A proposed peace plan to end the Ukraine war, allegedly authored by the United States, has ignited significant debate and resistance from Ukraine’s allies. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the draft, which includes provisions favorable to Russia, was developed with input from both Russia and Ukraine. However, Republican Senator Mike Rounds contradicted this, stating that Rubio had informed lawmakers the plan was not US policy but rather a Russian proposal. The State Department swiftly denied Rounds’ claims, asserting that the proposal was indeed crafted by the US. The plan, which remains undisclosed but has been widely leaked, includes controversial measures such as Ukraine withdrawing troops from eastern regions and limiting its armed forces. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned of the plan’s potential to leave Ukraine vulnerable, while Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested it could form the basis of an agreement. The proposal has faced strong opposition from European leaders, including France and Germany, who argue it undermines Ukraine’s security. US President Donald Trump, who has prioritized ending the conflict, clarified that the plan is not a final offer and extended the deadline for Ukraine’s approval. As negotiations continue in Geneva, the international community remains divided over the plan’s feasibility and implications for lasting peace.
标签： Europe
欧洲
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Who killed young Chechen woman who fled Russia for a life of freedom?
Aishat Baimuradova, a 23-year-old woman from Chechnya, sought freedom from the oppressive constraints of her conservative Muslim family and the societal norms of her homeland. Fleeing to Armenia in late 2024, she embraced a new life, cutting her hair short, shaving part of her eyebrow, and sharing her journey on Instagram. However, her newfound freedom was tragically cut short when she was found murdered in her rented flat in October. Police are investigating two individuals seen leaving the building, one of whom was a woman Aishat had recently befriended. Both reportedly returned to Russia shortly after the incident. Chechnya, a republic in Russia’s North Caucasus, is known for its authoritarian rule under Ramzan Kadyrov, where dissent is met with severe repercussions. Human rights organizations have documented enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings in the region. Aishat’s death underscores the perilous journey many Chechen women face when seeking autonomy. Her family, who had disowned her, denies any involvement in her death. This case has reignited fear among Chechen women who have fled, many of whom now live in constant dread of retribution. The South Caucasus, particularly Armenia and Georgia, has become a common escape route due to visa-free travel for Russians, but it remains fraught with danger. Aishat’s story is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in Chechnya and the risks associated with seeking freedom.
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France dazzles with 7 tries and sends Wallabies home from winless tour of Europe
In a spectacular display of offensive prowess, France delivered their finest attacking performance of the year, securing a historic 48-33 victory over Australia at the Stade de France on Saturday. The match, marked by breathtaking tries and relentless energy, saw France achieve their highest-ever score against the Wallabies, while also clinching three consecutive wins over Australia for the first time in nearly five decades. Despite Australia’s spirited efforts, including five tries of their own, they were unable to overcome France’s dominance, culminating in their first winless European tour since 1958 and a record 10th loss in a single year. France’s Nicolas Depoortere shone with his second consecutive brace, while 20-year-old Kalvin Gourgues made a memorable debut, setting up Louis Bielle-Biarrey for a crucial try. Australia’s early brilliance, including a try by Matt Faessler, was overshadowed by France’s relentless attack, which featured seven tries, including a sensational solo effort by Bielle-Biarrey. Despite a valiant fightback, Australia’s exhaustion from previous defeats to England, Italy, and Ireland was evident, as France sealed their victory with decisive plays in the final minutes.
