North Korea's state-run Korean Central TV will soon be available globally through Shiwani TV, offering unique content such as soap operas, sitcoms, and news about Kim Jong-un. The initiative, led by the Chollima Front, aims to spread North Korean culture and information worldwide, despite potential legal issues in countries like the US and South Korea. The service, which will launch in the second half of the year, has already garnered interest from around 50 people globally. The Chollima Front, a small organization with communist views, operates within the laws of Poland, Canada, and Germany, and has the support of the North Korean embassy in Warsaw.

Poland warns that the West's hesitation in providing Ukraine with necessary military aid could lead to a nuclear arms race, as countries may seek their own nuclear deterrents. The impasse in the U.S. over a $60-billion aid package and Germany's reluctance to supply cruise missiles to Ukraine are contributing to this concern. Poland's foreign minister, Radek Sikorski, highlighted the risk of democratic nations seeking alternative security measures, potentially leading to nuclear proliferation in regions like the Far East. Experts caution that autocratic powers might emulate Russia's nuclear intimidation tactics, further escalating global tensions.

Poland is on the brink of a constitutional crisis following a confrontation involving two opposition politicians, Mariusz Kamiński and Maciej Wasik, who were barred from entering parliament. The conflict highlights deep political and judicial divisions, with the new liberal government led by Donald Tusk prioritizing the eradication of corruption linked to the previous Law and Justice administration. The situation is further complicated by differing Supreme Court rulings and the potential for early elections, as the government seeks to solidify its position while facing opposition from the president and other political factions.

Marcin Kacki, a prominent Polish journalist, has been suspended by Gazeta Wyborcza after publishing a self-investigative article detailing his troubled relationships and abusive behavior. The article, initially praised for its honesty, faced backlash when Karolina Rogaska, a journalist for Newsweek Polska, accused Kacki of omitting key details and described his actions as 'disgusting.' Following these allegations, the School of Reportage also suspended Kacki. Gazeta Wyborcza stated that Kacki had violated their trust by not disclosing his prior suspension from the college.

Grzegorz Braun, a far-right Polish MP from the Confederation party, extinguished a Jewish menorah in Poland's parliament with a fire-extinguisher during a key policy speech by Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The act, which occurred during Hanukkah, hit a Jewish woman with foam and delayed a parliamentary confidence vote. Braun's actions were widely condemned by politicians, including Speaker Szymon Holownia and Chief Rabbi Michael Schudrich. Braun faces potential expulsion from parliament and a criminal investigation. Cardinal Grzegorz Rys apologized to the Jewish community on behalf of Poland's Catholic church.

Donald Tusk has been elected as Poland's next prime minister following a vote of no confidence that ended the conservative Law and Justice party's eight-year rule. Tusk's liberal Civil Coalition, along with the conservative Third Way party and the New Left, will form the new government. Tusk aims to restore the rule of law and rebuild relations with the EU. The Law and Justice party, criticized for undermining democracy and clashing with the EU, lost its majority in the recent election. Despite its economic successes and popular social welfare programs, the party's minority government was unable to sustain power.

A far-right Polish MP, Grzegorz Braun, used a fire extinguisher to put out Hanukkah candles in Poland's parliament, causing outrage. The incident, which occurred during a key policy speech by new Prime Minister Donald Tusk, led to Braun being expelled from the session and a criminal investigation being launched. Polish politicians and religious leaders condemned Braun's actions, with some expressing shame and embarrassment. The incident delayed a parliamentary confidence vote and highlighted ongoing issues of anti-Semitism and religious intolerance.

Polish truckers and farmers have initiated a blockade at the Medyka border crossing with Ukraine, demanding the reinstatement of transport permit quotas for Ukrainian lorries. The protest, which began on November 6, has expanded to multiple crossings, causing significant delays and impacting Ukraine's wartime economy by obstructing exports and essential supplies. Ukrainian officials, including Lviv's mayor, have criticized the blockade for hindering humanitarian aid, while Polish protest leaders argue they are disadvantaged by cheaper Ukrainian transport services. The situation remains tense, with potential for escalation if demands are not met.

