The gunman reportedly drove into Krakow's historic Main Market Square at around 3 p.m. local time before opening fire on pedestrians.

Police confronted the attacker within three minutes of receiving the first emergency call, exchanging gunfire before detaining him.

Kierwiński said the rapid response prevented further casualties. Two police officers were wounded, including one who sustained three gunshot injuries and remains in critical condition.

The suspect was also critically injured and undergoing surgery. Investigators recovered several firearms from his vehicle and searched his home in the Świętokrzyskie region.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk later confirmed that three people , believed to be close relatives of the suspect, had been found dead at his residence. Authorities are investigating their deaths and whether anyone assisted the attacker.

Tensions erupted when some migrants confronted journalists filming the departure, with at least one person splashing water and throwing objects towards the camera.

The crossing appeared to involve a so-called "taxi boat", a tactic used by people-smuggling networks in which vessels collect migrants from several locations along the French coastline.

The method has made it increasingly difficult for French authorities to intercept departures, as boats can pick up multiple groups before heading towards Britain.

The UK's Border Security Command has warned that the practice poses serious risks to migrants, particularly when vessels become overcrowded.

French and British authorities have intensified maritime patrols and intelligence-sharing efforts to disrupt smuggling operations.

Despite these measures, Channel crossings continue. Provisional UK Home Office figures show that 1,670 migrants arrived in Britain aboard 23 small boats between October 29 and November 1, including 671 on October 30 alone.

“The real tragedy, without a doubt, is that of the victims, their families and their loved ones whom they will never be able to see again,” he said.

Puente revealed that he decided to resign shortly after learning of the latest crash but stayed in office to oversee initial investigations, assist victims and introduce emergency safety measures.

“A transport minister in a country like Spain cannot remain in office after two accidents of this severity in less than a year,” he said.

His resignation follows an October 28 collision near Urda, in Toledo province, where a Renfe high-speed train struck a stationary Iryo service, killing 69 people and injuring around 200 others.

The disaster came nine months after another train crash in Córdoba province killed 46 people in January. Both incidents remain under investigation.

Puente compared his decision to that of former Portuguese minister Jorge Coelho, who resigned following a deadly bridge collapse in 2001, declaring that political accountability must accompany such tragedies.

His departure comes ahead of Spain's November 29 general election , as Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's government faces growing criticism over railway safety.

The man was heard shouting, “I will kill you,” before the knife appeared to fall into the water and he climbed aboard.

The incident came as small-boat crossings to Britain resumed on Thursday following a 21-day suspension caused by rough seas and strong winds.

According to UK Home Office figures, 263 migrants arrived in three boats on Thursday, bringing the year's total to 21,198, a 43% decline compared with the same period last year.

The Home Office said joint operations with international partners had prevented more than 50,000 attempted crossings since the government took office.

French authorities say migrants are increasingly departing from beaches south and west of Calais and Dunkirk, taking longer and more dangerous routes towards the United Kingdom.

In Normandy's Seine-Maritime department, authorities recorded 56 crossing-related incidents by September 15, compared with 31 throughout 2025.

UK government figures show small boat arrivals fell by 41% in the first half of 2026 compared with the same period last year.

However, overcrowding has worsened, with an average of 65 migrants per boat, up from 58 in the first half of 2025.

Official figures for the year ending June 2026 also show that adult men accounted for 72% of arrivals, while women made up 13% and children 15%.

“There are agreements in place. But they don’t give them to us. They say, ‘We can’t.’ They’re sending everything - and have sent everything - to the Middle East ,” Zelensky claimed.

His remarks come amid growing tensions between Kyiv and Washington following disagreements over US military support and intelligence-sharing.

Ukraine recently accused the United States of restricting intelligence-sharing and Starlink services, allegations denied by the White House.

Trump has also suggested that Ukraine should have a new president, further straining relations between the two leaders.

Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St Petersburg on Wednesday.

“These are unacceptable scenes that no one could think of downplaying or justifying,” Meloni said, announcing the government's approval of a new security decree.

The decree introduces a criminal offence for violent participation in demonstrations, with increased penalties for rioting, vandalism, concealing one's identity and causing injuries.

Under the new rules, protesters who join groups of five or more people and throw stones, firecrackers or other dangerous objects could face up to five years in prison and fines of €20,000.

Parents will also be held financially responsible for damage caused by their underage children .

The decree expands preventive detention powers to include minors aged 14 to 17 considered threats to public safety, even if they have not committed an offence.

The measures take effect immediately but require parliamentary approval within 60 days to remain in force.

The government also plans to deploy 500 additional soldiers alongside police in Milan until the end of the year, as debate grows over public security and the right to protest .

Although the Azcatitlan manuscript has returned temporarily through a cultural exchange, community members say this is not enough. Mexico and France are holding talks on the possible repatriation of the Codex Borbonicus, which is held by the French National Assembly. Indigenous representatives say bringing the manuscripts home would strengthen cultural identity and help younger generations reconnect with their heritage, ahead of the New Fire ceremony scheduled for 2027.

The forms vary from Germany to Portugal, from France to Czechia, and the categories should not be conflated. Some forces are radical, others merely populist, and the distinction matters. Nor has the trajectory been the same everywhere. In the Netherlands, D66 defeated the PVV; in Hungary, Tisza brought Viktor Orbán's government to an end. These examples do not undermine the argument that follows. They reinforce it: in both cases, the winner offered a direction voters could sum up in two sentences. The more interesting question, then, is why some parties manage to become credible alternatives while others, long accustomed to governing, no longer do.

