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Attack on Danish PM not politically motivated, police say

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Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has reported feeling “shaken” but otherwise “fine” following an attack in Copenhagen’s old town. On Friday evening, a man approached her and struck her, causing minor whiplash. The 39-year-old Polish suspect, who was detained and charged with violence against a public official, has pleaded not guilty. Police, who suspect the man was under the influence of alcohol and drugs, do not believe the attack was politically motivated.

After the incident, Frederiksen was taken to a hospital for a check-up, and her Saturday schedule was canceled. She expressed gratitude for the support she received via an Instagram post, where she mentioned her need for rest and time with her family.

European leaders condemned the attack, with EU chief Charles Michel expressing outrage and French President Emmanuel Macron calling it “unacceptable.” The incident occurred just two days before the European elections, in which Denmark is participating.

Frederiksen, 46, is the leader of Denmark’s Social Democrats and became the country’s youngest prime minister in 2019.

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Danish PM suffered whiplash in street attack

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Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, was unexpectedly attacked while walking in Copenhagen’s city center, leaving her shocked and with minor whiplash. The assailant, swiftly apprehended, prompted concern over the motive behind the assault. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the incident, echoing sentiments against such violence in Europe. Witnesses described the assailant’s forceful push on Frederiksen, who managed to avoid falling completely but sought recovery at a nearby café.

The attack, occurring just before Denmark’s EU election, raises concerns over political safety. Frederiksen’s Social Democrats, though still leading in polls, have experienced declining support. Colleagues expressed solidarity and shock over the assault, while EU officials denounced it vehemently.

Frederiksen, at 46, became Denmark’s youngest prime minister in 2019, known internationally for her disagreement with former U.S. President Donald Trump over Greenland’s purchase suggestion. Additionally, her government’s mink culling during the Covid-19 pandemic drew criticism in 2022.

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Recovering Slovak Prime Minister Relocates to Capital

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Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico has been relocated from a hospital in Banska Bystrica, situated in the heart of the country, to Bratislava, the nation’s capital, to continue his recovery journey. This decision comes in the aftermath of a shooting incident that left him with severe injuries, occurring two weeks prior.

The 59-year-old politician was targeted in Handlova on May 15, where he was shot four times at close range while engaging with supporters following a government meeting. Enduring multiple surgical procedures, Fico’s health status prompted the decision for further care and observation.

Details regarding Fico’s current whereabouts remain undisclosed, as it is unclear whether he has been discharged to his residence in Bratislava or transferred to another medical facility for ongoing treatment. The shift in his condition has attracted significant media attention both domestically and internationally.

Fico’s political tenure spans over a decade, during which he has held the prime ministerial position for a substantial portion of the past 18 years. His return to power in September, leading a coalition characterized by populist-nationalist ideologies, marked a significant chapter in Slovakian politics.

The shooting incident has exacerbated existing tensions within Slovakia, a nation grappling with increasing polarization in its political landscape. The attack has served to deepen societal divisions and raise concerns about the stability of the country’s governance.

The alleged perpetrator, identified by local media as 71-year-old Juraj Cintula, has been apprehended and is currently in custody, facing charges of attempted murder. The ongoing investigation seeks to shed light on the motives behind the attack and its potential ramifications for Slovakian society and its political future.

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Slovakia at pivotal moment after Robert Fico shooting

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The recent attempt on the prime minister’s life in Slovakia has left a poignant mark, epitomizing the deep-seated political turmoil gripping the nation. The incident unfolded in Handlova, where the prime minister was shot multiple times by a gunman while interacting with supporters.

Prior to the assassination attempt, Robert Fico, the populist leader, had ominously forewarned of such an event due to the heightened political tensions in the country. His cautionary statements to both media and colleagues indicated an awareness of the looming threat.

The political climate in Slovakia had been tense for over six months, exacerbated by divisions stemming from a journalist’s murder in 2018, which led to Fico’s resignation amidst widespread protests. His subsequent return to power was marked by contentious policies, including aligning with Moscow’s stance on various international matters.

In the aftermath of the shooting, calls for unity and calm reverberated, yet they were juxtaposed with accusations and blame games among politicians and media figures. The assailant, described as a “lone wolf,” showcased a perplexing mix of ideologies, stirring further confusion about his motives.

Critics attribute the toxic environment to Fico’s party, which has been accused of fostering hostility and polarization. Additionally, tensions between Fico and President Caputova, characterized by derogatory remarks and death threats, further highlight the rifts within Slovakian society.

