4. Slovakia to hold referendum on politician payments Slovakia will conduct a referendum this summer to determine whether to eliminate lifelong payments for former prime ministers and other officials. President Peter Pellegrini announced the vote, aimed at reforming the financial benefits for political leaders.

5. France and Poland strengthen defense collaboration In light of Russia's aggressive posture and a perceived decline in US support, France and Poland are enhancing their defense ties. Leaders Emmanuel Macron and Donald Tusk discussed their plans for increased cooperation during a meeting in Gdansk.

the country, following a controversial announcement about the International Criminal Court. Despite this, he confirmed that Hungary will halt its withdrawal from the ICC by June 2, a year after the initial notification was filed. 6. Magyar has stated that Hungary must arrest Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu if he visits the country, following a controversial announcement about the International Criminal Court. Despite this, he confirmed that Hungary will halt its withdrawal from the ICC by June 2, a year after the initial notification was filed.

managed to swim away from rescuers but soon became stuck again. The 13.5-meter whale has garnered significant public attention as efforts continue to ensure its survival in the Baltic Sea. 7. In a surprising turn, Timmy, the humpback whale stranded off the coast of Germany, managed to swim away from rescuers but soon became stuck again. The 13.5-meter whale has garnered significant public attention as efforts continue to ensure its survival in the Baltic Sea.

The initiative aims to legalize the status of hundreds of thousands of undocumented foreigners living and working in the country, with many already submitting online applications to begin the process. Next. 8. Spain's recent regularization amnesty has seen nearly 43,000 migrants register in just the first three days. The initiative aims to legalize the status of hundreds of thousands of undocumented foreigners living and working in the country, with many already submitting online applications to begin the process. Next. Russia is heading for an economic crisis, according to Sweden's military intelligence. The head of the agency warned in an interview with the Financial Times that the Russian economy is in a downward spiral, with declining gross domestic product and rising inflation. The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has reportedly benefited Russian oil company Rosneft. The European Commission is considering freezing €1.5 billion in EU funds allocated to Serbia amid ongoing concerns regarding the rule of law. Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos informed EU lawmakers that the scrutiny is focused on contentious judicial reforms introduced by Belgrade in January. The decision could have significant implications for Serbia's relationship with the EU. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 1 to 9 degrees with sunny. In London, 5 to 13 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits london on today. In Paris, 7 to 16 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits paris on today. In Brussels, 4 to 13 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits brussels on today. In Berlin, 3 to 10 degrees with moderate rain. In Stockholm, 0 to 11 degrees with sunny. In Madrid, 13 to 26 degrees with sunny madrid will have a warm day. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Storm causes widespread damage in the US Midwest Strong winds have wreaked havoc across the midwestern United States, damaging homes and blocking roads. While no fatalities have been reported, officials warn that recovery will be lengthy in some rural areas.

5. Pope Leo XIV visits historic shrine in Angola Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Angola, marking the third stop on his African tour. During his visit, he met with President João Lourenço and addressed the country's complex history, particularly its ties to the slave trade.

Residents within a 450-meter radius were instructed to leave their homes while authorities safely neutralized the device. 6. Thousands of Parisians were evacuated as a World War II bomb was detonated in the city. Residents within a 450-meter radius were instructed to leave their homes while authorities safely neutralized the device.

funds that were frozen due to concerns over corruption and rule of law. Following two days of discussions with the European Commission, Magyar emphasized the need for reform to restore trust. 7. Hungary’s incoming Prime Minister Peter Magyar has outlined steps to regain access to EU funds that were frozen due to concerns over corruption and rule of law. Following two days of discussions with the European Commission, Magyar emphasized the need for reform to restore trust.