Policy indecision

The convenient explanation is that people have become radicalised. The uncomfortable one is that parties of the centre have become hard to understand and, above all, impossible to predict. What weakens them is not moderation, but the impression that they change their positions as they go, without being able to say where they are headed. Today a measure is indispensable; tomorrow it is impossible because of the budget or an EU decision. Today an alliance is ruled out; after the election it becomes proof of responsibility.

Germany offers a clear example of how this works. Friedrich Merz campaigned on a promise of fiscal discipline and a halt to new debt. Immediately after the election, he negotiated a sweeping relaxation of that commitment with the SPD. One can argue that circumstances required it. But voters backed a man who promised one thing and got one who did something quite different. Their conclusion is: "I may not know whom to vote for next time, but I know whom I will not vote for." Voters treat him the way they treat a stopped clock, which is right twice a day: they do not accuse it of lying; they simply stop consulting it.

The need for certainty grows in a world where almost everything feels provisional: prices, jobs, security, the rules by which decisions are made. Radical parties respond with a simple story. They identify the problem, name the culprit, announce a direction and promise not to stray from it. Their solutions may be unrealistic or dangerous. But they offer something the centre increasingly fails to convey: the sense that voters can anticipate what they will do in power.

The centre talks about complexity, balance and compromise. Radicals talk about cause, culprit and solution. The first account is more honest about the constraints of governing; the second is instantly understood and gives people a sense of control. People do not vote simply for the best-supported programme. They also seek, and vote for, a direction they can recognise.

Firefighting arsonists

Romania illustrates the cost of this rupture. In November 2024, Călin Georgescu, an almost unknown candidate, came first in the opening round after a campaign conducted predominantly on TikTok. The Constitutional Court, alerted to allegations of blatant foreign interference in the manipulation of the election, annulled the vote. The authorities accused Russia of heavy-handed interference and promised to make the evidence public. Almost two years later, that evidence has not been presented to Romanians. What has emerged instead is clear information about electoral conduct by the governing parties that is, at the very least, questionable—the very parties that had called for democracy to be defended. Whoever raises the fire alarm must not be found holding the match. The coalition's credibility was damaged, and when the election was rerun in 2025, its candidate, Crin Antonescu, did not even reach the second round. The warning worked as an alarm, not as a programme. And an alarm that sounds without evidence no longer frightens anyone; it only teaches people to stop looking up when it rings.

This is also where the explanation that attributes the rise of the extremes primarily to Russia falls short. The threat is real, and some European parties do appear to promote positions favourable to Moscow's interests. But the label "pro-Russian" does not, on its own, explain why a citizen abandons the party they supported until yesterday for another branded extremist. If people are told that their vote serves Moscow, yet no one gives them convincing answers about housing, income, public services or safety, the warning sounds like further proof that no one is listening.

Here lies the paradox mainstream parties refuse to confront. They denounce Russia's actions against European democracies, yet through ineffectiveness, abandoned promises and a habit of answering discontent with stock phrases and labels, they produce an effect from which Russia benefits: they drive voters towards forces that challenge Western institutions and Europe's Western orientation. To say that this effect favours Europe's adversaries is not to attribute those adversaries' intentions to mainstream parties. It is to ask them to take responsibility for the consequences of their own failures.

Radical parties should not be spared scrutiny either. It is easy to promise to stop immigration, nationalise housing or rapidly change energy policy. It is much harder to show how to do any of this legally, how to pay for it and how to avoid making worse the very problem they claim to solve. Clarity of purpose does not guarantee competence in government. But that observation will not save the centre if its only offer remains an explanation of why nothing can be done. Voters are tired of explanations; they want results. Explanations without results are merely well-articulated excuses.

Mainstream parties will not regain trust by asking people to accept confusion as the price of responsibility. They need clear priorities, credible deadlines and a willingness to answer for results. Compromise remains necessary in a democracy; the direction must still be recognisable after the compromise.

Europe is not inevitably heading towards the extremes. But the centre opens the door to them every time it confuses defending democracy with defending its own seats. The warning "the extremists are coming" no longer frightens anyone when it comes from people who have never said where they themselves are going. Anyone asking for trust must first earn it. This article exclusively represents the opinions of its author Silviou Predoiu and not those of Global South World.

Lavrov pointed to European calls to strengthen military readiness by 2030, warning that increased investment in weapons could eventually contribute to an escalation.

“Europe is preparing for war with us,” he said, suggesting that growing military capabilities could become a “self-fulfilling prophecy”.

Lavrov maintained that Russia did not intend to initiate a conflict with Europe but warned that Moscow would not retreat if confronted. “As the president said, we will not back down,” he added.

Police said the El Príncipe property was still under construction and lacked running water , electricity, adequate ventilation and a kitchen, with migrants sleeping on mattresses on the floor.

Investigators said different individuals managed the two properties and allegedly charged migrants for accommodation. The scheme reportedly generated more than €10,000, while some migrants allegedly paid by carrying out construction and renovation work.

Three of the 28 migrants were minors and were transferred to care facilities after authorities activated child protection procedures.

