All Europe
The Kremlin got its 300,000 troops. But how did Russian society fare?Russia’s chaotic mobilization of troops has ended, its goals largely met. But the public is still coming to grips with the psychological stresses of the process – and of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
First LookRussia halts Ukraine grain deal over alleged drone attack on shipRussia says one of its ships in Sevastopol was damaged in what it says was a Ukrainian drone attack. Kyiv denied involvement, and claimed that Russian mishandling of its weapons was to blame.
‘All Quiet on the Western Front’: A German retelling for a modern timeGerman filmmaker Edward Berger’s version of “All Quiet on the Western Front” is an effort to help his native country continue its discourse about war and responsibility.
First LookBattle for Bakhmut: Russia aims to prove itself in fight for key cityAs Russian soldiers make small gains around the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, Moscow’s heightened attention to the region shows its need for a battle victory amid repeated setbacks. If taken, Russia could rupture key Ukrainian supply lines.
Displaced by war, Ukrainians accept trauma care – warilyPsychologists seek to persuade stoic Ukrainians fleeing the front lines not to repress – but to confront – their painful memories.
In Ukraine’s liberated areas, weight of Russian occupation lingersFor Ukrainians in liberated territory, the memory of Russian occupation is fresh as they seek to reclaim their dignity. Accounts of abuse are still emerging.
First LookGriner appeal rejected in Moscow court, 9-year sentence upheldA Russian court has rejected WNBA star Brittney Griner’s appeal of a nine-year sentence for drug possession. The Biden administration has explored bringing Ms. Griner home by way of prisoner swap but says Russia has not responded productively.
Facing blackouts, Ukrainians seek candles and camping stovesRussian airstrikes on Ukrainian energy facilities are forcing blackouts on more than a million households. Citizens are girding for a cold, dark winter.
First LookRishi Sunak will become Britain’s new prime ministerFormer Treasury chief Rishi Sunak will become Britain’s third prime minister this year, after his only rival conceded. Mr. Sunak is the country’s first leader of color, and faces many challenges amidst a turbulent U.K.
First LookWho is Rishi Sunak? Inside the race for Britain's next prime ministerRishi Sunak, Boris Johnson and former defense minister Penny Mordaunt had joined the fray to become the country's fifth prime minister in six years.
Not just a matter of Truss: Britons want responsibility from next PMLiz Truss was forced to resign because her priorities were out of sync with what Britons wanted from their government. Now the public seems most concerned that the next leader restore a measure of maturity to No. 10.
Belarus may be set for war with Ukraine. But at what cost to itself?Belarus looks like it may be planning to enter the war in Ukraine. But that could endanger its own independence, if it hastens its integration with Russia.
Next prime minister’s challenge: Regaining Britons’ trustThe deeper challenge facing Britain has less to do with the fortunes of individual politicians than the health of Britain’s democracy, and the sense of connection between the politicians and those they’re elected to serve.
First LookDivision and turmoil: UK PM Liz Truss resigns after six weeksBritish Prime Minister Liz Truss has called it quits after instability roiled the financial markets and rebellion rippled through the ranks of the Conservative Party. The Labour Party now has a large and growing lead, according to opinion polls.
‘Electricity is civilization’: Winter looms over Ukraine battlefrontAmong those things governments strive to provide are security, opportunity, and minimal comfort. As winter nears, and Russia targets Ukraine’s infrastructure, add to that list heat and light.
Nazi criminals, convicted decades later. Is justice served?Germany has seen an uptick in prosecutions of Nazis for Holocaust-related crimes. But what sort of justice is to be found in convicting centenarians some seven decades after the fact?
First LookBritish prices on the rise as inflation soars toward 40 year highInflation in the U.K. hit a 40-year high as food prices rose by 14.6% so far this year, the fastest increase seen since 1980. An ill-fated package of tax cuts that roiled financial markets has been ditched, but a difficult winter is ahead, says Treasury chief.
First LookIn test of EU cooperation, leaders meet to stem energy cost crunchIn upcoming “week of truth,” European leaders will seek to control rising energy prices and stay united against Russia’s war in Ukraine. Leaders will need to compromise to bolster struggling economies, experts say, no matter how difficult it may be.
When leaders don’t listen: Lessons from Liz Truss’ rise and fallLiz Truss’ plan to cut British taxes was radical; the lack of indication of how to pay for it was daring. Her failure to hear criticism was fatal.
First LookUkrainians respond with resilience to Russian barrage, vow victoryUkrainian focus on homeland defense is unwavering despite the recent rise in Russian attacks. The more the Kremlin threatens to make the upcoming winter intolerable, the more Ukrainians seem to unite in their intent to drive out the Russians.