The role of the public broadcaster, RTVS, also came under scrutiny, with some blaming its alleged bias for inciting violence. However, the broadcaster’s chief defended its role as reflecting reality and rejected accusations of partisanship.

As Slovakia stands at a crossroads, the outcome hinges partly on Fico’s response and demeanor upon recovery. Whether he chooses a conciliatory or vengeful path could significantly impact the nation’s trajectory, with many cautiously observing the unfolding events.

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Suspect charged with attempted murder of Slovak PM Fico

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A 71-year-old man from Levice has been implicated in the attempted murder of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who was severely injured in a shooting incident. The suspect, though not officially named, has been widely identified by Slovak reports. If convicted, he could potentially face life imprisonment.

The assailant acted alone, according to Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok, who stated that the suspect had participated in anti-government protests and was discontented with the outcome of the recent presidential election, won by Peter Pellegrini, an ally of Fico.

In the brazen daylight attack, Fico was shot five times at close range, sustaining serious injuries to his stomach and arm. His security detail was caught off guard, and Fico was swiftly taken to a hospital for emergency treatment. Despite the severity of his condition, Fico’s status has stabilized, though he remains in intensive care.

The alleged perpetrator is described as a writer and political activist, with a circulated video purportedly featuring him expressing grievances against the government’s policies, particularly regarding state media. However, the authenticity of the video and its connection to the detained suspect remain unverified.

The shooting has been condemned by Slovak politicians as an assault on democracy, prompting calls for unity and calm. Outgoing President Zuzana Caputova urged political leaders to convene and address the escalating tensions, while President-elect Peter Pellegrini called for a suspension of campaigning ahead of European Parliament elections.

The attack occurred amid parliamentary discussions concerning the government’s proposal to dissolve Slovakia’s public broadcaster RTVS, a move that has sparked widespread public protests in recent weeks. Some officials have attributed the shooting to heightened political rhetoric and hostility perpetuated by both media and opposition parties.

In response to the incident, Deputy Prime Minister Taraba and Interior Minister Estok criticized the opposition and media for allegedly fueling animosity, with concerns raised about the safety of journalists and NGOs in Slovakia.

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Clashes Erupt in Georgia Over Proposed ‘Foreign Agent’ Bill

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Riot police in Georgia deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators protesting against a proposed bill, which the opposition views as an attack on media freedoms. The clashes erupted outside the parliament building in Tbilisi, where protesters hurled eggs and bottles at the police. Despite the retreat of the crowds, confrontations persisted late into Tuesday evening along Rustaveli Avenue, resulting in several injuries and arrests.

The bill, known as the “foreign agent” legislation, received preliminary approval from lawmakers on April 17th. Introduced by the ruling Georgian Dream party, it mandates that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and independent media outlets, receiving over 20% of their funding from foreign sources, register as entities “advancing the interests of a foreign power.” These organizations would be subject to oversight by Georgia’s justice ministry and could face penalties, including significant fines.

The passage of the bill’s initial reading sparked a wave of street demonstrations. Reports indicate that several protesters sustained injuries during Tuesday’s clashes in Tbilisi, including Levan Khabeishvili, chairman of the main opposition party, United National Movement, who was reportedly hospitalized after a severe beating.

Eyewitnesses also observed instances of police officers physically assaulting protesters, according to Reuters news agency. A number of demonstrators were reportedly taken into custody. However, Georgian authorities have not publicly addressed these allegations of injuries or police misconduct.

Critics of the bill argue for its repeal, contending that it mirrors authoritarian legislation used by Russia to suppress dissent. They fear it could stifle critical voices ahead of this year’s parliamentary elections and impede Georgia’s progress toward EU membership. European leaders and the United States have warned that adopting the foreign agents law would undermine Georgia’s European aspirations.

Despite international concerns, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s government remains steadfast in its support of the bill. Kobakhidze has accused NGOs of attempting to foment revolutions in Georgia and of promoting “gay propaganda.” He maintains that the legislation aims to enhance transparency and denies allegations that it contradicts European values or serves Russian interests.

In response to the protests, Georgian Dream organized its own rally, where party founder Bidzina Ivanishvili criticized Western interference. The situation underscores the deepening divide within Georgia over the bill and its implications for democracy and international relations.

