All Europe
- The West or Moscow? In Georgia, a pivotal vote could set the nation’s course.
Young Georgian demonstrators are hoping to block a Moscow-inspired law on “foreign agents,” which they worry will be used to stifle criticism of the government.
- First LookScotland’s leader resigns. His government couldn’t agree on climate change, health care.
Humza Yousaf, Scotland’s first minister, resigned as his government coalition collapsed. Transgender care and tackling climate change were just some of the issues that weakened Mr. Yousaf’s government.
- First LookUkraine makes tactical retreat in east, warns of frontline pressure
Awaiting much-needed arms from a huge U.S. aid package, Ukraine’s troops have been forced to make a tactical retreat from three villages in the east.
- Cover StorySamuel Paty was murdered, and teaching in France has never been the same
When controversy over a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad led to the killing of teacher Samuel Paty in 2020, colleagues had to learn to trust again.
- Meet the Franco-Malian pop star sparking debate over who should sing at the Olympics
Who represents France? It’s a question that has set off a political brouhaha, as far-right leaders complain about President Emmanuel Macron’s suggestion that Aya Nakamura might sing an Édith Piaf song at the Olympics.
- First LookUS aid to Ukraine will help it fend off Russia. But victory still isn’t in sight.
The new $61 billion U.S. aid package will keep Ukraine from the brink, allowing it to release rationed ammunition and launch anti-aircraft missiles. But as Russia pushes forward, even small offensives may be outside Ukraine’s reach.
- Russia tried to stay on good terms with Iran and Israel. Then they started fighting.
Iran creates a unique link between the war in Gaza and the war in Ukraine, where it supplies Russia with arms. That puts the Kremlin in a difficult position in the Middle East.
- First LookAfter years of debate, UK Parliament signs off on sending migrants to Rwanda
The United Kingdom’s Parliament passed Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s controversial plan to send migrants to Rwanda, despite facing legal challenges. Mr. Sunak has pledged to “stop the boats,” while activists say the program is unethical and inhumane.
- An archipelago was losing its ancient sport. African migrants may save it.
Immigration is sometimes perceived as a threat to tradition. But in Spain’s Canary Islands, it appears to be the means to preserve a centuries-old sport that has been in danger of dying out.
- Ukraine is trying to rally new troops. Vets say weapons are more urgent.
Ukraine is scrambling to bolster its defenses, and on Tuesday rolled out a new, tougher conscription law. But with resupplies still snared in Washington, some veterans warn that more troops only offer so much help.
- Only 70 people lived on the island of Gavdos. Then migrant boats started to arrive.
Most migrants crossing the Mediterranean to Europe have arrived in populated areas that could handle newcomers. But what happens when they land someplace truly isolated like the island of Gavdos?
- First LookNo Brit born after 2009 will ever be able to smoke legally, if bill passes
Britain’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hopes to pass a youth smoking ban along in a show of bipartisanship. Fellow members of his conservative party, however, are not supportive of what they deem an overreach by government into the lives of everyday Brits.
- First LookThese Russian soldiers refuse to fight Putin's war. But escape is nearly impossible.
Asylum claims from Russians have surged in the U.S., France, and Germany as growing numbers of Russian soldiers seek to escape the war in Ukraine. Few claims have been granted as countries consider the threat to national security.
- Terrorists attacked Moscow. Now Russia’s migrants are feeling the backlash.
Russia’s migrants have long been tolerated by both authorities and the public. But when several Tajiks became suspects in the March 22 terror attack in Moscow, the whole community came under withering scrutiny.
- First LookUkraine, short of soldiers, passes controversial new conscription law
Two years after Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine is in dire need of more soldiers. Yet lawmakers dragged their feet for months over the new, likely unpopular law, which goes into effect a month after President Zelenskyy signs it – if and when he does.
- Ukraine aid deadlock could threaten peace in Europe. Does Congress care?
Ukraine must convince Americans that its fate matters, and that a Russian victory would threaten European security and American interests.
- First LookMost abortions in Poland happen unofficially. A new law could change things.
Poland has one of the strictest abortion laws in Europe. Now, that law is up for a long-awaited debate.
- How Portugal has largely avoided racism and Islamophobia amid a migration boom
Historically a country of emigrants, Portugal has seen an influx of arrivals from Asia and Africa in recent years. And despite recent political gains by the far right, the public and the newcomers are largely getting along.
- Difference MakerIn post-quake Turkey, kids struggle. A school principal named ‘Hope’ steps in.
After the devastating earthquakes in Turkey over a year ago, the best of humanity surfaced. But some have met the challenge in a time of need with special determination.
- Estonians trust their government. That’s why it can offer advanced services.
Few rank either government or technology as trustworthy. But then there are Estonians, who are deeply invested in their country’s e-government programs.