● June 1st:
Russian Attack Devastates Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure
Russian forces launched a massive missile and drone attack across Ukraine, damaging energy infrastructure in five regions, according to Ukrainian officials. The national grid operator Ukrenergo reported that the strikes hit facilities in Donetsk, Zaporizhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovohrad, and Ivano-Frankivsk. Ukrainian air defense managed to shoot down 35 of 53 missiles and 46 of 47 drones. Russia's defense ministry claimed the strikes targeted energy facilities linked to Ukraine's military and weapon depots supplied by Western countries. This attack, the sixth since March, has significantly impacted Ukraine's power infrastructure, causing blackouts and increasing electricity imports. Following the attacks, the US eased restrictions on Ukraine using its weapons within Russian territory, a move supported by France and other European nations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been advocating for the use of longer-range weapons to counter Russian attacks, especially in the northeastern Kharkiv region. Recent Russian strikes in Kharkiv have resulted in significant casualties, including a deadly attack on an apartment block and a hardware superstore. - AlJazeera
● June 2nd:
Ukrainian Soldier Criticizes Delays in Western Arms Supplies
Denys, a Ukrainian serviceman on leave in Kyiv, expressed frustration with the delays in Western arms supplies, noting that initial refusals and lengthy deliberations cost lives. Despite eventual approvals for tanks, missiles, and fighter jets, the time lag has been detrimental. Recently, the US and other Western nations permitted Ukraine to use their supplied advanced weaponry for "limited strikes" within Russia, particularly in areas near the northeastern Kharkiv region. This move follows Russia's intensified attacks on Kharkiv and ongoing military advancements. Western concerns about provoking Russia have previously limited Ukraine's use of these weapons, fearing escalation to nuclear conflict. However, Ukraine has already conducted significant military actions within Russia without triggering such a response. The newly granted permissions include using air defense systems, artillery, and guided rockets, though long-range missile strikes remain restricted. Additionally, Ukrainian pilots are set to soon fly missions with Dutch F-16 fighter jets and other supplied aircraft. Despite these developments, the effectiveness of Ukraine's defense efforts is challenged by Russia's advanced electronic jamming systems, which have undermined satellite-guided missiles and GPS-guided artillery. Analysts believe that while the new permissions are significant, they will not be game-changers, and Ukraine must focus on containing Russian advancements and bolstering its electronic warfare capabilities. The recent permissions highlight Western nations' shift towards stronger support for Ukraine amidst relentless Russian bombings and the looming threat of a major offensive against Kharkiv. - AlJazeera
● June 4th:
China Denies Collusion Accusations with Russia Ahead of Ukraine Peace Summit
China has responded to accusations from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, rejecting claims that it colluded with Russia to undermine the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland on June 15-16. Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning stated on Monday that China believes all efforts should be recognized in supporting peace measures around the Russia-Ukraine war, emphasizing China's open and transparent position on the peace conference. More than 80 delegations are set to attend the summit in Burgenstock, Switzerland, aimed at laying groundwork for a peace process following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Despite accusations, China maintains neutrality in the conflict but has deepened ties with Moscow, including recent high-profile visits between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. China has opted not to participate in the peace summit, citing gaps between meeting arrangements and its expectations. - AlJazeera
● June 5th:
Zelenskyy Thanks Qatar for its Support During Meeting with Emir
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Qatar's support during his meeting with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha, emphasizing Qatar's role in efforts to return Ukrainian children forcibly taken to Russia amid the ongoing conflict. Zelenskyy and Sheikh Tamim discussed international efforts to end the fighting and protect civilians, underscoring the importance of dialogue in resolving the crisis. This visit precedes Zelenskyy's upcoming meeting with US President Joe Biden in Normandy, France, ahead of an international summit aimed at addressing the war in Ukraine later this month. - AlJazeera
● June 7th:
Russian Naval Deployment to Cuba Sparks Tensions
Four Russian vessels, including a nuclear-powered submarine, are set to arrive in Havana next week, announced Cuban officials. The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured that the vessels, which do not carry nuclear weapons, will dock between June 12 and 17, emphasizing that their presence "does not represent a threat to the region" and complies with international regulations. This deployment, including the nuclear submarine Kazan, comes amidst heightened tensions over the Ukraine war, with Cuba and the United States just 145 km apart. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently hinted at potential "asymmetrical" responses if Western countries supply Ukraine with advanced weaponry. Despite this, the US views the upcoming naval exercises in the Caribbean as non-threatening but will monitor them closely. Relations between Russia and Cuba have strengthened since a 2022 meeting between Presidents Miguel Diaz-Canel and Putin, recalling the Cold War era when Cuba hosted Soviet nuclear missiles, sparking the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. - AlJazeera
