China’s electric vehicle (EV) exports surged by 100% in September compared to the same period last year, reaching 222,000 units, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. This growth underscores the aggressive expansion of Chinese automakers into international markets, particularly Europe and Southeast Asia. While the figure was slightly lower than August’s 224,000 units, it highlights the increasing reliance on overseas markets due to overcapacity and intense price competition domestically. The U.S.-based consultancy Rhodium Group noted that Chinese EV manufacturers invested more abroad than domestically in 2023, marking a significant shift since 2014. BYD, one of China’s leading EV producers, reported an 880% year-on-year sales increase in the United Kingdom, now its largest market outside China. However, domestic passenger car sales growth slowed to 11.2% in September, down from 15% in August. Chinese automakers are also diversifying their investments into the Middle East and Africa, partly in response to high tariffs imposed by the European Union, U.S., and Canada. Despite these challenges, September remains a peak sales period in China, supported by government subsidies for trade-ins of new energy vehicles, though some local governments have recently suspended such payments.
标签： Europe
欧洲
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3 Italian carabinieri killed in apparently deliberate farmhouse explosion
A tragic incident unfolded near Verona, Italy, early Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of three Carabinieri officers and injuries to 13 others during an eviction operation. Authorities reported that the explosion occurred at a two-story farmhouse in Castel d’Azzano, approximately 10 kilometers southwest of Verona. The explosion was allegedly triggered by a gas tank intentionally set off when law enforcement officers opened the door of the property. Verona’s Carabinieri commander, Col. Claudio Pagano, described the act as “an absolutely crazy gesture.” The farmhouse had been filled with gas, according to regional governor Luca Zaia, who also revealed that this was the second eviction attempt. The previous attempt last year was thwarted when the occupants, two middle-aged brothers and a sister, threatened to blow up the house. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and Defense Minister Guido Crosetto expressed their condolences for the fallen officers, emphasizing the critical role the Carabinieri play in Italy’s law enforcement.
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An estimated 1 million cats prowl the streets of Cyprus as officials scramble to check their numbers
Cyprus, a Mediterranean island nation renowned for its feline-friendly culture, is facing a burgeoning crisis with its feral cat population. Estimates suggest there is approximately one feral cat for every one of its 1 million residents, though activists argue the number is significantly higher. The issue has prompted urgent discussions among officials, with the parliamentary environment committee highlighting the inadequacy of the current sterilization program. Environment Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou emphasized that the program, which conducts around 2,000 sterilizations annually on a budget of €100,000, is insufficient to address the scale of the problem. Cyprus has gained notoriety for its disproportionately large cat population relative to its human inhabitants, a situation that poses ecological and welfare challenges. In response, Environment Minister Maria Panayiotou announced on World Animal Day (October 4) that the government would triple annual sterilization funding to €300,000. While this move was welcomed, Charalambos Theopemptou, chairman of the Parliamentary Environment Committee, cautioned that funding alone is not enough. He stressed the need for a comprehensive plan to manage the population effectively. The unchecked growth of feral cats threatens the island’s ecosystem and exacerbates the suffering of these animals, many of which roam urban areas in search of food and shelter. Cyprus’s historical affinity for cats dates back millennia, with archaeological evidence suggesting domestication as early as 9,500 years ago. The island’s cats have become a tourist attraction, often seen lounging near restaurants where visitors feed them. However, the current population explosion is attributed to uncontrolled breeding and increased kitten survival rates due to public care. Veterinary Association President Demetris Epaminondas proposed a unified sterilization plan involving private clinics and a smartphone app to identify cat concentration areas. He also suggested establishing a donation fund to offset costs. Theodosiou revealed that her team is developing a long-term strategy to legalize private sanctuaries and implement a mass sterilization program. Despite the challenges, activists like Eleni Loizidou of Cat Alert remain optimistic, asserting that solutions are within reach.
