Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and his ruling party, the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), are projected to win a significant victory in the snap elections, according to early exit polls. Prime Minister Ana Brnabić announced that the SNS is expected to secure 47 percent of the vote, which would allow them to form a coalition with a parliamentary majority. However, the election has been marred by accusations of major irregularities, including reports of 'carousel voting' and an inflated electoral roll with 'phantom voters'. Election observers have raised concerns about potential widespread election fraud. Despite these allegations, Brnabić has dismissed the claims of irregularities as lies.

Tens of thousands protested in Belgrade against alleged vote fraud in the recent Serbian election, calling for more EU scrutiny. Srđan Cvijić, an election monitor, criticized President Aleksandar Vučić for only promoting European values during visits from EU officials. The Russian Ambassador backed Vučić's claim that external forces are behind the protests, a narrative similar to Putin's. The ruling party likened the protests to Ukraine's Maidan uprising. Observers from the OSCE and European Parliament condemned the election fraud. Actress Svetlana Bojković and opposition politician Marinika Tepić, who is on a hunger strike, spoke at the rally. Student organizations also held a 24-hour blockade. The protests, ongoing since the election, have seen police detentions and forceful responses.

Tens of thousands of people gathered in Belgrade, Serbia, to protest against alleged election fraud in the recent Serbian election. Srđan Cvijić from the Belgrade Center for Security Policy, who was an election monitor, criticized President Aleksandar Vučić for only promoting European values when EU officials visit. The Russian Ambassador backed Vučić's claim that external forces are behind the protests. The protests have been likened to Ukraine's Maidan uprising. Observers from the OSCE and European Parliament have condemned the election fraud. Actress Svetlana Bojković and opposition politician Marinika Tepić, who is on a hunger strike, spoke at the protest. Student organizations also held a 24-hour blockade as part of the demonstrations. The protests are a response to the manipulation of votes and the decay in democratic norms.

In Belgrade, Serbia, protests have erupted following the December 17 elections, with accusations of rampant irregularities and calls for improvements in the voting process from Brussels. On December 24, anti-riot police clashed with protesters at the city hall. The EU has expressed concerns and called for an investigation into the election irregularities. Opposition leaders and election monitors like CRTA have highlighted issues such as inflated electoral rolls and fake names. CRTA's program director, Raša Nedeljkov, has pointed out the manipulation of voter lists and the import of voters from neighboring countries. Russia's ambassador to Belgrade has accused the West of inciting the protests, while President Aleksandar Vučić has denied any wrongdoing, claiming the elections were the cleanest yet. CRTA insists on an independent audit before any election rerun and calls for EU or expert assistance. Opposition leader Marinika Tepić has started a hunger strike, demanding international attention to the situation.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić is facing allegations of electoral fraud following the recent elections where his party, the Serbian Progressive Party, claimed victory. Opposition parties and independent observers have reported major irregularities, particularly in Belgrade. The opposition, including the Serbia Against Violence party, has initiated a hunger strike and protests, disputing the election results. The central election commission is still reviewing the results and complaints. International response has been mixed, with some leaders congratulating Vučić, while others, including the OSCE, have criticized the election conditions. The OSCE's report highlighted concerns such as media bias, voter intimidation, and vote manipulation. Protesters are demanding fair elections and vow to continue demonstrating.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić's party, the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), is projected to win a sweeping victory in the recent elections, according to early exit polls. However, the government is facing serious accusations of electoral irregularities and voter intimidation. Prime Minister Ana Brnabić predicted a strong parliamentary majority for SNS, while the opposition, Serbia Against Violence, raised concerns over the legitimacy of the results, particularly in Belgrade. Election observers from CRTA reported violence and attempts at carousel voting, and an incident at the Stark Arena involving 'phantom voters' was highlighted. Despite these allegations, Brnabić dismissed the claims as lies. The opposition has planned to demand an investigation into the alleged fraud. The elections are crucial for U.S. and EU diplomacy in the region, especially concerning relations with Kosovo.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić faces a strong challenge from a united opposition in the upcoming snap general election. The opposition coalition, Serbia Against Violence, has gained momentum following public outrage over mass shootings and concerns about declining democratic standards. While Vučić's coalition leads with 49% support, the opposition is polling at 40% and may win the mayoral seat in Belgrade. The opposition criticizes Vučić's continual electioneering and accuses his administration of fostering a culture of violence. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has called for a fair election in Serbia. Despite the opposition's rise, Vučić is still seen as the key figure in handling Serbia's international issues, especially relations with Kosovo. Serbia's EU aspirations are also a focal point, with Vučić's party committed to EU membership despite public skepticism and the slow pace of integration.

