongoing conflict in the Middle East as a “scandal to humanity.” He has reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire, highlighting the extensive death and suffering resulting from the violence in the region.
Turning to the weather. In Riga, 2 to 11 degrees with partly cloudy a slightly cool ambiance awaits riga on today. In London, 6 to 14 degrees with partly cloudy a slightly cool ambiance awaits london on today. In Paris, 8 to 16 degrees with partly cloudy mild temperatures are expected in paris. In Brussels, 6 to 14 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits brussels on today. In Berlin, 5 to 15 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits berlin on today. In Stockholm, 2 to 9 degrees with patchy rain possible. In Madrid, 7 to 16 degrees with sunny mild temperatures are expected in madrid.
Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.