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- Belgium to introduce road tax for foreign drivers starting May 2027
- Graham Platner withdraws from Maine Senate race amid ongoing allegations
- US Agrees to Continue Talks with Iran as Trump Claims Ceasefire Is Over
- Dozens of schoolchildren and teachers rescued two months after abduction in Nigeria
- Gordie Howe bridge expected to open by late July following delay
- Trump administration backs bill for heavy tariffs on Russian oil to pressure Moscow
- Passengers swim to shore after Cessna 402B makes emergency landing in sea
- French government activates extreme heat plan amid renewed heatwave
Europe
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.
Andy Burnham, a veteran politician, has garnered support from 322 Labour MPs in his bid to succeed Keir Starmer as Labour leader. With nominations closing on 16 July, Burnham stands poised to become the sole candidate, potentially taking office on 20 July following a special conference.
Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy stated on Wednesday before the Paris Court of Appeal that he has “not betrayed the trust of the French people” regarding allegations of Libyan funding for his 2007 presidential campaign. Sarkozy faces renewed charges of corruption, campaign financing, and concealment as his appeal progresses.
Taras Kachka, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, emphasised the need for “fast, merit-based, full membership” in the European Union, rejecting alternative proposals such as associate membership. He urged for the opening of all negotiation clusters by June to expedite Ukraine’s EU accession process.
Spain’s National Police searched former prime minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero’s office, uncovering jewellery, hard drives, and documents linked to the Plus Ultra case. The jewellery, reportedly inherited and gifted items, was seized alongside items potentially involving influence-peddling related to a Venezuelan airline bailout.
A 16-year-old boy has been arrested in Rennes, with a girl later coming forward; both remain in custody as divers search the Vilaine River for evidence. The public prosecutor confirmed the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding their arrest.
Warsaw’s City Council has enacted a ban on alcohol sales between 10pm and 6am in shops, kiosks, and petrol stations, aiming to enhance public safety. The decision follows successful trials in select districts and reflects significant resident support, with 81% favouring citywide restrictions.
Cyprus’s politically charged elections are underway today, with over 568,000 citizens voting at 1,217 polling stations to elect 56 MPs for the next five years. Amidst low party loyalty and pressing issues like cost of living and migration, the votes are pivotal in reshaping the political landscape.
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