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Seven dead after train and bus collide at Slovakia level-crossing

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Seven people have lost their lives and five others were injured when an international express train collided with a bus at a level crossing in southern Slovakia, according to officials. The Slovak ambulance service confirmed that all the fatalities were bus passengers, who were severely burned in the ensuing fire, complicating the identification process, as stated by Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok.

The tragic accident occurred near the town of Nove Zamky, around 80km (50 miles) east of Bratislava, shortly after 17:00 local time (16:00 BST) on Thursday. At the time of the collision, the train carried approximately 200 people, while there were nine passengers on the bus. The impact split the Arriva bus in two, and both the bus and train drivers were among the injured.

Photographs from the scene depicted the locomotive engulfed in flames, with passengers evacuating along the tracks. The train involved was the EuroCity 279 service, traveling from Prague to Budapest via Bratislava, operated by a Czech Railways locomotive pulling Slovak Railways carriages. Czech Railways commended their driver for his quick actions to prevent injuries to the train passengers by attempting to avoid derailment. It is reported that he jumped into the control room moments before the collision and sustained burns in the subsequent fire.

An Arriva spokeswoman mentioned in Slovak media that the bus driver had over 30 years of experience. Local media also published videos showing passengers carrying luggage away from the burning train, with thick smoke billowing into the sky. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident. Some reports suggest the level crossing’s flashing lights and barriers were malfunctioning due to a recent storm. However, eyewitness accounts claim the lights were operational, the barriers were initially lowered, but then raised, leading to the bus crossing and being struck by the train.

Slovak Railways has not commented on these claims. Minister Estok, who visited the accident scene, emphasized on social media the importance of road and railroad crossing safety, remarking that “a little inattention is enough and life can change in a hundredth of a second – forever.”

Passenger Katarina Molnarova, 43, recounted to AFP that just as she departed from Nove Zamky station, she felt and heard a crash. She mentioned there was no panic, and passengers calmly took their luggage and walked to safety. Emergency services dispatched five ambulances and three air ambulances to the site.

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French Prime Minister’s Last-Ditch Effort to Prevent Far-Right Triumph

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France’s fast-paced election campaign has concluded, and despite last-minute pleas against supporting the far-right, voters seem poised to deliver a historic win for the National Rally (RN) party in parliamentary elections. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has cautioned that this could lead to increased hate and aggression. Nonetheless, the party led by Marine Le Pen and the 28-year-old Jordan Bardella, who could potentially become the next prime minister, is leading in the opinion polls.

The National Rally has managed to maintain its position despite numerous accusations of racism involving both party members and supporters. The critical question now is whether they can secure an absolute majority in the two rounds of voting over the next two Sundays.

RN is preparing for a significant outcome, with polls showing 36.5% support just before the campaign ended. Their candidates aim to win many seats in the National Assembly outright, but most will be decided in run-off votes on July 7, involving two to four contenders.

A newly formed left-wing alliance, the New Popular Front, is close behind RN with 29% support, while the Ensemble alliance, led by Gabriel Attal, is at 20.5%. Attal describes both RN and the New Popular Front as extreme.

No region of mainland France supported RN more than L’Aisne in the European vote, with over 50% backing. This area already has RN MPs and a National Rally mayor, Franck Briffaut, who sees victory as inevitable, likening it to Giorgia Meloni’s win in Italy.

Briffaut and others in his party aim for an absolute majority in the National Assembly, needing at least 289 of the 577 seats. However, President Macron, who will appoint the next prime minister, has indicated he will remain in office until his term ends in 2027.

Jordan Bardella is pushing for an absolute majority and has hinted at a “government of national unity.” He has suggested including former conservative leader Eric Ciotti, despite his alienation from most colleagues. This raises questions about potential power-sharing with President Macron, which could lead to a difficult political landscape.

Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has warned of possible unrest from both the ultra-left and ultra-right following the elections. In the northern town of Soissons, which has an RN MP, locals remain skeptical of RN’s impact, despite the party’s rebranding efforts.

RN’s platform includes “National priority,” which limits social welfare to French citizens, alongside tax cuts and restrictions on strategic jobs for dual nationals. This has raised concerns among some, especially in diverse communities.

The outcome of this election could significantly impact French politics, with the possibility of RN gaining substantial influence in the National Assembly.

