Europe

Journalist Michael Reid asserts that Argentinians anticipate opponents employing “dirty tricks” and possessing a “hidden agenda,” influencing their on-pitch conduct. He also predicts that FIFA is unlikely to impose “any severe sanctions” related to the World Cup final incidents or the Malvinas banner controversy.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has replaced four-star General Oleksandr Syrskyi with Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi as commander-in-chief amid protests following the dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. This leadership change aims to restructure military command and respond to internal criticism.

In Belgium, a recent documentary on sexual abuse in the Catholic Church has caused shock and soul-searching, reigniting a debate about the way religion is funded in the country. Unlike in neighbouring France, the Belgian state finances officially recognised religions, with representatives of the Catholic Church receiving the best pay. But the abuse scandal has seen many people demand a change in the rules. The justice ministry has asked the Church to remove members of the clergy guilty of sexual abuse from the list of those paid by the state, and a parliamentary inquiry is underway. Our correspondent reports.

From our sponsors
Advertisement
Advertisement