Newsflash

Macron tells Munich conference that Europe must become geopolitical power in its own right

At the Munich Security Conference, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the urgent need for Europe to assert itself as a geopolitical power, capable of ensuring its own security. He stressed the importance of strategic long-term thinking, including the development of deep-strike capabilities and the integration of France’s nuclear deterrent into Europe’s future security framework. Macron dismissed claims of European decline, defending the continent’s efforts to combat disinformation and the negative impacts of social media on Western democracies.

Macron argued that Europe must act boldly and decisively, asserting that it is time for the continent to take its place on the global stage. He called for a series of consultations among European leaders to reshape the continent’s security architecture, which he described as outdated, having been designed during the Cold War. The French president highlighted the need to redefine nuclear deterrence within this new strategic framework, noting that he had already begun discussions with key European leaders, including those from Britain and Germany.

Macron, who is in his final year as president, warned that Europe would continue to face an aggressive Russia, even if a deal on the Ukraine war were reached. He emphasized that Europe must prioritize its own interests and avoid short-term solutions that fail to address fundamental issues. Macron’s upcoming speech will further outline his vision for the role of France’s nuclear deterrent within Europe, underscoring the continent’s need for a unified and forward-thinking security strategy. 🌍💥

Germany’s Merz blasts ‘lost’ US leadership and says global order ‘no longer exists’

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered a sobering message to world leaders at the Munich Security Conference, emphasizing that Europe must prepare to stand on its own as U.S. leadership is no longer guaranteed. He asserted that the U.S.'s claim to global leadership is being challenged and may already be lost, highlighting the growing threats to freedom in an era of great-power rivalry. Merz warned that the international order based on rights and rules has significantly weakened, signaling a shift toward a more fragmented and competitive global landscape. His remarks underscore the urgent need for Europe to strengthen its autonomy and resilience in the face of evolving geopolitical dynamics. 🌍💪

At the Munich security summit, a push to rebuild Western unity

At the Munich Security Summit, global leaders convened to address pressing geopolitical challenges and strengthen Western unity. The summit focused on reinforcing transatlantic alliances amid rising global tensions, particularly in light of Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine and the shifting dynamics of U.S. foreign policy. Key discussions centered on enhancing European defense capabilities, ensuring energy security, and fostering economic resilience. Participants emphasized the importance of collective action to counter authoritarian influences and uphold democratic values. The event underscored the need for a united and strategic approach to global security, highlighting the critical role of international cooperation in addressing contemporary threats. 🌍🤝

Whatever it takes? EU in race to shore up sovereignty

Europe faces a critical moment as it seeks to bolster its sovereignty amid shifting global dynamics. With the U.S. signaling a reduced role in European defense and rising pressures from China, Russia, and internal political divisions, EU leaders are racing to strengthen strategic industries, energy, defense, and financing. At a recent gathering in Belgium's Limburg province, leaders debated the path forward, with France advocating for a "Buy European" strategy to enhance strategic autonomy, while Germany and Italy prioritize deregulation and new trade agreements.

The urgency is palpable as Europe navigates a complex geopolitical landscape. China's influx of cheap goods, the U.S.'s adversarial trade policies, and Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine all pose significant challenges. Meanwhile, the U.S. appears to be stepping back from its traditional role as Europe's defensive shield, leaving the continent to chart its own course. The question remains: Can Europe rise to the occasion and implement the bold reforms needed to secure its future? The stakes are high, and the time for decisive action is now. 🌍💪

Macron urges world to ‘take cue’ from Europe, not criticise it

French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a bold address at the Munich Security Conference, urging the world to follow Europe's lead rather than criticize it. He responded to previous scathing remarks from U.S. Vice President JD Vance, asserting that Europe should serve as a model for global cooperation and leadership. Macron also emphasized that he does not anticipate speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the near future, stressing the importance of European unity in determining their collective stance toward Moscow.