The article discusses Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić's media strategy ahead of the general election, highlighting his portrayal as a humble leader through government-friendly media. Despite facing a united opposition, Vučić's Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) is expected to maintain power, partly due to his media presence. The article addresses concerns over media freedom in Serbia, with Reporters Without Borders ranking the country low on the press freedom index. Vučić's media appearances, including stunts and interviews, aim to shape public opinion on domestic and international issues. The article also touches on Serbia's economic challenges, Vučić's theatrical press conferences promising price reductions, and his portrayal as a protector of the Serbian people. The Independent Association of Journalists of Serbia reports numerous attacks on journalists, contributing to a media environment that discourages dissent and fosters apathy among non-supporters.

Nastasya Nasko and Anastasia Kuchmenko, from Belarus and Ukraine respectively, launched the TerOnlyFans project to support Ukraine's defense by collaborating with charities and exchanging tasteful nude photos for donations. The initiative coincides with a bill proposed by Yaroslav Zheleznyak of the Voice Party in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to decriminalize pornography, moving away from Soviet-era restrictions. The bill aims to redefine pornography without moral classifications, maintain consent and age restrictions, and ban extreme forms. Ukraine's high traffic on PornHub and tax revenue from OnlyFans, owned by Ukrainian-American entrepreneur Leonid Radvinsky, highlight the relevance of the issue. TerOnlyFans is also involved in consultations for the new pornography content bill.

Activists Nastassia Nasko and Anastasia Kuchmenko launched TerOnlyFans to support Ukraine's defense by leveraging the Western fascination with Ukrainian women. The platform requires proof of donation to Ukrainian charities before providing tasteful nudes. Ukrainian Parliament member Yaroslav Zheleznyak of the Holos Party sponsored a bill to decriminalize pornography, moving away from Soviet-era censorship. The bill aims to redefine pornography without moral classifications while protecting against non-consensual production, sale to minors, child pornography, and extreme pornography. OnlyFans, partly owned by Ukrainian-American entrepreneur Leonid Radvinsky, has generated significant tax revenue for Ukraine. A public petition for the decriminalization of pornography gathered 25,000 signatures, and TerOnlyFans is involved in consultations for the new bill.

The BRICS countries, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, are seeking to expand their global economic and political influence, with the Ukraine conflict as a focal point. At the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, China and South Africa expressed a desire to participate in peace negotiations for Ukraine. China has proposed a 12-point peace plan, while Russia, represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov instead of President Putin, has suggested 'de-dollarisation' to counteract Western sanctions. The BRICS nations, representing a significant portion of the global population, argue for greater influence in world affairs. Their moves are seen as a potential challenge to the Western pro-Ukraine bloc, which has been united in support of Ukraine against Russian aggression.

Croatian President Zoran Milanović has criticized the detention of Croatian football fans, the Bad Blue Boys, in Greece, labeling it a political farce and ethnic retaliation. The fans, supporters of Dinamo Zagreb, were arrested before a match against AEK Athens after a violent altercation. Milanović suggested the fans were being treated as prisoners of war and threatened to retaliate by detaining Greeks. He argued that not all detained were members of the Bad Blue Boys and called for the separation of actual suspects from other fans. The Croatian government is monitoring the situation, with visits from the Minister of Justice and Foreign Minister. The article also touches on the controversial history of the Bad Blue Boys, including accusations of far-right ties and a UEFA ban on their attendance at away games.

Bosnia-Herzegovina is in shock and mourning following the brutal murder of a young woman, Nizama Hećimović, by her partner, who broadcast the act live on Instagram. The incident sparked widespread outrage and protests, with citizens demanding stronger action against partner violence and abuse. The perpetrator, a successful bodybuilder with a criminal record, killed Hećimović in front of their nine-month-old child and went on a shooting spree, resulting in additional casualties before committing suicide. The Bosnian Cybercrime Authorities were notified and requested Meta to remove the video. The event has led to a day of mourning and has raised questions about social media platforms' handling of violent content.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is in shock and mourning after a young woman, Nizama Hecimovic, was brutally murdered by her ex-partner, who live-streamed the act on Instagram. The incident led to widespread protests and calls for stronger measures against domestic violence. The perpetrator, a successful bodybuilder with a criminal record for drug trafficking, killed two more people and injured others, including a police officer, before taking his own life. The Federal Police Administration was involved in the response, and Prime Minister Nermin Niksic expressed his condolences, emphasizing the need to combat violence. The public remains outraged, demanding action from authorities.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is in shock and has seen protests following the live broadcast of a young woman's murder by her partner on Instagram. The victim, Nizama Hećimović, was killed in her hometown of Gradačac by a bodybuilder with a criminal record. The assailant also killed two other men and injured several people, including a police officer, before committing suicide. The Bosnian Cybercrime Authorities alerted Meta to remove the video, which had quickly gained viewers. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for stronger institutional responses to violence and crime. The Prime Minister of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nermin Nikšić, expressed his condolences, and a local assembly in Gradačac gathered over 1,000 signatures in a petition criticizing the authorities' preventive efforts.

