Independent European news, selected, rewritten and voiced for EUR RADIO.
1. Mother and Daughter Killed in Kharkiv Strike
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that a drone strike in Nova Vodolaha killed a teacher, Inna Mariukhna, and her one-year-old daughter, Angelina. The attack also resulted in six fatalities and 15 injuries.
2. Italy’s Pasta Production Halts Amid Protests
Truck drivers in southern Italy have blocked roads, causing major pasta producers like Rummo to suspend production due to ingredient shortages. The protests have led to wider disruptions, including food and petrol shortages.
3. EU Commissioners Oppose Budget Cuts
Five European Commissioners have expressed concern over proposed cuts to the EU’s Global Europe budget, warning that inadequate funding could diminish the EU’s global influence and security capabilities.
4. France Plans Major Security Operation for Protests
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced a ‘massive’ security operation involving military forces for upcoming protests, aiming to enhance police responsiveness amid concerns over public disorder.
5. Kallas Calls for Dialogue on ICC Sanctions
EU Commission President Kaja Kallas stated that the EU will take time to analyze the legal implications of U.S. sanctions against the ICC, emphasizing the need for dialogue and support for global justice.
6. Man Arrested After Town Hall Fire in France
A 40-year-old man has been arrested in France for allegedly burning down a 19th-century city hall during recent riots. Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin reported that 123 individuals are in detention awaiting trial.
7. US Envoy to Meet Zelenskyy in Oslo
US special envoy Steve Witkoff is set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Oslo as part of renewed diplomatic efforts regarding the war in Ukraine. The meeting will also include leaders from Norway and Finland.
8. Approval Expected for Jackdaw Gas Field
The UK government is anticipated to approve the Jackdaw gas field project, which could supply about 6% of the UK’s North Sea gas production. The project was previously halted due to legal challenges from environmental groups.
9. Kallas Warns of Food Supply Crisis
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that recent Russian drone strikes in the Black Sea are exacerbating global food supply issues. She highlighted that Ukraine is losing approximately €60 million daily in export revenue.
10. El Niño Intensifies Hurricane Activity
El Niño has led to an active hurricane season in the eastern Pacific, with 22 named storms and 12 hurricanes reported so far. Hurricane Polo reached wind gusts of 180 mph, fueled by warm ocean waters.
Turning to the weather. In Riga, 7 to 15 degrees with sunny. In London, 11 to 14 degrees with patchy rain possible. In Paris, 10 to 13 degrees with light rain. In Brussels, 7 to 13 degrees with patchy rain possible. In Berlin, 9 to 15 degrees with overcast. In Stockholm, 9 to 12 degrees with partly cloudy. In Madrid, 13 to 19 degrees with sunny.