Europe

Hamburg hosted its annual Pride event with heightened security, following a deadly attack at Berlin’s parade last week, which claimed one life and injured 29 others. Organisers anticipated around 250,000 attendees, emphasising solidarity and resilience in the face of recent violence.

A magnitude 4.7 earthquake struck the Phlegraean Fields near Naples, Italy, prompting 10 aftershocks. Four injuries were reported, alongside damage to buildings and churches. Rail services were suspended for safety inspections as emergency services assessed the impact. Residents were advised to stay calm and follow official guidance.

Belgium’s three regions have announced the introduction of a road tax starting 1 May 2027, affecting both domestic and foreign drivers. The tax requires vehicle registration, with annual fees ranging from €90 for zero-emission cars to €125 for higher polluting vehicles.

The French government has activated the “Orsec extreme heat plan” for nine departments due to a persistent heatwave, with red alerts extended to 24 areas, including Ile-de-France. This unprecedented measure is aimed at protecting vulnerable populations amid increasing wildfires, which have already burned twice as much land as last year.

Jamie Shea, former NATO security adviser, articulates a shift towards NATO 3.0, emphasising it will predominantly be “a European show” rather than an American-led initiative. He notes the US is expected to play a reduced role in collective defence, diverging from its historical influence during the Cold War.

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