Polish Deputy Prime Minister Jaroslaw Kaczynski has claimed that the EU threatens the 'vital freedom' of mushroom picking, a popular activity in Poland. He accuses the EU and his political opponent Donald Tusk of potentially allowing Brussels to control Polish forests. The EU encourages member states to regulate mushroom picking, but policies vary by country. In Poland and the Czech Republic, there are no limits, while France and Germany have set limits. The EU Treaty does not include forestry in its shared competencies. Polish magazine Wprost noted an increase in the popularity of the word 'mushroom' on social media after Kaczynski's statements, reflecting the cultural significance of mushroom picking in Poland.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is in a state of shock and mourning after a young woman, Nizama Hećimović, was murdered by her partner, who live-streamed the killing on Instagram. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and protests, with citizens demanding action against partner violence. The perpetrator, a successful bodybuilder with a criminal record, went on a shooting spree in Gradačac, killing a total of three people and wounding others before taking his own life. Authorities were criticized for their slow response, and the video of the murder circulated online despite efforts to remove it. The Prime Minister of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nermin Nikšić, expressed condolences but faced public dissatisfaction with the state's preventive measures. The incident has raised questions about social media platforms' policies on violent content, recalling the 2019 Christchurch massacre which was also live-streamed.

Former Austrian Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl, known for her close ties to Russia, is spending her holiday in the Russian village of Petrushovo. Kneissl, who danced with Russian President Vladimir Putin at her wedding during her tenure, has faced criticism in Austria for her proximity to Russia. She has been compared to former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder for working with Russian companies after leaving office. Kneissl has resigned from the board of Rosneft and continues to appear at international conferences supported by Russia, referring to herself as a 'political refugee.' The Austrian government has largely severed ties with her, while other European leaders like Silvio Berlusconi and Viktor Orban continue to receive official communications from the Kremlin.

Prosecutors in Germany discovered illegal content, including Nazi symbolism, in the chats of five officers from three different police districts in North Rhine-Westphalia. The five individuals, aged between 22 and 25, are suspected of exchanging Nazi symbols in chats and possessing child pornography during training. Searches were conducted at the homes of three police employees last week. Recklinghausen police chief Friederike Zurhausen and North Rhine-Westphalia Interior Minister Herbert Reul expressed shock and condemned the actions, emphasizing the responsibility of police officers to uphold justice, law, and constitutional values. This incident is part of a larger pattern of right-wing extremism in Germany, which has led to stricter laws against hate speech and the spread of Nazi propaganda.

German prosecutors have discovered illegal content, including Nazi symbols, in chat messages involving five police officers from three different districts in North Rhine-Westphalia. The officers, aged between 22 and 25, are suspected of exchanging Nazi symbols and possessing child pornography during their training. The discovery was made during investigations into a sixth suspect, a former officer accused of sharing far-right symbols and possessing and distributing child pornography. The homes of three officers were searched last week. The police chief of Recklinghausen, Friederike Zurhausen, and the interior minister of North Rhine-Westphalia, Herbert Reul, have both made statements condemning the actions and emphasizing the responsibility of officers to uphold justice and constitutional values. German law strictly prohibits Holocaust denial and the spread of Nazi propaganda, and recent right-wing terrorist attacks have led to strengthened hate speech laws.

In North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, five police officers in their early twenties are under investigation for exchanging Nazi symbols in chats and possessing child pornography during their training. The Essen Prosecutor's Office discovered the chats while investigating a sixth suspect, a former police officer accused of similar offenses. The Recklinghausen Police Department's chief, Friederike Zurhausen, has suspended the three involved officers from official duties, expressing shock at the allegations. Interior Minister Herbert Reul criticized the officers' character and emphasized the responsibility of all officers to uphold justice and constitutional values. German law strictly prohibits Holocaust denial and the spread of Nazi propaganda. This scandal follows previous incidents of extreme right-wing behavior within the North Rhine-Westphalia police, with 105 cases reported over the last six years.

The article discusses the tensions between Poland and Ukraine due to a diplomatic issue over grain imports. Poland, a staunch supporter of Ukraine against Russia's invasion, faces a dilemma of balancing support for Ukraine with its domestic interests. Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki and other officials have emphasized protecting Polish interests, especially those of farmers affected by the influx of cheaper Ukrainian grain. The European Commission's temporary ban on Ukrainian grain imports to five EU countries, including Poland, is set to expire on September 15. Poland has indicated it will maintain its ban if the EU does not extend the measure. The situation has caused diplomatic friction, with the Polish ambassador being summoned by the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The article also touches on the rise of Ukraine-sceptic sentiments in Poland and the potential political implications for the ruling Law and Justice party.