Black people in Germany and Austria face the highest levels of racism in the EU, with 70% of respondents in these countries reporting experiences of racism in the last five years. The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights' report highlights that racism and discrimination against people of African descent have not improved since 2016. The report also notes that the debate over migration impacts perceptions of black people. Germany and Finland have the highest rates of racist harassment and attacks, while Austria's Freedom Party and Finland's Finns Party are noted for their right-wing, anti-migrant stances. The report underscores the need for empowering those affected by racism and improving trust in the police.

Three police officers were attacked with a bicycle during an arrest on Villa Road in Lozells, Birmingham. The incident occurred in broad daylight as West Midlands Police responded to arrest two men outside a shop. During the arrest, one officer was left on the ground with a head injury. An onlooker assaulted the officers with a bike and threw a cabbage at them before being subdued by an elderly man, believed to be the shop owner, and then detained.

Israel plans to use 'sponge bombs' to combat Hamas tunnels under Gaza. These chemical bombs expand and harden to seal off tunnel entrances, preventing ambushes. The IDF has been testing these bombs and has developed specialized equipment for subterranean warfare, including thermal technology and novel radios. Some Israeli soldiers have been blinded by mishandling the 'sponge bombs.' Israel may also deploy robots and drones, such as the IRIS drone and MTGR robot developed by Roboteam. John Spencer of the Modern War Institute notes the unique challenges of underground fighting. Hamas's tunnels, used for military strategy, pose risks to civilian lives when targeted due to their integration into civilian infrastructure.

Israel's relationship with the United Nations has been fraught with tension and conflict since its inception in 1947. The article highlights key historical events, including the assassination of UN mediator Folke Bernadotte, the adoption of Resolution 181, and the ongoing disputes over land and refugee rights. It criticizes the UN's perceived bias against Israel, citing numerous resolutions and statements that have condemned Israeli actions while allegedly overlooking violence against Israeli civilians. The article also touches on recent controversies, such as UN Secretary-General António Guterres's comments on the Oct 7 massacre, which have further strained relations.

The Pope has accepted the resignation of Grzegorz Kaszak, the Bishop of Sosnowiec, following a scandal involving a sex party with a male prostitute in a priest's apartment. The incident has led to a criminal investigation and significant media attention in Poland, further damaging the church's image in a rapidly secularizing society. The diocese has corroborated the reports and initiated an in-house canonical trial against the involved priest, Fr Tomasz Z. This is not the first scandal in Bishop Kaszak's diocese, which has faced multiple controversies in recent years.

Donald Tusk has been elected as Poland's new prime minister following a vote of confidence that ended the conservative Law and Justice party's eight-year rule. Tusk's liberal Civil Coalition, along with the conservative Third Way and New Left parties, will form the new government. Tusk aims to restore the rule of law and rebuild relations with the EU. The Law and Justice party, criticized for undermining democracy and clashing with the EU, lost its majority in the recent election. Despite its economic successes and social welfare programs, the party's minority government was unable to sustain power.

Poland's main opposition, led by Donald Tusk, has claimed victory over the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party in a crucial election. Exit polls suggest PiS won 36.8% of the vote, falling short of a majority, while Tusk's Civic Coalition garnered 31.6%. The election, marked by intense personal attacks and political divides, could lead to a coalition government involving other opposition groups like the New Left and Third Way. High voter turnout indicates the election's significance, with potential implications for Poland's democracy and its position in the European Union.