becoming a prominent critic of Israel's actions. He condemned the strikes against Gaza and Iran, labeling them as grave errors, while critics warn that ongoing strikes against Lebanon threaten regional peace efforts. 8. Spain is pushing to end the EU-Israel association agreement, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez becoming a prominent critic of Israel's actions. He condemned the strikes against Gaza and Iran, labeling them as grave errors, while critics warn that ongoing strikes against Lebanon threaten regional peace efforts. A Swiss millionaire has launched a significant initiative to support families in Berlin by donating several thousand liters of gasoline. This move comes as rising fuel prices, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Iran, have put pressure on households. The campaign aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by residents amid these challenging economic conditions. In related news, tensions continue as Iran dismisses calls from European leaders to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This critical waterway is vital for global oil and liquefied natural gas transit, and its prolonged closure is contributing to soaring oil prices and threatening economic stability within the EU. The EU's foreign policy chief has emphasized that under international law, transit through the strait should be maintained. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 2 to 10 degrees with partly cloudy. In London, 6 to 15 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits london on today. In Paris, 7 to 18 degrees with sunny mild temperatures are expected in paris. In Brussels, 6 to 15 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits brussels on today. In Berlin, 4 to 14 degrees with heavy rain a slightly cool ambiance awaits berlin on today. In Stockholm, 2 to 8 degrees with sunny. In Madrid, 13 to 27 degrees with sunny madrid will have a warm day. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Russia Targets European Drone Manufacturers The Russian Defense Ministry has released a list of European companies involved in drone production for Ukraine, claiming this collaboration escalates tensions. Officials suggest that such partnerships could further entangle European nations in the conflict.

5. German Rescuers Shift Tactics for Stranded Whale In Germany, rescuers have changed their approach to saving a sick humpback whale, nicknamed Timmy, after previous efforts failed. The whale has been stranded off the Baltic Sea coast, drawing widespread public interest and concern.

an early example, where deaths surpassed births in 2025. President Macron's call for “demographic rearmament” underscores concerns about rising infertility and delayed parenthood among younger generations. 6. EU population projections indicate a significant decline this century, with Eurostat highlighting France as an early example, where deaths surpassed births in 2025. President Macron's call for “demographic rearmament” underscores concerns about rising infertility and delayed parenthood among younger generations.

destructive actions, particularly in conflict-ridden regions. This visit follows a series of critical remarks aimed at world leaders, including a recent exchange with US President Donald Trump. 7. During a high-security visit to Cameroon, Pope Leo XIV condemned global “tyrants” for their destructive actions, particularly in conflict-ridden regions. This visit follows a series of critical remarks aimed at world leaders, including a recent exchange with US President Donald Trump.

on social media. In discussions with leaders from several EU nations and the European Commission, he emphasized that a coordinated approach is essential to enhance protections for young users online. Next. 8. French President Emmanuel Macron is advocating for a unified European strategy to safeguard children on social media. In discussions with leaders from several EU nations and the European Commission, he emphasized that a coordinated approach is essential to enhance protections for young users online. Next. Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to propose Germany's involvement in a military mission aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz during discussions in Paris this Friday. The plan includes deploying minehunting boats, an escort ship, and reconnaissance aircraft as part of the Bundeswehr's contribution to the mission. In a separate development, a Polish citizen has been sentenced to 13 years in a Russian prison camp after being convicted of fighting for Ukraine. The ruling was issued by a court in the Russian-controlled region of Luhansk, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region and the severe consequences faced by those involved in the conflict. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 4 to 10 degrees with patchy rain possible. In London, 9 to 16 degrees with patchy rain possible mild temperatures are expected in london. In Paris, 9 to 19 degrees with partly cloudy mild temperatures are expected in paris. In Brussels, 9 to 18 degrees with patchy rain possible mild temperatures are expected in brussels. In Berlin, 9 to 19 degrees with patchy rain possible mild temperatures are expected in berlin. In Stockholm, 3 to 13 degrees with cloudy a slightly cool ambiance awaits stockholm on today. In Madrid, 11 to 24 degrees with sunny madrid will experience a pleasantly warm today. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. US military kills suspected drug smugglers at sea The US military has conducted another operation against suspected drug smugglers in the eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The boat was intercepted on a known trafficking route, according to military intelligence.