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Von der Leyen Nominated for Second Term as EU Commission President

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EU leaders have nominated Ursula von der Leyen, the current European Commission head, for a second five-year term during a summit in Brussels. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas has been selected as the EU’s next foreign affairs chief, and former Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa has been chosen as the next chairman of EU summits. All three candidates are from centrist, pro-EU factions.

The European Parliament will vote on the nominations of Ms. von der Leyen and Ms. Kallas. Von der Leyen is from Germany’s centre-right, Costa is a socialist, and Kallas is a liberal. This leadership package represents continuity for the EU amid geopolitical uncertainty, despite a recent surge in support for hard-right parties in the European Parliament elections.

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has shown resistance, stating that the plans ignore the successes of hard-right parties like her own. Meloni, who heads the right-wing European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) bloc, abstained from voting for von der Leyen and voted against Costa and Kallas. Despite the ECR becoming the third largest group in the European Parliament, Meloni was not included in the nomination discussions.

Meloni expressed frustration, arguing that European voters had asked for a different direction. Without naming names, she criticized those who believe in oligarchy as the only acceptable form of democracy.

Von der Leyen will need 361 votes from the European Parliament for confirmation. Support from the centre-right European People’s Party, liberals, and social democrats could give her enough backing, but it will be close. Diplomats suggest that von der Leyen might seek Meloni’s support by offering Italy a powerful commission post.

Von der Leyen expressed gratitude for her nomination and highlighted the importance of supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, a task that may become more complex if Donald Trump wins the upcoming US presidential election.

Kallas, known for her strong support of Ukraine and criticism of the Kremlin, acknowledged the significant responsibility of her new role. Some critics are concerned that her firm stance on Russia could pose challenges.

Costa praised his colleagues and emphasized the importance of European unity and resilience. He will replace Belgium’s Charles Michel, and Kallas will succeed Spain’s Josep Borrell.

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How bees could help war-hit families in Ukraine

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Researchers have found that beeswax could be crucial for preserving food in war zones like Ukraine. Due to Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, many areas in Ukraine face blackouts, leading to a lack of refrigeration during the summer. To address this, UK scientists are helping Ukrainian beekeepers develop beeswax wraps for perishable foods.

Ukraine, the largest honey producer in Europe, has been working with researchers from Cardiff University. The team, led by Professor Les Baille, has been analyzing beehives to identify the best beeswax for food preservation. They have created various beeswax wrap “recipes,” combining beeswax with other antimicrobial plants like sage to enhance preservation.

These beeswax wraps, traditionally used to extend the life of sandwiches, can now be used for various other foods. The research involves rubbing beeswax into cloth or paper to create the wraps, which can extend the freshness of food by a couple of days in the absence of refrigeration.

The Cardiff team has been collaborating with academics and beekeepers in Ukraine, testing beehives to find the most effective beeswax. In Kharkiv, which has experienced heavy fighting, researchers at Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute are disseminating this information through social media to help Ukrainians try these wraps during the summer.

Dr. Yuliia Yudina from the National University Pharmacy at Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute noted that power cuts have led to significant food waste. The beeswax wraps can help keep bread, fruits, and vegetables fresher. The initiative has even garnered interest from the Ukrainian military, highlighting its potential impact in conflict zones.

Professor Baille emphasized that their goal is to make a small but meaningful difference from their safe homes. This project hopes to harness the natural antibiotic properties of honey, a practice dating back to Ancient Greece, to aid those in need in war-torn regions.

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Kvaratskhelia: Georgia ‘more motivated’ than Portugal

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In a historic moment for Georgian football, the national team secured their first-ever advancement to the knockout stage of a major tournament with a stunning upset victory over Portugal at Euro 2024. Despite Portugal already having clinched the group, Georgia made their mark early when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia drilled a low shot past goalkeeper Diogo Costa within the first two minutes of play.

The goal came as Georgia capitalized on a breakaway, swiftly turning over possession and setting the tone for much of the match to follow. Content to let Portugal control possession, Georgia remained steadfast in defense, closing down space effectively and frustrating their more fancied opponents. Their defensive discipline paid off, denying Portugal clear-cut chances while waiting patiently to exploit opportunities on the counterattack.

