Europe

The Sweden Democrats (SD), previously a far-right pariah, have emerged as a key political player, now the nation’s second-largest party. Following shifts in alliances post-2018 elections, SD’s influence on immigration and criminal justice policies has been increasingly normalised within the government, reflecting a significant political transformation.

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At least 58 states and territories are affected by anti-personnel mines, according to UN rights chief Volker Türk. The report highlights significant civilian casualties, with approximately 90% of victims in 2024 being civilians, primarily in Myanmar, Syria, and Afghanistan. Recommitment to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty is urged.

French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting his final G7 summit, addressing key issues including Russia’s war on Ukraine, the Middle East conflict, Chinese competition, AI, and online child safety. This summit marks a significant moment as Macron prepares to leave office next year.

Hundreds protested near the Stade de France on Thursday as France hosted Israel in a UEFA Nations League match. The game, held under tight security, came amid heightened tensions following recent clashes in Amsterdam between Israeli football fans and pro-Palestinian demonstrators. 

European news is dominated by politics this morning with the EU’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell suggesting suspending EU-Israel political talks as a recent report alleged Israel has violated human rights and international law in the Gaza Strip.

European leaders are preparing to boost support for Kyiv in preparation for Donald Trump as the incoming president has threatened to cut the US’ contributions.

Prosecutors in France are seeking jail time and an election ban for Marine Le Pen. If she is found guilty of misusing public funds she could be ruled out of the 2027 presidential election.

All eyes will be on the France-Israel football match amid fears of violence between clashing groups of pro-Palestine and pro-Israeli supporters attending the match. French authorities have ramped up security ahead of the game.

Germany – Europe’s largest economy – is facing political turmoil of its own following the collapse of its coalition government. The election campaigning has well and truly begun as leaders make their pitches for the snap election in February.

Elsewhere, Spain is preparing for more floods as severe weather warnings are issued.

Heavy rains and flooding have forced thousands of people to leave their homes in Málaga and the surrounding Costa del Sol region of southern Spain. Aemet has issued the highest-level weather alerts for Málaga and Catalonia, warning that extreme conditions could last until Friday.

VW has partnered with Rivian in a $5.8 billion joint venture aimed at accelerating EV innovation. The move will see both companies sharing advanced technologies to address slowing global EV demand and increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers.

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