5. High gas prices will last years, EU energy chief warns The EU’s energy commissioner has cautioned that Europe will face elevated gas prices for years, even under the best circumstances. He also highlighted potential short-term shortages of diesel and jet fuel if the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked.

highest costs at €169.15 per megawatt-hour, largely due to the ongoing oil and gas crisis linked to geopolitical tensions. Meanwhile, Spain benefits from lower prices, highlighting the uneven impact of the energy crisis across the continent. 6. The disparity in electricity prices across Europe has become stark, with Ireland facing the highest costs at €169.15 per megawatt-hour, largely due to the ongoing oil and gas crisis linked to geopolitical tensions. Meanwhile, Spain benefits from lower prices, highlighting the uneven impact of the energy crisis across the continent.

from harmful social media content. Following a significant announcement from Ursula von der Leyen, seven EU countries are preparing to launch their own age verification apps by the end of the year, signaling a concerted effort to regulate digital spaces for younger users. 7. The European Union is set to implement online age checks aimed at protecting children from harmful social media content. Following a significant announcement from Ursula von der Leyen, seven EU countries are preparing to launch their own age verification apps by the end of the year, signaling a concerted effort to regulate digital spaces for younger users.

according to Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin. The attack was intended to disrupt heating services, underscoring ongoing concerns about cybersecurity threats in the region. 8. Sweden has successfully thwarted a pro-Russian cyberattack targeting a thermal power plant, according to Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin. The attack was intended to disrupt heating services, underscoring ongoing concerns about cybersecurity threats in the region. The super typhoon in the Pacific Ocean that hammered the Northern Mariana Islands has caused significant destruction, flipping over cars, toppling utility poles, and ripping away tin roofs. Authorities are now beginning to assess the extensive damage left in the wake of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, which struck the islands on Tuesday night local time and continued to unleash fierce winds. In Europe, the recent defeat of Hungarian leader Viktor Orbán may signal a shift in the EU's approach to decision-making. This development raises questions about the effectiveness of unanimous voting within the bloc, as leaders consider whether this system is hindering the EU's ability to respond decisively on key foreign policy issues. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 4 to 14 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits riga on today. In London, 10 to 17 degrees with patchy rain possible mild temperatures are expected in london. In Paris, 9 to 18 degrees with patchy rain possible mild temperatures are expected in paris. In Brussels, 8 to 18 degrees with patchy rain possible mild temperatures are expected in brussels. In Berlin, 4 to 17 degrees with sunny mild temperatures are expected in berlin. In Stockholm, 4 to 11 degrees with patchy rain possible. In Madrid, 9 to 23 degrees with sunny madrid will experience a pleasantly warm today. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. French Police Barred from Raiding Elysée Palace French police have been prevented from raiding the Elysée Palace as part of an investigation into contracts related to memorial ceremonies at the Panthéon. The National Financial Prosecutor stated that presidential immunity protects the premises from search.

Blockade Turns Back Six Ships 5. U.S. Blockade Turns Back Six Ships The U.S. military has turned back six ships attempting to leave the Strait of Hormuz, with over a dozen American warships deployed in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. Officials report that none of the encounters have escalated.

to the ongoing Iran conflict. The airline coalition, which includes Swiss and Edelweiss, has expressed concerns over the impact on their operations and is seeking support to navigate these challenges. 6. The Lufthansa Group is urging the European Union for assistance amid rising tensions due to the ongoing Iran conflict. The airline coalition, which includes Swiss and Edelweiss, has expressed concerns over the impact on their operations and is seeking support to navigate these challenges.

