Belgian virologist Marc Van Ranst highlighted ongoing plague cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Madagascar, stating the laboratory connection makes the current incident more concerning. He also noted that COVID-19 has returned this winter in a milder form, differing from previous years.

Former German intelligence chief August Hanning is under investigation by Germany’s Federal Prosecutor’s Office for allegedly obtaining classified information, including state secrets, from a former employee of the Federal Intelligence Service. Accusations involve espionage and the continued receipt of confidential documents after his tenure.

Ukrainian authorities report a surge in fake websites and social media accounts created by Russian intelligence services, impersonating government agencies and officials. These resources, identified by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), aim to disseminate disinformation and collect personal data to destabilise Ukraine’s political landscape.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is deliberating on calling an early general election after Congress rejected his government’s housing measures aimed at protecting vulnerable tenants. Following recent protests over the housing crisis, Sánchez is consulting PSOE leaders, with some advocating for a vote as soon as 29 November.

French secondary schools brace for widespread closures on Monday as unrest continues with protests against unsafe conditions and insufficient resources. The Ministry of Education anticipates partial or full closures affecting 400 to 500 schools, following clashes between demonstrators and police over the past week.

Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire led a march through the capital, underscoring the ongoing threats to the LGBTQ+ community. He stated that LGBTQIA+ venues continue to face attacks, discrimination, and violence, highlighting the urgent need for increased protection and awareness of these pressing issues.