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France to sue teen for falsely accusing school head in headscarf row

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France’s prime minister has announced that a teenage girl will face legal action for falsely accusing her headteacher of hitting her during a dispute over her wearing an Islamic headscarf. The headteacher resigned following death threats received after the incident.

This incident comes amidst heightened concerns over Islamist threats to French schools following the murders of two teachers, including Samuel Paty in 2020. The headteacher, unnamed publicly, cited safety concerns in his resignation letter sent to colleagues. Two individuals were detained for making death threats, though they had no direct connection to the school.

The police found no evidence to support the girl’s allegations, prompting Prime Minister Gabriel Attal to announce that she will be sued for false accusations. Politicians across the political spectrum condemned the hate campaign targeting the teacher.

Additionally, several Paris schools were closed due to bomb threats, with some investigators considering the possibility of Russian disinformation involvement. Prime Minister Attal previously warned of Russian efforts to destabilize France’s support for Ukraine.

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Luís Montenegro: Centre-right leader invited to form minority government

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Portugal’s recent snap elections resulted in a fragmented parliament, with the center-right Democratic Alliance (AD) emerging as the leading party but falling short of a majority. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has invited Luís Montenegro, a center-right politician, to form a minority government. However, with only 80 seats secured by the AD, alliances are necessary to pass legislation.

Montenegro’s appointment as prime minister follows consultations with party leaders and a refusal to collaborate with the far-right Chega party, despite their record gains. The rejection of Chega underscores the complexities of coalition-building in Portugal’s current political landscape, which faces its most fragmented parliament since the end of dictatorship.

As Montenegro assumes the role of prime minister, he confronts the challenge of navigating a divided parliament and securing support either from the Socialists or Chega to pass crucial legislation. His reluctance to divulge detailed strategies for forming a majority underscores the uncertainties surrounding the future governance of Portugal.

The premiership transition marks the departure of Antonio Costa, who led Portugal as Socialist party leader but resigned amid corruption allegations. Despite Costa’s departure, the issues that shaped voter discontent, such as low wages and rising rents, remain pertinent, highlighting the ongoing challenges facing the country’s leadership.

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Giorgia Meloni: Italian PM seeks damages over deepfake videos

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Giorgia Meloni, the Prime Minister of Italy, is pursuing €100,000 (£85,374) in damages after deepfake pornography featuring her was shared online. Scheduled to appear in court in Sassari on July 2nd, Meloni aims to testify against the production of these videos, where her face was digitally imposed onto explicit content. The culprits, a 40-year-old man believed to have created the videos and his 73-year-old father, are currently under investigation and face defamation charges.

Italian authorities tracked down the individuals through the mobile device used to upload the content. The distribution of such material constitutes a criminal offense in Italy. The videos, which circulated widely on a US pornographic website, prompted Meloni’s legal team to pursue damages. If successful, the €100,000 compensation will be directed to a fund supporting women who have suffered from male violence.

Maria Giulia Marongiu, Meloni’s lawyer, emphasized the symbolic nature of the requested sum, intending to encourage victims to come forward and challenge such abuses of power. Notably, the deepfake videos predate Meloni’s appointment as prime minister in 2022. Unfortunately, instances of deepfake pornography have become increasingly prevalent online, causing significant distress to victims whose likenesses are manipulated in explicit contexts.

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Denmark to start conscripting women for military service

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Denmark has announced significant reforms to its military, including extending conscription to women for the first time and increasing the standard service duration. This decision is part of a plan to bolster its defense capabilities and align with NATO targets amid heightened tensions in Europe following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized that the aim of these reforms is not to seek conflict but to prevent it. The government intends to achieve gender equality in the armed forces, with Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stressing that more inclusive conscription will address defense challenges and contribute to national mobilization.

Denmark will become the third European nation, after Norway and Sweden, to mandate women’s conscription starting from 2026, alongside extending service duration for both genders from four to 11 months. These changes aim to increase the number of individuals serving in the military annually from 4,700 to 5,000, with approximately 25% being women.

With a current armed forces strength of around 20,000 personnel, Denmark, with a population of nearly six million, plans to raise its military spending from 1.4% to 2% of GDP to meet NATO’s requirements. Lawmakers have taken measures such as abolishing a public holiday to redirect funds towards defense spending.

Denmark has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine, providing advanced weapons, financial aid, and training to Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets. Additionally, Finland and Sweden have recently joined NATO as the alliance strengthens its defenses in Europe amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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