undocumented immigrants to apply for legal status. This initiative marks a significant departure from the stricter immigration policies seen in many other European nations, aiming to integrate those who have been living and working in the country without authorization. 7. Spain's government has officially finalized an amnesty measure that will allow up to 500,000 undocumented immigrants to apply for legal status. This initiative marks a significant departure from the stricter immigration policies seen in many other European nations, aiming to integrate those who have been living and working in the country without authorization.

of Patriot missiles and the establishment of joint drone production. This landmark pact, the first of its kind since 2004, also involves sharing digital battlefield data to enhance the development of advanced weapon systems between the two nations. 8. Germany and Ukraine have solidified a €4 billion defense agreement, which includes the provision of Patriot missiles and the establishment of joint drone production. This landmark pact, the first of its kind since 2004, also involves sharing digital battlefield data to enhance the development of advanced weapon systems between the two nations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to address the ongoing issues surrounding the Druzhba oil pipeline, which transports Russian oil through Ukraine to Hungary and Slovakia. Zelenskyy expressed hope that Hungary would lift its veto on EU loans, which has hindered progress on this critical infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of cooperation among EU member states to resolve these challenges. In a related development, Zelenskyy announced plans for discussions with European partners aimed at establishing a joint defense system. This initiative is part of Ukraine's broader strategy to integrate more closely with European security frameworks. Zelenskyy underscored the urgency of the situation, warning that without this integration, parts of Europe could risk falling under Russian influence. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 3 to 13 degrees with partly cloudy a slightly cool ambiance awaits riga on today. In London, 5 to 15 degrees with partly cloudy a slightly cool ambiance awaits london on today. In Paris, 6 to 18 degrees with sunny mild temperatures are expected in paris. In Brussels, 4 to 16 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits brussels on today. In Berlin, 8 to 15 degrees with overcast a slightly cool ambiance awaits berlin on today. In Stockholm, 2 to 10 degrees with sunny. In Madrid, 6 to 20 degrees with sunny mild temperatures are expected in madrid. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Vance comments on Orbán’s electoral defeat JD Vance, who recently rallied in Hungary for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, expressed that he was not surprised by Orbán's electoral defeat. Vance's visit followed significant campaigning efforts from U.S. officials, including a call from former President Trump during the rally.

5. Quantum computing: A potential European advantage Europe may be poised to take the lead in the emerging field of quantum computing, with several promising companies making strides in technology. Experts suggest that with the right investment and collaboration, Europe could become a key player in this critical tech race.

in the negotiations. President Aoun's policy of maintaining a state monopoly on arms faces challenges, especially following Hezbollah's agreement to withdraw from southern Lebanon as part of a 2024 ceasefire deal. 6. Lebanon has initiated discussions with Israel, but analysts suggest the country has little leverage in the negotiations. President Aoun's policy of maintaining a state monopoly on arms faces challenges, especially following Hezbollah's agreement to withdraw from southern Lebanon as part of a 2024 ceasefire deal.

an effort to protect its domestic industry from an influx of cheap imports from China. The agreement also includes a significant reduction in duty-free import volumes, as trade chief Maros Sefcovic warns of the risks posed by global overcapacity. 7. The European Union has decided to double tariffs on foreign steel to 50% in an effort to protect its domestic industry from an influx of cheap imports from China. The agreement also includes a significant reduction in duty-free import volumes, as trade chief Maros Sefcovic warns of the risks posed by global overcapacity.