He also called for stronger UN institutions, greater resources for the International Criminal Court and renewed efforts towards nuclear disarmament.

Sanchez urged tighter regulation of social media and artificial intelligence, arguing that protecting future generations should take priority over the interests of what he called “tech oligarchs”. His government has separately pushed for stronger global rules governing AI and greater accountability for technology companies.

Turning to Spanish foreign policy, Sanchez highlighted Madrid's opposition to wars of aggression, its arms embargo on Israel and its refusal to commit to spending five per cent of GDP on defence.

He also addressed the migration crisis in Ceuta, saying security could be maintained without treating migrants as enemies or abandoning international law and human rights . His government has previously acknowledged the severity of the crisis while stressing the protection of human life and migrants' rights.

“The Government of Spain is going to deploy all the necessary resources to restore normalcy to that autonomous city,” Sanchez said, adding that Ceuta would move forward with the government's “unwavering commitment”.

More than 70,000 migrants entered Ceuta from Morocco on July 30 and 31, according to Spanish government figures, although most later returned to Morocco.

Thousands remain in the enclave, with more than 1,000 minors reportedly without accommodation and around 3,000 other migrants camped on beaches.

A temporary reception centre at Ceuta's port, with capacity for about 1,700 people , filled shortly after opening on Friday. Spain's National Court has admitted a legal challenge over the use of the site but has allowed it to remain open while proceedings continue.

The Spanish government approved a €309 million emergency package on September 1, covering humanitarian reception, security , support for businesses and workers, and essential services.

“What happens in Leipzig can happen in any other European city,” Macron said. “The drone intrusions in the airspace of several countries... show us that no one is safe.”

He said France was strengthening security around strategic companies and its defence industrial and technological base, while mobilising regional authorities to respond to potential threats. “We are in a time of vigilance,” Macron said.

His remarks came a day after Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned that intelligence assessments indicated possible hybrid drone and missile attacks against countries supporting Ukraine , including Poland. Tusk said such incidents could be presented as accidental in an attempt to weaken NATO's resolve.

Germany has blamed Russia for the August 4 incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport, where an explosives-laden drone was found near a Ukrainian aircraft and defused.

Russia has repeatedly denied Western allegations that it is conducting sabotage operations across Europe.

Magyar stressed that the expulsions would not mean an end to diplomatic relations with Moscow. "Hungary still intends to maintain the necessary dialogue and mutual respect while adhering to the rules," he said, adding that his government would defend the country's sovereignty and independence.

Foreign Minister Anita Orban also said the diplomats had engaged in activities considered unacceptable under the Vienna Convention. Neither she nor Magyar provided details of the allegations against them.

Russia condemned the decision, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova warning that Moscow's response "will be harsh and painful." She blamed what she described as a "Russophobic lobby in Budapest" for the expulsions.

"This operation, with international ramifications, was instigated and sustained by a vast network of collusion headed by Macron's French regime," Boubacar said.

He described the mutiny as an attempt to destabilise Niger and said authorities had compiled a "substantial body of evidence" concerning the alleged aggression.

"Niger is not waging war against any country and harbours no such intention," he said. "Niger reserves the right to bring proceedings before international courts."

The government has not publicly presented evidence linking France to the attempted coup. Paris had not responded to the latest accusation at the time of publication, while the French military previously declined to comment on similar claims aired by Nigerien state television.

The unrest began overnight on August 28-29, when mutinous soldiers attacked Air Base 101 at Niamey's Diori Hamani International Airport and other sensitive sites, including the presidential palace. Government forces later said they regained control after hours of fighting.

He also announced plans to accelerate production of interceptor drones , saying prototypes already existed but needed to be deployed effectively and produced at greater scale.

Zelensky said combat aircraft were currently carrying much of the burden of intercepting jet-powered drones.

Earlier on Thursday, he chaired a meeting of Ukraine's Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff focused on increasing production of high-speed drone interceptors and involving businesses in manufacturing air defence systems.

Zelensky also said Kiev was preparing for talks with envoys of the US president , who were expected to hold meetings in both Ukraine and Russia.

Sanchez said organised crime groups had exploited the crisis and accused some foreign-linked information networks and far-right figures of amplifying fear and distrust.

He reaffirmed that Ceuta and Melilla are Spanish cities and called for stronger cooperation with Morocco, while arguing that migration could not be solved by border controls alone.

The government has approved a €309 million emergency package for Ceuta after around 72,000 people crossed from Morocco on July 30 and 31.

"Russia should be criticised when it makes mistakes, but Russia cannot be demonised and pushed out of Europe," Fico said. "The European Union does not need more weapons and Russophobia."

Fico also warned that while Nazi Germany had been defeated militarily during the Second World War, Nazi ideology had not been completely eradicated from society and could re-emerge in different forms.

He cited a journalist's question during an August 8 press conference in Belgrade with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. The journalist asked what Europeans could do to help Ukraine "kill more Russians", later clarifying that he meant Russian soldiers.

Fico described the exchange as evidence of a growing "militant atmosphere" and hatred towards Russia . He warned that the greatest danger would be if what he called "dark ideas" and "returns to the past" began influencing EU decisions.

The Slovak prime minister has repeatedly opposed expanding European military support for Ukraine.

Vienna State Police spokesperson Philipp Haslinger said a national and international manhunt was under way. Surveillance footage showed one of the suspects carrying what appeared to be a real firearm, although it was not used during the robbery.