Far-right groups in Austria held a rally in Vienna to propose a political solution to the nationalist theory of 'The Great Replacement', which claims that non-European and non-Western individuals are replacing the majority population in Europe. Gernot Schmidt, one of the organizers, stated the protest aimed to popularize terms and concepts for adoption by major right-wing parties like the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and Alternative for Germany (AfD) to initiate parliamentary action. The FPÖ, which has evolved from a pan-Germanist party to one advocating Austrian nationalism, faced criticism for officials' participation in the protest. Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner warned of security risks and emphasized the radical nature of FPÖ's leadership. Schmidt argued that 'remigration' is the only solution to the empirically provable replacement of Austrians by immigrants and refugees, suggesting it would involve closing borders and deporting migrants and illegal residents. Austria does not officially collect data on the ethnic or racial backgrounds of its citizens, but UNHCR estimates the refugee population at around 146,000, with the total population being approximately 8.9 million. It is estimated that about 26% of the population has an immigrant background. Schmidt aims to demonstrate public support for legal changes that would facilitate the return of immigrants or those not considered Austrian to their countries of origin democratically.

The article discusses the impact of historical events, specifically the Volhynia massacre during World War II, on current Polish-Ukrainian relations. It highlights the actions of far-right groups in Poland who are using the 80th anniversary of the massacre to protest against the Polish government's support for Ukraine. These groups demand that Ukraine be held accountable for promoting 'Banderism and Nazism' and oppose Ukraine's potential membership in the EU and NATO. The article also touches on the Polish government's response, including a formal apology request from Ukraine and Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki's visit to massacre sites. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's unannounced visit to Lutsk for a joint service with Polish President Andrzej Duda is mentioned as an attempt to show unity despite the tensions.

The United States has imposed sanctions on several companies affiliated with the Russian paramilitary Wagner Group and its founder Evgueni Prigojine, following a failed mutiny by the group in Russia. The Treasury Department's OFAC targeted entities in the Central African Republic, United Arab Emirates, Russia, and Mali for illegal transactions involving gold to finance Wagner's operations. Wagner, known for its role in the Ukraine conflict and operations in Africa and Syria, has been accused of committing atrocities and exploiting natural resources. The sanctioned entities include a mining company and a gold trading company in the Central African Republic, a Dubai-based company importing gold, and a Russian company involved in these activities. The U.S. aims to curb Wagner's expansion and violent activities, while Wagner continues to play a significant role in the ongoing war in Mali and has been involved in Russian government actions, including the 2016 U.S. presidential elections through the Russian Internet Research Agency.

The United States has sanctioned several companies and an individual associated with the Wagner Group and its founder Yevgeny Prigozhin, due to their involvement in illegal trade in diamonds and gold, which funds their military activities in various regions including Ukraine and Africa. The Wagner Group, initially formed by veterans of the Chechen Wars, is known for its mercenary activities and has been implicated in committing atrocities and destabilizing actions. The sanctions target entities in the Central African Republic, United Arab Emirates, and Russia for their illicit gold dealings and financial support of Wagner's operations. The group has also been linked to the Russian Internet Research Agency, known for its role in the 2016 U.S. presidential elections. Prigozhin has also established Africa Politology to influence African politics and elections. The article also mentions the relocation of Wagner's operations to Belarus after negotiations between Prigozhin and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The article discusses Hungary's controversial role in the release of 11 Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) with Hungarian ethnic backgrounds from the Transcarpathian region, facilitated by the Russian Orthodox Church and without the involvement of the Ukrainian government. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó denied the government's involvement, while Deputy PM Zsolt Semjén boasted about his role. The EU has demanded clarification from Hungary, and the incident has strained relations between Hungary and Ukraine. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's policy of protecting ethnic Hungarians abroad is highlighted, as well as Hungary's resistance to EU sanctions against Russia and its willingness to pay for gas in Russian roubles. The article also touches on the historical context of ethnic Hungarians in Europe and the role of the Russian Orthodox Church in politics.

Russian lawmakers have passed a bill allowing former and current prisoners to join the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, with the provision to clear their criminal records post-discharge or upon receiving an award. Previously, Russian law explicitly prohibited the defense ministry from contracting individuals with active criminal records or those incarcerated. Reports suggest that soldiers have been drawn from Russia's large prison population to serve in Ukraine since at least last summer, mostly joining the Wagner mercenary group. The new law legalizes and formalizes what was previously an arbitrary practice following the vote in the Duma. President Putin confirmed signing decrees pardoning prisoners participating in the 'special military operation'. The bill excludes those convicted of sexual integrity crimes, terrorism, high treason, espionage, and other particularly serious crimes. It also raises the age limit for military service during mobilization, martial law, or wartime to 70 for senior officers and 65 for other ranks.

Russian lawmakers have passed a bill allowing former and current prisoners to join the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, with the provision to clear their criminal records post-discharge or upon receiving an award. Previously illegal, these recruitments have been conducted extralegally or through secret presidential pardons. The Wagner Group, which stopped recruiting prisoners in February, had them sign contracts with the Defense Ministry, indicating strained relations with Russian authorities. The new law legalizes previously arbitrary practices, following a vote by the Russian State Duma. President Putin confirmed signing pardons for prisoners involved in the 'special military operation', a term used since the assault and annexation of parts of eastern Ukraine. The bill excludes those convicted of sexual integrity crimes, terrorism, high treason, espionage, and other serious crimes. It also raises the age limit for military service to 70 for senior officers and 65 for other ranks during mobilization, martial law, or wartime.