Meanwhile, Britain and its allies pledged €30 billion in military aid to Ukraine, as announced by British Defence Minister John Healey following a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group. Additionally, Norway revealed plans to purchase a "large volume" of French glide bombs as part of a bilateral agreement aimed at bolstering Ukraine's defense against Russia's ongoing invasion. These developments underscore the continued international support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. 🌍🤝

EU defense chief lays out ideas for a European military force to replace US troops

European Union Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has proposed the creation of a "rapid reaction force" of up to 100,000 troops to replace American soldiers currently stationed in Europe. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Kubilius emphasized the need for a clear and unified approach to European defense, avoiding the controversial term "European army" due to its historical connotations and political sensitivities. The proposed force aims to enhance Europe's strategic autonomy and security in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges. 🇪🇺💪

More than two-thirds of Europeans see their countries as under threat, survey finds

A recent Eurobarometer survey reveals that a significant majority of Europeans—68%—feel their countries are under threat, with the highest concerns in France (80%), the Netherlands and Denmark (77%), and Germany (75%). Greece aligns with the EU average on security concerns but shows lower trust in the EU’s defense role, with only 40% expressing confidence. Despite this, there is strong public support for increased defense spending, with 74% of respondents approving of current EU defense investment or advocating for more. Portugal, Finland, Lithuania, Spain, and Denmark show particularly high levels of support.

The survey also highlights the importance of EU space programs, with 53% of respondents prioritizing security and defense as key areas for future space policy, followed by environmental and climate initiatives (36%) and industrial competitiveness (31%). Young Europeans are especially aware of the economic benefits of EU space programs, with 55% recognizing their positive impact. Conducted in early January 2026, the survey polled 27,292 citizens across the EU-27, assessing their sense of security, trust in the EU’s defense capabilities, and support for collective defense investments. The findings underscore the growing importance of defense and space programs in addressing Europe’s security, environmental, and economic challenges. 🌍🚀

Saab signs agreement with Ukrainian defense company

Saab, a leading aerospace and defense company, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Ukraine's state-owned defense company, JSC Ukroboronprom (UDI). The partnership, announced at the Munich Security Conference, focuses on enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities through collaboration in aviation and airborne surveillance. The agreement underscores Saab's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense sector, which comprises both state-owned and private industrial companies. Anders Carp, Vice President of Saab, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the potential opportunities it presents for both parties. This initiative is expected to bolster Ukraine's defense infrastructure and foster innovation in critical security technologies. 🛩️🔍

Polish parliament approves €44bn EU defence loans despite opposition criticism

Poland's government has secured approval for a bill allowing the country to access nearly €44 billion in EU loans through the SAFE program, aimed at bolstering defense spending. The legislation, which passed with 236 votes in favor and 199 against, will now proceed to the Senate, where the ruling coalition holds a majority. The bill aims to strengthen national security amid growing threats on Poland's eastern borders, with over 80% of the funds expected to be spent domestically, supporting the Polish defense industry.

The right-wing opposition, including the national-conservative Law and Justice (PiS) and the far-right Confederation, voted against the bill, arguing that the loans would increase Poland's dependence on the EU and expose the country to political blackmail. Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized the opposition, accusing them of undermining Poland's security and independence. The bill will now move to the Senate, where amendments may be suggested before final approval. President Karol Nawrocki, who has expressed concerns about the loans, could still veto the legislation.

Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced that amendments would be added to address some opposition concerns, including ensuring that loan repayments are not included in the defense ministry's budget. A list of potential purchases with the SAFE funds will also be made available, with one project already announced: a new anti-drone system to be produced by Polish and Norwegian firms. The government maintains that the loans will strengthen Poland's defense capabilities and support its arms industry. 🇵🇱💪

Legislative consensus hits new low

Greece's political landscape is increasingly polarized, as highlighted by a recent study from the Center for Liberal Studies (KEFiM). The study, which analyzed the Legislative Consensus Index from July 2023 to December 2025, reveals a significant decline in opposition party support for government bills. The findings show that PASOK supported 27.9% of government legislation, SYRIZA backed 13%, and the Communist Party offered no support at all. Other parties, including Greek Solution, New Left, Course of Freedom, and Niki, showed minimal support, with an overall average consensus of just 11.9%—the lowest recorded since 2004.

The study also found that consensus was higher in key sectors such as national defense, foreign policy, education, justice, and health, though significant variations existed among parties. Historically, the highest levels of legislative consensus occurred during economic crises, particularly during SYRIZA’s second term (2015-2019), when New Democracy supported 52.3% of legislation. Similar levels were seen between 2009 and 2011 and during SYRIZA’s first government in 2015.

