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Check FAQAbout Kristina
Kristina is a Canadian journalist based in Berlin with over a decade of experience reporting across all platforms, as well as producing and writing in television newsrooms. She does a mix of video, radio and written reports, including for Euronews, NBC News, The Daily Telegraph, BBC, and RFI among others. She films and edits her own packages (using a Canon Rebel T2i and Adobe Premiere Pro), as well as does lives. Before being based in Turkey, she covered the Ukrainian crisis for two years, including the revolution in Kiev, the annexation of Crimea and the conflict in the east from both sides of the frontline. Prior to Ukraine, she was based in Hungary. During her time reporting, she has contributed to NBC, The Daily Telegraph, BBC, DW, The Daily Beast, Al Jazeera, and The Los Angeles Times, among others. She has done lives for Euronews NBC, BBC (radio and television), Sky News, France 24, Al Jazeera, Monocle Radio and CBC Television. One of her videos for Al Jazeera while covering the refugee crisis received over a million views online while another one got about 500, 000 views in one day. She also worked as a news producer for Sky in London and as a news producer and writer for CBC and CTV in Toronto. She has her own body armour and has done hostile environment training, with the help of a Rory Peck Trust bursary. She received a MA in journalism from the University of Western Ontario and Honours BA with distinction from the University of Toronto, specialising in political science.
English
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Portfolio
Battle for Istanbul: Mayor Imamoglu Seeks To Upend Erdogan's Hold in Pivotal Local Vote
In the upcoming local elections in Turkey, Istanbul's Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu is defending his position against former Erdoğan cabinet member Murat Kurum. İmamoğlu's previous victory in 2019 was a significant defeat for President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and the outcome of this election could influence the 2028 presidential race. The city's management, including infrastructure and earthquake preparedness, is a central campaign issue. The opposition faces challenges with a split vote and new leadership, while Erdoğan's AKP is criticized for its economic policies. The election's result will have implications for Turkey's political and economic future.
Expert Analysis on Gaza Negotiations
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken sees potential in Hamas' truce response despite 'nonstarters,' while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismisses the proposal as 'delusional' and vows total victory against Hamas. Journalist Nihad Abu Ghosh criticizes Netanyahu's disregard for US diplomacy, and expert Eytan Gilboa views Hamas' response as a failure of American diplomacy but acknowledges ongoing negotiations. The article discusses the complex dynamics of the Gaza conflict, including ceasefire proposals, hostage negotiations, and the differing stances of the US and Israeli governments.
Turkey Steps Up Attacks Against Kurdish Targets in Syria and Iraq
Turkey has intensified military operations against Kurdish targets in Syria and Iraq, claiming to have neutralized a top Kurdish militant official following an attack on the Interior Ministry in Ankara. The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) claimed responsibility for the attack. Turkey's actions have included targeting economic and military infrastructure, with the US, EU, and Turkey classifying the PKK as a terrorist organization. Relations between Ankara and Washington are strained due to the US's collaboration with Kurdish fighters against ISIS. Human Rights Watch reported that Turkey's strikes have disrupted civilian infrastructure and caused civilian casualties, which Turkey's Defense Ministry denies, asserting adherence to international law. The US indicated concern over Turkey's operations potentially targeting US forces, which Ankara denies.
Israel Says It Will Reassess Relations With Turkey After War Crimes Accusations
Israel is reassessing its relations with Turkey following accusations of war crimes by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The Israeli government had already begun withdrawing diplomats prior to Erdoğan's statements, citing security concerns. Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and Energy Minister Israel Katz have publicly responded to the situation, with Katz labeling Erdoğan a supporter of Hamas. Antisemitic incidents in Turkey have increased, including protests and vandalism. Analysts like Ryan Bohl from RANE and Ozgur Ünlühisarcıklı from the German Marshall Fund provided insights into the diplomatic dynamics and public sentiment. Despite the tensions, there is an expectation that Israel will seek to maintain relations with Turkey, especially in areas like intelligence sharing, which has been instrumental in preventing attacks against Israeli citizens.
Germany wants to boost the use of geothermal energy to reduce dependency on Russian gas supplies
Germany is exploring the use of geothermal energy to become more energy-independent and reduce its reliance on Russian gas, with plans to utilize the former Tegel airport among other locations. Chancellor Olaf Scholz aims for significant geothermal development by 2030, primarily for heating. The German Geothermal Association notes increased interest but identifies funding and slow permitting as challenges. The Fraunhofer Institute study suggests geothermal could supply over a quarter of Germany's heating needs. Berlin plans to start deep drilling in 2025, while environmentalists like Greenpeace's Anike Peters urge for a complete transition to renewables. The German government is also looking to expand solar energy, with supporters highlighting geothermal's consistent availability.