Georges Mikautadze further cemented Georgia’s lead in the second half, calmly converting a penalty to extend their advantage. Despite few chances of their own, Georgia’s organized defensive display kept Portugal at bay, with Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates struggling to break through.

The victory over Portugal, one of the favorites, ranks among the biggest upsets in Euro history based on FIFA rankings. It marked a historic achievement for Georgia, who had averaged the lowest possession in Euro qualifying but showcased resilience and tactical prowess when it mattered most.

Managed by Willy Sagnol, Georgia executed their game plan to perfection, with Kvaratskhelia and Mikautadze positioned strategically to exploit Portugal’s vulnerabilities. Goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili had little to do for much of the match, a testament to Georgia’s defensive solidity.

For Georgia’s young stars like Mikautadze, who had scored in each of their group-stage matches, the victory was a night to remember. Now, having earned a place in the round of 16, Georgia faces a formidable challenge against Spain, while Portugal looks ahead to their matchup against Slovenia.

Kvaratskhelia’s early strike and Georgia’s disciplined performance against Portugal not only secured their progression in the tournament but also etched a new chapter in Georgian football history, promising further excitement and anticipation as they continue their Euro 2024 campaign.

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Four Gazelles Die at Spanish Conservation Center Following Nearby Music Festival

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Four gazelles at a conservation center in Almería, Spain, died following a nearby music festival. According to the center’s veterinarian, Dr. Sonia Domínguez, the animals were agitated during the concert on Saturday, but the worst effects occurred the next day as the gazelles collided with walls, resulting in fatal injuries. Dr. Domínguez, who works at the Estación Experimental de Zonas Áridas (EEZA), was with the animals during the event. Despite prior requests from her team to relocate the festival, Almería Cultura, the town’s cultural hub, defended the decision to proceed, stating on X that noise levels did not exceed 65 dB at the center’s outer wall. However, Dr. Domínguez emphasized that the issue was not solely about decibel levels, as animals are more sensitive to sound and vibration than humans.

Local authorities expressed regret over the deaths but argued that the center had reached premature conclusions, suggesting other factors might be involved. Dr. Domínguez highlighted that the breeding season heightened the animals’ sensitivity, noting that gazelles, as prey animals, instinctively flee from perceived threats, leading to traumatic injuries. A day-old calf also died because its mother, distressed by the noise, failed to care for it.

The center’s director, Teresa Abáigar, criticized the Almería city council for not taking necessary precautions to protect the animals. Dr. Domínguez reiterated the center’s request for future events to be relocated to avoid disturbing the animals, though they have yet to receive a response. The conservation center is crucial for preserving endangered species from northern Africa, classified as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Additionally, a barbary sheep died as a result of the concert. Dr. Domínguez expressed frustration that authorities failed to recognize the risks involved.

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VW to invest up to $5bn in Tesla rival Rivian

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Volkswagen (VW), the German automotive giant, has announced an investment of up to $5 billion (£3.94 billion) in Rivian, a competitor to Tesla. This partnership forms a joint venture allowing both VW and the US-based electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer to share technology. Following the announcement, Rivian’s stock surged nearly 50%.

The collaboration comes amid increasing competition among EV manufacturers and the imposition of tariffs on Chinese imports by Western nations. VW will start with an initial $1 billion investment in Rivian, with an additional $4 billion planned by 2026.

Founded in 2009, Rivian has yet to achieve a quarterly profit, reporting a net loss of over $1.4 billion in the first quarter of 2024. VW, facing pressure from competitors like Tesla and China’s BYD, is working to transition from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to EVs.

The partnership provides VW with immediate access to Rivian’s software, which it can integrate into its vehicles. The deal also comes as Chinese EV manufacturers expand globally, increasing competition. The European Union (EU) recently announced plans to raise tariffs on Chinese EV imports by up to 38%, following an investigation that found Chinese EV companies had been unfairly subsidized. China criticized these tariffs as violating international trade rules and labeled the investigation as protectionist.

The tariff increase by the EU follows the United States’ decision to raise import duties on Chinese EVs from 25% to 100%. Canada is also considering similar measures to align with its allies.

Separately, Tesla announced a recall of over 11,000 Cybertrucks sold in the US due to issues with windscreen wipers and exterior trim. The Cybertrucks were first released at the end of November last year.

