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France bans 28 Israeli settlers over West Bank violence

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France has taken decisive action by announcing the ban of 28 Israeli settlers who stand accused of perpetrating attacks against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank. This move aligns with similar measures enacted by other nations, including the United States and the United Kingdom, which have also imposed restrictions on individuals involved in comparable activities. The French government’s decision comes amidst escalating violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, prompting a firm condemnation of such actions.

In a statement issued by the French foreign ministry, the country emphasized the gravity of the situation, denouncing the unacceptable violence perpetrated against Palestinian civilians. France, along with Poland and Germany, collectively announced sanctions against Israelis implicated in attacks within the West Bank. This concerted effort underscores the international community’s recognition of the need to address the escalating tensions and safeguard the rights of Palestinians in the region.

The French government reiterated its stance on the illegality of colonization under international law, emphasizing the imperative to halt such activities. It emphasized the necessity of ending colonization to pave the way for the establishment of a viable Palestinian state, thereby enabling Israelis and Palestinians to coexist peacefully and securely. France also expressed its intention to pursue sanctions at the European level, highlighting the importance of a coordinated approach among European Union member states in addressing the ongoing conflict.

While the individuals affected by these measures have not been publicly named, the broader context underscores the gravity of the situation. The imposition of sanctions by France and other nations reflects a concerted effort to address the escalating violence and promote stability in the region. As the international community continues to grapple with the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, such actions serve as a testament to the importance of upholding human rights and seeking avenues for peaceful resolution.

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Ukraine war: Baby killed in Russian strike on Kharkiv hotel

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A tragic incident occurred in northeastern Ukraine as a Russian missile struck a hotel, resulting in the death of a two-month-old baby and injuring his mother. The governor of Kharkiv region, Oleh Synehubov, reported the retrieval of the baby’s body from the collapsed building in Zolochiv. This attack, carried out with two S-300 missiles, also wounded two other women. The village’s proximity to the Russian border renders it vulnerable, as Ukrainian air defenses cannot adequately cover such areas.

Originally designed for Russia’s air defense, the S-300 missiles have been repurposed to target Ukrainian ground installations, deemed a cost-effective alternative to more precise cruise missiles. Recent months have seen increased assaults on the Kharkiv region, with another hotel targeted in Kharkiv city previously, resulting in numerous injuries, including journalists covering the conflict.

In response to Russia’s aggression, Ukrainian forces launched a lethal strike on Belgorod, near the border. Additionally, Ukraine’s SBU security service apprehended five individuals suspected of involvement in a Russian espionage ring, allegedly providing sensitive information to Russia’s FSB, including details on military assets and infrastructure.

As Ukraine braces itself amidst the ongoing conflict, President Volodymyr Zelensky contemplates strategic shifts, including potential changes in leadership within the armed forces. Despite challenges and setbacks, Zelensky emphasizes the importance of perseverance and unity in achieving victory.

While US military assistance to Ukraine faces delays due to political wrangling in Congress, the European Union has approved a substantial aid package for Ukraine, highlighting its steadfast support amid the approaching third year of conflict.

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Hungary’s Viktor Orban and EU leaders to face off over Ukraine aid at crucial summit

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European leaders are gathering in Brussels with the aim of resolving a deadlock over financial aid for Ukraine, a €50 billion package that was vetoed by Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban in December. Orban’s decision is believed to be connected to the EU withholding €20 billion from Hungary due to concerns about human rights and corruption in the country.

This impasse is preventing crucial funding from reaching Ukraine, particularly as the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion looms. Orban, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has consistently opposed EU sanctions on Russian oil and gas, contributing to the growing frustration among EU leaders with Hungary’s stance.

As the EU leaders attempt to address the Ukrainian aid issue, there are rumors of potential punitive actions against Hungary. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has asserted that the EU will find a solution to support Ukraine, even if it means proceeding without Hungary’s approval. Reports from the Financial Times suggest that Brussels officials could take measures affecting Hungary’s economy if Orban continues to block the aid package. In response, Orban accused the EU of blackmail, emphasizing the need for a resolution.

The summit is unfolding against the backdrop of widespread farmers’ protests across Europe that have persisted for weeks. Farmers are demonstrating against EU measures aimed at making the agricultural sector more sustainable and the bloc’s decision to lift quotas on Ukrainian grain exports. The protests have alarmed many European leaders, prompting them to seek solutions from the EU to address farmers’ concerns.

The European Commission has made some concessions, proposing an exemption to an unpopular fallow-land requirement and introducing a “safeguard mechanism” to reimpose emergency tariffs on Ukrainian imports if necessary. However, the EU’s farmers’ association, Copa-Cogeca, has expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the proposed safeguard mechanism does not provide sufficient relief for producers.

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Karim Benzema files defamation suit against French interior minister

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French footballer Karim Benzema has taken legal action against France’s interior minister, Gérald Darmanin, by filing a defamation lawsuit. The minister had accused Benzema of having links with the Muslim Brotherhood in October, claiming that he had a “notorious link” with the Sunni Muslim Islamist group. Benzema, who currently plays in Saudi Arabia and is a practicing Muslim, refutes any association with the organization and argues that Darmanin’s comments have damaged his honor and reputation.

