Independent European news, selected, rewritten and voiced for EUR RADIO.
1. US Secures Ceasefire in Oleshky
US First Lady Melania Trump has secured a ceasefire in the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky, effective October 29. The remaining elderly residents urgently need medical attention, food, and clean water.
2. Record Heat Deaths in Europe This Summer
This summer, over 50,000 heat-related excess deaths were reported in Europe, with around 32,000 linked to climate change. The elderly were most affected, accounting for roughly half of the deaths.
3. EU Budget Talks Stalemated
A recent EU summit failed to reach an agreement on the long-term budget for 2028 to 2034. The main contention lies between frugal countries seeking cuts and those advocating for cohesion funding.
4. Drone Strike Near Romania Claims Life
A drone struck a commercial ship off Romania’s coast, resulting in one death and three missing crew members. The vessel has capsized and is at risk of sinking, according to officials.
5. Shooting in Paris Suburbs Investigated as Terrorism
A gunman opened fire from a car in Paris suburbs, killing one and injuring five, including a child. Authorities are treating the incident as a potential act of terrorism.
6. Gunmen Attack Church Funeral in Jordan
At least seven people were killed and 34 injured during a shooting at a Greek Orthodox church funeral in Karak, Jordan. King Abdullah II condemned the incident as a terrorist attack and vowed harsh retaliation.
7. Storm Austen Causes Power Outages in France
Storm Austen has left around 161,000 homes without power in northwestern France, particularly in Brittany and Normandy. High winds have disrupted rail traffic and led to bridge closures.
8. Student Protests Challenge Serbian Government
A student-led movement in Serbia is gaining traction, focusing on rule of law issues and presenting non-political candidates. The protests are seen as a significant challenge to President Vučić’s authority.
9. UK and France Conduct Joint Nuclear Drill
The UK and France held their first joint nuclear exercise involving British Typhoon jets and French Rafale warplanes. This drill underscores the deepening nuclear cooperation between the two nations.
10. Lead Found in Face Paints by Health Watchdog
The Health Products Regulatory Authority in Ireland warned parents about face paints containing elevated lead levels. Seven out of 40 sampled products were non-compliant with EU safety standards.
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 14 degrees with light rain. In Brussels, 8 to 13 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 21 degrees with overcast.