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Nato chief jokes about ‘limping’ Russian submarine
The Royal Navy has confirmed the tracking of the Russian submarine Novorossiysk as it navigated the English Channel, sparking international attention and speculation about the vessel’s condition. The diesel-powered submarine, part of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, surfaced off the coast of France, reportedly to comply with international navigation rules. This move was closely monitored by a UK warship and helicopter, highlighting the ongoing tensions between NATO allies and Russia. Dutch authorities had earlier reported that the submarine was under tow in the North Sea, adding to the intrigue surrounding its journey. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte humorously remarked on the state of Russia’s naval fleet during a speech in Slovenia, suggesting a stark contrast to the once formidable presence depicted in Cold War narratives. He noted the diminished Russian naval presence in the Mediterranean, further fueling discussions about the fleet’s operational capabilities. Reports from VChK-OGPU, a Telegram channel known for leaking Russian security information, claimed that the Novorossiysk experienced fuel leaks in the Strait of Gibraltar, raising concerns about potential explosions. The Royal Navy tracked the submarine over three days as it returned from a Mediterranean deployment, with HMS Iron Duke leading the surveillance efforts. The Dutch navy later escorted the submarine and its support tug through the North Sea. The Russian Black Sea Fleet has denied any technical malfunctions, stating that the submarine was on a ‘scheduled inter-fleet transit’ and adhered to international navigation regulations. This incident follows recent Royal Navy operations tracking Russian vessels through the Channel, underscoring the UK’s commitment to NATO’s collective defense against perceived Russian aggression. Earlier this year, a Russian warship was discovered using a fake ID signal while transporting sanctioned oil products, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.
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President’s job to ‘reach out hand of friendship’ before any border poll
Heather Humphreys, a Fine Gael candidate for the Irish presidency, has emphasized the importance of fostering unity and extending friendship to unionists in Northern Ireland as discussions about a potential referendum on a united Ireland gain momentum. Speaking to RTÉ, Humphreys, who hails from a Presbyterian background in Monaghan, highlighted her family’s historical ties to the Ulster Covenant of 1912, a pledge against Irish home rule. She expressed pride in her heritage, stating, “I come from the tradition of 1798, the United Irishmen. I’m very proud of my tradition, I’m very proud of where I come from.” Humphreys believes the Irish president’s role is crucial in laying the groundwork for dialogue and reconciliation, particularly with the approximately one million Northern Irish citizens who identify as British. She described herself as uniquely positioned to bridge divides, given her background and identity as a product of the Republic of Ireland. Humphreys also reaffirmed her commitment to the Good Friday Agreement, which stipulates that a border poll can only occur if a majority in Northern Ireland supports unification. Additionally, she addressed her relationship with the Irish language, acknowledging its importance and pledging to improve her proficiency. Despite criticism for not advancing her Irish-speaking skills as promised, Humphreys expressed her intent to return to Gaeltacht areas to refresh her knowledge and inspire others to embrace the language.
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The UN nuclear watchdog seeks a local truce to restore power to the Zaporizhzhia plant
The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is actively negotiating with Ukraine and Russia to establish localized ceasefires aimed at restoring external power to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine. According to two anonymous diplomats familiar with the discussions, the plant, which is Europe’s largest, has been operating on diesel generators since September 23 after its last external power line was severed. The facility, currently under Russian control, is not operational but requires consistent power to cool its six shutdown reactors and spent fuel, preventing potential nuclear disasters. The IAEA has repeatedly raised concerns about the precarious situation at the plant. The proposed plan involves a two-phase approach to repair damaged power lines. The first phase would establish a 1.5-kilometer ceasefire zone to repair the Dniprovska 750-kilovolt line, located in Russian-controlled territory. The second phase would focus on repairing the Ferosplavna-1 330-kilovolt backup line in Ukrainian-controlled territory. IAEA experts would oversee the repairs, initially scheduled for October 11-17. However, while Ukraine has provided guarantees for safe passage, Russia has yet to do so, delaying the process. A Russian diplomat stated that preparations are underway, and repairs could commence soon. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has been engaging intensively with both sides to prevent a nuclear accident. The plant has experienced ten blackouts since the war began, with the latest being the longest. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of lacking interest in restoring safety, emphasizing the need for international pressure.
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Cocaine worth €10.5m seized at Rosslare Europort
In a significant crackdown on organized crime, Irish authorities have intercepted a massive cocaine shipment valued at approximately €10.5 million (£9.1 million) at Rosslare Europort in County Wexford, Republic of Ireland. The operation, conducted by An Garda Síochána (Irish police) in collaboration with the Revenue’s customs service, was part of an intelligence-led initiative targeting serious criminal activities. During the search of a truck and trailer unit arriving from Europe, officials uncovered an intricate lead-lined compartment concealed within the vehicle’s fuel tank. Inside, they discovered around 150 kilograms of cocaine. A man in his 50s, believed to be involved in the drug trade, was arrested and remains in custody. This seizure highlights the ongoing efforts by Irish law enforcement to combat the illegal drugs trade and disrupt organized crime networks.
