Global Pulse

标签： Europe

欧洲

  • War-hit Qatar still plans to host Argentina-Spain game with Messi and Yamal for UEFA

    War-hit Qatar still plans to host Argentina-Spain game with Messi and Yamal for UEFA

    NYON, Switzerland — Despite escalating regional tensions following missile attacks from Iran, UEFA confirms its commitment to staging the high-profile Finalissima match between Argentina and Spain in Qatar on March 27. The European football governing body stated Thursday that no alternative venues are currently under consideration for the championship clash between the reigning titans of South American and European football.

    The highly anticipated event, organized jointly by UEFA and CONMEBOL, features what promises to be a spectacular generational showdown between Argentine legend Lionel Messi and Spanish teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. The match is scheduled for Lusail Stadium, the iconic venue that hosted the legendary 2022 World Cup final where Argentina ultimately triumphed over France in a penalty shootout following an electrifying 3-3 draw.

    UEFA officials indicated that a definitive decision regarding venue security will be finalized by the end of next week. The organization acknowledged ongoing consultations with Qatari authorities, who have invested significant resources to ensure the event’s success. Qatar maintains strong ties with European football leadership, notably through Nasser Al-Khelaïfi—president of Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain and current member of the UEFA executive committee.

    Should security assessments determine Doha presents unacceptable risks, contingency plans could involve relocating the match to Spain or other European venues where the majority of both squads’ players are based. The inaugural Finalissima in June 2022 saw Argentina dominate Italy with a 3-0 victory at London’s Wembley Stadium.

  • Czech lawmakers will vote on lifting immunity for populist leader Babiš over EU fraud case

    Czech lawmakers will vote on lifting immunity for populist leader Babiš over EU fraud case

    PRAGUE — The Czech lower parliamentary house convened on Thursday to determine whether Prime Minister Andrej Babiš should retain immunity from prosecution in a high-profile €2 million fraud case involving European Union agricultural subsidies. This pivotal decision would enable Prague’s Municipal Court to proceed with judicial proceedings and deliver a final verdict in the longstanding legal battle.

    The case revolves around the ‘Stork’s Nest’ farm complex, which received EU subsidies designated exclusively for small and medium enterprises after its ownership was transferred from Babiš’s Agrofert conglomerate to his family members. Agrofert, a massive holding company, subsequently reacquired the property, raising questions about eligibility for the subsidies, which were later returned.

    Despite two previous acquittals by the Municipal Court, an appeals court overturned both rulings, citing insufficient evidence evaluation and explicitly recommending a guilty verdict in the retrial. Babiš maintains his innocence, characterizing the investigation as ‘clearly politically motivated.’ Prosecutors initially sought a suspended sentence and financial penalties for the billionaire leader, who commenced his third term as prime minister in December following his ANO movement’s electoral victory.

    Simultaneously, Jana Nagyová, Babiš’s former associate who authorized the subsidy application and now serves as a European Parliament member, will face retrial after the EU legislature revoked her immunity protections.

    Babiš’s current coalition government, formed with the anti-immigration Freedom and Direct Democracy party and the right-wing Motorists group, has pursued policies distancing the Czech Republic from Ukraine support and challenging certain EU directives, adding geopolitical significance to the judicial proceedings.

  • US and Mideast countries seek Kyiv’s drone expertise as Russia-Ukraine talks put on ice

    US and Mideast countries seek Kyiv’s drone expertise as Russia-Ukraine talks put on ice

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revealed that multiple Middle Eastern nations, with United States support, are actively seeking Ukraine’s specialized expertise in neutralizing Iran’s Shahed drone systems. This development emerges from Ukraine’s extensive battlefield experience against these Iranian-manufactured weapons, which Russia has deployed by the tens of thousands throughout the ongoing invasion.

    In recent diplomatic engagements, Zelenskyy has conducted discussions with leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait regarding potential defense cooperation. The Ukrainian president emphasized that any knowledge transfer would be strictly conditional: it must not compromise Ukraine’s own defensive capabilities and must contribute to diplomatic efforts aimed at ending Russian aggression.

    “We extend our assistance in defense to those nations who support Ukraine’s pursuit of a just resolution to this conflict,” Zelenskyy stated, framing the cooperation within broader geopolitical contexts.

    The escalating Middle East conflict has temporarily diverted international attention from Ukraine while simultaneously postponing U.S.-mediated negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow. According to Zelenskyy, the regional instability has delayed anticipated trilateral discussions, though he expressed readiness to resume diplomatic efforts once security conditions permit.