The main opposition party in Poland, led by Donald Tusk, is targeting women voters ahead of a contentious election, emphasizing women's rights and autonomy. The Civic Coalition's manifesto includes pledges such as the right to abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy and a monthly child care payment. This appeal comes in response to the socially conservative Law and Justice party's tightening of abortion laws, which now only allow abortion in cases of rape or risk to the mother's health. The opposition aims to attract undecided female voters, with a report noting a significant number of undecided women in the 18 to 45 age group. The government's shift in social spending towards pensioners, away from young female voters, and the high inflation rate are also factors that could influence the election outcome.

The Polish opposition, led by Donald Tusk, is targeting women voters in the upcoming election, emphasizing women's rights amid tighter abortion laws. The Civic Coalition's manifesto includes pledges for abortion rights, emergency contraception, and child care payments. The opposition aims to capitalize on women's resentment towards the current government's restrictive policies. Despite the focus on women's issues, other factors like inflation may influence voter decisions. The election is seen as crucial for determining the future of women's rights in Poland.

Polish opposition leader Donald Tusk is targeting women voters in the upcoming election, emphasizing the importance of women's rights amid tighter abortion laws. The Civic Coalition's manifesto includes pledges for abortion rights, emergency contraception, and child care payments. The opposition aims to capitalize on women's resentment towards the current government's restrictive policies. Despite the focus on women's rights, other issues like inflation may also influence voter decisions. The outcome of the election could significantly impact the position and autonomy of women in Poland.

Poland's main opposition party, Civic Coalition, led by Donald Tusk, is targeting women voters in the upcoming election, emphasizing women's rights amid tighter abortion laws. The governing Law and Justice party faces criticism for its conservative stance and neglect of public services for women. Civic Coalition's manifesto includes pledges for abortion rights, emergency contraception, and child care payments. The election outcome may hinge on undecided women voters, with broader issues like inflation also playing a role. Protests against abortion restrictions highlight the deep-seated anger among Polish women.

Polish opposition leader Donald Tusk is appealing to women voters ahead of a crucial election, emphasizing women's rights and criticizing the ruling Law and Justice party's restrictive abortion laws. The Civic Coalition's manifesto includes pledges for abortion rights, emergency contraception, and child care payments. Despite the government's social spending programs, the opposition aims to attract undecided young female voters by promising better public services. The election outcome may hinge on these undecided voters, with women's rights being a pivotal issue.

A Russian ice-hockey player in Poland has been arrested for allegedly being part of a Moscow spy ring aimed at sabotaging weapon supplies to Ukraine. Identified by Polish media as Maksim S., he faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. Poland's justice minister, Zbigniew Ziobro, praised the National Prosecutor’s Office and the Internal Security Agency (ABW) for their success in capturing the spy. The spy ring, which has seen 13 other arrests, was reportedly involved in reconnaissance of critical infrastructure and spreading anti-Nato propaganda.

A far-right Polish MP, Grzegorz Braun, used a fire extinguisher to put out Hanukkah candles in Poland's parliament, causing outrage among politicians and religious leaders. The incident, which disrupted a parliamentary session, led to Braun's expulsion and a potential criminal investigation. The act was widely condemned, with Poland's Chief Rabbi and a Catholic Cardinal expressing embarrassment and apologizing to the Jewish community.

Donald Tusk led a massive rally in Warsaw, claiming a million attendees, to boost support for Poland's opposition ahead of the October 15 election. The ruling Law and Justice party faces challenges due to rising living costs and democratic concerns, while Tusk's Civic Platform advocates for more tolerant policies and EU alignment. Despite leading in polls, PiS may struggle to form a majority, with the far-right Confederation party potentially playing a decisive role. The rally underscores a pivotal moment in Poland's political landscape, with the opposition aiming to unseat the current government.

Sweden's extensive military build-up will significantly bolster Nato's eastern flank against Russia. With Hungary and Turkey approving Sweden's accession, Nato is set to become stronger. Sweden's military, equipped with advanced tanks, warplanes, and submarines, will defend the new 2,000-mile Baltic Sea border. Despite past defense cuts, Sweden has ramped up spending and re-armed in response to Russian aggression. Challenges remain, particularly in scaling up military capabilities, but Sweden's technological prowess in aeronautics and underwater warfare remains intact.