Hungarian educators are protesting against a new law that could limit their freedom of speech and impose unfavourable working conditions. The Hungarian Helsinki Committee's Zsófia Moldova highlighted the teacher shortage and the thousands of resignations expected due to the proposed status law. Recent student protests have been met with police force, and the government's centralisation policies have been criticized. Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government has blamed external factors for domestic issues and is awaiting EU funds to increase teacher pay. The government has already passed decrees limiting the right to strike and is considering further restrictions that could violate EU commitments. The upcoming parliamentary session on the law will be closed to tourists and possibly journalists.

Russian lawmakers have approved a bill allowing ex-convicts and current prisoners to join the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which would clear their criminal records if they participate in the Russian armed forces during future mobilizations. This formalizes practices that were previously conducted informally or through secret presidential pardons. The bill excludes those convicted of sexual integrity crimes, terrorism, high treason, espionage, and other especially serious crimes. President Vladimir Putin confirmed he is signing decrees to pardon prisoners participating in the 'Special Military Operation', the term Russia uses for the invasion.

Tensions between Kosovo and Serbia escalated after three Kosovo policemen were reportedly kidnapped near the border, an act Kosovo PM Albin Kurti labeled as aggression. The Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs countered, stating the officers were arrested by Serbia's Anti-Terrorist Group for attempting a terrorist act. Serbia does not recognize Kosovo's independence, which is acknowledged by over 100 countries. The incident has led to Kosovo considering an embargo on Serbian imports. The EU has been facilitating dialogue to normalize relations, but recent protests and clashes in Kosovo's Serb-majority areas have heightened tensions, with NATO peacekeepers injured during interventions.

Russia has intensified its anti-LGBT stance by creating an institute within the federal psychiatric unit to study LGBT individuals, coinciding with the State Duma's approval of a bill banning sex-change surgeries and document changes for transgender people. Human rights activists fear this will lead to unsafe black market surgeries and increased deaths. The move is linked to the invasion of Ukraine, with Russian officials claiming it's a step to protect national interests and counter 'Western ideology'. President Putin has signed a law banning 'LGBT propaganda', leading to the removal of LGBT content from bookshops and online platforms. The Serbsky Institute, known for its past psychiatric abuses, will conduct the research, which activists fear will pathologize transgenderism and enforce conversion practices. The Russian psychiatric community is expected to act against its expertise in treating gender dysphoria, as the government seeks to 'remold' LGBT individuals to fit its social norms.

Russian lawmakers have passed a bill in its first reading that allows individuals with criminal records or those currently incarcerated to join the Russian armed forces and participate in the invasion of Ukraine. The bill proposes to expunge the criminal records of those who serve, following their dismissal or receipt of an award. Previously, recruitment of prisoners was done extralegally or through secret presidential pardons, with the Wagner mercenary group notably drawing soldiers from the prison population. The new law formalizes this practice, allowing direct recruitment from penal institutions. President Vladimir Putin has pardoned prisoners participating in the 'Special Military Operation' and noted a low rate of recidivism among them. The bill excludes those convicted of severe crimes such as sexual offenses, terrorism, and espionage. It also raises the age limit for military service to 70 for senior officers and 65 for other ranks during mobilization or wartime.

Felicien Kabuga, a Rwandan financier accused of funding the RTLM radio station which incited the Tutsi genocide, will not face conviction by the UN tribunal due to dementia. Kabuga evaded capture for years using aliases until his 2020 arrest in France. The International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT) ruled that continuing his trial would violate his rights given his inability to participate meaningfully. This decision has disappointed survivors and specialists, raising concerns about the effectiveness of international tribunals. The article also touches on the historical context of the Rwandan Genocide, the role of colonialism in the ethnic tensions, and parallels with current events in Ukraine, where authorities seek a tribunal for Russian war crimes.

The breach of the Kakhovka dam on the Dnipro River has forced thousands to evacuate and poses a threat to local ecosystems, potentially causing the most severe environmental damage in Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion. Oleksandr Krasnolutskyi, Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources, labeled the event as the largest ecocide in Ukraine, with significant harm to biodiversity and natural reserves. Ukrainian ecologists fear for the Black Sea Biosphere Reserve and the Oleshky Sands desert. The Dnipro River's historical and agricultural significance to Ukraine is profound, and the current Russian occupation of the river's east bank complicates the ministry's response. The dam's water levels were manipulated in recent months, possibly to prevent Ukrainian forces from crossing. The Ministry is reaching out to major European environmental organizations to condemn Russia and seek exclusion from environmental conventions.