a claim that Beijing has dismissed as a "farce." Manila alleges that this toxic practice is aimed at depleting fish stocks and undermining food supplies for Filipino troops stationed in the contested area. 8. The Philippines has accused Chinese fishermen of dumping cyanide into the South China Sea, a claim that Beijing has dismissed as a "farce." Manila alleges that this toxic practice is aimed at depleting fish stocks and undermining food supplies for Filipino troops stationed in the contested area. As fuel prices continue to rise, US drivers are increasingly heading to Native American lands for cheaper gas. Many states, including California, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, and Washington, feature tribally-owned petrol stations that benefit from exemptions from state fuel taxes, allowing them to offer lower prices. These stations are strategically located in busy travel corridors, making them an attractive option for motorists looking to save on fuel costs. In Europe, access to trees is becoming a luxury in urban areas, as climate change and damaged ecosystems intensify urban heat waves and exacerbate air and noise pollution. Research indicates that increasing the number of trees and green spaces in cities could significantly alleviate these issues. However, experts warn that Europe is still far from fully implementing the necessary strategies, such as the proposed “3-30-300 rule,” which advocates for a minimum number of trees per person to enhance urban living conditions. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 2 to 10 degrees with patchy rain possible. In London, 5 to 14 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits london on today. In Paris, 9 to 14 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits paris on today. In Brussels, 7 to 13 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits brussels on today. In Berlin, 6 to 16 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits berlin on today. In Stockholm, 2 to 10 degrees with sunny. In Madrid, 4 to 15 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits madrid on today. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. France and Portugal Strengthen Ties France and Portugal have formalized their strong diplomatic relationship with the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, effective from April 12. French officials declared the bilateral relationship as "excellent," despite occasional friction with other European partners.

5. Ireland Reduces Fuel Tax Amid Protests In response to ongoing protests, the Irish government has announced a reduction in taxes on motor fuel. Premier Martin acknowledged the critical situation regarding the country’s oil refining capacity but admitted that the measures may not fully quell public unrest.

aiding Ukrainian drone operations. This escalation comes amid a series of drone attacks on Russian territory, which Moscow claims are linked to support from the Baltics. 6. Russia has ramped up its threats against the Baltic states, accusing them of aiding Ukrainian drone operations. This escalation comes amid a series of drone attacks on Russian territory, which Moscow claims are linked to support from the Baltics.

30 fatalities due to mass panic among tourists. Reports indicate that an unusually high number of visitors gathered at the site, leading to chaos and a deadly stampede. 7. In Haiti, a tragic incident at the Laferrière Citadel has resulted in at least 30 fatalities due to mass panic among tourists. Reports indicate that an unusually high number of visitors gathered at the site, leading to chaos and a deadly stampede.

The sentences, which range from five years to life imprisonment, follow extensive mass trials aimed at addressing the ongoing security challenges posed by extremism in the region. 8. In Nigeria, nearly 400 individuals have been sentenced for their connections to militant Islamist groups. The sentences, which range from five years to life imprisonment, follow extensive mass trials aimed at addressing the ongoing security challenges posed by extremism in the region. Lidl is making headlines by constructing its first pub in Northern Ireland, located conveniently next to one of its supermarkets. This innovative move aims to combine shopping and socializing, allowing customers to enjoy a drink after their grocery run. The project is set to open in 2026. In a surprising shift in public perception, a new survey reveals that many Europeans now view the United States as a greater threat than China. This change in sentiment highlights the impact of recent political developments, particularly under the Trump administration, which has altered the transatlantic relationship significantly. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 2 to 8 degrees with cloudy. In London, 7 to 14 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits london on today. In Paris, 6 to 14 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits paris on today. In Brussels, 4 to 13 degrees with cloudy a slightly cool ambiance awaits brussels on today. In Berlin, 5 to 8 degrees with patchy rain possible. In Stockholm, 1 to 10 degrees with sunny. In Madrid, 8 to 12 degrees with moderate rain a slightly cool ambiance awaits madrid on today. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. EU considering excessive profit taxes on oil and gas companies The European Commission is exploring the possibility of implementing taxes on excessive profits from the oil and gas sector amid rising energy prices linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran. This move follows calls from five EU countries for a fairer distribution of financial burdens.

