Europe

Munich’s Oktoberfest officially commenced today with the traditional keg tapping by Mayor Dominik Krause at noon. The event is expected to attract millions, following last year’s attendance of 6.5 million, as beer tents and fairground rides opened, welcoming revelers to the famed Theresienwiese.

Russia has intensified its military operations, launching attacks across Ukraine including a strike in Balakliia that resulted in two fatalities. Additionally, Kyiv now faces ballistic missile strikes, prompting officials to advise civilians to seek shelter as air defence systems engage.

Former Moroccan intelligence officer Mehdi Hijaouy sought protection from extradition by offering information on Morocco’s intelligence operations to Spanish authorities. He claimed knowledge of the Pegasus spyware targeting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez but ultimately abandoned this route and fled Spain, with his current location unknown.

Sweden’s centre-left opposition bloc, supporting Social Democrat leader Magdalena Andersson, is leading Sunday’s parliamentary election with 28.1% of votes, according to preliminary results. The right-wing bloc, led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, follows closely at 19.9%, indicating potential challenges for government formation.

Sweden’s parliamentary election results show the centre-left opposition bloc, led by Social Democrat Magdalena Andersson, securing 27.8% of the vote, slightly ahead of the right-wing bloc with 26.5%. The outcome may complicate coalition negotiations, with official results due within a week.

Spain’s parliament has approved a law granting citizenship to tens of thousands of Western Saharans born before 29 September 1977. The legislation, backed by 168 votes to 31, enables around 80,000 eligible Sahrawis, including descendants, to apply for Spanish nationality.

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