The collapse of the Kakhovka Dam in Ukraine has led to significant environmental damage, with the potential destruction of rare animal and plant species, as reported by the Ukrainian environment ministry. The breach on the Dnipro River has caused evacuations and risks to both human life and biodiversity. Deputy Minister Oleksandr Krasnolutskyi emphasized the severity of the ecocide, which is considered the worst since the full-scale invasion began. The flooding threatens the Black Sea Biosphere Reserve and the Oleshky Sands desert, as well as the Emerald Network conservation areas. The Dnipro River holds historical and emotional significance for Ukraine, and the current occupation by Russia complicates the response to the disaster. The ministry is seeking international condemnation of Russia and exclusion from environmental conventions due to the incident.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding new Polish legislation aimed at investigating alleged Russian influence in Poland. The Law and Justice party (PiS), aligned with President Andrzej Duda, passed a bill to form a commission to probe Russian influence on Poland's internal security and public figures since 2007. Critics, including opposition leader Donald Tusk and civil society groups, argue that the commission could be used to target political opponents and duplicate judicial powers. The US and EU have criticized the bill, fearing it could interfere with free and fair elections. Duda has proposed amendments to limit the commission's punitive powers. The article also touches on historical tensions between Poland and Russia, and how PiS may be using anti-Russian sentiment to gain political advantage ahead of elections. The opposition, led by Tusk, has rallied against the bill, marking the anniversary of Poland's first democratic elections in 1989.

The United States has sanctioned Aleksandar Vulin, the head of Serbia's intelligence agency, citing his involvement in corrupt activities that support Russian influence in Serbia and the Western Balkans. Vulin, a seasoned politician who has held ministerial positions and is known for his pro-Russian stance, is the first Serbian official to face US sanctions while in office since the 1990s. The sanctions have sparked reactions from Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, who defended Vulin, and the Serbian Progressive Party, which criticized the White House. Opposition parties in Serbia are calling for Vulin's resignation and have been protesting against the government's policies. The situation highlights Serbia's delicate position between the EU and Russia, with the country being an EU candidate yet maintaining close ties with Russia.

Croatian President Zoran Milanović sparked controversy by comparing the Ukrainian patriotic chant 'Slava Ukraini' to a Nazi salute. He equated it with the chant of Croatian WWII-era Nazi sympathizers, despite its widespread use in Ukraine as a symbol of national resolve. Milanović's remarks align with Russian propaganda that paints Ukraine as overrun by neo-Nazis. Historians note that 'Slava Ukraini' predates WWII and was used by Ukrainian revolutionaries. Milanović, a member of the Social Democratic Party of Croatia and former prime minister, has been known for progressive stances but has become increasingly controversial, opposing the training of Ukrainian soldiers in Croatia and criticizing COVID-19 measures. Despite his contentious statements, he remains popular in Croatia.

Polish Deputy Prime Minister Jarosław Kaczyński, a member of the ruling Law and Justice party, has claimed that the EU is threatening the freedom of mushroom picking in Poland, a traditional activity for many Poles. He has associated this threat with the EU's policies and the opposition leader Donald Tusk. However, the EU has not banned mushroom picking but has encouraged limits on the quantity for personal use, with member states having different regulations. The EU does not have the competence to take control of Polish forests. The Polish magazine Wprost found that the term 'mushroom' spiked in social media trends after Kaczyński's statements, suggesting the party's knack for identifying and leveraging hot topics for political gain.

The article covers the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, focusing on Riste Stanojkovic, a 91-year-old Kosovo war veteran and survivor of the Partisan struggle. Stanojkovic was awarded the Commemorative Medal of Honor by the Kremlin, presented by Andrei Lisovoj, head of the Russian office in Pristina. The article recounts Stanojkovic's memories of the war, his encounters with Partisan heroes, and his perspective on the anti-fascist struggle. It also touches on his life post-war in Strpce, his family's political affiliations, and his views on the rights of Serbs in today's independent Kosovo. The journalist reflects on the historical context of Kosovo during WWII and the subsequent changes in the region, including the loss of autonomy under Slobodan Milosevic and the declaration of independence in 2008.

Ukraine is facing the risk of a measles outbreak due to low immunisation rates exacerbated by the ongoing invasion. Health experts, including Deputy Minister of Health Ihor Kuzin, warn that the return of unvaccinated children to schools could trigger an outbreak. In 2022, vaccination rates for measles were below the necessary threshold for herd immunity. The World Health Organization and UNICEF are working to address the issue, with mobile vaccination teams set to provide jabs for internally displaced people. Vaccine scepticism, fueled by disinformation and past incidents, remains a significant challenge. Ukrainian authorities have purchased European-made vaccines to alleviate concerns over vaccines sourced from India. The article emphasizes the urgency of vaccination against measles, especially in the context of the war and the potential spread among Ukrainian refugees in the EU.