The mood in Ukraine has significantly darkened as the country braces for a prolonged and bloody conflict. The article highlights the personal losses and emotional toll on Ukrainian soldiers and civilians, contrasting the current somber atmosphere with the more optimistic outlook from the previous year. Despite the heavy casualties and slow progress against entrenched Russian forces, Ukrainian defiance remains strong. The narrative underscores the high cost of potential victory, measured in the lives lost and the enduring impact on those who survive.

A Polish family of nine, the Ulmas, who were murdered by the Nazis for sheltering Jews during World War II, will be beatified together, marking the first time an entire family undergoes the process simultaneously. The beatification, described by the Vatican as an unprecedented event, highlights their sacrifice in protecting eight Jews from persecution. The ceremony in Markowa, Poland, was attended by Polish President Andrzej Duda and Ella Goldman, a relative of the Jews sheltered by the Ulmas. The event underscores the Ulma family's courage and strong Christian faith.

Poland's intelligence agency ABW has been called to investigate a cyberattack on the country's rail traffic management system, which caused train disruptions near Szczecin. Unconfirmed reports suggest railway workers heard the Russian anthem and announcements of stopped trains on a reserved frequency. The ABW, along with Polish Police and rail companies, will probe the incident, which follows recent train derailments near Warsaw. Security chief Stanislaw Zaryn noted ongoing attempts to destabilize Poland, attributing them to Russian and Belarusian efforts. The ABW is also investigating a Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Rzeszow. Poland's support for Ukraine and its role as a conduit for Western arms has made it a target for Russian espionage, with Polish intelligence reporting sabotage plans against its railways.

A Russian ice-hockey player, identified by Polish media as Maksim S., was arrested in Poland on June 11 and charged with espionage on June 30. He is accused of being part of a Moscow spy ring aiming to sabotage weapon supplies to Ukraine. Poland's justice minister, Zbigniew Ziobro, praised the National Prosecutor’s Office and the Internal Security Agency (ABW) for their successful investigation. The spy ring allegedly conducted reconnaissance of critical infrastructure and spread anti-NATO propaganda. Thirteen others have been arrested in connection with the same ring.

Donald Tusk, former Polish prime minister and current opposition leader, has accused the Polish government of secretly allowing large numbers of migrants into the country while publicly opposing migration. He claims that the government has lost control over borders and is corrupt. The government, led by the Law and Justice party, denies these accusations and maintains that migration is controlled and legal. The debate over migration has intensified following the murder of a Polish woman by a Bangladeshi man, with government officials using the incident to argue against uncontrolled migration. The government plans to hold a referendum on EU migrant quotas, which could influence the upcoming general election.

Poland has discontinued the 666 bus route to the seaside town of Hel, changing it to 669 after complaints from Christian groups accusing it of 'spreading Satanism'. The route was popular for its scenic attractions but faced criticism from conservative Catholic groups, particularly the website Fronda, which in 2018 condemned the route number as undermining Poland's Christian foundations. The decision to change the number has been met with ridicule and disapproval on social media, with users calling the country 'absurd' and the offense taken at the number 'stupid in the extreme'.

Donald Tusk led a massive protest in Warsaw against a new law that could potentially target opposition leaders, including himself, by establishing a commission to investigate Russian influence in Polish politics. The law, known as 'lex Tusk,' has been criticized for potentially undermining free and fair elections. Despite President Andrzej Duda's amendment to reduce the commission's power to ban individuals from public office, concerns remain as the amendment must pass through a parliament controlled by the ruling Law and Justice party.

Donald Tusk led a massive demonstration in Warsaw against a new law perceived as targeting opposition leaders ahead of Poland's general election. The law, dubbed 'lex Tusk,' establishes a commission to investigate Russian influence, with powers that could exclude individuals from public office. Critics, including the US, argue it undermines democratic freedoms. In response to backlash, President Andrzej Duda proposed amendments to reduce the commission's powers, though these changes must still pass through a parliament dominated by the ruling Law and Justice party.