● June 8th:
US and France Reaffirm Unwavering Support for Ukraine
During a meeting in Paris, the United States and France reaffirmed their support for Ukraine amid its battle against Russia's invasion. At a joint news conference, President Joe Biden emphasized that Vladimir Putin would "not stop" at Ukraine, while French President Emmanuel Macron praised Biden's loyalty to Europe. Biden stated, "All of Europe will be threatened, we are not going to let that happen. The United States is standing strong with Ukraine." Macron expressed gratitude for Biden's partnership and respect for Europeans. The leaders met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, pledging continued political, security, humanitarian, and economic assistance to Ukraine. Despite differences in strategy, with the US cautious about escalation and France advocating for more direct support, both nations are united in their commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and defense against Putin's aggression. - AlJazeera
● June 9th:
Bulgarians Vote in Parliamentary Election Amidst Political Instability
Bulgarians have begun voting in their sixth parliamentary election in three years, seeking a stable government amidst prolonged political instability. The election, for the 247-member National Assembly, follows years of revolving-door governments since anti-corruption protests in 2020. Previous elections have resulted in fragile coalitions that quickly dissolved, exacerbating economic and demographic crises. Concerns over voter turnout reflect widespread mistrust and fatigue with the political system. Opinion polls suggest no party will secure a majority, likely leading to another round of coalition negotiations. The outcome is crucial for Bulgaria's stability, EU funding inflows, and progress towards adopting the euro and joining the Schengen Area. - AlJazeera
● June 10th:
Armenian Protests Escalate Against Prime Minister Pashinyan Over Border Decision
Large protests demanding the resignation of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan have entered a second day in Yerevan following a weekend demonstration. Thousands initially rallied against Pashinyan's decision last month to return four disputed border villages to Azerbaijan, a move viewed by many as a betrayal. Led by Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan, who advocates for closer ties with Russia, the protests intensified with calls for Pashinyan's impeachment, though lacking sufficient parliamentary support. Despite tensions, analysts suggest the protests pose minimal threat to Pashinyan's government unless met with a heavy-handed response by security forces. Relations with Russia further strained after Armenia's officials visited Ukraine, prompting Moscow to criticize what it called a "frankly unfriendly step." - AlJazeera
Ninety states meet at Ukraine Peace Submit
Ninety states will attend a conference in Switzerland on June 15-16 to seek a sustainable peace route for Ukraine, with Russia notably absent. Swiss President Viola Amherd stated that the goal is to outline a path to end the war that began nearly 28 months ago with Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Russia was not invited due to its lack of interest and Switzerland’s alignment with EU sanctions. The conference aims to define a roadmap for involving both Russia and Ukraine in future peace processes. Attendees include leaders from France and Germany, while the US will send Vice President Kamala Harris and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. Key developing nations like Turkey and South Africa have yet to confirm participation, and Brazil and China will not attend unless Russia is involved. Swiss officials hope to eventually bring Russia to the negotiating table. The agenda includes nuclear security, humanitarian aid, food security, navigation freedom, and prisoners of war. Switzerland will deploy up to 4,000 military personnel for security amid increased cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns, primarily from Russian sources. - AlJazeera
● June 11th:
Pakistan Weighs Neutrality and Peace Efforts Ahead of Ukraine Summit
Ahead of a global summit in Switzerland aimed at fostering peace in Ukraine, Pakistan faces a decision on whether to attend. Historically neutral on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Pakistan's choice is complicated by its significant stakes involving Ukrainian weapons and Russian oil, as well as China's decision to boycott the summit. Analysts argue that attending the summit would allow Pakistan to maintain its neutrality while contributing to peace efforts. Despite its neutral stance, Pakistan has been accused of supplying artillery ammunition to Ukraine, a claim it denies. Pakistan's decision is unlikely to significantly impact its relations with the West or its economic assistance from the IMF, making participation more about political optics than substantial diplomatic or economic consequences. - AlJazeera
● June 12th:
What’s on the G7 agenda in Italy?
