Italy’s Salvini is back in the news over infrastructure issues, as Deputy PM and Lega leader since 2022. Born 1973.
The 2026 Winter Olympics officially opened on February 6, 2026, with ceremonies held simultaneously in Milan's San Siro stadium and Cortina d'Ampezzo. The Games span over 350 kilometers across northern Italy, featuring 2,900 athletes from 90+ countries. The event blends Italian culture with global performances amid protests over U.S. ICE agents' advisory role and political tensions.
Support for Venezuela's ruling party is declining at the grassroots level, with reports of falling participation and support, amid economic uncertainty and internal fractures following Maduro's detention. The opposition and interim government face challenges in maintaining unity and influence.
On the first full day of the Winter Olympics in Milan, protests against the Games turned violent, with clashes between police and demonstrators. Sabotage of railway infrastructure caused delays, and protests also targeted Israel and US immigration policies. Authorities launched a terrorism investigation into the railway sabotage.
Hungary's upcoming election sees opposition leader Péter Magyar gaining ground against Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Allegations of wiretapping and close ties with Russia have increased EU scrutiny, as Orbán faces his toughest re-election bid amid political scandals and EU disputes.
Pope Leo XIV has been outspoken in his call for peace during his African tour, despite criticism from Donald Trump. The pope remains committed to condemning war and promoting dialogue, while Trump has branded him weak on foreign policy and crime. The visit highlights tensions between the Vatican and US leadership.
On April 13, 2026, Italy has suspended the automatic renewal of its 2005 defence memorandum with Israel. The move follows rising tensions after Israeli attacks in Lebanon and incidents involving Italian UN peacekeepers. Italy's right-wing government, previously a staunch Israel ally, is shifting its stance amid regional instability and upcoming elections.
Pope Leo XIV has publicly criticized US policies on Iran and war, calling for peace and dialogue. President Trump has responded with a series of attacks, including sharing an AI-generated image of himself as Jesus. The Pope states he is not afraid of political pressure and continues to advocate for peace during his African tour.