Donald Tusk led a massive demonstration in Warsaw against a new law that critics claim targets opposition leaders to exclude them from the upcoming general election. The law, dubbed 'lex Tusk,' allows for a commission to investigate Russian influence over Polish politics, with the power to ban individuals from public office. The law has faced widespread criticism, including from the US, for potentially undermining free and fair elections. In response, President Andrzej Duda proposed an amendment to dilute some of the commission's powers, but it still needs approval from the Law and Justice-dominated lower house of parliament.

Donald Tusk led a massive protest in Warsaw against a new law that could potentially exclude opposition leaders from Poland's upcoming general election. The law, which allows for the investigation of Russian influence in Polish politics, is seen as a tool to target Tusk by the ruling Law and Justice party. Despite criticism from within Poland and the US, President Andrzej Duda signed the law but proposed an amendment to mitigate some of its powers.

Poland's defence minister faces criticism over a Russian missile found in a Polish forest, with opposition leaders demanding his dismissal and accountability. The army knew about the missile in December but did not inform the government. The incident has sparked an official investigation, with speculations pointing to a Russian KH-55 missile. Poland remains on high alert due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and previous missile incidents.

Poland's defense minister faces criticism over a mysterious object found in a Polish forest, believed to be a Russian missile. The army knew of a possible missile in December but did not inform the government. Political leaders, including Donald Tusk and Cezary Tomczyk, demand accountability. The missile, identified as a Russian KH-55, was found near Bydgoszcz, prompting an ongoing investigation. Poland remains on high alert due to the war in Ukraine and previous missile incidents.

Finland has joined NATO as its 31st member, enhancing the alliance's military capabilities with its strong artillery and large reserve army. The Finnish military, shaped by the legacy of the Winter War with the Soviet Union, is focused on defense with a force that can rapidly expand from 19,000 to 280,000 through conscription. Popular support for national defense is high in Finland, with heavy investment in artillery and armored vehicles, including 200 Leopard 2 tanks. The country has increased its defense budget in response to the Ukraine war, purchasing F-35s from the US. Finland's NATO membership strengthens the alliance's position in the Baltic Sea and improves the security landscape of eastern Europe, particularly for the Baltic states.

Finland has officially joined Nato, becoming its 31st member, in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The country has a robust military with hundreds of tanks, aircraft, and a large reserve force, making it one of the most capable in Europe. Finland's defense strategy, shaped by the Winter War, focuses on deterrence and maintaining a large, defensively oriented force. Conscription remains popular, allowing rapid mobilization of troops. The country has also invested heavily in artillery and modern fighter aircraft. Finland's Nato membership enhances the alliance's presence in the Baltic Sea and improves the security landscape of eastern Europe.

Finland's membership in NATO significantly enhances the alliance's military strength in Europe. With standing forces of around 19,000 that can quickly expand to 280,000, Finland contributes one of the continent's most formidable armies to NATO.

Neighbouring Ukraine’s invasion by Russia prompts a drive to modernise and strengthen armed forces in Poland, leading to significant military investments and strategic changes.

Poland is significantly expanding its military capabilities in response to the Russian threat, with plans to build Europe's largest land force. The country is investing heavily in new equipment, including tanks, artillery, helicopters, and combat aircraft, and aims to double the size of its army. This defense spending, driven by the war in Ukraine and fears of Russian aggression, is set to make Poland the biggest per-capita defense spender in NATO. However, the financial burden of this military buildup poses economic risks, especially with Poland's access to EU recovery funds currently blocked. Despite these challenges, there is broad political and public support for the increased defense expenditure.

