Author: Iris East

In the lead-up to Hungary’s elections, independent polling indicates over 60% of voters under 30 support the opposition Tisza party, while just 15% back Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz. Experts caution the mobilisation of young voters could significantly influence the electoral outcome amidst claims of potential Russian interference.

Ukraine has signed a 10-year defence agreement with Bulgaria to enhance joint production of drones and other weapons, as announced by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This cooperation is aimed at modernising military capabilities amid the ongoing conflict with Russia and reflects Bulgaria’s significant arms industry.

The “No Kings” movement in the US is increasingly impacting Europe, as protests against President Trump’s policies connect with nationalist sentiments, particularly in Hungary. Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s upcoming election could further align EU movements with Trump’s ideology, prompting concerns over democracy and rule of law across the continent.

A Swedish prosecutor has charged a 62-year-old man with aggravated pimping, assault, and multiple rapes after he allegedly sold his wife’s sexual services to over 120 men. Arrested in October 2025, he faces serious allegations of exploitation, violence, and coercion, with trial set for 13 April.

Ireland’s junior agriculture minister Timmy Dooley has characterised the outlook for farmers as “stark” due to rising fuel and fertiliser costs. Ahead of an EU meeting, he urged flexibility on climate rules and highlighted the need for an exemption for fertilisers from the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.

The European Commission has dismissed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s call for a trade deal with China, urging Beijing to address its economic practices. This follows Europe’s ongoing struggle with a significant trade deficit attributed to China’s low-cost exports amid a real estate crisis, raising concerns over competition and industrial decline.

Energy analysts warn that prolonged halts in Qatari LNG imports to the EU could trigger a significant surge in natural gas prices. A continued interruption, coupled with an extended conflict in Iran, may lead Europe into a crisis reminiscent of the 2022 energy turmoil.

The G7 Summit concluded with key discussions led by Méabh Mc Mahon and Maia de la Baume, focusing on global security and economic cooperation. Concurrently, updates on the conflict in Iran were provided by Mc Mahon and Babak Kamiar, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.

What’s happening?
Protests dubbed “No Kings” have erupted nationwide against the Trump administration, highlighting growing dissent among various communities. Organizers claim record turnout for these events, which aimed to unify opposition against perceived authoritarianism.

In comparing coverage, the headline from the San Francisco Chronicle reads, “No Kings organizers tout record global turnout as Bay Area protests draw huge crowds,” suggesting a focus on the event’s scale and community mobilization. Conversely, The New York Times states, “5 Takeaways From the ‘No Kings’ Rallies as the Midterms Heat Up,” which emphasizes the rally’s implications for future political dynamics rather than the current protest climate. This distinction reflects a divergence in framing—one prioritizes immediate activism while the other considers broader political impacts.

Coverage analyzed: San Francisco Chronicle | The New York Times | CNN | The Atlantic

Lebanon’s Minister of Culture, Ghassan Salamé, describes Israel’s actions in southern Lebanon as a “creeping military action” that has escalated to an “invasion.” His comments reflect heightened tensions between the two nations amid ongoing conflict in the region.