CAVOK

Moldovans have voted in what is arguably the country's most pivotal election since independence in 1991. Our guest says that there was "a big danger that pro-Russian forces might have drawn Moldova into Russia's war against Ukraine". But that danger was averted, and voters gave a clear thumbs-up to Moldova's European future and its desire to join the EU. We analyse the result of this parliamentary vote with Nicu Popescu, a former deputy prime minister and former foreign minister of Moldova.

Thousands of Greek workers prompted large-scale disruption during a 24-hour general strike on Wednesday, protesting against the conservative government's plans to introduce a 13-hour work day. The strike has disrupted transport in the capital Athens and the second-largest city Thessaloniki, trains and ferry services, while teachers, hospital staff and civil servants are also taking part.

Paywall? https://archive.is/aE5Z0

German supermarkets are a little different.

Europe faces a new challenge: Trump’s America is exporting its culture wars into the EU. From meddling in elections to humiliating trade and defence deals, MAGA is reshaping Europe’s politics. But a new report argues Europe can fight back—with unity, confidence, and its own values. In this video, we unpack Trump’s culture war, Europe’s response, and what’s at stake for the EU’s future.

Bart M. J. Szewczyk, Author, nonresident Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund and adjunct professor at Sciences Po, joins Genie Godula to break down Donald Trump’s latest rhetorical pivot on Russia. The US president’s recent remarks, suggesting Ukraine could “win back all of its territory”, mark a significant departure from his administration’s previously ambivalent and sympathetic stance toward Moscow. While Mr. Szewczyk cautions against taking Trump’s pronouncements at face value, he acknowledges “it is a big diplomatic shift and time will tell whether it translates into additional economic pressure against Russia and greater military support to Ukraine.”

Even as criticism of Israel ramps up and a growing number of countries say they’ll recognize a Palestinian state, concrete actions remain limited.

Invidious link: https://yewtu.be/watch?v=_jcKmywlYBM