    Ukrainian officials, including parliamentary foreign affairs committee chairman Oleksandr Merezhko, characterize the Russia-Ukraine and Middle East conflicts as interconnected theaters. Merezhko described Russia and Iran as coordinated allies, with Tehran supplying weaponry to Moscow while receiving Russian assistance in developing its defense industrial capabilities.

    Despite these diplomatic developments, Ukrainian forces continue making tactical advances along the 1,250-kilometer frontline. The Institute for the Study of War reports that localized Ukrainian counteroffensives have recently reclaimed approximately 257 square kilometers of territory, demonstrating ongoing military pressure against Russian positions.

  • Denmark to consider if gastronomy is art as New Nordic cuisine movement grows

    Denmark to consider if gastronomy is art as New Nordic cuisine movement grows

    COPENHAGEN, Denmark — At the avant-garde Alchemist restaurant, Chef Rasmus Munk transcends conventional dining through an immersive sensory experience. Patrons encounter edible creations resembling plastic—crafted from algae and fish collagen—while projections of ocean pollution drift across the domed ceiling. This theatrical approach to gastronomy exemplifies Denmark’s bold culinary evolution, positioning Copenhagen as a global epicenter of culinary innovation.

    Since its 2019 debut in a transformed industrial harbor, Alchemist has achieved global acclaim—ranked fifth among the world’s finest restaurants and honored with two Michelin stars. The establishment offers fifty distinct ‘impressions,’ including provocative dishes like caviar-stuffed cod eyeballs and nettle butterflies served on artichoke leaves. Munk describes food as his ‘medium of expression,’ addressing themes from environmental conservation to state surveillance through edible narratives.

    This culinary renaissance stems from Denmark’s New Nordic movement, pioneered by René Redzepi’s Noma in 2003. The philosophy emphasizing foraging, fermentation, and seasonal ingredients has now sparked a national debate: Should gastronomy be classified as art? Culture Minister Jakob Engel-Schmidt announced in January an official exploration of this reclassification, potentially making Denmark the first nation to legally elevate haute cuisine to artistic status.

    The proposition has divided culinary and artistic circles. Proponents like Munk argue that culinary craftsmanship at its highest level constitutes artistic practice. Nicolai Nørregaard of two-Michelin-starred Kadeau asserts his creative process parallels artistic creation, seeking to deliver transformative experiences. Formal recognition could enable chefs to access state subsidies and private foundation funding currently reserved for traditional artists.

    However, skepticism persists. American chef Nick Curtin of Copenhagen’s Alouette contends that food’s functional purpose distinguishes it from pure art. Art critic Holger Dahl compares the initiative to ‘expecting a bicycle to become a car,’ questioning its conceptual validity. Concerns also emerge regarding potential competition for cultural funding between chefs and conventional artists.

    The proposal remains in exploratory phases, with its parliamentary fate potentially influenced by Denmark’s recent general election. Should legislation proceed, a vote in the 179-seat parliament would determine whether gastronomy transitions from craft to officially recognized art form—a decision that could reshape global perceptions of culinary excellence.

  • Defence minister to visit Cyprus after drone attacks on British base

    Defence minister to visit Cyprus after drone attacks on British base

    Diplomatic friction has emerged between the United Kingdom and Cyprus following the handling of recent drone assaults on the Royal Air Force base at Akrotiri. The Cypriot government has formally criticized Britain’s communication protocols and information-sharing practices in the aftermath of the incident.

    Dr. Kyriacos Kouros, Cyprus’s High Commissioner to the UK, expressed profound disappointment during an interview with BBC Newsnight, highlighting inadequate transparency with local residents. The attacks, which occurred overnight Sunday, involved both successful strikes and subsequent interceptions of additional drones. Kouros emphasized the necessity for enhanced bilateral coordination with Cypriot authorities to prevent future security breaches.

    In response to the escalating situation, the UK Ministry of Defence announced the planned deployment of HMS Dragon, a Type 45 destroyer, to reinforce regional security. However, the warship is not scheduled to depart until next week, raising questions about the immediacy of the British response.

    The incident has drawn international attention amid broader geopolitical tensions linked to Iran’s regional activities, though no specific entity has claimed responsibility for the attacks. Both nations are now engaged in diplomatic discussions to address security concerns and improve crisis management protocols for future cooperation.