Investigators have recovered evidence from the museum and are examining DNA and other leads. Police have also appealed to the public for information, with Haslinger saying numerous tips had already been received.

The platinum necklace was created by French jewellery house Van Cleef & Arpels in 1939 and features more than 200 carats of diamonds in a sunburst design. Queen Nazli, mother of Egypt's King Farouk, wore it at the 1939 wedding of her daughter Princess Fawzia to Iran ian Crown Prince Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who later became Shah of Iran.

The necklace sold at Sotheby's in New York for about $4.3 million in 2015 before later joining the Van Cleef & Arpels collection. It was on display in Vienna as part of the MAK's "GLANZSTUCKE" exhibition dedicated to the French jewellery house.

"There is a war in Europe. The world is more unpredictable than at any time in many decades," he said. Magyar argued that strengthening the military was necessary to preserve peace.

"Hungary needs a strong military, not because we want war, quite the opposite, because we would like to live in peace ," he said.

The prime minister also stressed Hungary's commitments to NATO and the European Union , saying the country's armed forces must be capable of supporting allies as well as defending Hungarians.

"The Hungarian Defence Forces must be a military that both the Hungarian people and our allies can rely on," Magyar said, calling for a force that is well-equipped, well-trained and technologically advanced.

Magyar became prime minister in May after his Tisza party ended Viktor Orban's 16-year rule. He has pledged to strengthen Hungary's defence capabilities while maintaining the country's NATO commitments.

The scale of the late-July crossings remains disputed, with estimates ranging from around 40,000 according to Moroccan authorities to 72,000 in a later Spanish estimate. There is no established evidence that Morocco deliberately organised the crossings, while reports have pointed to online rumours and misinformation encouraging people to head towards the border. Moroccan authorities have since strengthened security around Ceuta, while Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez chaired another government coordination meeting on Monday to review security measures, migrant identification and assistance.

He said the government and parliament would work with Ukraine's international partners to secure the necessary funds .

In June, Ukraine's parliament approved an additional 1.56 trillion hryvnias for security and defence, bringing planned spending in the sector to 4.367 trillion hryvnias for 2026. The Finance Ministry said EU support would help finance the increase.

The EU has agreed a €90 billion loan package for Ukraine covering 2026 and 2027, with an indicative €60 billion earmarked for defence and €30 billion for economic support. So far, €11.6 billion has been disbursed.

The IMF also approved a new four-year programme for Ukraine in February, releasing about $1.5 billion immediately and a further $690 million in July.

He said housing offenders in El Salvador would cost half as much as keeping them in the UK and would free up prison space . Farage also repeated his proposal for “Nightingale prisons”, saying Reform UK believes it could provide 12,000 additional prison places within the first 18 months of a Reform government. The comments came as Prime Minister Andy Burnham faced an “early release” controversy over plans to release around 6,000 criminals early to ease prison overcrowding.

Turning to Ukraine , Nawrocki said it was in Poland's strategic interest for Ukrainian forces to keep Russia as far away from Polish territory as possible.

"Let them kill the Soviets there who attacked them, and that doesn't bother us, Poles, at all," he said.

Nawrocki added that Ukraine could count on Polish support against Russia, using the term "moskal" in his remarks. The historical Slavic term for "Muscovite" is used today in parts of Eastern Europe as a derogatory term for Russians.

However, he also said it was in Poland's interest that "Banderite flags do not fly in Warsaw and in Poland."

Nawrocki took office on August 6, 2025. His first year as president has been marked by clashes with Prime Minister Donald Tusk's government , including vetoes of legislation backed by the governing coalition.

"We did it, together we got through this year's most critical days of summer so far," he said.

"This is the Hungarian miracle itself," Magyar added, praising Hungarians for coming together during the crisis.

Rain in the Danube catchment and an easing of extreme temperatures brought relief after low river levels severely affected the Paks nuclear power plant, which relies on the Danube for cooling.

Magyar warned, however, that the danger was not over, with water levels expected to fall again next week.

He said the government would examine weaknesses in Hungary's energy and water infrastructure and identify investments needed to make supplies more resilient.

Earlier this week, Hungary faced possible electricity rationing after output at Paks fell to just 240 megawatts, compared with its usual 2,000 megawatts.

Morocco’s Interior Ministry said 11 migrants had died attempting to reach Spanish territory, with media reports putting the toll at at least 71. Authorities linked the surge in crossings to misleading information online and smuggling networks, as tens of thousands moved towards Ceuta, prompting a large security operation, a state of emergency in the enclave and political tensions between Spain and other European Union countries.

The shutdown sparked political debate, with some residents blaming Prime Minister Peter Magyar's government and calling for former leader Viktor Orban to return.

"For 16 years, the Orban government has solved everything in the world ... He should be put back there, and he would solve everything," one resident said.

Another resident argued that Hungary still depended on Russian energy supplies, while others said the country should have better prepared for the impact of falling river levels.

The government urged households and businesses to cut electricity use during peak hours, warning the shutdown could last for weeks as temperatures approach 40°C.

Resident David blamed Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's migration policies and accused Morocco of using the crossings to pressure Spain.

"We have a feeling inside that we are on edge, with tears, with frustration, with hopelessness," he said. Tensions resurfaced after members of the far-right group Nucleo Nacional and political activist Alvise Perez visited the city, triggering counter-demonstrations.