Turkey Pushes for Black Sea Grain Deal Renewal in Hope of Cheaper Prices
Turkey is advocating for the renewal of the Black Sea Grain Initiative to secure better agricultural import prices. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized the importance of the deal during a visit to Kyiv, while Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba acknowledged the need for the Black Sea route despite exploring alternatives. A potential meeting in Sochi between Turkish President Erdoğan and Russian President Putin is being arranged to discuss the deal. The initiative, a significant diplomatic success since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, facilitated grain exports through Turkey's Bosporus strait but lapsed when Russia's demands were not met. Turkey, facing a financial crisis, seeks to bolster its global facilitator image and improve relations with Western allies. However, tensions between Turkey and Russia have surfaced, with Turkey reiterating that Crimea is part of Ukraine and a recent incident involving a Turkish ship raided by the Russian navy. Analysts suggest that any new agreement would require Western concessions and could involve Turkey as a transit country for Russian grain.
Germany: The 'great return' of Israelis - The rise of the far-right scares migrants
Israeli author and publisher Tomer Dotan-Dreyfus, who moved from Israel to Germany in 2011 due to disagreements with then newly-elected Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is now helping many Israelis migrate to Germany amidst Netanyahu's re-election and judicial reforms. With the rise of the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD), which is performing well in polls and has previously sparked controversy, there is growing concern among Israeli migrants. Last year, 3,700 Israelis obtained German citizenship, and the number of applications is increasing. However, incidents of anti-Semitism, such as an attack on an Israeli tourist, are causing fear. Political analyst Lorenz Blumenthaler expresses concern that the mobilization of far-right supporters could lead to a significant threat in the long term.
Turkey’s constitutional conundrum: Erdogan’s ‘libertarian’ pledge raises alarm bells
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan aims to introduce a new 'libertarian' constitution, sparking fears of further entrenching his power. The proposed changes could include conservative social values, increased Islamic influence, and reduced secularism. Erdogan's party has seen declining popularity due to economic issues and refugee discontent. The new constitution would need significant legislative support or a popular referendum, similar to the 2017 referendum that expanded presidential powers. The US is unlikely to strongly oppose the changes due to Turkey's strategic role in the NATO alliance, particularly during the conflict in Ukraine. Foreign investor reaction could be a deterrent, as they may be concerned about Erdogan's economic policies being institutionalized.
Turkey seeks foreign investment from Saudi Arabia
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is touring Gulf states to attract foreign investment for Turkey's struggling economy, targeting sectors like tourism, health, and banking. Deals include Saudi Arabia's purchase of Turkish Bayraktar drones, reflecting a shift towards regional defense independence. Relations with Saudi Arabia are recovering from the low point following Jamal Khashoggi's killing. Erdogan's economic policies, including low interest rates amidst high inflation, have been criticized for causing a currency crisis and deterring foreign investment. Recent government actions, such as raising interest rates and appointing respected economists, aim to address these criticisms.
Turkish Government Accused of Using Courts To Block Istanbul Mayor From Presidential Run
Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoğlu, of the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), faces criminal charges that could prevent him from running for president or leading his party. His lawyer, Gökhan Günaydın, claims these charges are a political ploy by the Turkish government. Imamoğlu previously won the Istanbul mayoral race in 2019, which was a significant defeat for President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's party. Critics accuse the government of politically interfering with the judiciary, while the government maintains its independence. The economic downturn and recent election results have put pressure on Erdoğan, who is seen as trying to prevent opposition victories in local elections to weaken their prospects in the 2028 presidential election.
Germany tightens its immigration policy and strengthens controls at the border with Poland
Germany is increasing border controls and police presence at its border with Poland as part of a tougher immigration policy. Authorities have noted a rise in irregular crossings from Poland. Asylum seekers are directed to centers like the one in Eisenhuttenstadt, where a Syrian youth expressed his reasons for coming to Germany. Refugee advocacy group Pro Asyl is concerned that increased police presence could lead to more rejections at the border. The German Interior Ministry states that intercepted individuals can apply for asylum. The government aims to reduce irregular immigration, coinciding with the far-right party Alternative for Germany gaining in polls. Local politicians are calling for stricter measures, including the possibility of immediate returns. Jan Redman of the CDU wants authorities to have the right to deny entry, emphasizing that the current influx is not primarily Ukrainians but people from various regions, including Africa and the Middle East. Meanwhile, refugees like the young Syrian in the asylum center remain hopeful about their prospects in Germany.