5. Cold War nuclear bunker found hidden at Scarborough Castle in North Yorkshire A Cold War-era nuclear bunker has been uncovered at Scarborough Castle in North Yorkshire. The bunker, decommissioned and sealed in 1968, was thought to be lost until archaeologists from English Heritage made the discovery.

he will remain involved in the creative aspects of the brand. This shift comes as the iconic fashion house continues to be predominantly owned by its founders. 6. Domenico Dolce has announced his departure from the management of Dolce & Gabbana, although he will remain involved in the creative aspects of the brand. This shift comes as the iconic fashion house continues to be predominantly owned by its founders.

over $540,000 worth of ammunition to Russia. Manfred Gruber used Italian companies to bypass export controls, and he is currently in custody as the case unfolds. 7. An Italian arms dealer has pleaded guilty in a US court to illegally exporting over $540,000 worth of ammunition to Russia. Manfred Gruber used Italian companies to bypass export controls, and he is currently in custody as the case unfolds.

expressing her excitement as a longtime fan. The meeting highlighted a cultural exchange, with Takaichi sharing her admiration for the band during their visit to the Prime Minister's Office. 8. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi welcomed the legendary rock band Deep Purple to Tokyo, expressing her excitement as a longtime fan. The meeting highlighted a cultural exchange, with Takaichi sharing her admiration for the band during their visit to the Prime Minister's Office. Ukraine has secured a significant oil lifeline from Gulf states in exchange for military support. President Zelenskyy announced that Kyiv has arranged ten-year agreements with three countries, which will provide missile interceptors, financial assistance, and crucial supplies of oil and diesel. During a briefing on Friday, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of these deals for Ukraine's defense capabilities. In France, a new law could allow bakeries and flower shops to remain open on Labor Day. Current legislation restricts nonessential businesses from operating with employees on holidays, but a proposal from the conservative party Les Républicains aims to change that. The measure, which passed in the Senate last year, has sparked debate as some bakery owners reportedly violated the existing rules during the previous holiday. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 0 to 6 degrees with sunny. In London, 7 to 20 degrees with partly cloudy mild temperatures are expected in london. In Paris, 12 to 26 degrees with patchy rain possible paris will have a warm day. In Brussels, 10 to 21 degrees with patchy rain possible brussels will experience a pleasantly warm today. In Berlin, 1 to 11 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits berlin on today. In Stockholm, 0 to 6 degrees with sunny. In Madrid, 10 to 26 degrees with sunny madrid will have a warm day. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Turkey's Stance on NATO Obligations Turkey's Trade Minister, Ömer Bolat, stated that NATO allies are not obligated to support the US and Israel in their conflict with Iran. His comments come in response to Trump's recent demands directed at NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

5. Ukraine Intercepts Iranian Drones Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that his forces have successfully shot down Iranian-designed Shahed drones in various Middle Eastern countries. This operation is part of Ukraine's support for US and Israeli efforts against Iran, marking a significant disclosure of military involvement.

to Serbia due to concerns over the country's democratic backsliding. Tensions have escalated following President Vučić's recent snub of an EU-Western Balkans summit, raising questions about Serbia's commitment to EU membership. 6. The European Union is reportedly set to cut up to €1.5 billion in funding to Serbia due to concerns over the country's democratic backsliding. Tensions have escalated following President Vučić's recent snub of an EU-Western Balkans summit, raising questions about Serbia's commitment to EU membership.

on social media platforms. Critics argue that these rules could restrict free speech, as citizens may not receive notifications or explanations when their posts are removed, leaving them without recourse in an increasingly regulated environment. 7. In India, new digital regulations are being proposed to control news and political content on social media platforms. Critics argue that these rules could restrict free speech, as citizens may not receive notifications or explanations when their posts are removed, leaving them without recourse in an increasingly regulated environment.