Leaders from the G7 countries, including the United States, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom, are preparing to convene in Apulia, Italy, for their annual summit amidst global tensions and geopolitical competition with China. The gathering, expanded this year to include a record number of invited leaders from other nations such as Ukraine, India, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates, will focus on pressing issues including Africa, climate change, and the Middle East, particularly Israel's actions in Gaza. Discussions will also encompass economic security, artificial intelligence, and energy, with notable attention on Ukraine as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy participates in sessions addressing the ongoing conflict. The summit aims to produce joint statements on key issues, reflecting the group's role as a platform for policy articulation amid evolving global economic dynamics and challenges from alternative international groupings like the G20 and BRICS. - AlJazeera
● June 13th:
Why are Russian warships in Cuba?
On Wednesday, dozens of Havana residents gathered to witness Russian warships entering Cuba’s main harbor, showcasing Moscow’s naval strength amid heightened US tensions. Despite the Caribbean nation's proximity to the US, only 150 kilometers away, Russian-Cuban relations have historically been tense. This marks the largest Russian naval visit to Cuba in several years, with the fleet staying from June 12 to 17, allowing public tours. Officially described as a “friendly” routine visit, the convoy includes military training exercises. Analysts, however, interpret the move as a show of naval power in the US’s vicinity, especially following President Biden's decision to allow Ukraine to use American weapons against Russia. President Putin has warned of retaliation against the US and its Western allies, hinting at nuclear weapon use if provoked. The fleet comprises four vessels: the modern Admiral Gorshkov frigate equipped with advanced missiles, the nuclear-powered submarine Kazan, the oil tanker Pashin, and the rescue tugboat Nikolai Chiker. Experts believe the show of force aims to reassure Moscow's allies, Cuba and Venezuela, of its continued support against Washington. - Al Jazeera
● June 14th:
G7 Nations Propose $50 Billion Ukraine Loan Using Frozen Russian Assets
The G7 nations have unveiled a plan to allocate a $50 billion loan to Ukraine using frozen Russian assets, which total around $300 billion globally. This initiative, announced during their summit in Italy, aims to bolster Ukraine's defense efforts amid ongoing conflict with Russia. The loan, secured by one of the G7 members on international markets, will be funded by interest earnings from the frozen assets. However, the plan faces risks including potential political hurdles within the EU for annual sanctions renewal and financial uncertainties tied to market fluctuations. Russia has threatened retaliatory measures, underscoring the complex geopolitical backdrop surrounding the initiative. - AlJazeera
● June 16th:
Peace Summit Reaffirms Ukraine's Territorial Integrity and Calls for Dialogue
At the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, dozens of countries affirmed the necessity of respecting Kyiv's "territorial integrity" and called for dialogue to achieve a lasting settlement in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The final communique from the two-day diplomatic summit in Switzerland also supported the exchange of captured soldiers and the return of deported Ukrainian children. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope for swift results, asserting Russia's unwillingness for a just peace unless they vacate Ukrainian territories. Not all attendees backed the summit’s closing document, with notable absences from Saudi Arabia, India, South Africa, and others. The document reaffirmed the principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, calling for a complete exchange of prisoners of war and the return of nearly 20,000 children allegedly abducted by Russia. Discussions also covered global food security and nuclear safety, emphasizing that food security must not be weaponized and Ukraine should have control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Moscow, which was not invited, dismissed the summit as "absurd" and reported the capture of another village in the Zaporizhia region. - AlJazeera
● June 17th:
Putin to visit North Korea for the first time in 24 years