KEFiM director general Nikos Rompapas emphasized that the sustained low levels of legislative consensus indicate a troubling trend toward greater political polarization. He warned that attempting constitutional reforms under such divided conditions could jeopardize their success, signaling a challenging path ahead for Greek politics. 🇬🇷📉

Alūksne is special, confirms Saiema

The National Economy Committee of Latvia's Saeima is advocating for the extension of the Latgale Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to foster long-term stability and attract investments, particularly in regions outside the capital, Rīga. The proposed expansion includes the Alūksne region, aiming to boost business opportunities, infrastructure development, and regional security. Additionally, the Saeima has conceptually endorsed extending the operational terms of the Liepāja and Rēzekne SEZs until 2050. However, these changes require further approval in a second reading to become effective. The initiatives are designed to stimulate economic growth, job creation, and investment in Latvia's eastern border regions. 🏭💼

Rubio canceled Ukraine meeting at short notice at the Munich Security Conference

Senator Marco Rubio's scheduled meeting with leaders from Germany, Poland, Finland, and the European Commission was abruptly canceled due to a scheduling conflict, according to a representative. The decision was met with criticism from European sources, with one calling it "crazy" and another noting that the meeting lacked significance without U.S. participation. Meanwhile, the United States is intensifying pressure on Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to make concessions in the ongoing conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump urged Zelenskyy to act swiftly, stating that Russia is eager to negotiate and that delaying could result in missed opportunities. 🤝🇺🇸🇺🇦

Meloni tells 2nd Italy-Africa summit Mattei Plan new chapter in relations

At the second Italy-Africa Summit in Addis Ababa, Premier Giorgia Meloni emphasized the significance of Italy's Mattei Plan as a transformative chapter in Italy-Africa relations. Co-chairing the summit with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, Meloni highlighted Italy's commitment to fostering cooperation based on mutual respect and trust, moving away from historical predatory and paternalistic approaches. The Mattei Plan, now a fully operational initiative, focuses on education and human capital development, with significant financial backing from institutions like the World Bank and the African Development Bank. Meloni announced a €5 billion education plan with Nigeria, aiming to improve education for 750 million children across 91 countries. She stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of migration rather than exploiting it for labor, advocating for a shared responsibility approach. The summit aims to enhance the Mattei Plan's effectiveness by listening to local needs and correcting past mistakes, ensuring sustainable development and mutual growth. 🌍🤝

'Europe managed to support Ukraine'

In a live discussion from Munich, former Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk reflected on Europe's role in supporting Ukraine during its critical period from 2014 to 2016. Recent reports suggest that President Volodymyr Zelensky may announce elections and a referendum around the fourth anniversary of the conflict, though he has denied these claims. The Munich Security Conference is seen as a pivotal moment to gauge the U.S. administration's stance and its efforts to mediate an end to the conflict by summer. The discussion underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the complex diplomatic maneuvers shaping Ukraine's future. 🇺🇦🤝

Dahlin: Always important to win the group

The upcoming knockout matches in the tournament will determine which teams advance to the quarter-finals. With 12 teams competing in three groups of four, only the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed teams will secure their spots. The remaining teams will face a round of 16, leaving them with less time to rest.

In Group B, Sweden (three points) must defeat Slovakia (six points) in a match scheduled for Saturday at 12:10 to have a chance at securing first place. Meanwhile, Finland (three points) will take on Italy (nil) later that day at 16:40. For Finland to advance, they must not only win but also achieve a four-goal margin of victory. Defender Victor Hedman expressed confidence, stating, "We'll start by making it 1-0, then we'll take it from there." The stakes are high, and the outcomes of these matches will shape the tournament's next phase. ⚽🏆

Furore after Vitruvian Man's genitals edited out of Rai Olympic credits

A controversy has erupted in Italy after the daily newspaper Corriere della Sera noticed that the genitals were edited out of an image of Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man featured in the opening credits of Rai's coverage of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The center-left Democratic Party (PD) plans to file a parliamentary question to Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli, while the 5-Star Movement (M5S) accused the state broadcaster of censorship, comparing it to "Ayatollahs." Rai defended itself, stating that the content was not produced by them but by the IOC's Olympic Broadcasting Services, and that all broadcasters are required to use the provided graphics without modification.