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Ukraine’s allies voice concerns over US plan to end war
Allies of Ukraine from Europe, Canada, and Japan have raised significant concerns regarding a US-proposed peace plan aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. While acknowledging that the draft contains elements essential for a just and lasting peace, they emphasized the need for additional work, particularly on issues related to border changes and limitations on Ukraine’s military capabilities. The joint statement, issued during the G20 summit in South Africa, was signed by leaders from Canada, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, the UK, Germany, Norway, and top EU officials. They stressed that borders must not be altered by force and expressed worries about proposed caps on Ukraine’s armed forces, which could leave the country vulnerable to future attacks. US President Donald Trump clarified that the draft plan was not his final offer, and discussions are ongoing. Security officials from Britain, France, Germany, the US, and Ukraine are set to meet in Geneva on Sunday to further deliberate on the 28-point proposal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Ukraine is facing one of the most challenging moments in its history, pressured to accept a plan perceived as favorable to Moscow. The US plan includes provisions for Ukrainian troop withdrawals from contested regions, limitations on military personnel, and the potential reintegration of Russia into the global economy. Zelensky has appointed Andriy Yermak to lead Ukraine’s negotiating team, emphasizing the need to defend national interests and prevent further Russian aggression. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated that Moscow is willing to show flexibility but remains prepared to continue fighting. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of the proposed peace deal.
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American senators rip Trump’s Ukraine peace proposal at international security conference in Canada
At the Halifax International Security Forum in Nova Scotia, Canada, U.S. senators vehemently criticized a 28-point peace proposal on Ukraine, crafted by the Trump administration and the Kremlin without Ukraine’s involvement. The plan, which accommodates numerous Russian demands, including territorial concessions, was labeled as one of the most serious geopolitical errors of our time. Independent Senator Angus King of Maine, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, compared the proposal to the infamous 1938 Munich Pact, a failed act of appeasement by British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain. King emphasized that the plan rewards aggression and lacks any ethical, legal, or moral justification. Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina echoed these sentiments, stating that Senate Leader Mitch McConnell’s criticism of the proposal was insufficient. Tillis described Russian President Vladimir Putin as a ‘murderer, rapist, and assassin,’ arguing that the plan should not give Putin any sense of victory. Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, the ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, called the proposal an ‘outrage,’ accusing Trump of being manipulated by Putin. Despite Putin’s endorsement of the plan as a potential basis for peace, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not outright reject it but insisted on fair treatment and pledged to work calmly with Washington and other partners. The Halifax International Security Forum, now in its 17th year, typically attracts military officials, diplomats, and scholars. However, this year, the Trump administration suspended the participation of U.S. defense officials in such events. The strained relations between the U.S. and Canada, exacerbated by Trump’s trade policies and controversial remarks, have led to a significant drop in Canadian tourism to the U.S., particularly in border states like New Hampshire.
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Paul Costelloe, Irish-American fashion designer for Princess Diana, dies at 80
Paul Costelloe, the renowned Irish-American fashion designer who famously dressed the late Princess Diana and became a cornerstone of the London fashion scene, has passed away at the age of 80. His company confirmed the news in a statement on Saturday, revealing that he died peacefully in London, surrounded by his wife and seven children, following a brief illness. Born in Dublin in 1945, Costelloe was the son of a tailor who crafted raincoats in the city’s Rathmines district. His journey into fashion began at the prestigious Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris, where he absorbed the creative essence of iconic designers like Emanuel Ungaro and Pierre Cardin. Costelloe’s career took off as an assistant to designer Jacques Esterel, followed by a stint in Milan with British retailer Marks & Spencer. Although the venture into the Italian market faltered, he remained in Milan, working for the luxury department store La Rinascente. Later, he moved to the United States, designing for the Anne Fogarty label before establishing his own fashion house. His brand became synonymous with luxurious fabrics, innovative designs, and a diverse range of offerings, including womenswear, menswear, bags, and accessories. In 1983, Costelloe’s career reached new heights when he was appointed as Princess Diana’s personal designer, a role he held until her tragic death in 1997. The royal connection began when one of Diana’s ladies-in-waiting noticed his designs and arranged a meeting. Reflecting on the moment, Costelloe once recalled, “I looked out at Hyde Park and I said: ‘God, this is it, Paul, you have made it!’” His legacy as a designer who blended creativity with elegance continues to inspire the fashion world.