Another resident, Helena, criticised the visit and questioned Morocco's claim that it had no prior knowledge of the mass crossing.

Spanish authorities said at least 67 people died during the incident, with many drowning while attempting to swim around coastal barriers.

Others argued that Europe is struggling to cope with rising migration, linking the influx to concerns over crime and pressure on public services .

The developments have renewed debate across Europe over border security , migration policy and the need for a coordinated response to one of the continent's most pressing challenges.

He did not provide evidence to support the claim but described it as an "alliance of Moscow scum with the insane regime of DPRK."

Zelensky urged Ukraine's allies to increase air defence support, arguing that stronger pressure on Russia was needed to stop its attacks.

Ukraine said at least 13 people were killed in overnight strikes. Russia's Defence Ministry said it had launched precision missile and drone attacks against Ukrainian military-industrial facilities and military infrastructure in regions including Kyiv, Lviv and Dnipropetrovsk.

Earlier this week, Zelensky also alleged that Russia and North Korea were considering deploying another 30,000 DPRK troops, a claim the Kremlin declined to comment on.

Fedorov, widely credited with advancing Ukraine’s digital transformation and expanding drone capabilities in the conflict, was dismissed by President Volodymyr Zelensky on July 15 as part of a broader government reshuffle. While Zelensky defended the move by refusing to disclose details for security reasons, the decision has sparked backlash and exposed tensions within Ukraine’s leadership, including reported disagreements over military command.

Poland recorded the world's fastest growth in its ultra-high-net-worth individual (UHNWI) population over the past decade, with the number of residents holding at least US$10 million in net assets rising 109.2%, according to The Wealth Report 2026 published by global property consultancy Knight Frank.

Knight Frank defines ultra-high-net-worth individuals as people with net assets of US$10 million or more, excluding their primary residence.

Poland narrowly outpaced Qatar, where the ultra-wealthy population increased 106.9%, while Türkiye ranked third with 93.6% growth. Romania followed closely at 93.0%, meaning four of the world's five fastest-growing UHNWI populations were located in Central Europe or the Middle East .

Greece ranked fifth with 74.0% growth, followed by Israel at 71.4%, Saudi Arabia at 69.2%, the Czech Republic at 67.4%, India at 63.4%, while Singapore and the United Arab Emirates shared tenth place with 54.5% growth.

Knight Frank said the rankings measure the percentage increase in each country's UHNWI population over the ten years to 2025, reflecting changes in wealth creation rather than the total number of wealthy individuals.

Poland's rapid rise has been driven by sustained economic expansion, rising business investment, increasing exports and the growth of domestically owned companies since joining the European Union in 2004. According to the World Bank, Poland has been one of Europe's fastest-growing major economies over the past two decades, creating new wealth across manufacturing, technology, finance and logistics.

Qatar and Saudi Arabia continued to benefit from energy revenues alongside efforts to diversify their economies through investment in finance, tourism, infrastructure and technology under long-term national development strategies. Türkiye's growth reflected the expansion of private enterprise and asset appreciation despite periods of high inflation and currency volatility.

India remained the only country from South Asia to enter the top ten. Knight Frank has previously identified India as one of the world's fastest-growing wealth markets, supported by expanding entrepreneurship, technology companies, manufacturing and financial services.

Knight Frank noted that wealth creation is becoming increasingly geographically diverse, with emerging markets accounting for many of the fastest-growing UHNWI populations, even as established financial centres continue to host larger absolute numbers of wealthy individuals.

The findings underscore how economic growth, business formation and rising asset values are reshaping the global distribution of wealth beyond traditional centres in North America and Western Europe.

Zelensky thanked Syrsky for his service, highlighting his role in the defence of Kyiv, the Kharkiv counteroffensive and the Kursk operation.

"The fact is that Oleksandr Syrsky ensured Ukraine's results in the defence of Kiev. In the Kharkov offensive operation, in the Kursk operation... a significant path has been travelled," he said.

The president also said he had offered former defence chief Mykhailo Fedorov a "worthy position in the government " focused on strengthening Ukraine's technological development.

Fedorov's dismissal last week sparked protests across the country. Zelensky declined to publicly explain the reasons for the move, saying he did not want to disclose information that could benefit Russia.

The reshuffle also saw former Naftogaz chief Serhiy Koretsky appointed prime minister, replacing Yuliia Svyrydenko.

The bill would allow adults with a serious and incurable illness in an advanced or terminal stage to request assistance in dying under strict conditions . Applicants must be French citizens or legal residents, capable of making a free and informed decision, and experiencing unbearable suffering that cannot be relieved.

Patients would normally administer the medication themselves, although a doctor or nurse could do so if the patient is physically unable. The legislation also includes a conscience clause allowing healthcare professionals to opt out.

The Senate had rejected the measure three times, but the National Assembly had the final say.

The bill will now be reviewed by France's Constitutional Council before it can be signed into law . If approved, France would join countries including Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada and Ecuador in permitting some form of assisted dying.

Addressing the audience, Putin also acknowledged the challenges faced by those on the front line and behind the scenes, noting that fear is a natural response in difficult circumstances. However, he emphasised that resilience and unity remain key factors in overcoming adversity, highlighting the mobilisation of millions of people in support of the country’s goals.