The controversy comes amid ongoing tensions at Rai, as sports journalists withdrew their bylines in protest against RaiSport Director Paolo Petrecca's blunder-filled commentary on the Milano Cortina 2026 opening ceremony. Petrecca made several embarrassing mistakes, including confusing the Stadio Olimpico with Milan's San Siro Stadium, misidentifying Italian actress Matilda De Angelis as Mariah Carey, and confusing International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry with Italian President Sergio Mattarella's daughter Laura. Opposition parties argue that Rai has become a platform for political allegiance over competence, dubbed "TeleMeloni" due to alleged favoritism towards Premier Giorgia Meloni. Meloni has previously accused Rai of left-wing bias, and several left-leaning journalists have left the broadcaster in recent years. 📺🎤

Played for our beloved equipment manager Benny Andersson

On a day marked by both celebration and remembrance, Sweden's Damkronorna secured a historic 2-0 victory in the quarterfinal of the championship, breaking a long-standing curse that had seen them fall short since the 2014 Sochi Olympics. The team, led by captain Anna Kjellbin and standout player Hanna Olsson, who scored the opening goal, honored the memory of their late material manager, Benny Andersson, who passed away suddenly in 2024. Andersson, whose birthday fell on the match day, was remembered fondly by the team, with Kjellbin noting that many players dedicated their performance to him. "Benny is still alive, and tonight many of us played for him," she said, adding that he would have been proud of their victory.

The team's success was attributed to their strong camaraderie and unity, with Olsson highlighting the importance of their cohesive group dynamic. "It's a good mix of young and old, and everyone can get along with each other," she said, emphasizing that this unity was crucial to their success. The victory was particularly significant for Olsson, who described it as her biggest moment in the national team. Looking ahead, Sweden is poised to face the formidable USA in the semifinals, a challenge that Olsson embraces with confidence. "They're the best team in the world right now, but it suits us as underdogs," she said, reflecting the team's resilient spirit and determination. 🏒🇸🇪

Milano Cortina: Govt set to ban air-transport strikes says Salvini

Italian Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini announced plans to ban air-transport strikes scheduled for February 16 and March 7, as trade unions refused to reschedule them to avoid disrupting the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. The strikes authority had proposed moving the strikes to between February 24 and March 4 to prevent disruptions during the events, which run from February 16 to 22 for the Olympics and March 6 to 15 for the Paralympics.

Salvini emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive image of Italy during the global event, stating that the government is working on an injunction to halt the strikes. He affirmed the right to strike but stressed the need to avoid disruptions during an event watched by billions. The minister also committed to inviting unions for talks on contract renewals and the National Airport Plan after the Paralympics. The unions, however, have stood firm on their initial strike dates, centering their protests on the renewal of the sector's collective contract. 🚫✈️🏒

Supporters of Ecumenical Patriarch dismayed at attack from Russia

A US-based Orthodox Christian group, the Archons, has expressed deep concern over a recent verbal attack on Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual leader of the world’s Orthodox Christians, by Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR). In a January 12 statement, the SVR derided Bartholomew as an "antichrist in a cassock" and a "devil in the flesh," accusing him of dismantling Orthodox Ukraine and targeting the Baltic states to impose his control. The Archons condemned the attack, emphasizing the lack of defense from the Russian Orthodox Church, and praised Bartholomew for prioritizing the well-being of the Church over political agendas. The incident highlights the strained relations within the Orthodox Christian community. 🙏🌍

One in four teens have faced 'violent attitudes' in relationships

A concerning report by Save The Children reveals that one in four teenagers has experienced fear due to violent behavior from a current or former partner. The study, titled "Just Kidding: New Evidence on Violence in Adolescent Relationships," highlights alarming statistics: 36% of teens have faced verbal abuse, one in three have been tracked via geolocation, and 28% have had intimate images shared without consent. Additionally, over half of female teenagers have endured sexual harassment, including unwanted comments or advances. These findings underscore the urgent need for awareness and intervention to address relationship violence among young people. 💔🚨