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.

Ukraine’s National Police released video evidence showing a Russian drone targeting a civilian at a farmers’ market in Kherson, labelling it a war crime. The victim, a 52-year-old vendor, sustained injuries but survived. Authorities are documenting the incident as part of ongoing civilian attacks by Russian forces.

People-smuggling networks are reportedly using speedboats and jet skis to transport migrants from Ceuta, Spain, to the mainland. Recent landings near Algeciras involved young Moroccan nationals, prompting Spanish authorities to enhance security and surveillance in the Strait of Gibraltar to combat these activities.

Greek police have charged a 26-year-old Afghan national with the murder of 38-year-old British national Elisabeth-Jane Ross, whose body was found in a suitcase in Athens last month. The suspect reportedly confessed to homicide, robbery, and weapon offences linked to the case.

Joint Spanish police forces have arrested a 17-year-old in Gipuzkoa, identified as Spain’s main figure in network 764, which is accused of coercing and exploiting minors. The operation occurred near the northern border with France amid ongoing investigations into the criminal network.

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.

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