Belarus Puts Exiled Opposition Leader on Trial for Treason
Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, now based in Lithuania, denounced the proceedings as a “farce,” adding that her government-appointed defense lawyer had not responded to her attempts at contact.
Politics and Government
Germany Appoints New Defense Minister as Ukraine War Pressure Mounts
The appointment of Boris Pistorius comes as Germany faces increasing calls to send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine.
European Parliament Focuses on 2 More Lawmakers in Corruption Scandal
The assembly on Monday began the process of lifting the immunity of two members at the request of the Belgian police in a snowballing corruption investigation involving Qatar.
Sunak Blocks Scottish Legislation Making Gender Change Easier
For the first time, the British government in London is blocking legislation approved by the Scottish Parliament, saying the measure on gender identity would undermine U.K.-wide equality law.
Christine Lambrecht Resigns as Germany’s Defense Minister
Christine Lambrecht was a frequent target of criticism, including over German caution on military aid to Ukraine. Chancellor Olaf Scholz had backed her strongly, and may find her hard to replace.
When Being European Parliament President Includes Aiding Police Raids
Roberta Metsola, the youngest person to become president of the European Parliament, is seeking to expand the assembly’s role while guiding it through the aftermath of major bribery accusations.
Israel Moves Right
Israel’s new right-wing government is moving quickly to transform the country.
A United Europe Weathers Crises, but Deeper Challenges Remain
Differences on NATO and E.U. enlargement, energy and climate, and relationships with the United States, China, Russia and Ukraine will prime Davos talks.
As Humanitarian Crises Escalate, So Do Demands to End Them
David Miliband, head of the International Rescue Committee, says the global refugee crisis “is manageable, not insoluble.”
German Village at Center of a Fight Over Coal and Climate Is Cleared Out
For years, activists tried to save tiny Lützerath from being razed to make way for the expansion of an open-pit coal mine. This past week, the police moved them out.