Kosovo increased security and worked to restore water and power after an explosion hit a canal supplying its main power plants, calling it a “terrorist act” by Serbia. Serbia denied involvement, suggesting Kosovo’s government might be responsible. The incident heightened tensions between the countries, with Kosovo accusing Serbian criminal elements. Security was already tight after recent attacks in northern Kosovo, where ethnic Serbs reject Kosovo’s statehood. Kosovo’s Security Council activated armed forces and approved measures to protect critical infrastructure. The explosion’s cause remains unclear. Ava Sinclair 30/11/2024 7:00 pm
Romania faces a political crisis after far-right nationalist Călin Georgescu’s unexpected election victory. The constitutional court may annul the first round, sparking fears of manipulation by establishment parties. Georgescu’s win, amid suspicions of Russian influence, challenges Romania’s EU and NATO stability. Anger unites far-right and reformist critics against the old order, accusing ruling parties of using the court to maintain power. A rerun could heighten tensions and bolster far-right support, as Georgescu prepares to face liberal Elena Lasconi in December. Penelope Kingsley 30/11/2024 7:00 pm
On Friday, MPs began scrutinizing a bill allowing terminally ill adults to seek assisted dying, following intense debate. Labour MP Kim Leadbeater achieved a historic win for her proposed law. Supporters, wearing pink from the Dignity in Dying group, gathered by Millicent Fawcett’s statue, while opponents assembled nearby with a 10ft puppet of a judge. Emotions ran high, with stories of personal experiences shared by attendees like Amanda and Sue, highlighting the day’s significance. Penelope Kingsley 30/11/2024 7:00 pm
A Russian military delegation led by Defence Minister Andrei Belousov visited North Korea, discussing enhanced strategic partnerships with Kim Jong-un. They agreed to support each other’s sovereignty and security amid global tensions. North Korea backs Russia’s Ukraine invasion, criticizing NATO’s expansion and U.S. actions. Kim condemned U.S. missile support to Ukraine and praised Russia’s military actions. Reports indicate North Korea has sent over 10,000 troops to Russia, with some already in combat. Penelope Kingsley 30/11/2024 7:00 pm
An explosion damaged a canal in northern Kosovo, affecting water supply to coal-fired power plants and drinking water, which Prime Minister Albin Kurti labeled a “terrorist act” by Serbia. No injuries were reported, and the cause remains unclear. Kurti and President Vjosa Osmani blamed Serbian criminal gangs without evidence. Increased security measures followed recent attacks in northern Kosovo. The canal damage threatens power supply, and repairs are urgent. Ethnic tensions persist, with Kosovo’s independence unrecognized by the Serb minority. The EU condemned the attack. Ava Sinclair 30/11/2024 3:30 pm
President Zelenskyy stated that offering NATO membership to all of Ukraine, not just parts under Kyiv’s control, could end the “hot stage of the war.” He emphasized that any NATO invitation should cover the entire country within its internationally recognized borders. Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukraine’s constitution prohibits recognizing Russian-occupied territories as Russian. He argued that NATO membership would strengthen Ukraine’s position in negotiations with Moscow and is a key part of his “victory plan” presented to Western allies. Penelope Kingsley 30/11/2024 3:30 pm
The bill on assisted dying, backed by MPs, marks a historic step towards legalization in England and Wales. However, it faces a lengthy process, including five stages in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, with multiple rounds of voting. If successful, the law could allow terminally ill adults to seek assistance in ending their lives. Implementation could take up to two years, emphasizing careful consideration over speed. The bill, introduced as a private members’ bill by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, allows MPs to vote based on personal beliefs. It now proceeds to committee stage for detailed scrutiny. Ava Sinclair 30/11/2024 3:30 pm
An exit poll from Ireland’s parliamentary election suggests Fine Gael, Fianna Fail, and Sinn Fein have nearly equal support, indicating a likely coalition government. Fine Gael received 21%, Fianna Fail 19.5%, and Sinn Fein 21.1%. The poll, conducted by Ipsos B&A with a margin of error of ±1.4%, surveyed 5,018 voters. Ballot counting begins Saturday, and results may take days due to Ireland’s proportional representation system. Sinn Fein, advocating for change, is optimistic about becoming the largest party. Penelope Kingsley 30/11/2024 3:30 pm
In Bucharest, protests erupted after a far-right populist, Calin Georgescu, unexpectedly won the first round of Romania’s presidential race, causing turmoil ahead of parliamentary elections. Despite polling under 10%, Georgescu, who has praised Romanian fascist leaders and Putin, led the Nov. 24 vote. He faces reformist Elena Lasconi in a Dec. 8 runoff. His rise, attributed to TikTok popularity, sparked protests and concerns over democracy. Romania’s defense body noted his massive exposure on TikTok, suggesting preferential treatment, amid claims of Russian interference, which the Kremlin denies. Noah Prescott 30/11/2024 3:30 pm
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested temporarily ceding occupied territories to Russia in exchange for NATO membership for unoccupied areas, aiming to end the “hot phase” of the war. He emphasized the urgency of NATO protection for areas under Kyiv’s control to prevent further Russian advances. Zelensky expressed willingness to work with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to secure support and maintain direct communication. Despite these statements, Zelensky has consistently opposed ceding any Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, to Russia. Noah Prescott 30/11/2024 12:00 pm