During the summit, Trump criticised Spain, calling it a "wasted cause" and announcing a halt to US trade with the country after Madrid resisted US calls to increase defence spending and support military action against Iran .

Fico said the meeting also showed that some NATO members were interested in opening dialogue with Russia, a position Slovakia has long supported.

He reiterated that Slovakia would not contribute to NATO's €70 billion military aid package for Ukraine or the EU's €90 billion military loan.

"We are in favour of cooperation, dialogue and humanitarian aid; however, we are not in favour of war ," Fico said.

NATO leaders agreed during the July 7-8 summit to provide €70 billion in military equipment, assistance and training for Ukraine in 2026, with a commitment to maintain similar support in 2027.

"We demand that the government of the Republic of Poland take all measures to oppose any development of Ukraine's integration process with the European Union . The European Union cannot be based on an ideology contrary to Christian values, European values," Czarnek said.

His remarks followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's May 26 decree granting a Special Operations Forces unit the honorary title "Heroes of the UPA." While Ukraine says the title was chosen by the unit's soldiers and was not intended as an anti-Polish gesture, Poland holds the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) responsible for the wartime massacres of Polish civilians in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia, which it recognises as genocide.

"Ukraine is not doomed to glorify perpetrators of genocide. Ukraine has its own heroes. But Ukraine will not be free and will not be a member of the European Union," Czarnek said.

Ukraine applied for EU membership on February 28, 2022, four days after the conflict with Russia began. It was granted candidate status in June 2022, with EU leaders agreeing to open accession negotiations in December 2023. Formal talks began on June 25, 2024, followed by a screening process to assess Ukraine's alignment with EU legislation. Ukraine completed that process in September 2025, and on June 15, 2026, the EU and Kyiv opened the first negotiating cluster covering the rule of law, fundamental rights , democratic institutions, public administration reform and economic criteria, Viory reports.

Former president Janos Ader criticised the proposed amendment, describing the Tisza Party's initiative as unprecedented.

"After this constitutional amendment, anything can happen to anyone at any time in Hungary. And this leads not to legal certainty but to anarchy," Ader said.

Protesters accused Prime Minister Peter Magyar's government of undermining the constitution and the rule of law. "This is a trampling of the Constitution, the trampling of the rule of law and the death of democracy . If this remains the case and they remove the president of the Republic, then we must stand by them," said influencer Istvan Szakacs, who was previously arrested after posting a Facebook video stating that "If Viktor Orban gets to jail, 500,000 people will march and set him free."

Another demonstrator, identified only as Eszter, criticised Magyar's treatment of the president.

"The way he spoke to the president of the Republic is simply outrageous, shocking, and you cannot do such a thing. They didn't do that to the previous president of the Republic either," she said.

The protest was held in response to the proposed 17th Amendment to Hungary's Fundamental Law, introduced by the Tisza Party. The amendment would make changes affecting several public offices, including that of President Tamas Sulyok, and would also impose a 12-year term limit on Members of Parliament.

Responding to questions about the use of Italian military bases, Meloni said the government's position had remained unchanged.

"As far as the bases are concerned, it is not that we made decisions or choices in such a way, one day doing one thing and another day doing something else. We have had a very clear line from the beginning of the conflict in Iran, and we maintain that line," she said.

Her remarks came after US President Donald Trump criticised Italy's refusal to support US military action against Iran.

On Tuesday, Trump described Meloni as "a nice person" but said her decision not to become involved had affected their relationship.

"She refused to get involved, so it soured my relationship with her a little bit...I think she made a mistake," Trump told reporters in Turkey. Meloni also voiced concern over the worsening security situation in the Middle East, warning that further escalation could destabilise the wider region.

"I am obviously very concerned about what is happening in Iran," she said. "We cannot rule out that this might also spread to other areas of this delicate region." The Italian prime minister argued that military action had failed to produce lasting results and said diplomacy remained the best path toward resolving the crisis.

On NATO, Meloni said discussions with allies had not included any plans to reduce US troop deployments in Europe. She added, however, that Washington had long called on European allies to assume a greater share of the alliance's defence responsibilities.

"Ukraine has the right to defend its territory - territorial integrity. We maintain our humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, but as I have said many times before, Hungary will not provide arms or troops to Ukraine," he said.

Despite Budapest's position on military aid, Magyar said Hungary remained committed to strengthening its own defence capabilities and would gradually increase military spending to meet NATO's long-term target.

"The Hungarian government has already decided to increase the defence spending in a predictable manner, and we will reach the 5 percent by 2035," he said.

NATO leaders are meeting in Ankara on July 7 and 8, with defence spending, continued support for Ukraine and the future direction of the alliance among the key issues on the agenda.

"They will fear that Ukraine will put a heavy burden on the EU budget," Fico said. "Yes, that is the other side of Ukraine's entry into the European Union . Therefore, everything has its time, and Ukraine must be patient. It must be very, very patient," he added.

Fico also questioned the European Union's proposed €90 billion ($103 billion) support package for Ukraine, claiming the bloc was funding Ukrainian weapons production that could later be sold back to EU member states.

"We are already in a mess. If we give someone 90 billion for the production of weapons, for support, for all sorts of things, they will manufacture weapons from it and then sell them back to the European Union," he said.