In response to the minister’s accusations, Benzema issued a strong denial and promptly threatened legal action for slander. His lawyer, Hugues Vigier, emphasized that the footballer has “never had the slightest link with the Muslim Brotherhood organization” and accused Darmanin of engaging in “political exploitation.” Benzema contends that, due to his high profile, he is being used in political games, particularly in light of significant events, and insists that such statements are inappropriate.

The Muslim Brotherhood, founded about 80 years ago in Egypt, is banned in several countries, including Egypt, Russia, and Saudi Arabia. However, it is not restricted in most of the European Union. Benzema’s legal complaint highlights the broader issue of political exploitation and the potential consequences of associating individuals with controversial groups based on their personal beliefs.

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Serbia’s Aleksandar Vucic claims big election victory for ruling party

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Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has declared victory in snap parliamentary elections, with his Serbian Progressive Party projected to secure almost 47% of the vote, potentially gaining an absolute majority in the National Assembly. Opposition parties, part of the Serbia Against Violence (SPN) coalition, lagged behind with around 23% and alleged electoral fraud in favor of the government, calling for a recount.

While the SPN had hoped to win control of Belgrade in local elections, initial results showed the ruling party slightly ahead in the capital. The SPN claimed electoral fraud, demanding the annulment of the vote in Belgrade and hinting at possible protests. The ruling party has been in power since 2012, and despite opposition efforts, it appears set to maintain control.

Serbia, a candidate for EU membership, faces pressure to normalize relations with Kosovo, which declared independence in 2008. Ethnic Serbs in Kosovo crossed into Serbia to vote, adding a layer of complexity to the political landscape.

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Ukraine war: Dozens wounded in missile strikes on Kyiv

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Dozens of people were injured in a series of missile strikes on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, overnight, with 53 people, including six children, harmed, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko. The attacks occurred after President Volodymyr Zelensky’s plea for increased military aid in the US yielded little progress. Ten Russian ballistic missiles were reportedly shot down, damaging kindergarten and hospital buildings. Zelensky, who left the US prior to the strikes, vowed a response and criticized Russia for targeting residential areas. The EU is set to discuss further aid for Ukraine, and Zelensky arrived in Norway for additional support talks.

The attack on Kyiv followed the use of cruise missiles by Russia, ending a 79-day hiatus in missile attacks. Ukraine’s air force claimed to have intercepted all 10 incoming missiles. The projectiles were identified as Iskander-M ballistic missiles and S-400s, designed for air defense but also used against ground targets. A major cyberattack on Ukraine’s largest mobile network operator, Kyivstar, disrupted operations, impacting millions of people relying on air raid alerts. Additionally, the port city of Odesa faced drone attacks, causing injuries and damage.

Zelensky’s efforts to secure more military aid in the US faced challenges, with President Joe Biden warning Republicans about giving Russia a “Christmas gift” if aid was not increased. Zelensky and Biden agreed to enhance air defense systems for Ukraine. Meanwhile, a summit of European leaders discussed Ukraine’s potential accession to the EU, but Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban opposed opening accession talks, emphasizing the need for support without full membership.

Hungary has previously clashed with EU partners over its stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed Ukraine’s fight as crucial for Europe and urged support for its inclusion in the European family.

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Dutch election: Anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders wins dramatic victory

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Geert Wilders, a veteran anti-Islam populist leader, has achieved a significant victory in the Dutch general election, securing 37 seats for his Freedom Party (PVV) after 25 years in parliament. This outcome has shaken Dutch politics and is anticipated to have repercussions across Europe. Despite his success, Wilders needs to form a coalition government by persuading other parties to join him, aiming for a total of 76 seats in the 150-seat parliament.

Wilders capitalized on public frustration regarding migration issues, promising to “close borders.” However, he temporarily shelved his proposal to ban the Koran. In his victory speech, Wilders expressed the desire to govern and acknowledged the substantial responsibility that comes with the support he received.

Before the election, major parties had ruled out participating in a Wilders-led government due to his far-right policies. However, the scale of his victory may prompt reconsideration. The left-wing alliance under Frans Timmermans came in second with 25 seats, rejecting any collaboration with a Wilders-led government.

The third-placed VVD, a center-right liberal party led by Dilan Yesilgöz, and a new party formed by whistleblower MP Pieter Omtzigt in fourth, remain potential coalition partners. While Yesilgöz previously stated she would not serve in a Wilders-led cabinet, she did not rule out working with him. Omtzigt, initially hesitant, now expresses willingness to cooperate.

Wilders’ victory has garnered praise from nationalist and far-right leaders across Europe. He advocates for a referendum to leave the EU, known as “Nexit,” although this may face resistance from potential coalition partners.

During the campaign, Wilders softened his anti-Islam rhetoric, focusing on issues such as migration. He strategically deferred policies like banning mosques and Islamic schools. The campaign capitalized on dissatisfaction with the previous government’s collapse over asylum rules.