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit North Korea on June 18-19, marking his first visit in 24 years and highlighting the strengthening ties between the two nuclear-armed nations. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un extended the invitation during his visit to Russia in September. Putin last visited North Korea in 2000. In a letter published by North Korea’s ruling party newspaper, Putin emphasized the development of bilateral relations and mutual resistance to Western sanctions. The visit raises concerns that North Korea may be supplying Russia with munitions for the Ukraine war in exchange for economic aid and military technology. South Korea and the United States have expressed concerns about the security implications of this cooperation. The visit may result in a partnership agreement covering security and other cooperation areas. Putin will be accompanied by senior Russian officials, with key meetings scheduled for Wednesday. Following the North Korea visit, Putin will travel to Vietnam. - AlJazeera
● June 18th:
Hungary Backs Rutte for NATO Secretary-General with Assurances on Ukraine Participation
Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has thrown his support behind Mark Rutte as the next NATO Secretary-General after receiving written assurances that Rutte would not compel Hungary to participate in NATO's new plans to assist Ukraine. Rutte's pledge, conveyed in a letter to Orban following talks in Brussels, addresses a key concern for Hungary and clears a major hurdle for Rutte's candidacy. The agreement ensures Hungary will not be obliged to contribute personnel or funds to NATO's collective efforts without its consent, highlighting NATO's consensus-based decision-making process. The move sets the stage for Rutte's potential appointment, pending formal confirmation by NATO leaders at their upcoming summit in Washington. - AlJazeera
● June 19th:
Putin and Kim Strengthen Alliance
During President Vladimir Putin's first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged full support for Russia's war in Ukraine, with both leaders condemning the "hegemonic and imperialist policy" of the United States and its allies. Relations between North Korea and Russia have strengthened since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, amid concerns that North Korea is supplying weapons to Russia in exchange for technological expertise. Despite denying arms transfers, both countries have committed to bolstering military ties. Putin thanked Kim for North Korea's unwavering support and announced a new strategic partnership treaty, emphasizing mutual assistance and defense cooperation. The visit included a grand welcome ceremony and highlighted the deepening alliance between the two nations, both of which face international sanctions. - AlJazeera
● June 20th:
EU Imposes New Sanctions on Russia, Targets LNG Sector
European Union countries have agreed on a fresh wave of sanctions against Russia, marking the 14th round since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began. This latest package, which notably targets Russia's lucrative liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector for the first time, aims to deprive Moscow of additional energy revenues. The measures primarily prohibit the re-export of Russian gas to third countries via European waters, although they do not include a ban on EU countries purchasing Russian LNG directly. Experts suggest the impact on Russia may be limited, as only a small fraction of its LNG exports are re-exported via European ports to markets like China, Taiwan, and Turkey. Additional sanctions aim to hinder Russia's use of untraceable vessels to evade EU restrictions on oil exports, and also target Moscow's SPFS bank messaging system, which Russia uses to mitigate the effects of being excluded from the global SWIFT financial transfer system. Despite Belgium, holding the EU presidency, describing the sanctions as "powerful and substantial," negotiations were protracted and saw key proposals watered down under pressure, particularly from Germany. This includes delaying measures to prevent EU firms from indirectly exporting sanctioned goods to Russia via third countries. The EU plans to expand controls on dual-use technologies and has added more entities to its sanctions list, including Chinese firms allegedly aiding Russia's military efforts. - AlJazeera
● June 21st:
Major Electricity Blackout Hits Balkans Amid Severe Heatwave
A major electricity blackout has struck Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and parts of Croatia's Adriatic coast during a severe heatwave, leaving residents sweltering amid soaring temperatures. In Montenegro's capital, Podgorica, where temperatures reached 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit), power distributor CEDIS cited "network outages" affecting most of the country. Bosnia experienced widespread blackouts in Sarajevo, Banja Luka, and Mostar, with authorities attributing the issue to potential overloads on interconnectors due to high energy demand spurred by the heat. Croatia's coastal city of Split faced traffic disruptions as power failures knocked out traffic lights, while Albania's Tirana and several towns also reported electricity cuts. Operators have begun restoring power, linking the blackout to an "international disturbance" affecting multiple countries. The incident highlights the vulnerability of energy infrastructure during extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change, which intensifies heatwaves and strains electrical grids reliant on air conditioning. - AlJazeera