  • ‘It’s so good to be home’ – passengers on Dubai-Dublin flight

    ‘It’s so good to be home’ – passengers on Dubai-Dublin flight

    Dublin Airport witnessed emotional reunions on Wednesday evening as Emirates flight EK0162 from Dubai touched down, carrying nearly 400 passengers who had been stranded amid Middle East airspace closures. The flight marked the first direct arrival from Dubai in several days following the complete shutdown of regional airspace due to escalating military actions between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

    Among the relieved arrivals was Norita Geary, who described the overwhelming moment the aircraft landed: “Everyone clapped when the plane landed and we all cheered. It was unreal. I mean you see these things on television, you see them in movies but you just don’t think you’ll end up there yourself.”

    The atmosphere at Terminal 2 was charged with emotion as families embraced loved ones returning from what many described as a harrowing experience. Rushali Lakhani, another passenger, expressed her gratitude: “It was quite a stressful time but grateful and thanking our lucky stars really. A lot of sleepless nights, a lot of bangs. There were no airplanes flying so whenever we heard some noises we knew that it wasn’t good news.”

    Susan and Monica Miller recounted their traumatic experience being at Dubai Airport when the conflict erupted. “The local UAE fighter jets we could see them patrolling. We could hear some noises but because we were about 30 minutes west of the airport we weren’t in any immediate zones that were frightening,” Susan explained, adding that they are now planning “staycations for a little while.”

    International travelers also faced significant disruptions. Alex Anderson, a Frankfurt resident transiting through Dubai from Malaysia, described seeing missile trails during his approach: “We were shocked when we landed and found out. It was a bit of chaos.” He highlighted the “nerve-racking” experience of waiting in hotels amid canceled flights.

    Despite the tense situation, some long-term Dubai residents provided perspective. Mark O’Kane, who has lived in Dubai for 24 years, commented: “The defence systems in Dubai were fantastic. It would remind you a bit of the Troubles, you know, growing up you hear bombs. But life goes on.”

    A second relief flight carrying approximately 400 additional passengers is scheduled to arrive in Dublin on Thursday, offering hope to those still awaiting evacuation from the region.

  • Watch: Moment wolf rescued from canal in northern Italy

    Watch: Moment wolf rescued from canal in northern Italy

    In a remarkable display of interspecies compassion, Italian firefighters successfully rescued a distressed wolf from a canal in northern Italy. The dramatic operation, captured on official video footage released by the Vigili del Fuoco (Italian Fire Brigade), shows emergency personnel carefully hoisting the exhausted animal to safety from beneath a bridge structure where it had become trapped.

    The rescue required specialized technical expertise as firefighters navigated the challenging aquatic environment to reach the struggling canine. Using professional rescue equipment and techniques typically employed for human water emergencies, the team worked methodically to secure the animal without causing additional stress or injury.

    Wildlife experts note that such interventions represent a growing awareness of human responsibility toward wild animals in increasingly urbanized environments. The incident highlights the expanded role of emergency services in responding to non-human distress calls across Italy’s diverse ecosystems.

    The rescued wolf, believed to be from one of the growing populations in Italy’s northern regions, was examined by veterinary specialists following the extraction. Conservation authorities have been notified to monitor the animal’s recovery and eventual reintegration into its natural habitat, demonstrating Italy’s commitment to protecting its native wildlife species.

  • Google settles with Epic Games with offer to lower its app store commissions

    Google settles with Epic Games with offer to lower its app store commissions

    In a landmark settlement ending a protracted legal battle, Google has agreed to significantly restructure its Android app store operations. The tech giant will reduce its controversial commission fees and establish a certification pathway for alternative app marketplaces, marking a substantial shift from its previous monopoly practices.

    The concessions, formally submitted to a federal court in San Francisco, stem from Epic Games’ August 2020 antitrust lawsuit challenging Google’s payment system. The Fortnite developer argued that Google’s 15-30% commissions on in-app transactions stifled competition and consumer choice.

    This resolution follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s refusal to hear Google’s appeal against a federal judge’s order mandating comprehensive Play Store reforms. A 2023 trial jury had previously declared Google’s ecosystem an illegal monopoly, creating legal pressure that forced the company’s hand.

    Under the new framework, Google will lower baseline commissions for subscriptions and e-commerce to 10-20%. Additionally, apps preferring to remain within the Play Store can opt for a separate 5% payment processing fee. Developers retain the freedom to use alternative payment systems, while consumers gain access to certified third-party app stores with reduced security warnings.

    Though U.S. District Judge James Donato must approve the proposed registration process as an alternative to more drastic measures ordered in October 2024, Google is already preparing to implement these changes globally. The rollout will commence in the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union.

    Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney, who has long advocated for open digital platforms, endorsed the settlement. ‘This transformation elevates Android to a genuinely open platform,’ Sweeney stated during a joint interview with Google’s Android executive Sameer Samat. Samat acknowledged the company’s desire to ‘focus more energy on building than quarreling’ after years of legal acrimony.

    The reduced fee structure may impact profits at Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company. However, with a current market valuation of $3.7 trillion—quadruple its worth when Epic filed suit—Alphabet remains well-positioned to absorb financial impacts.

    This settlement occurs amid broader antitrust challenges for Google, including ongoing cases regarding its search engine monopoly and digital advertising practices. Meanwhile, Epic’s parallel crusade against Apple’s App Store continues with less optimistic prospects for similar concessions, as courts have not deemed Apple’s ecosystem monopolistic.

    Sweeney referenced Rolling Stones lyrics to characterize the outcome: ‘You can’t always get what you want, but if you try, you can often get what you need. And what we need is competition.’

  • Stella McCartney lets horses steal the show — and makes her point in Paris without saying a word

    Stella McCartney lets horses steal the show — and makes her point in Paris without saying a word

    In a striking departure from conventional fashion presentations, Stella McCartney transformed a riding hall in Paris’s Bois de Boulogne into an ethical fashion manifesto during Winter 2026 Paris Fashion Week. The British-American designer inaugurated her show with ten horses—five black and five white—gracefully choreographed by equestrian artist Jean-François Pignon, establishing an immediate emotional connection between live animals and human creativity.

    The collection served as both a personal chronology and sustainability statement, rigorously excluding leather, fur, and feathers while showcasing material innovations that demanded second glances. Opening with floor-length faux fur coats crafted through advanced techniques using lab-grown yeast and recycled denim, the presentation demonstrated that 93% of its materials met sustainable criteria.

    Autobiographical elements woven throughout the collection included chunky fisherman rib knits reflecting McCartney’s childhood in Scotland, alongside jewel-toned stirrup leggings and bow-adorned dresses paying homage to her formative Parisian internships. The core designs featured McCartney’s signature soft tailoring with defined shoulders, breathable corporate suiting, and satin evening wear that shimmered subtly. Plastic-free sequined dresses with intricate bustles and pleats exemplified the balance between masculine and feminine aesthetics that characterized the entire presentation.

    The show concluded with a model wearing a ‘My Dad Is A Rockstar’ tank top, prompting applause from front-row attendee Paul McCartney. Among the distinguished guests were Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, and LVMH heir Antoine Arnault with wife Natalia Vodianova—notable given McCartney’s recent acquisition of the conglomerate’s minority stake in her brand. The designer revealed her upcoming receipt of France’s Légion d’honneur while reaffirming her commitment to creating women-centered fashion without planetary harm.

  • Putin hosts Hungary’s foreign minister for energy supply talks as war in Mideast causes disruptions

    Putin hosts Hungary’s foreign minister for energy supply talks as war in Mideast causes disruptions

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó in Moscow on Wednesday to address critical energy supply issues. The high-stakes discussion centered on maintaining Hungary’s access to Russian fossil fuels despite ongoing regional conflicts and pipeline disruptions.

    Minister Szijjártó arrived in Moscow specifically seeking guarantees from Russian authorities regarding continued oil and gas supplies. This urgency stems from recent interruptions in the Druzhba pipeline, which transports Russian oil through Ukrainian territory to Hungarian and Slovakian refineries. The Hungarian government has attributed these disruptions to political decisions by Kyiv, while Ukrainian officials counter that the pipeline damage resulted from Russian drone attacks.

    President Putin provided reassurances during the meeting, stating: “We have always fulfilled all our obligations, and, of course, we intend and are ready to do so. I understand that this is of concern to you, particularly oil supplies. We see what’s happening in the global and European gas markets.”

    In a notable humanitarian gesture, Putin announced the release of two ethnic Hungarian prisoners of war who had been fighting with Ukrainian armed forces. The Russian leader revealed that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán had requested their release during a telephone conversation the previous day. Szijjártó was authorized to transport the prisoners back to Budapest on his return flight.

    The meeting occurs against a backdrop of heightened political tensions as Prime Minister Orbán faces challenging elections next month. Trailing in polls to a center-right opponent, Orbán has intensified an anti-Ukraine campaign, alleging that Kyiv and the European Union are attempting to bankrupt Hungary through forced financial assistance to Ukraine. Last week, Hungary blocked a new EU sanctions package against Russia and vowed to withhold a substantial €90 billion EU loan to Kyiv until oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline resume.