Migration emerged as a key theme, with Wilders vowing to address a “tsunami of asylum and immigration.” Net migration into the Netherlands surged to over 220,000, exacerbated by a shortage of 390,000 homes.

Despite the shock of Wilders’ victory, challenges lie ahead in forming a government, particularly due to his far-right stance. The international precedent suggests that excluding radical right-wing parties may diminish their influence.

In conclusion, Geert Wilders’ triumph in the Dutch general election has political implications for the country and echoes across Europe, with the formation of a coalition government presenting a complex task for the populist leader.

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Finland Alleges Russia’s Involvement in Facilitating Unauthorized Migrant Crossings

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Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has accused Russia of aiding migrants in entering Finland illegally, alleging that some have received assistance from Russian border guards. The number of unauthorized crossings has increased this week, with around 89 incidents recorded in two days, compared to 91 in the preceding four months. Finnish officials reveal that migrants, including individuals from Iraq, Yemen, and Syria, are arriving legally in Russia but lack authorization to enter Finland, an EU member state.

Colonel Matti Pitkaniitty of the Finnish border guard noted a change in Russian policy, asserting that Russian guards traditionally prevented people without proper documents from reaching the Finnish border. The migrants are exploiting an agreement allowing cycling across the border, prompting Finland to recently ban bicycle crossings. Most activity is concentrated around the Nuijamaa and Vaalimaa border crossings in south-eastern Finland. Prime Minister Orpo claimed that Russian authorities are facilitating these illegal crossings, emphasizing the assistance provided by border guards.

In 2021, a significant number of migrants from the Middle East and Africa entered EU member states Poland and Lithuania by flying to Belarus, a close Russian ally. The EU accused Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko of using migration as a tool of “hybrid warfare” to destabilize the bloc. Colonel Pitkaniitty, while acknowledging the manageable current numbers, stated that Finnish authorities are prepared to react if crossings increase.

Interior Minister Mari Rantanen announced plans to enhance border security, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing the situation. Colonel Pitkaniitty noted that the route into the EU via Russia is considered safer than other options, such as crossing the Mediterranean by sea. He expressed concern that word of this route’s safety might attract more migrants, potentially leading to a rapid increase in numbers, emphasizing the unpredictability of when the opportunity might end.

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Polish election: Right-wing ruling party to lose majority – exit poll

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According to an exit poll, Poland’s Law and Justice party, led by Jaroslaw Kaczynski, is projected to secure the most seats in the general election but might not secure a third term. The party is estimated to receive 36.6% of the vote, with the Civic Coalition, led by Donald Tusk, closely trailing at 31%.

The high turnout, possibly the highest since the fall of communism, reflects the gravity of the election. While the initial results indicate PiS’s lead, it falls short of the majority needed.

Tusk aims to improve relations with the EU and unlock frozen EU Covid recovery funds, while Kaczynski maintains anti-migration policies. The final government formation depends on potential coalition building, with the fate of Poland’s political future at stake.

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Controversy Erupts Following Abbas’s Controversial Remarks on Jews and the Holocaust

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German and Israeli authorities have expressed strong condemnation for statements made by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in a recent speech concerning Jews and the Holocaust.

Abbas suggested that Adolf Hitler’s mass murder of Jews was driven by their perceived “social role” as moneylenders, rather than rooted in anti-Semitism.

Israel’s UN ambassador characterized Abbas’s remarks as “clear-cut antisemitism,” while Germany’s Ramallah mission emphasized the historical reality of the Holocaust, asserting that millions of lives were annihilated and that this fact cannot be downplayed.

Steffen Seibert, Germany’s ambassador to Israel, stressed the importance of Palestinians hearing the historical truth from their leader rather than such distortions.

Abbas’s speech, delivered last month to the Fatah Revolutionary Council and later broadcast on Palestine TV, has drawn widespread criticism. In his speech, Abbas asserted that Hitler’s actions were not based on religious animosity but were due to the Jews’ role in “usury, money, and so on.”

Additionally, Abbas revived a long-discredited theory that European Ashkenazi Jews are not descended from ancient Israelites but from 8th Century Khazar converts to Judaism.

The president’s comments are consistent with his past controversial statements, aimed at disputing the connection between the Jewish people and modern-day Israel, a topic central to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Israeli foreign ministry shared the contents of Abbas’s speech on social media, with Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, asserting that it reveals the true nature of Palestinian leadership, blaming Jews for various issues in the Middle East.

The European Union also criticized Abbas’s speech, describing it as “false and grossly misleading.” They stressed that such historical distortions are inflammatory and offensive, fuel antisemitism, and trivialize the Holocaust.

This isn’t the first time Abbas has sparked international outrage with his statements. In the past, he likened Israel to Nazi Germany and accused Israel of carrying out “50 massacres; 50 holocausts,” drawing strong condemnation from various quarters.

Following previous controversies, Abbas issued a statement through the official Palestinian news agency, Wafa, acknowledging the Holocaust as “the most heinous crime in modern human history” but stopped short of a direct apology.

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