Since gaining independence in 1991, Ukraine has struggled with endemic corruption, a battle seen as crucial for its war against Russia. Transparency International now ranks it 104th out of 180 countries, its highest position since 2006.…
Three European countries recognise Palestine
23 May 2024
The leaders of Norway, Ireland, and Spain have announced that their countries will recognise Palestine as a state on 28 May to promote peace in the Middle East, Norway’s prime minister Jonas Gahr Store said that…
Prime Minister Robert Fico is in a stable but serious condition after being shot multiple times on Wednesday. Fico, 59, underwent five hours of surgery at a hospital in Banska Bystrica. The hospital director confirmed his…
Vladimir Putin is in China for crucial talks with President Xi Jinping, shortly after Russia launched a fresh incursion into Ukraine's Kharkiv region. Putin was received with full military honours, and Xi emphasised their strong 'friendship’.…
According to Ukrainian intelligence, a Russian assassination plot against Volodymyr Zelensky has been thwarted and two men arrested. They supposedly intended to kidnap and kill the president and other top officials as a ‘gift’ to Vladimir…
North Macedonia: crucial election votes
10 May 2024
On 8 May, North Macedonia held parliamentary and presidential elections. If Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, from the nationalist VMRO-DPMNE party, wins the presidential election, that could complicate EU accession talks. These talks have been delayed, partly due to…