Grand Duchy at the heart of Europe and EU institutions
UNESCO has inscribed Mount Olympus and South Sudan’s Boma-Badingilo Migratory Landscape on its World Heritage List, capping a 12-year Greek effort and highlighting Africa’s migratory route. The committee in Busan affirms the cultural, natural value and calls for safeguarding measures as tourism potential grows.
EU foreign ministers have requested discussion of suspending the 1995 EU‑Israel Association Agreement after Spain, Ireland and Slovenia have formally asked for the issue to be placed on the agenda. Member states remain divided: Germany and Italy are opposing suspension while France, Belgium and others are pushing targeted measures, and public pressure has surged following Israel's policies in Gaza, the West Bank and a new death‑penalty law.
Kigali has expanded dedicated bus lanes and introduced a pilot airport shuttle to improve reliability and cut travel times. The reforms, delivered by Ecofleet Solutions, include fixed schedules, longer bus corridors, new routes and planned electric buses. Early data show higher ridership and shorter journeys, with ongoing route adjustments and a focus on preventing buses from leaving terminals until full.
Poland has opened proceedings to consider stripping Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy of the Order of the White Eagle after he has approved the renaming of a Ukrainian special-forces unit 'Heroes of the UPA' and presided over the reburial of World War II nationalist Andriy Melnyk with state honours. Polish leaders have voiced outrage, and an advisory Chapter meeting has been scheduled to review revocation.
Italian financial police have seized assets worth more than $230 million linked to the money-laundering operations of mafia boss Matteo Messina Denaro. The investigation spans multiple countries and led to the arrest of three people, highlighting an international network built from decades of drug trafficking profits.
Galleries have been shrinking and business models have been under sustained pressure at Art Basel this month, while major players have been narrowing investments and reshaping portfolios across regions. SoftBank has reduced deal activity in Latin America; Pace has cut artists and staff; recruitment firm Hays has sold operations; and community art projects and private collectors are adapting their approaches.
EU ambassadors have opened negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova to align with an initial cluster of EU laws, marking a significant step in the enlargement process. The move follows Hungary's shift in stance and aims to begin a structured accession process, though a full membership timeline remains uncertain due to wartime challenges.
Voters have rejected the Swiss People’s Party’s proposal to cap the population at 10 million by 2050. Preliminary results show about 54-55% against, with turnout above 57%. The government and EU ties face no immediate upheaval, but criticism warns of consequences for housing, healthcare, and the labor market.
Rocket Lab has announced plans to acquire Iridium in an $8 billion deal, aiming to merge launch, manufacturing and a global satellite network to broaden its space-services footprint. The transaction values Iridium at $54 per share and signals ongoing consolidation in the satellite industry as SpaceX broadens its own services.
Two powerful earthquakes have struck near Caracas, killing thousands and injuring many more while triggering a major disaster response. The government reports rising tolls and widespread missing-persons amid damaged infrastructure and international aid efforts.
Aston Villa has spent €12m to sign Brian Madjo from Metz; FIFA registration rules have prevented the player from being registered, with a CAS appeal hearing held and a ruling expected as UEFA and Premier League deadlines loom.
The European Court of Justice has dismissed Google's appeal against the Android antitrust ruling, confirming the European Commission's 4.1–4.3 billion euro penalty for pre-installation practices. The decision comes after years of litigation, as Brussels continues to push for stronger digital regulation.
UBS reports 2025 global wealth rose 10.8%, fueled by stock markets and tech gains. The number of millionaires surged worldwide, led by the United States; median wealth fell in many markets, widening the rich-poor gap. Australia saw a rise in millionaires, though median wealth declined. The report highlights how assets and housing influence millionaire status and global inequality.
Amazon has reached a milestone with a satellite constellation of over 390 satellites, enabling initial Leo internet service later this year. The launch cadence faces delays from recent rocket setbacks, but the company plans broader coverage as more satellites go online.
Across Paris, Bastille Day preparations unfold as leaders from Europe gather to show unity with Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. The parade will include thousands of troops, with the Coalition of the Willing presenting a show of support. France also confronts a third heatwave, prompting some restrictions on fireworks and public events.
France's National Assembly has passed a bill allowing medically assisted dying for adults with a serious, incurable illness in an advanced or terminal stage, with strict safeguards and a constitutional review pending. The measure now faces scrutiny by the Constitutional Council and potential enactment by President Macron.
Northrop Grumman has launched MRV, a robotic vehicle with 10-foot arms to service geostationary satellites. It attaches electric jetpacks to aging assets, enabling in-orbit upgrades and life extensions of up to eight years per satellite. First operations are expected in the coming weeks once GEO reach is achieved.
Malaysia will host the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, branded as the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, slotting the race between Azerbaijan and Singapore. The move follows Middle East tensions and calendar revisions, with Imola considered as a contingency for Qatar if needed. Fans are assured a full calendar as the FIA and F1 adapt.