The Slovak prime minister said Slovakia's presidency of the Visegrad Group (V4) would focus on competitiveness, EU enlargement, people-to-people relations and practical cooperation, while making peace a fifth priority.

The European Union formally opened accession negotiations with Ukraine in June 2024. On Friday, EU member states reached a technical agreement to begin opening another accession negotiating cluster with Ukraine and Moldova, with formal approval expected on July 14.

"There is a shortage of anti-ballistic defence systems. There is a shortage of Patriot systems," Zelensky said. "Our partners - above all the United States and our European partners - must be more active in providing them," he added.

Zelensky said protecting Ukrainian cities would require not only additional Patriot deliveries but also the expansion of Europe's own anti-ballistic missile production capacity.

"A NATO summit will take place in the coming days. Air defence must become one of its key outcomes," he said, adding that Europe should develop sufficient capabilities to defend itself against all threats, including Russian ballistic missiles.

The Ukrainian president also revealed that Kyiv has held long-running discussions with the United States on licensing the production of Patriot systems, while also seeking to expand European missile manufacturing.

Meanwhile, Russia's Defence Ministry said its latest large-scale strikes targeted military-industrial enterprises, fuel and energy infrastructure, radio-electronic and aviation manufacturing facilities, a missile assembly and testing plant, a transport and logistics hub, gas distribution stations in Kyiv and the surrounding region, as well as facilities in the Dnepropetrovsk, Poltava, Cherkasy and Chernigov regions.

Europe has supplied the largest share of the 32 teams that have already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with UEFA accounting for 13 nations, according to FIFA's latest qualification standings .

With qualification still underway for the tournament to be hosted by the United States , Canada and Mexico, 32 of the expanded 48 places have been filled. Europe leads with 13 qualified teams, followed by Africa (CAF) with nine, South America (CONMEBOL) with five, North, Central America and the Caribbean (Concacaf) with three, and Asia (AFC) with two. The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) had yet to secure a place at the stage reflected in the graphic.

UEFA's 13 qualified nations represent 40.6% of the 32 teams that have booked their places.

Europe has historically dominated the FIFA World Cup, producing 12 of the 22 men's world champions and supplying the largest number of entrants under FIFA's qualification system.

The expanded 2026 tournament allocates 16 direct qualification places to UEFA, the highest of any confederation.

Africa had nine qualified teams, accounting for 28.1% of the confirmed field.

The continent received a record nine automatic qualification places for the expanded tournament, with an additional pathway available through the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.

South America's CONMEBOL had five qualified teams, representing 15.6% of the confirmed participants. With only 10 member associations, the confederation continues to have one of the world's highest qualification rates.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, up from 32 in previous editions.

FIFA expanded the tournament to increase global representation, particularly for Africa, Asia and Concacaf. The final allocation includes 16 UEFA, 9 CAF, 8 AFC, 6 CONMEBOL, 6 Concacaf (including hosts), 1 OFC, and 2 places decided through the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.

Qualification matches remain ongoing, with the remaining places to be decided before the tournament kicks off across 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico and the United States in June 2026.

FIFA says the expanded format will see 104 matches played over a 39-day tournament, making it the largest World Cup in the competition's history .

The decision, announced by the government on Friday June 26, accuses France of pursuing “neocolonial ambitions” and interfering in domestic affairs, a claim Paris has rejected, calling the move “hostile and baseless” while reviewing its response. The rupture follows years of deteriorating relations, including the expulsion of French troops and diplomats, and reflects a broader regional trend in West Africa where leaders are increasingly pushing back against France’s presence.

Kane went on to miss key chances during the match, including a close-range opportunity, though there is no evidence to support Bonsam’s claims. The spiritualist later said the ‘block’ had been lifted and expressed confidence that Kane would return to form. Known for similar statements in the past, including a claim involving Cristiano Ronaldo in 2014, Bonsam remains a prominent figure in Ghana, where he promotes traditional spirituality and its role in modern society , despite scepticism from many observers.

One Iranian participant said the deaths were part of a broader pattern of violence against children in the region.

"It was not surprising for me, because it is not the first time that they tried to kill children, to kill students. They did this pattern in other countries in the Middle East , like in Palestine, in Gaza, in Lebanon, in Syria," she said.

"The students are also a wealth for a country, because they will grow up and build their future. So it's not surprising for me they want to kill the children ," she added.

Another activist from the United States criticised Washington's response to the incident, accusing the country of avoiding accountability.

"I have never seen the country take responsibility for colonialism, imperialism, or the wars it causes. They always have an excuse," she said. "They are never going to take responsibility for the killings, the wars they start, or the aggressions they carry out. No, I do not expect to see that happen in my lifetime."

The Minab school strike was among the deadliest reported incidents of the conflict. Iranian authorities said up to 170 people were killed, including many children.

"Ukraine has repeatedly signalled that dragging Belarus into this war could lead to extremely dangerous consequences. In particular, we have recorded that special equipment has been installed along our border on the territory of Belarus, helping the Russians launch drone strikes against us, against our territory. Against our energy infrastructure , our railways, ordinary cities, and our villages. Belarus has time to dismantle this equipment," he said.

According to Zelensky, the equipment includes four repeaters located in Belarus's Gomel and Brest regions that allegedly assist in guiding drone attacks on Ukrainian targets.

The Ukrainian president also accused Belarusian industry of contributing to Russia's war effort through the supply of military-related components and fuel.

