Europe

Italy has placed all 27 monitored cities on red heat alert amid a severe heatwave affecting Europe, with temperatures exceeding 40C. This unprecedented warning has prompted health advisories for millions, while Austria recorded a historic 41.2C, exacerbating droughts and wildfires across the continent.

Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s former ambassador to the US, is under investigation for alleged anti-corruption violations, including failing to declare properties and funds. A High Anti-Corruption Court hearing is scheduled in Kyiv following a notice of suspicion issued by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau on 5 August.

Germany registered 2,656 conscientious objector applications in early 2026, exceeding two-thirds of 2025’s total. This increase follows new military service legislation requiring young men born in 2008 or later to register for potential conscription amid discussions on bolstering the Bundeswehr’s personnel numbers.

German security services have issued a warning regarding phishing attacks on lawmakers and senior officials via the Signal messaging app, attributed to a “state-controlled cyber actor.” The government suspects Russian involvement, with estimates suggesting at least 300 political accounts may have been compromised.

Two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has announced he will not defend his French Open title due to a right wrist injury. Alcaraz also withdrew from the Italian Open, following setbacks from an injury sustained at the Barcelona Open earlier this month.

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