The Czech Republic's foreign ministry is suing Russia for unpaid rent, claiming unjust enrichment of over 53 million Czech kruna (€2m) for the past three years. This legal action follows the Czech government's cancellation of agreements from the 1970s and 1980s that allowed the Soviet Union free use of land for diplomatic purposes. The dispute, which has been ongoing since at least 2020, has been exacerbated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Czech officials have indicated that profits from these lands should not support Russia's military actions. The strained relations between the two countries also stem from the 2014 explosion of an ammunition warehouse in Vrbětice, which was linked to Russian military intelligence officers. The Czech public is particularly sensitive to Russian actions due to historical invasions by Soviet forces, notably the 1968 Prague Spring.

Prosecutors in Germany have discovered Nazi symbols and illegal content in chat messages among five police officers from three different districts in the North Rhine-Westphalian region. The officers, aged between 22 and 25, are also suspected of possessing child pornography. The investigation led to the uncovering of these chats while probing a sixth suspect, a now-former officer charged with exchanging right-wing extremist symbols and possessing and distributing child pornography. Recklinghausen Police Chief Friederike Zurhausen and Interior Minister Herbert Reul have expressed shock and condemned the actions, emphasizing the importance of upholding justice and constitutional values. German law prohibits Holocaust denial and the dissemination of Nazi propaganda, and recent far-right terror attacks have led to stricter hate speech laws. Over the past six years, the North Rhine-Westphalian police have dealt with 105 incidents of right-wing extremist behavior.

The article discusses the attack on Hanna Mark, a transgender soldier in the Ukrainian armed forces, while she was on leave in Lviv. The assault highlights the ongoing struggles of the LGBT community in Ukraine, particularly within the military. Despite the absence of restrictions on LGBT soldiers, incidents of homophobia have been reported. The Union of the LGBT Military, established by an openly gay veteran, represents LGBT servicepeople and advocates for their rights. The article also touches on the broader context of Ukraine's conflict with Russia, noting the contrast between Ukraine's efforts to expand rights for LGBT soldiers and Russia's anti-LGBT legislation. Additionally, the challenges faced by transgender individuals in Ukraine, especially under martial law and mobilization, are examined.

The article by Una Hajdari traces the origins of the Barbie doll back to a cartoon character named Lilli, created by cartoonist Reinhard Beuthien for the German tabloid Bild in 1952. Lilli was a provocative character that reflected the tabloid's irreverent nature. The popularity of Lilli led to the creation of a physical doll by O&M Hausser, which was initially a gag gift but later became popular with children. American businesswoman Ruth Handler, founder of Mattel, bought a Lilli doll and subsequently created Barbie. Mattel eventually bought the rights to Lilli, and production in Germany ceased. The article also discusses the influence of Bild on German society, its controversial content, and the criticism it faces for its right-leaning reporting. Bild's parent company, Axel Springer, owns several other media outlets, including Politico and Business Insider.

The article discusses the activities of former Austrian Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl after leaving office. Kneissl, known for inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to her wedding, has been seen in a Russian village and is reported to be working on a book about Europe's political situation. She has faced criticism for her close ties with Russia, including a stint on the board of Rosneft and contributions to the Russian government news outlet RT. The article compares Kneissl's actions to those of other European leaders like Gerhard Schröder, who have also maintained close relationships with Russian companies and the Kremlin. It also mentions Kneissl's role in leading a new political center in St. Petersburg, the GORKI center.

French President Emmanuel Macron is considering the regulation of social media platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and Telegram in response to their use in organizing and documenting violent protests. In a meeting with local mayors, Macron suggested the need to reflect on social media use among youth and the potential prohibition of certain features. Government spokesperson Olivier Véran clarified that any restrictions would likely be 'functional suspensions' targeting specific features like geolocation. Critics, including politicians Olivier Marleix and Mathilde Panot, have expressed their disapproval, with Panot making a stark comparison to North Korean leadership. A working group has been proposed to address measures during riots, which may be included in upcoming legislation to 'secure' the internet.

The article discusses the ongoing issue of 'LGBT-Free Zones' in Poland, which were established by various towns and cities in 2019. Despite efforts by activists and legal experts to revoke these declarations, progress has been slow due to Poland's rule-of-law crisis, which began with the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party's influence on the judiciary since 2017. The European Union has taken legal action against Poland for breaching EU values, but Poland has ignored the rulings. The country's Human Rights Ombudsman, Marcin Wiącek, is now suing municipalities like Tuszów Narodowy for maintaining their anti-LGBT resolutions, arguing that they violate the constitution, international law, and create an exclusionary atmosphere. The EU is also concerned about the use of its funds in regions that promote discrimination. The article highlights the deep-seated conservative values in Poland, the involvement of the Catholic Church, and the role of the conservative organization Ordo Iuris in promoting these zones.

Far-right groups in Austria, including the FPÖ and its affiliates, marched in Vienna to promote 'remigration' as a solution to what they call 'The Great Replacement'—a theory suggesting that non-European groups are replacing European populations. The protest, organized by Gernot Schmidt and attended by figures like Martin Sellner, aimed to popularize the concept and influence legislative changes. Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner criticized the FPÖ's involvement, citing security risks. Anti-fascist groups held a counter-protest, leading to clashes with the police. The far-right's narrative insists on a Germanic-Austrian identity, excluding non-native groups. The article also mentions the lack of official data on Austria's ethnic composition and the current refugee population according to the UNHCR.

