Portugal, Romania and Poland all go to the polls
Romania and Poland are holding Presidential elections, while Portugal is holding its third general election in three years.
UN human rights chief accuses Israel of ‘ethnic cleansing’
As Israel continues its airstrikes on Gaza, the UN human rights office has accused Israel of “ethnic cleansing” in Gaza, highlighting the apparent push to displace the population and the denial of humanitarian assistance in defiance of international law.
Germany and other EU countries are bulking up militaries
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to make the Bundeswehr the “strongest conventional army in Europe.” Other EU countries also have ambitious plans for their armed forces.
Newly inaugurated Pope Leo talks Ukraine with Zelenskyy
Pope Leo XIV has met with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Zelenskyy also met with US Vice President JD Vance ahead of talks between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.
Israel announces new ground operation in Gaza
The IDF said the “extensive” operation began over the past day, involving both active duty and reservists. Meanwhile, Israel said it is open to a deal on stopping the Gaza fighting as negotiators meet in Doha.