Independent European news, selected, rewritten and voiced for EUR RADIO.
1. Germany Faces Increased Espionage Threats
Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Germany is experiencing “intensive” espionage activities following the arrest of a Ukrainian national suspected of spying for Russia. The suspect allegedly gathered military-related intelligence since July 2025.
2. EU Parliament Calls for Houthi Terrorist Designation
The European Parliament has approved a resolution urging the inclusion of Yemen’s Houthis on the EU’s terrorist list due to recent attacks on Saudi Arabia. The resolution seeks to freeze the group’s funds and economic resources.
3. Storm Adam Causes Fatal Flooding in France
At least four people have died in southern France due to flooding from Storm Adam, which has also injured one person and disrupted transport. Emergency shelters have been set up for affected residents.
4. ICC Awarded EU Parliament’s Sakharov Prize
The International Criminal Court has been awarded the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought by the European Parliament, recognizing its role in defending human rights. The prize includes a €50,000 award.
5. First Human Case of Shamonda Virus Confirmed in France
French authorities confirmed the first human case of the Shamonda virus in a severely immunocompromised patient who died in early October. Investigations are ongoing to determine the infection’s cause and implications.
6. Pavlohrad Resists Bombardment
Residents of Pavlohrad, Ukraine, continue to endure daily bombardments while expressing determination to resist. Accounts gathered by FRANCE 24 highlight their resilience amid ongoing conflict.
7. Women Freed After Captivity in Niger
Eva Gretzmacher, 76, and Claudia Abbt, 69, were freed after over a year in captivity in Niger and handed over in Libya. Their release circumstances remain unclear, with no details on their captors.
8. Cyprus Urges EU to Revisit Defense Clause
Cyprus has requested the EU to resume discussions on mutual defense amid rising geopolitical threats. The defense clause had previously gained attention but has since fallen off the agenda.
9. Economic Frustration in Europe
Steven Erlanger notes a widespread sense of dissatisfaction across Europe, with promises of economic growth unfulfilled. This discontent is reshaping the continent’s political landscape.
10. Ukrainian Underground Counteroffensive
Ukraine’s 2nd National Guard Corps conducted a significant underground counteroffensive in Kharkiv, capturing over 30 enemy soldiers. This operation reportedly marked the first of its kind on such a scale.
Turning to the weather. In Riga, 10 to 12 degrees with light rain. In London, 8 to 13 degrees with moderate rain. In Paris, 9 to 13 degrees with light rain. In Brussels, 8 to 12 degrees with moderate rain. In Berlin, 7 to 14 degrees with overcast. In Stockholm, 7 to 12 degrees with light rain. In Madrid, 10 to 20 degrees with overcast.