as announced by President Vladimir Putin. The ceasefire will be in effect from Saturday afternoon on April 11 through Easter Sunday, providing a brief respite amid ongoing hostilities. 8. A temporary truce has been agreed upon by Russia and Ukraine for Orthodox Easter, as announced by President Vladimir Putin. The ceasefire will be in effect from Saturday afternoon on April 11 through Easter Sunday, providing a brief respite amid ongoing hostilities. Starmer has drawn parallels between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, expressing concerns over rising energy costs exacerbated by geopolitical tensions. The U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, now in its second week of ceasefire, has resulted in the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, significantly impacting oil prices. Starmer aims to position Britain as a leader in a coalition to reopen the vital shipping route. In the North Atlantic, British forces are actively pursuing a Russian Akula-class submarine amid reports of suspicious activity near critical cables and pipelines. The British Defense Minister has issued a direct message to President Putin, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the need for vigilance in the region. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 0 to 6 degrees with sunny. In London, 7 to 20 degrees with partly cloudy mild temperatures are expected in london. In Paris, 12 to 26 degrees with patchy rain possible paris will have a warm day. In Brussels, 10 to 21 degrees with patchy rain possible brussels will experience a pleasantly warm today. In Berlin, 1 to 11 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits berlin on today. In Stockholm, 0 to 6 degrees with sunny. In Madrid, 10 to 26 degrees with sunny madrid will have a warm day. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.

4. Brussels Supports Windfall Tax on Energy Firms The European Commission is backing a windfall tax on large corporations to alleviate the economic strain from the ongoing energy crisis. This follows a similar measure introduced after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, aimed at addressing soaring energy prices.

5. Argentina Eases Glacier Protection Laws Argentina's government has passed a bill that loosens protections on its glaciers, with support from governors of mineral-rich provinces. They argue that the previous Glacier law hindered sustainable economic development, aiming to balance economic growth with environmental concerns.

Mexico after spending 14 days trapped in waist-high water. Rescuers located him in a desperate situation but managed to bring him to safety. 6. A 42-year-old gold miner has been rescued from a flooded tunnel in Mexico after spending 14 days trapped in waist-high water. Rescuers located him in a desperate situation but managed to bring him to safety.

wealth of discoveries from their recent lunar mission. The four astronauts expressed excitement about the numerous pictures and stories they are eager to share upon their return. 7. The Artemis crew is on their way back to Earth, bringing with them a wealth of discoveries from their recent lunar mission. The four astronauts expressed excitement about the numerous pictures and stories they are eager to share upon their return.

of marijuana, marking the largest drug discovery in Brazilian history. The successful raid was aided by sniffer dogs, with authorities hailing it as an impressive achievement in the fight against drug trafficking. 8. In a significant operation, police in Rio de Janeiro have seized nearly 50 tons of marijuana, marking the largest drug discovery in Brazilian history. The successful raid was aided by sniffer dogs, with authorities hailing it as an impressive achievement in the fight against drug trafficking. Euroskeptic think tanks are gaining traction as Brussels reduces funding for pro-EU organizations. Critics argue that the European Commission has shown little concern when progressive NGOs received significant support from the United States, but now views funding for their political opponents as 'foreign interference.' This shift in funding dynamics has raised alarms among some observers who worry about the implications for the EU's political landscape. In a significant move, France has announced plans to inject an additional 36 billion euros into its defense budget by 2030. This investment will enhance its nuclear capabilities and expand missile and drone inventories. The decision is driven by increasing security challenges stemming from conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, alongside uncertainties regarding U.S. military commitments in Europe. Turning to the weather. In Riga, 1 to 6 degrees with partly cloudy. In London, 9 to 24 degrees with patchy rain possible london will experience a pleasantly warm today. In Paris, 10 to 25 degrees with sunny paris will experience a pleasantly warm today. In Brussels, 7 to 20 degrees with sunny mild temperatures are expected in brussels. In Berlin, 2 to 14 degrees with sunny a slightly cool ambiance awaits berlin on today. In Stockholm, 0 to 8 degrees with partly cloudy. In Madrid, 10 to 19 degrees with patchy rain possible mild temperatures are expected in madrid. Thank you for listening to EUR Radio News.