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.

Russia launched a ballistic missile at Mykolaiv early on Sunday, injuring five individuals. This strike is part of a broader assault involving hundreds of drones and missiles, leading to at least 10 fatalities and over 70 injuries across Ukraine within 24 hours, according to officials.

Israel has confirmed that Abu Keshek and Brazilian activist Thiago Ávila are in the country for imminent interrogation, amid accusations of ties to Hamas. Both men will receive consular visits, while Spain’s foreign minister labels the detention as illegal, demanding accountability for potential mistreatment.

Russian drone attacks targeted Ukrainian cities overnight, hitting civilian infrastructure and residential areas in Kharkiv, with injuries reported. In Kherson, a public transport bus was struck, resulting in two fatalities and multiple injuries. Ukraine’s Air Force intercepted many drones, but some breached defences.

An arson attack on a Skopje synagogue on 12 April has been linked to the Islamic State, North Macedonia’s intelligence service reported. Seven arrests followed, including charges against two men for terrorism-related offences. The local Jewish community noted only minor damages occurred.

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