The suicide of Mikolaj Filiks, son of Polish MP Magdalena Filiks, has ignited a political controversy in Poland. Mikolaj was reportedly outed as a sexual abuse victim by state-owned Radio Szczecin, leading to public outrage against the ruling Law and Justice party. Critics, including opposition leader Donald Tusk, accuse the government of using state media as a propaganda tool. The government, however, claims the opposition is exploiting the tragedy for political gain. An investigation into Mikolaj's death is underway, focusing on potential incitement or assistance in his suicide.

The suicide of Mikolaj Filiks, son of MP Magdalena Filiks, has ignited a political controversy in Poland. Mikolaj's death followed a report by state-owned Radio Szczecin that identified him as a sexual abuse victim, leading to widespread outrage against the ruling Law and Justice party. Opposition leaders, including Donald Tusk and Adam Bodnar, have condemned the government and its media control, while government supporters accuse the opposition of exploiting the tragedy. The incident underscores the deep political polarization in Poland.

Poland is significantly expanding its military capabilities in response to the perceived threat from Russia, driven by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Polish government is investing heavily in new military equipment, including tanks, artillery, helicopters, and combat aircraft from South Korea and the US. This defense spending, which is set to make Poland the largest per-capita spender in NATO, aims to modernize the Polish Army and double its size. However, the financial burden of this expansion raises concerns about potential budget cuts in other areas and the impact on the economy. Despite these challenges, there is broad political and public support for the increased military expenditure, driven by the fear of potential conflict with Russia.

The UK is planning to send Challenger II tanks to Ukraine, marking the first time a Western country has provided such heavy armor to Kyiv. Poland and Sweden are also ready to send tanks, increasing pressure on Germany to authorize the export of Leopard II tanks. Ukrainian officials believe they need at least 300 tanks for an effective counter-offensive. Western officials concur, anticipating the need for heavy armor in spring offensives. Germany remains hesitant, fearing escalation with Russia. The issue will be a key topic at the upcoming Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting in Germany.

Poland's chief of police, Jaroslaw Szymczyk, was injured by an exploding grenade launcher, a gift from Ukraine's security services, at the police headquarters in Warsaw. The explosion caused extensive damage and also injured a civilian employee. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, was made public on Thursday. Poland's interior ministry reported the explosion, and the Warsaw prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation, seeking explanations from Ukrainian authorities.

Poland’s chief of police, Jaroslaw Szymczyk, was injured when a grenade launcher gifted to him during a visit to Ukraine exploded at the police headquarters in Warsaw. The explosion caused significant damage and minor injuries to a civilian employee. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, raised questions about the safety protocols for handling such gifts. The prosecutor’s office in Warsaw has launched an investigation and is seeking explanations from Ukrainian authorities.

Poland's chief of police, Jaroslaw Szymczyk, was injured when a grenade launcher gifted to him during a visit to Ukraine exploded at the police headquarters in Warsaw. The explosion caused significant damage and minor injuries to a civilian employee. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, raised questions about the safety protocols for handling such gifts. The Warsaw prosecutor's office has launched an investigation and is seeking explanations from Ukrainian authorities.

Poland’s chief of police, Jaroslaw Szymczyk, was injured when a grenade launcher gifted to him during a visit to Ukraine exploded at the police headquarters in Warsaw. The explosion caused significant damage and minor injuries to a civilian employee. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has prompted a formal investigation by the Warsaw prosecutor’s office and raised questions about the safety protocols for handling such gifts. The Ukrainian authorities have been asked to provide explanations regarding the incident.

Comedian Kevin Hart is at the center of an FBI extortion probe involving a steamy video where he is seen resting his head on a woman's chest and clutching her thigh. Hart has publicly apologized to his pregnant wife Eniko and his children for a 'bad error in judgment.' The extortionist has attempted to expose Hart and demanded a multi-million dollar payment. The FBI is investigating the situation, which involves a video of Hart and a woman in a sexually provocative situation, and believe the woman Hart interacted with is making the demands.