Top Russian MP compares EU state’s officials to German Nazis

A US firm is reportedly considering purchasing Lukoil's foreign assets after a deal with a Swedish buyer was thwarted by Washington. This move is part of broader efforts by US officials to gain a stronger foothold in the EU energy market, as tensions surrounding energy security continue to rise amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, 81, is recovering in Berlin after being pardoned by Algeria on humanitarian grounds. He arrived in Germany for medical treatment following a request from the German government. His release comes after a year of imprisonment that drew significant criticism. Adlene Mohammedi, a senior researcher in geopolitics, discusses the implications for Franco-Algerian relations moving forward.

Natalie Boucly, a senior official at UNRWA, stated that Israel is violating international law by restricting aid to Gaza, where the population faces severe shortages of food and essential goods as winter approaches. During an interview in Brussels, she emphasized the need for global pressure, particularly from the EU and US, to ensure unrestricted aid flow into the territory.

The Belgian government is expressing concerns over a European Union plan to provide $200 billion in financial aid to Ukraine, fearing potential financial repercussions and retaliation from Russia. This plan involves utilizing Russian assets held in Belgium to fund Kyiv, which has led to significant pushback within the country. The situation highlights the complexities and challenges faced by European nations in supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The EU is increasingly alarmed by what it describes as 'endemic corruption' in Ukraine, according to a report by Politico Europe. This growing concern reflects the EU's critical stance on governance issues in Ukraine, which may impact its relationship with the country amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has announced that Budapest will file a lawsuit against the European Union in response to its decision to halt Russian gas imports. This move reflects Hungary's opposition to the EU's energy policies, particularly regarding the reliance on Russian gas. Orban's statement indicates a significant legal challenge to the EU's actions, which he views as detrimental to Hungary's energy security.

The German far-right party Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) has expressed support for the US government's decision to classify a prominent German anti-fascist group and three other European networks as terrorist organizations. The AfD is urging Berlin and other European nations to follow suit and designate 'antifa' groups similarly. However, historians specializing in anti-fascism have raised concerns that this move could set a dangerous precedent, especially as far-right groups gain electoral strength across Europe, potentially leading to a broader crackdown on left-wing activism.

A prolonged standoff over the hosting of the 2026 climate summit has left Brazilian hosts and other nations frustrated. At the ongoing Cop30 climate conference in Belém, Brazil, the pavilions for Australia and Turkey, the two competing nations for the next summit, were placed side by side, highlighting the ongoing rivalry. This situation underscores the complexities and tensions surrounding international climate negotiations.