"We also know about every factory in Belarus that works for Russia and works for this war. Every single enterprise that supplies components for Russian weapons, armoured vehicles, missile systems, as well as the enterprises that supply Russia with fuel for the war. This is all dragging Belarus into the war. Ukraine does not want this, and we have actually warned the leadership of Belarus, which influences the relevant events," Zelensky said.

The warning follows a separate dispute earlier this week, when Russia and Belarus accused Ukraine of carrying out a drone strike on a bus transporting Belarusian schoolchildren in Russia's Bryansk region.

"The decision of the Ukrainian authorities to glorify the UPA is not only outrageous, it is also incomprehensible and deeply disappointing," Nawrocki said. "It strikes at the foundation of reconciliation. It strikes at the conviction that truth can be the common language of our nations."

The Polish president stressed that his decision was not directed against the Ukrainian people and did not alter Warsaw's strategic support for Kyiv.

"Poland remains ready to cooperate with Ukraine," he said. "But Poland will consistently guard the memory of its citizens and the dignity of its own state symbols...Poland will not agree to the glorification of those who murdered defenseless Polish civilians."

"Ukraine's path to European structures also requires a readiness to honestly face the difficult pages of its own history. For those who do not understand this, there can be no place in the European Union , and Poland will certainly not allow that," he added.

He warned that there were "limits that must not be crossed" in Polish-Ukrainian relations and urged Kyiv to return to what he called a path of truth and mutual respect.

Zelensky was awarded the Order of the White Eagle in 2023 by then-president Andrzej Duda. He had not commented on Nawrocki's decision at the time of publication.

The UPA was a nationalist armed group active during and after World War II. Poland holds UPA units responsible for massacres of Polish civilians in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia. In 2016, the Polish parliament recognised the killings as genocide and designated July 11 as a national day of remembrance for the victims.

Turkish technology experts are raising alarms over the rapid spread of deepfake technology, which uses artificial intelligence to create highly convincing fake videos, audio recordings, and images that can imitate real people. The growing sophistication of these tools is making it increasingly difficult for the public to distinguish authentic content from manipulated material. Security specialists recommend verifying information through multiple trusted sources, scrutinising unusual facial movements or audio inconsistencies, and avoiding sharing sensational content before confirming its authenticity. The concern is particularly acute in politics, finance, and social media, where deepfakes can be used for fraud, misinformation, reputational attacks, and identity theft. Researchers note that AI-generated media has become realistic enough to deceive large audiences and can be difficult to detect without specialised tools.

Silifke mayor among those detained in municipal operation

A major operation targeting Silifke Municipality in Mersin has resulted in detentions , including Mayor Mustafa Turgut, according to Turkish media reports. The operation has drawn significant political attention because Turgut is one of the region’s most prominent local government figures. While authorities have not publicly disclosed all details surrounding the investigation, the case forms part of a broader pattern of judicial scrutiny involving municipal administrations across Turkey. Such operations often focus on allegations relating to procurement, municipal finances, licensing procedures, or administrative misconduct. The development is likely to intensify debate over governance, transparency, and political accountability at the local level. Given Silifke’s importance within Mersin Province, the outcome of the investigation could have broader political implications for local administration and public trust in municipal institutions.

Hotel owner wounded in armed attack in Çorum

A hotel operator identified as K.K. (44) was injured after being targeted in a shooting outside his business on İnönü Street in Çorum. According to reports, two suspects arrived at the hotel, opened fire, and fled the scene immediately afterwards. The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to the hospital for treatment. Police launched a large-scale investigation and recovered evidence from the scene, including a firearm believed to have been used in the attack, which was later found in a nearby children's park. Authorities are reviewing security camera footage and pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the suspects. The incident has renewed concerns about violent crime and firearm-related attacks in urban areas, particularly where business owners become targets of organised or personal disputes.

Anthropic restrictions expose widening fractures in the global AI race

A dispute surrounding advanced AI company Anthropic is highlighting growing tensions in the international technology sector. Recent restrictions affecting access to some of the company's most advanced models, including Fable 5 and Mythos 5, have triggered concerns about the fragmentation of the global AI ecosystem. The controversy stems from export controls and access restrictions affecting foreign governments, companies, and users. Critics argue that limiting access to cutting-edge AI systems could deepen technological divides between countries and accelerate the emergence of separate AI spheres dominated by competing geopolitical blocs. Anthropic has reportedly entered discussions with US authorities in an effort to address the restrictions. The episode reflects a broader struggle over who controls advanced AI technologies, how they are distributed globally, and whether national security concerns should outweigh international technological collaboration.

Two injured after minibus and commercial vehicle collide in Samsun

Two people were injured in a traffic accident in Çarşamba district, Samsun, when a light commercial vehicle collided with a minibus. The impact caused the minibus to veer off course and strike a concrete electricity pole. According to local reports, the accident occurred on Baraj Yolu Avenue in Sarıcalı neighbourhood. Emergency medical teams responded to the scene and transported the injured individuals to Çarşamba State Hospital for treatment. The incident highlights ongoing road safety concerns in Turkey, where collisions involving commercial vehicles and public transport continue to contribute to injury rates. Authorities routinely urge drivers to exercise greater caution, particularly on busy urban and regional roads where traffic density can increase accident risks.