The article by Una Hajdari discusses the tensions between the Roma community and Ukrainian refugees in the Czech Republic, exacerbated by recent violent incidents. The Roma, who have long faced discrimination, now see the larger number of Ukrainian refugees as a threat, especially after a Roma man was killed, allegedly by someone of Eastern European or Ukrainian descent. The situation is worsened by disinformation and the Czech state's reliance on NGOs to support marginalized groups. Far-right and extremist groups are exploiting these tensions, with some protests demanding a neutral stance on Ukraine. The economic strain from the refugee influx and Russian disinformation are also contributing factors. The Roma community's distrust in the state and the rise of far-right politics in Europe pose additional challenges, with Roma often being targeted as outsiders.

The article discusses Austria's struggle to maintain its official state neutrality while dealing with the implications of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Austria has increased its imports of Russian gas by up to 80% in January, despite most European countries reducing their dependence on Russian gas. The country's historical and political factors, including a treaty of permanent neutrality signed in 1955, have made it difficult for the government to align with the EU's united front against Russia. The Austrian energy company OMV has been highlighted for its long-term gas supply contracts with Gazprom, which obligate Austria to Russian gas until 2040. The article also touches on Austria's slow progress in developing renewable energy alternatives, with Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler calling for more efforts to achieve real independence from Russian gas.

The article discusses the initiative TerOnlyFans, which was started by Nastassia Nasko and Anastasia Kuchmenko to support Ukraine's war effort by raising funds through the exchange of tasteful nudes for proof of donations. The platform has raised around €800,000 and is now advocating for the decriminalisation of porn in Ukraine. The article also covers the broader cultural context of Ukraine, the progressive nature of its society, and the legislative efforts by Yaroslav Zheleznyak, a member of the Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada, to decriminalise pornographic content. The existing law, a holdover from the Soviet era, is outdated, and the new bill aims to redefine pornography without moral classifications and protect against non-consensual production and distribution. OnlyFans, partially owned by Ukrainian-American entrepreneur Leonid Radvinsky, has also contributed significant tax revenue to Ukraine.

Poland has experienced over 20 train accidents recently, initially suspected to be Russian sabotage due to the country's role in supporting Ukraine with humanitarian aid and NATO weapons. However, investigations by Poland's Internal Security Agency revealed that local radio enthusiasts were using amateur equipment to emit brake signals, causing trains to stop abruptly. The equipment, available for under €30 on AliExpress, exploits the unencrypted radio system used by trains. Polish authorities plan to upgrade to encrypted GSM-R radios by 2025. Two men, including a police officer, were arrested in Białystok for generating the disruptive signal. The country has faced hundreds of similar incidents in recent years, highlighting the vulnerability of its railway system.

The Hungarian government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party, has faced criticism for its law aimed at protecting children from 'LGBT propaganda'. This law has led to the reclassification and restriction of a Budapest Pride advertisement and the fining of the Lira bookstore for displaying an LGBT-themed book in the children's section. Budapest Pride and RTL, a Hungarian commercial channel, are challenging these actions, arguing they contradict freedom of speech and scientific facts. The article highlights the broader pressures on LGBT content in Hungary, including the preemptive plastic wrapping of books with LGBT characters by the country's largest bookseller, Libri.

Emin Gjinovci, a 55-year-old veteran of the Kosovo Liberation Army, earns a living as a Hitler lookalike in Mitrovica, Kosovo. He carries Nazi paraphernalia and is often invited to events in both personal and professional capacities. Despite his controversial persona, locals and even NATO peacekeepers greet him without much fuss. Gjinovci identifies with Hitler as he views him as an enemy of his enemy, the Serbs. He has capitalized on his resemblance to Hitler by charging for photos, earning up to 200 Euros per day. Gjinovci's family, including his five daughters, are known in the community as 'Hitler's children' but face no issues. The article highlights the oddity of Gjinovci's situation in a country dealing with post-war challenges and does not indicate any strong criticism from the local population.

In the village of Restelica, Kosovo, a primary school building houses two separate education systems: one for the Republic of Kosovo and another for Serbia. The students, who all speak the South Slavic language Nasinski, are divided by ethnic identity, with those in the Serbian system identifying as Gorani and those in the Kosovo system as Bosniaks. This division has practical implications for their future opportunities in terms of university and employment, as Kosovo and Serbia do not recognize each other's educational diplomas. Despite efforts to normalize relations, education remains a contentious issue, with 17,000 students attending Serbian-funded schools within Kosovo. The article explores the complexities of identity and education for minorities in Kosovo, highlighting the challenges faced by Gorani and Bosniaks in choosing between two systems that impact their future prospects.