Independent European news, selected, rewritten and voiced for EUR RADIO.
1. Trilateral Talks on Ukraine War Planned
Witkoff confirmed that discussions will continue with trilateral talks between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine at the technical level. This follows his meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Oslo.
2. Kenya Confirms Nine Ebola Cases
Kenya has confirmed nine cases of Ebola and is implementing enhanced screening for travelers from ten high-risk countries. The government is also promoting public awareness and hygiene measures to control the outbreak.
3. Zelensky Calls for Frozen Front Line
President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed freezing the front line in the conflict with Russia as a preliminary step towards peace talks. This statement coincided with US envoy Steve Witkoff’s meeting with President Vladimir Putin.
4. EU Investigates Booking.com Over Fraud Concerns
The European Union has initiated an investigation into Booking.com for allegedly failing to address fake listings and phishing scams. EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen emphasized the need for user protection against fraud.
5. Prosecutors Search Offices of Far-Right Patriots Bloc
EU prosecutors conducted searches at the offices of the far-right Patriots parliamentary group as part of a graft investigation linked to its predecessor, Identity and Democracy. This group included parties like Marine Le Pen’s National Rally.
6. Youth Protests Erupt Across Europe
Protests in France have escalated, with clashes near the Louvre and graffiti in Place de la République. This unrest has spread to Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Albania, with more protests planned.
7. Pope Leo XIV Discharged After Surgery
Pope Leo XIV does not require further treatment following lung cancer surgery, as confirmed by his doctors. He was discharged from the hospital and held his first audience since the operation.
8. EU Seeks More Ukraine Funding from Allies
The EU plans to secure a €90 billion loan for Ukraine but is pressing Canada and the UK for an additional €45 billion in support. Delays in funding from partners have raised concerns.
9. Putin Agrees to Three-Way Talks
President Zelenskiy announced Ukraine’s support for US-proposed three-way talks with Russia and the US, aiming for discussions by early November. Uncertainty remains about Putin’s willingness to meet.
10. Brussels Explores New EU-Wide Taxes
European Council President António Costa is seeking new EU-wide taxes to fund the bloc’s budget amid deadlock over national contributions. Options include taxes on large companies and digital services.
Turning to the weather. In Riga, 9 to 13 degrees with sunny. In London, 9 to 12 degrees with moderate rain. In Paris, 10 to 14 degrees with patchy rain possible. In Brussels, 8 to 12 degrees with overcast. In Berlin, 8 to 16 degrees with overcast. In Stockholm, 9 to 12 degrees with partly cloudy. In Madrid, 13 to 19 degrees with sunny.