Europe

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.

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.

Barcelona recorded its highest ever temperature of 40.5C on Wednesday, exceeding the previous record of 40C set in July 2024. The heatwave, which began on Sunday, is expected to persist, prompting AEMET to issue red warnings for extreme heat across Catalonia and Valencia.

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