● June 22nd:
Russian Airstrike in Kharkiv Kills Three, Injures Dozens Amid Escalating Conflict
In Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, a Russian airstrike using guided bombs demolished an apartment building, resulting in three deaths and 29 injuries, including children and several critically wounded. President Zelenskyy condemned the attack as "Russian terror" and urged greater international support to halt such bombings and other military actions by Russian forces. Meanwhile, Russia intensified its strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure overnight, causing additional casualties among workers and exacerbating the country's ongoing power shortages. The conflict continues to escalate, highlighting the urgent need for international intervention to prevent further humanitarian devastation. - AlJazeera
● June 23rd:
Russia and Ukraine trade air attacks causing casualties
Russia and Ukraine exchanged attacks resulting in casualties over the weekend. A Ukrainian missile strike on Crimea killed 5 people, including 3 children, with Russia blaming the U.S. for providing the missiles. Concurrently, Russian strikes on Kharkiv killed one person and injured 10. Ukraine used 5 US-supplied ATACMS missiles in the Crimea attack, and Russia claimed US specialists coordinated the strike. Additional Ukrainian drone attacks caused casualties in Russia's Belgorod region, while drone interceptions occurred in Bryansk and Smolensk regions. In Kyiv, Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 2 of 3 Russian missiles, causing injuries and property damage. President Zelenskyy called for more support against Russian guided bombs, which have caused significant casualties. A Russian official hinted at potential changes to Russia's nuclear doctrine in response to increased threats. - AlJazeera
● June 24th:
US Allies Criticize Russia-North Korea Military Alliance
The United States and its allies in the Asia Pacific region, namely South Korea and Japan, have strongly criticized the newly formed military alliance between Russia and North Korea. The alliance, formalized during Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to Pyongyang, includes mutual aid commitments in case of attack. In a joint statement issued on Monday, the US, South Korea, and Japan expressed "grave concern," emphasizing that the pact could destabilize peace and non-proliferation efforts on the Korean Peninsula and globally, particularly amidst Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The statement reaffirmed strong diplomatic and security cooperation among the 3 allies to counter threats from North Korea, with the US underscoring its unwavering military support for South Korea and Japan. Meanwhile, tensions have heightened with North Korea criticizing the presence of the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier in the region, viewing it as a provocative show of force, while warning of potential retaliatory actions if perceived threats persist from the US. - AlJazeera
● June 25th:
ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Russia's Sergei Shoigu and Valery Gerasimov
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Russia’s former defense minister Sergei Shoigu and military chief General Valery Gerasimov, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity for missile strikes on Ukrainian civilian targets, specifically electric infrastructure, from October 2022 to March 2023. The ICC alleges that these strikes targeted civilian objects, causing disproportionate harm compared to any military advantage gained. Russia contends that Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is a legitimate military target and denies targeting civilians. This marks another significant legal move by the ICC concerning Russia’s actions in Ukraine, despite Russia not recognizing the court’s jurisdiction or complying with its warrants. - AlJazeera
● June 26th:
American Journalist Evan Gershkovich Faces Espionage Charges in Russia Trial
American journalist Evan Gershkovich, employed by the Wall Street Journal, has found himself at the center of an espionage trial in Yekaterinburg, Russia, marking the first such case involving a foreign journalist since the Soviet Union's collapse. Gershkovich, accused by Moscow of acting as a CIA agent gathering classified data on a Russian military-industrial enterprise during a reporting assignment, denies all charges. If convicted, he faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison. Both the US government and Gershkovich's employer vehemently reject the accusations, labeling them as baseless and politically motivated. The case has raised international concerns about press freedom in Russia, which has been increasingly restricted under President Vladimir Putin, particularly since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Efforts for a potential prisoner swap involving Gershkovich have been hinted at by Russian President Putin, although specifics remain uncertain amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations. - AlJazeera
