All Europe
- First LookWagner's retreat: Russian contractor pulls out as conflict rages
Wagner, the Russian private military contractor, claims to be withdrawing from Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine and transferring control to the Russian military by June 1. Still, independent verification is unavailable amidst ongoing heavy fighting in the city.
- First Look‘The Digital Gulag’: Kremlin’s new technology to control Russia
Russian activists face escalating government scrutiny through digital surveillance, social media monitoring, and facial recognition systems. President Vladimir Putin's administration utilizes technology to control and censor citizens.
- In shadow of Ukraine war, Latvia turns wary eye on local Russians
Since the Ukraine invasion, Russian speakers in Latvia are being wrongly stigmatized wholesale as pro-Moscow, deepening mistrust among ethnic Latvians.
- For Ukrainians in a Russia-tied church, war brings a crisis of faith
For its sheer destructiveness and unpredictability, war challenges faith. In Ukraine’s conflict, the fault lines cut directly through a religion that for centuries was synonymous with identity.
- Drafted at the DMV? Military conscription goes digital in Russia.
Russia is integrating its military draft with its digitized, pervasive bureaucracy. That could make new mobilizations for its war in Ukraine more efficient – and much harder to evade.
- In Sweden, recycled fabrics turn old clothes into new fashion
To address the fashion industry’s rampant waste problem, innovators are processing old clothes into brand-new textiles.
- First LookRussia claims Bakhmut, yet hope remains within the city walls
Russia claims it has control of Ukraine’s eastern city of Bakhmut, after a grinding nine-month conflict. Top Ukrainian military leaders say the battle is not over, but Ukrainian officials acknowledge they now control only a small part of Bakhmut.
- First LookEU draws the line on privacy: Meta hit with $1.3 billion fine
The European Union fined Meta $1.3 billion, ordering to end the transfers of European data to the United States by October. Fine pertains to user data used for targeted ads, following Edward Snowden's surveillance disclosures.
- First LookGreek economy finally finds its strength. But how will elections go?
As Greeks prepare for elections on Sunday, their economy is the best it has been in over a decade. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is seeking a second term as spending limits end and Greece has lower unemployment.
- Russia’s top mercenary leader turns on Kremlin. What’s behind rift?
Wagner mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin has been engaged in very public criticism of Russia’s war effort. Experts say that it’s not a challenge to Vladimir Putin, but positioning for the post-war order.
- First LookSpurred by shootings, protesters march against Serbia’s populist leaders
Many chanted slogans against Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic, whom they blame for creating an atmosphere of hopelessness and division in the country.
- At Ukrainian training ground, growing confidence about coming battle
Ukrainian forces training for the critical spring counteroffensive know what they lack and need, but also what they have. Among their assets is growing confidence.
- First LookRussia’s Victory Day: Ukraine war challenges May 9 celebrations
Russians mark the anniversary of their 1945 triumph over Nazi Germany with Victory Day parades. But this year, the war in Ukraine undermines the image of Russia’s military strength. Some regions have canceled celebrations in fear of Ukranian attacks.
- First LookKing Charles III crowned with regal pomp, cheers, and shrugs
At a time when the monarchy is striving to remain relevant in a fractured modern Britain, King Charles III was crowned Saturday at Westminster Abbey.
- First LookWhy the coronation of King Charles III still holds significance
The coronation of King Charles III on Saturday will formally confirm his role as head of state. Despite controversies that have plagued the Royal family in recent years, the event will celebrate an institution that has long drawn global fascination.
- Ukraine rebuilds: Schools, roofs, water, lights – and citizens
By restoring vital services in liberated areas of Ukraine, where many had pro-Russian sympathies, local officials aim to rebuild residents’ trust in Kyiv’s government and hope for a shared Ukrainian future.
- First Look'Not my king': Why some Brits won't pledge allegiance to Charles
UK Opinion polls suggest opposition to the monarchy is growing. Over 1,500 republican activists plan to dress in yellow and stand along the coronation route in protest as King Charles’ coronation procession makes its way to Westminster Abbey on Saturday.
- First LookWhy King Charles has planned a religiously inclusive coronation
King Charles III is trying to bridge the differences between faith groups that make up Britain’s increasingly diverse society. His coronation on Saturday will include religious leaders representing the Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, and Sikh traditions.
- Why fighters from post-Soviet world flock to Ukraine’s banner
What motivates foreigners to fight and die for Ukraine? Those from Chechnya, Belarus, and Georgia say their countries will never enjoy freedom or democracy unless Russia is defeated.
- Nuance in the fog: Plumbing for honesty in Russian opinion polls
Russia’s government allows public opinion polls, but some say the surveys are skewed by the reluctance of opposition supporters to express themselves.