The election of the anti-austerity party Syriza in Greece marks a significant political shift and sets up a potential conflict with the country's international lenders, known as the 'Troika' (European Central Bank, European Commission, and International Monetary Fund). The new Prime Minister, Alexis Tsipras, aims to renegotiate the terms of Greece's 240 billion euro bailout, which is blamed for high unemployment and poverty. Financial markets have remained calm post-election, with bond prices in Italy and Spain rising and the euro recovering slightly. Syriza's victory could influence other European countries facing austerity. Prominent Syriza figures, including Yanis Varoufakis, advocate for growth-focused solutions to Europe's debt crisis. Despite resistance from countries like Germany and Finland, there is some optimism that a compromise on Greece's bailout terms can be reached, especially in light of the European Central Bank's recent stimulus plan.

Mohammed and Khaleel Turani, brothers from Syria, endured a perilous journey to seek asylum in Germany. Their odyssey involved smuggling, detention, and life-threatening encounters, including a near-drowning at sea and being shot at by authorities. Mohammed, an economics student, lost his home in an airstrike and faced violence in a Palestinian refugee camp before attempting to reach Europe. Khaleel, a fisherman in Dubai, joined Mohammed in Turkey to find a passage to Europe. After multiple attempts and separations, both brothers managed to reach Germany, where they were granted asylum. Khaleel is now taking German language classes, and both appreciate their safety after witnessing many others perish on similar journeys.

The article by Nick Barnets discusses the refugee crisis following Hungary's decision to seal its border, leading refugees to seek alternative routes through Croatia and Slovenia. Croatia, initially welcoming, became overwhelmed by the influx of refugees. Slovenia, part of the EU and Schengen zone, faced challenges as refugees aimed to pass through to reach countries like Germany. The article highlights the struggles of individual refugees, the response of volunteers providing aid, and the Croatian government's criticism of neighboring countries' handling of the situation. It also touches on the broader EU efforts to address the crisis and the increasing difficulties faced by refugees as weather conditions worsen.

The article by Nick Barnets focuses on the refugee crisis in Greece, particularly on the island of Lesvos, where locals and tourists are stepping in to provide humanitarian aid to the influx of refugees, mostly from Syria. The refugees arrive on the northern coast of Lesvos, often in unsafe dinghies, and make their way to the town of Molyvos. Melinda McRostie, a local restaurant owner, along with other residents, has been organizing donations and aid. Eric Kempson, a British expat, provides daily video updates on the situation. The Greek government and the United Nations Refugee Agency have been criticized for their inadequate response to the crisis. The UNHCR has called for European countries to provide aid to prevent a humanitarian crisis, as Greece is overwhelmed by the number of arrivals and is financially struggling.