● June 27th:
Russia Faces Diplomatic and Judicial Setbacks Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict
Despite President Vladimir Putin's visits to North Korea and Vietnam, Russia faced significant diplomatic and judicial setbacks over its war on Ukraine. Putin signed a strategic treaty with North Korea's Kim Jong Un, sparking South Korea to reconsider its arms supply ban to Ukraine. Russia suffered further blows as the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for former Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of Military Staff Valery Gerasimov for their roles in attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The European Court of Human Rights also condemned Russia for multiple human rights violations in occupied territories. Diplomatically, Russia faced EU sanctions and the official opening of accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova. Meanwhile, on the battlefield, Russia struggled to make significant advances in Ukraine, prompting Western allies to ease restrictions on Ukraine's use of supplied weaponry. Ukraine responded with effective strikes on Russian military and oil facilities using domestically developed weapons. Additionally, Ukraine's allies, including Romania and the Netherlands, announced the provision of Patriot air defense systems to bolster Ukraine's defenses. - AlJazeera
● June 28th:
ISS astronauts take cover as defunct Russian satellite shatters
A defunct Russian satellite, RESURS-P1, broke up into nearly 200 pieces of debris, prompting astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) to take shelter for about an hour. NASA reported that the 6 American crew members on the ISS were instructed to "shelter in their respective spacecraft" as a precaution. After monitoring the debris, the crew was cleared to resume normal operations. US Space Command initially tracked over 100 pieces of debris, while LeoLabs later detected at least 180 pieces. The debris is expected to pose a hazard for weeks to months. The RESURS-P1 satellite was decommissioned by Russia in 2021 due to equipment failures. There was no indication that a missile strike caused the breakup, with experts suggesting it could have been an internal explosion. The incident highlights concerns about space debris and the potential for a Kessler effect, where collisions create more hazardous debris, increasing crash risks. - AlJazeera
● June 29th:
At least 12 killed during spate of Russian attacks on Ukraine
Russian attacks across Ukraine have intensified, resulting in at least 12 deaths, including four children, and multiple injuries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that the death toll in Vilniansk, near Zaporizhzhia, might rise, urging Western allies to expedite weapons deliveries. In Vilniansk, seven people, including two children, were killed and 18 others wounded by a missile strike in a civilian area. Additional attacks on Saturday killed four people and injured 23 in eastern villages, while a nine-storey building in Dnipro was hit, killing one and wounding 12. Russia has increased its air raids, targeting energy facilities and vital infrastructure along a 1,000km front. Ukraine's military reported 90 hostile attacks, with Donetsk experiencing 13 shelling incidents in 24 hours. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for more air defense systems from allies to counter Russian aggression. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian drone attack in Russia's Kursk region killed five people, including two children. - AlJazeera
● June 30th:
Far-Right Parties Form 'Patriots for Europe' Alliance, Aim for EU Influence
Austria’s far-right Freedom Party (FPO), Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s Fidesz, and Czech populist party ANO, led by Andrej Babis, have announced the formation of a new political alliance in the European Parliament named "Patriots for Europe." Seeking recognition as an official group, the alliance requires support from parties in at least four other EU member states. Orban emphasized the alliance's goal of reshaping European politics, criticizing the "Brussels elite" and advocating for a platform focused on peace, security, and development. The move comes as Hungary prepares to assume the EU presidency, raising concerns over its influence on EU decisions amidst ongoing controversies surrounding democratic norms and foreign policy stances. - AlJazeera