Israeli spies targeting people with ties to Iran is a 'well-crafted story' - analyst
Turkey has accused an alleged Israeli spy ring of targeting individuals with ties to Iran, as reported by the pro-government Daily Sabah newspaper. Turkish intelligence agency MIT claims the Mossad agents were spying on people with trade ties to Iran. The timing of the leak, ahead of the Turkish presidential runoff election, suggests a potential political motive to boost nationalist support for President Erdoğan. Analysts express skepticism about the story's accuracy and the potential harm to Turkey-Israel relations. The report also touches on the arrests of PKK members and accusations against Erdoğan's political rivals.
Canada’s largest school system will no longer plan trips to the U.S.
The Toronto District School Board has decided to halt planning trips to the U.S. due to concerns that students might be unfairly stopped at the border, particularly those from Muslim-majority countries affected by President Trump's travel ban. Although the ban is currently blocked by judges, the board is taking a cautious approach. If any student or staff member is denied entry without a legitimate reason, all participants will return to Toronto, and future trips will be canceled. The board oversees 584 schools with many students from the listed countries. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has stated that there are no new travel restrictions and that the number of Canadians denied entry has decreased compared to previous years. Other Canadian educational institutions and organizations, like the Girl Guides of Canada, have also canceled trips to the U.S. over similar concerns.
"Syrian Girl Flees Refugee Camp To Find Her Parents" - AJ+ This video I shot received over a million Facebook likes. I tracked down the girl in Germany six months later for a follow-up video which received 500, 000 likes in 24 hours.
Violence Mars Lead-Up to Turkish Elections as Erdogan Seeks Another Term
The article discusses the tense and violent atmosphere surrounding the upcoming elections in Turkey, where President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is seeking another term. The Human Rights Association in Turkey has reported numerous incidents of violence against opposition supporters. The violence includes beatings, stabbings, and even deaths, with the majority of attacks targeting opposition parties. The state of emergency following the 2016 failed coup has led to a crackdown on dissent, with many academics, politicians, and journalists detained. The elections are expected to be close, and if no presidential candidate achieves a majority, a second round will be held. Concerns about election-related violence are high, with warnings from various international entities. The elections will also introduce a new executive presidential system, increasing the president's powers. Opposition candidates, including the imprisoned Selahattin Demirtas of the HDP, are struggling to be heard in a media landscape dominated by Erdogan's allies.
Friends say Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi 'was afraid'
The article discusses the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who was last seen entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Friends and colleagues describe Khashoggi's fear of Saudi Arabia's rulers, particularly Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Khashoggi, a critic of Saudi policies, had gone into self-imposed exile in the U.S. and wrote for The Washington Post. The article details Khashoggi's criticism of the Saudi-led war in Yemen, the crackdown on dissent, and the treatment of women's rights activists. Turkish authorities believe Khashoggi was killed at the consulate, a claim Saudi officials deny. The international community, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence, has expressed concern over the incident. The article includes perspectives from various individuals who knew Khashoggi or are following the case closely.
Aleppo zoo animals wait to be re-homed from Turkey rescue centre
A rehabilitation centre in Turkey is caring for 13 evacuated zoo animals from Aleppo, Syria, including lions, bears, tigers, hyenas, and dogs. The animals, rescued by the charity Four Paws with support from the Turkish government, show signs of physical and psychological trauma from the war. Plans are underway to relocate the animals to sanctuaries in Jordan and the Netherlands. The article highlights the challenges faced by the animals and the efforts to ensure their recovery.
Ukraine's children of war: The mental scars of conflict
Since the conflict in Eastern Ukraine began in April 2014, over 215,000 children have been internally displaced, with many seeking refuge in Mariupol. The ongoing violence has left deep psychological scars on children, manifesting as fear, aggression, and regressive behavior. UNICEF and local organizations like the Mariupol Youth Union are providing psychosocial support to help children cope with the trauma. Despite a ceasefire agreement, shelling continues, and the mental health of children like 8-year-old Ivan and 11-year-old Valeria remains a significant concern. International monitors and UK foreign secretary Philip Hammond have noted increasing violence, and the uncertainty of the situation continues to affect the lives of those displaced by the conflict.
Baby born to brain dead mother as fetus survives from 15 to 27 weeks
A baby was delivered by Caesarean section at 27 weeks after its mother, a 31-year-old Hungarian woman, was declared brain-dead at 15 weeks of pregnancy. The mother had suffered a stroke and was kept on life support to allow the fetus to survive. The University of Debrecen Medical and Health Science Centre's doctors believe this case to be one of only three such cases globally. The mother's life support was turned off two days after the delivery, and her organs were donated, benefiting four patients. The baby, initially needing respiratory support, was discharged from the hospital and is developing well at home without showing any premature birth-related illnesses.
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