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Nobel laureate Philippe Aghion says creative upbringing shaped his vision of innovation and freedom
PARIS (AP) — Philippe Aghion, the distinguished French economist and recent Nobel laureate, attributed his groundbreaking insights into innovation and economic growth to his family’s creative legacy. On Monday, Aghion, who shared the 2023 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences with Joel Mokyr of Northwestern University and Peter Howitt of Brown University, paid tribute to his mother, Gaby Aghion, the visionary founder of the iconic fashion house Chloé. In an exclusive interview with The Associated Press from his Parisian apartment in the Latin Quarter, the 69-year-old professor highlighted how his mother revolutionized the fashion industry by introducing luxury ready-to-wear, a concept that offered women a more liberated and practical alternative to traditional haute couture. ‘I grew up with innovators. My mother invented luxury ready-to-wear,’ Aghion remarked, emphasizing her pioneering role in shaping modern fashion. He also reminisced about his childhood, surrounded by influential artists, including the legendary designer Karl Lagerfeld, who once assisted him with his German homework. Aghion’s research, which redefined the understanding of how technological advancements fuel economic prosperity, continues to be inspired by the themes of freedom and creativity that permeated his upbringing. His apartment, adorned with books on art and liberty, serves as a testament to the enduring influence of these values on his academic pursuits.
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Eurovision organisers postpone vote on Israel’s inclusion in contest next year
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has delayed a crucial vote on whether Israel will be permitted to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, citing ‘recent developments in the Middle East’ as the primary reason. Initially scheduled for November, the virtual meeting has been canceled, and the issue will now be addressed during an in-person gathering in December. The EBU emphasized the need for an open discussion among its members but did not confirm whether a vote would still occur.
Israel’s potential inclusion in the competition has sparked controversy, with several participating countries, including Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland, and the Netherlands, considering a boycott due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The situation escalated recently when Hamas released 20 Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, following a ceasefire that took effect last Friday.
The EBU stated, ‘In light of recent developments, the executive board agreed on October 13 that an open, in-person discussion on Israel’s participation is necessary.’ The matter will now be added to the agenda of the EBU’s winter general assembly in December, replacing the previously planned extraordinary session.
Austrian national broadcaster ORF, the host of Eurovision 2026, has supported the EBU’s decision, urging countries not to boycott the event. ORF’s Foreign Minister, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, argued that Eurovision and the arts should not be platforms for political sanctions. Meanwhile, Dutch broadcaster AvroTros maintained its stance, stating that a ceasefire would not alter its position for 2026, though it would reassess participation in future years.
Israel’s national broadcaster, Kan, has previously defended its right to participate, highlighting Israel’s long-standing success in the contest. In May, Israel’s act, Yuval Raphael, secured the largest public vote, though jury votes ultimately crowned Austria the winner. The decision on Israel’s participation remains a contentious issue, reflecting the broader geopolitical tensions surrounding the event.
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Zelenskyy to visit Washington this week seeking long-range weapons and a Trump meeting
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Monday his upcoming visit to the United States to discuss the potential provision of long-range weapons, including Tomahawk missiles, to bolster Ukraine’s defense against Russia. The visit, scheduled for later this week, will include meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump, defense and energy companies, and members of Congress. Zelenskyy emphasized that the primary focus of the talks would be enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and long-range strike potential to maintain pressure on Russia. This follows a ‘very productive’ phone call between Zelenskyy and Trump, during which the U.S. president warned Russia of the possibility of supplying Ukraine with advanced missile systems if Moscow does not de-escalate the conflict. The move has sparked ‘extreme concern’ from Moscow, with Russian President Vladimir Putin previously stating that such actions would severely damage U.S.-Russia relations. Zelenskyy also highlighted the need for U.S. assistance to protect Ukraine’s electricity and gas networks, which have been relentlessly targeted by Russian attacks. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, is already in the U.S. for preliminary discussions. Meanwhile, Russia has intensified its strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, particularly in the Black Sea port of Odesa and the Chernihiv region, resulting in casualties and widespread damage. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas, who met with Zelenskyy, pledged continued pressure on Moscow and expressed optimism that EU member states would overcome objections to a new sanctions package against Russia, despite potential delays.