Europe

Pope Leo XIV, recovering from lung cancer surgery, called Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging a ceasefire in Oleshky, Ukraine. The Vatican highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, with approximately 2,000 civilians needing safe evacuation and aid. Putin acknowledged the Pope’s humanitarian efforts and expressed gratitude for his involvement.

A Norwegian teenager, Johannes Kongsnes Natland, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for planning an assassination in the UK, lured by a €25,000 contract. Arrested in March 2025, police uncovered firearms in his hotel room, linked to the Foxtrot Network, a Swedish criminal gang.

A major wildfire erupted in the Tignale mountains of Lake Garda on Friday evening, with authorities coordinating a response led by Mayor Daniele Bonassi. Two Canadair aircraft are assisting ground crews, while 200 people have been evacuated from local holiday homes. No injuries reported.

Italy has placed all 27 monitored cities on red heat alert amid a severe heatwave affecting Europe, with temperatures exceeding 40C. This unprecedented warning has prompted health advisories for millions, while Austria recorded a historic 41.2C, exacerbating droughts and wildfires across the continent.

Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s former ambassador to the US, is under investigation for alleged anti-corruption violations, including failing to declare properties and funds. A High Anti-Corruption Court hearing is scheduled in Kyiv following a notice of suspicion issued by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau on 5 August.

Ukraine reported no missile interceptions during a Russian overnight assault, resulting in at least 17 fatalities in Kyiv and surrounding areas. The attack involved 115 drones and 28 missiles, primarily targeting civilian infrastructure, including businesses and a railway station, according to official sources.

A significant rescue operation occurred on Tuesday, aiding over 170 migrants attempting to cross from France to the UK. The inflatable boat’s engine caught fire, necessitating immediate rescue actions from French and British authorities. All individuals were safely brought to Boulogne-sur-Mer for medical assistance.

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