Schools were closed and emergency crews deployed on Santorini due to increased seismic activity, raising earthquake concerns. Over 200 undersea quakes were recorded nearby, prompting precautions on Aegean islands. Civil Protection Minister Vasilis Kikilias urged adherence to safety measures. Experts say quakes, up to magnitude 4.7, aren’t linked to Santorini’s volcano but are concerning. Residents were advised to avoid large gatherings, and hotels were told to drain pools. Rescuers set up a staging area, and many residents spent the night in cars. Seismologist Gerasimos Papadopoulos warned of a potential larger event. Ava Sinclair 03/02/2025 11:00 am
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine spurred Europe to increase defense spending. EU and UK leaders will meet in Brussels to discuss funding, especially with Trump’s potential U.S. support withdrawal. Trump demands NATO nations boost defense spending to 5% of GDP, up from the planned 3-3.5%. The EU, traditionally focused on trade and peace, is now prioritizing defense, seeking efficient, collaborative spending. The meeting will also consider raising defense funds through common debt, similar to Covid strategies. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will attend, marking a post-Brexit engagement with EU leaders. Penelope Kingsley 03/02/2025 7:30 am
Enge, speaking at the Arctic Frontiers conference, warned of catastrophic risks along the Northern Sea Route due to harsh conditions and inadequate oil spill response technology. He criticized Russia’s “shadow fleet” for violating Arctic regulations, increasing accident risks. Bellona fears rising transport along the route as Russia seeks illicit markets for oil and gas, exacerbating environmental threats. The panel also discussed Russia’s extractive industry, nuclear activity, and civil society issues in the Arctic. Ava Sinclair 03/02/2025 7:30 am
At least 160,000 people protested in Berlin against the CDU’s cooperation with the far-right AfD in parliament. The CDU, CSU, AfD, FDP, and BSW supported a failed bill to tighten asylum laws. Protesters criticized CDU leader Friedrich Merz for seeking AfD support, accusing him of breaking a post-WWII “firewall” against far-right collaboration. Merz denied any alliance with the AfD, emphasizing a focus on centrist majorities. The CDU’s actions sparked outrage, with a former member leaving the party over the issue. Noah Prescott 03/02/2025 7:30 am
Sir Keir Starmer is attending an EU leaders’ meeting in Brussels, marking the first UK prime ministerial presence since Brexit. The focus is on defense, security, and resetting UK-EU relations, excluding rejoining the Single Market or Customs Union. Talks include NATO’s Mark Rutte, with aims to enhance cooperation on crime, trade, and energy. The backdrop includes the Ukraine war and Trump’s return, with EU defense responsibilities highlighted. The UK seeks improved trade, especially in food and energy, with a potential UK-EU summit planned for spring. Penelope Kingsley 03/02/2025 4:00 am
Arbel Yehoud’s release from Hamas captivity highlights the tense dynamics of a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Surrounded by masked fighters and a chaotic crowd, Yehoud’s journey to freedom was fraught with danger. Her family in Israel watched anxiously as she was safely transferred. The event underscores the ongoing propaganda battle between Israel and Hamas, each using imagery to portray themselves positively. The chaos during Yehoud’s release reflects the fragile nature of the ceasefire. Experts note that such images can evoke strong public reactions and compassion for individual victims. Ava Sinclair 03/02/2025 4:00 am
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to discuss “victory over Hamas,” countering Iran, and expanding Arab diplomatic ties with U.S. President Donald Trump. Their meeting follows the release of more Israeli hostages and occurs as U.S. and Arab mediators work on a ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas demands an end to the war and Israeli withdrawal for further hostage releases. Netanyahu faces pressure to resume the war, while Trump’s stance remains unclear, balancing support for Israel with his pledge to end Middle East conflicts. Ava Sinclair 03/02/2025 4:00 am
Thousands protested in Berlin against an immigration bill proposed by conservative leader Friedrich Merz, supported by the far-right AfD. The bill, which aimed to limit family reunifications and increase border refusals, failed to pass due to opposition within Merz’s party. The protests, involving around 160,000 people, highlighted resistance to cooperation with the AfD. Mainstream parties, including the SPD and Greens, opposed the bill, arguing it violated European law and wouldn’t prevent recent attacks. Similar protests occurred in other German cities. Ava Sinclair 03/02/2025 4:00 am
Intense rain in northeast Australia has caused deadly flash floods, leading to one death and mass evacuations. Ingham and Townsville are heavily affected, with residents urged to evacuate. A woman drowned when a rescue boat capsized. Queensland Premier Crisafulli and Prime Minister Albanese expressed condolences, with the federal government pledging support. Emergency alerts warn of life-threatening flooding, and residents are advised to be cautious of crocodiles in floodwaters. Evacuation centers have been opened for those in high-risk areas. Penelope Kingsley 03/02/2025 12:30 am
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to Washington to discuss Gaza with U.S. President Donald Trump. The meeting, Trump’s first with a foreign leader since returning to the White House, follows a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas. The agreement pauses the Gaza conflict, with Hamas releasing hostages and Israel freeing Palestinian prisoners. Netanyahu aims to address issues like defeating Hamas and countering Iran. He emphasized the impact of recent decisions on the Middle East and the importance of collaboration with Trump. Arab countries rejected Trump’s suggestion to relocate Gaza’s Palestinians. Noah Prescott 02/02/2025 9:00 pm
