In Bucharest, over 1,000 young Romanians protested against Calin Georgescu, a far-right nationalist candidate who won the first round of the presidential elections with 23% of the vote. Georgescu, who campaigned primarily on TikTok, has faced accusations of extremism due to his past support for the Iron Guards and Ion Antonescu. Despite his criticism of NATO, he claims to be dedicated to Romania. In the upcoming runoff, Georgescu will compete against Elena Lasconi, a liberal pro-EU candidate from the Save Romania Union party.

The European Union, with 18 member states, is prioritizing the enhancement of air and missile defence capabilities as part of its military cooperation efforts. The initiative, supported by the European Defence Agency, aims to integrate advanced technologies and systems, including anti-missile and anti-drone systems, to strengthen the EU's strategic and industrial base. The project also emphasizes innovation, risk monitoring, and the use of AI and satellite technologies. Despite increased military spending, the EU acknowledges that national efforts alone are insufficient for high-intensity warfare, underscoring the need for collaborative defence strategies.

Moldova is navigating a polarized political landscape, with its government striving to strengthen pro-EU sentiment amid Russian propaganda. Foreign Minister Mihai Popşoi emphasized the country's commitment to EU integration during a visit to Brussels, despite geopolitical challenges. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has highlighted Moldova's strategic role, particularly concerning the Russian-influenced region of Transnistria. The Moldovan government advocates for a comprehensive resolution to the Transnistria issue, which remains a significant obstacle in the country's post-Cold War political development.

Moldova is navigating a polarized political landscape, with its government pushing for stronger ties with the European Union amidst Russian propaganda efforts. Foreign Minister Mihai Popşoi emphasized the country's commitment to EU integration during a visit to Brussels, despite geopolitical challenges. The ongoing issue of the Russian-influenced separatist region of Transnistria remains a significant obstacle, with Moldova advocating for a comprehensive solution as part of broader peace discussions involving Ukraine. The presence of Russian troops and munitions in Moldova is highlighted as a critical concern in these negotiations.

The European Union failed to reach a unanimous decision to suspend political dialogue with Israel due to a lack of consensus among member states. The proposal, initiated by Josep Borrell, outgoing head of EU Foreign Policy, highlighted human rights violations by Israel in the Gaza Strip but was expected to fail due to predictable divisions within the EU. Analysts suggest Borrell's move was an attempt to leave a positive legacy before his term ends, despite the anticipated lack of support.

Scott Anderson, UNRWA's Gaza Director, warns of the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing the lack of safe zones amid ongoing conflict. He calls for respect for civilian areas and addresses accusations of UNRWA's leniency towards Hamas, asserting the organization's commitment to neutrality. The article details the resurgence of violence between Israel and Hamas, resulting in significant casualties and international condemnation. It also mentions legal actions against Israel in the International Court of Justice, highlighting the dire conditions in Gaza, including shortages of food, water, and medicine.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with no safe zones for civilians, according to Scott Anderson, director of UNRWA affairs in Gaza. He urges all conflict parties to respect civilian sanctuaries, including hospitals and schools, which have been targeted. Anderson addresses allegations of leniency towards Hamas, emphasizing UNRWA's commitment to neutrality and swift action against any employee links to the group. Despite efforts, he admits uncertainty in completely removing Hamas militants from their workforce. The EU designates Hamas as a terrorist organization.

Europe's far-right leaders view Donald Trump's US presidential victory as a boost for their ideologies, aligning with his anti-immigration stance and economic rhetoric. Analysts suggest Trump's win could normalize far-right rhetoric in Europe, potentially increasing their influence. However, differences in electoral systems and strategies between the US and EU may limit this effect. The rise of far-right parties in the EU, exemplified by increased representation in the European Parliament, poses challenges to EU unity, especially in response to Trump's potential policies on trade and NATO. Despite initial enthusiasm, Trump's stance may ultimately conflict with European interests, particularly in transatlantic relations.

SpaceX launched the X-37B space vehicle, designed for secret missions and experiments, into orbit using the Falcon Heavy rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The mission, referred to as USSF-52 by the Pentagon, involves advanced technological experiments, including tests on reusable space planes and the effects of radiation on materials. The launch follows China's recent deployment of its own robotic space plane, Shenlong. The X-37B, developed by United Launch Alliance for the US Air Force, has been operational since 2010 and resembles a mini version of the retired manned space shuttles.

China has appointed Admiral Dong Cun as the new defense minister following the unexplained disappearance and removal of his predecessor, Li Shangfu. The appointment, announced by the Xinhua News Agency, does not clarify the reasons behind the transition or the current status of Li Shangfu. This leadership uncertainty is closely monitored by Western rivals and Asian allies, as China continues to assert itself as a dominant military power in the region.