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Thousands march in Marseille to denounce drug violence after killing of activist’s brother
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Marseille, France, on Saturday to protest drug trafficking and honor Mehdi Kessaci, a 20-year-old man whose murder last week has been linked to organized crime. The killing, described by authorities as a premeditated act by drug gangs to intimidate Mehdi’s older brother, Amine Kessaci, a prominent anti-drug activist, has sparked nationwide outrage. An estimated 6,000 people, many dressed in white, marched under the banner “Justice for Mehdi,” observing a minute of silence and raising their hands in a symbolic rejection of drug-related violence. Politicians from across the spectrum joined the rally, which was mirrored in approximately 20 other cities across France. Amine Kessaci, 22, who has faced threats and is under police protection, organized the march to denounce drug trafficking and pay tribute to his brother. Mehdi, who aspired to become a police officer, had no involvement in drug-related activities, according to Marseille prosecutor Nicolas Bessone. This tragedy marks the second time Amine has lost a brother to alleged drug violence, following the death of Brahim in 2020, which inspired him to found the association Conscience to support families affected by gang violence. Marseille, a long-standing hub for drug trade, has seen escalating violence, with 367 cases of murder or attempted murder linked to drug trafficking in 2024 alone. French authorities have intensified efforts to combat the crisis, including a new anti-drug law and a government campaign to raise awareness about the connection between recreational drug use and gang violence. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez noted that these measures have reduced homicides in Marseille from 49 in 2023 to 24 in 2024, though Mehdi’s killing underscores the growing brutality of drug gangs.
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Serbians mark anniversary of pro-government violence that spawned student strikes
Thousands of demonstrators in Belgrade, Serbia, defied cold and rainy weather on Saturday to participate in a march condemning violence against university students and challenging the autocratic governance of President Aleksandar Vucic. The protest marked the anniversary of a violent attack on drama students by pro-government supporters, which ignited widespread faculty blockades and daily rallies across the nation.
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One dead after days of torrential rain brings flooding across large swaths of Albania
PRISTINA, Kosovo (AP) — Albania is grappling with severe flooding following days of relentless rainfall, which has claimed at least one life and left numerous communities isolated. Police confirmed on Saturday that a 76-year-old woman was found dead in the southeastern municipality of Devoll after floodwaters receded. Her son had reported her missing, and a search operation by soldiers on Friday proved unsuccessful. Authorities suspect she was swept away by powerful currents. The heavy rains caused the Vjosa and Seman rivers to overflow, inundating vast stretches of agricultural land. The Vjosa flows through southern Albania, while the Seman traverses the low-lying Myzeqeja plain. In the northwestern Lezha region, approximately 220 hectares (544 acres) of land remain submerged, according to the Civil Protection Agency. Distressing footage shared online depicted flooded homes and farmland, with farmers reporting significant crop losses. Defense Minister Pirro Vengu visited the southern Sarande District on Saturday to evaluate the damage firsthand. With more rain predicted in the coming days, fears are mounting that conditions could deteriorate further. Civil Emergency Teams remain on high alert to respond to potential crises.
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Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe dies aged 80
Renowned Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe, celebrated for his influential contributions to British and Irish fashion, has passed away in London at the age of 80. His family confirmed the news in a statement on Saturday, expressing their profound sorrow over his death following a brief illness. Costelloe, who was surrounded by his wife and seven children, died peacefully in London. Born in Dublin, Costelloe’s journey into fashion began in his hometown, where his father managed a thriving raincoat manufacturing business. After honing his skills at the Grafton Academy of Fashion Design, he moved to Paris to study at the prestigious Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture. In 1979, Costelloe established his eponymous label, Paul Costelloe Collections, and quickly rose to prominence, showcasing his designs at major fashion weeks in London, Paris, Milan, and New York. His career reached new heights in 1983 when he was appointed as the personal designer to Diana, Princess of Wales, a role he held until her tragic death in 1997. Costelloe was known for incorporating traditional Irish fabrics such as linen and tweed into his creations, blending heritage with modernity. He also collaborated with Dunnes Stores and played a pivotal role in the inaugural Ireland Fashion Week in October this year. Despite facing criticism in 1998 for his controversial remarks about Irish women’s sense of style, Costelloe later reflected on Ireland’s evolving fashion identity, noting its growing European influence in a recent interview with RTÉ. His legacy as a trailblazer in the fashion industry remains indelible.