Europe

Air Travel Challenges Amid Political Turmoil In recent days, a significant shift has occurred in the realm of international travel for Indian airlines. Previously, carriers such as Air India enjoyed relatively straightforward routes flying west across neighboring Pakistan. This made connections to Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Central Asia not just feasible, but also convenient. However, the landscape of air travel can change in a heartbeat, and it has, all due to a geopolitical flare-up that…

How does Ireland's maternity policy stack up against those in other European nations? In Ireland, mothers are entitled to 26 weeks of fully or partially paid leave, in addition to 16 weeks of unpaid leave. Moreover, each parent has the option to take up to nine weeks of leave that must be utilized before their child turns two. This means a fully employed new mother in Ireland can spend at least the first year at home with her baby. For those fortunate enough to secure a spot, their child then transitions into a crèche.…

In a moment etched into history, the political landscape of transatlantic relations was shaken at its core during a highly publicized meeting in the Oval Office. On a recent Friday, the confrontation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was nothing short of extraordinary—an unprecedented clash that reverberated around the world. Imagine walking into the Oval Office, a sacred space known for fostering important dialogue, only to find yourself in a…

In a moment that felt both extraordinary and unnerving, the political landscape shifted dramatically. The Oval Office witnessed a very public confrontation between US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This encounter is destined to be recorded as one of the most jarring political press events in recent history. The air was thick with tension as President Zelensky seemingly fell into what appeared to be a very public ambush. He took issue with Mr. Vance’s assertion…

In a compelling address at the Munich Security Conference, President Volodymyr Zelensky firmly asserted Ukraine's stance on peace negotiations. "Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs without our involvement," he declared, an implicit rebuke aimed at U.S. President Donald Trump's overtures to Russia as he seeks to broker an end to the ongoing conflict. The message was clear: any peace initiative must include Ukraine’s voice at the table. Zelensky's remarks came shortly after Trump conducted a significant…

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is poised to make history as the first UK leader to participate in a European Council gathering since Brexit. This significant moment comes as he aims to rally European leaders in their resolve against Russian President Vladimir Putin. Starmer, after a crucial discussion with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, expressed his anticipation for the informal EU leaders' retreat in Belgium, where vital issues will take center stage. At this gathering, the prime minister plans to delve into the…

South African sensation Tyla has made waves at the MTV Europe Music Awards, securing not just one, but three prestigious titles: Best Afrobeat, Best African Act, and Best R&B. This is a monumental achievement, as she’s now the first African artist to snag three MTV EMA awards in a single evening. What a phenomenal feat! Dressed to impress, Tyla paid homage to the legendary Aaliyah by donning a striking replica of the iconic Roberto Cavalli dress the late star wore during the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards. A heartfelt…

In a groundbreaking move, Ethiopia has initiated its inaugural shipment of chilled fruits and vegetables aimed at the European market, as announced by the Ministry of Agriculture. This venture marks a significant step in the nation's agricultural export journey. The launch involves Ethio Vegfru, a private exporter and importer company, which has now started its operations by sending Sugar Snap and Mangetout peas to the Netherlands, an event overseen by Sofia Kasa, the State Minister of Agriculture. This export is not just a…

Hundreds of migrants attempting the treacherous sea crossing from Africa to Europe were in distress when their makeshift boats ran into trouble. The Moroccan navy has rescued 438 migrants since Thursday, state media reported. Most of the migrants come from sub-Saharan Africa and received first aid before being taken to the nearest Moroccan port, an officer told the state news agency MAP late Monday. Earlier this month, a merchant ship rescued 33 migrants who had spent two weeks in the Atlantic on…

Where do the weapons used by armed groups in the Sahel come from? A study published on Monday, August 23 by the NGO Amnesty International reveals that the Sahel branch of the Islamic State and JNIM linked to al-Qaeda use weapons for European production and in particular Serbian. Amnesty also points out that they are used by pro-government militias and refers to illegal armed groups for these groups.…