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Macron’s Election Gamble: The Fate of French Democracy at Stake

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Two neighboring countries are approaching unexpected elections, with both governments expected to fall. Political tensions have strained relationships among families and friends. Despite significant issues in the UK election, the stakes are higher in France, where not just a government or leader is at risk, but the political system itself. Unlike the UK, which is at the end of a political cycle and where calling an early election was rational for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, France faces uncertainty.

President Macron called a snap election after a significant defeat by the far right in the European parliament elections. His aim was to regain a centrist majority in the National Assembly, but polls indicate the far-right National Rally (RN) remains ahead, with a left-wing alliance, led by France Unbowed (LFI), potentially coming second. The likely outcomes are either an RN majority or a hung parliament, both of which pose significant risks: a sovereign debt crisis, street violence, and institutional collapse.

Veteran commentator Nicolas Baverez points out that France’s Fifth Republic was designed to handle crises, but the current instability and the president’s own confusion could lead to a breakdown of institutions. Across France, there is an awareness of the country’s precarious situation.

Jordan Bardella, the 28-year-old RN leader, could become the next Prime Minister, adding to the political tension. Macron’s invocation of potential “civil war” and his attempt to use fear to drive voters towards the center is seen as dangerous and could incite hate and violence. The government is preparing for possible violent protests during the election rounds on June 30 and July 7. The far-left LFI’s support base in immigrant-heavy areas and its stance on Gaza further complicate matters.

Political instability could also affect the upcoming Olympic Games, which begin shortly after the election. Baverez draws a parallel between France’s current situation and the populist moments in the US and UK a decade ago, suggesting that France’s institutions and the euro previously shielded it from such upheaval. However, with the traditional method of managing social peace through public debt no longer viable, France now faces its own populist challenge.

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Frontline LGBT Troops in Ukraine Battle Homophobia

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In Kyiv’s central square, thousands of blue and yellow flags honor Ukraine’s fallen soldiers, with a new addition this month: unicorns, symbolizing LGBT soldiers killed in action. These soldiers face inequality, lacking rights like heterosexual troops due to Ukraine’s ban on gay marriage. Rodion, a costume designer, planted a flag for his deceased boyfriend, highlighting the common sacrifice in war regardless of sexual orientation.

Attitudes toward LGBT rights in Ukraine have evolved, but challenges persist. LGBT soldiers endure harassment and discrimination, even as they serve on the front lines. Mariya Volya, who came out amid the Russian invasion, faced backlash but remains determined to advocate for equality, alongside her fiancée Diana.

The recent Pride march in Kyiv, the first since the invasion, underscored these struggles. LGBT soldiers participated, some using the event to come out publicly. Viktor Pylypenko, Ukraine’s first openly gay soldier, has been instrumental in raising awareness and fostering acceptance within the military and society.

However, resistance to LGBT rights remains strong, both in parliament and society, influenced by conservative and religious opposition. A bill for civil partnerships has stalled, reflecting broader societal divisions despite evolving European integration aspirations.

The war with Russia has intensified the urgency for equality among LGBT Ukrainians, though progress is uncertain amid political and social challenges.

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Florence elects first woman mayor

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Florence has elected its first female mayor, Sara Funaro, who decisively defeated her right-wing opponent. A local councillor from the centre-left Democratic Party (PD), Funaro secured governance of the Italian city with over 60% of the vote. Her opponent, Eike Schmidt, a former director of Florence’s Uffizi Gallery and a candidate backed by Italy’s far-right coalition government, garnered 39%.

This election concluded a series of votes in which centre-left parties claimed victories in five regional capitals. As the vote count progressed, Funaro expressed her excitement and dedicated her victory to her grandfather, Piero Bargellini, known for his leadership during the 1966 Florence flood. Despite his loss, Schmidt, a political newcomer born in Germany, stated that his campaign performed well and remained optimistic.

Funaro’s win is part of a broader success for Italy’s centre-left alliance, led by the PD. In recent votes, the alliance maintained control of Bergamo in Lombardy and Bari in Puglia, and captured Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital, and Perugia in Umbria from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s far-right ruling coalition. This follows significant gains by the right in the recent European Parliament elections.

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