EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has urged the US and Europe to stay united against Russia, warning that a transatlantic divide would strengthen Moscow. Speaking on Euronews’ Europe Today, Kallas emphasized that any peace deal between Russia and Ukraine must involve European nations. She also proposed a €40 billion military support package for Ukraine, signalling increased EU defence commitments. The proposal, which allows participation from non-EU countries like the UK and Norway, is set for debate at the upcoming EU summit. Kallas stressed that deterrence is key, cautioning that Putin may not honour ceasefire agreements.
ISTANBUL MAYOR İMAMOĞLU ARRESTED
Turkish police have arrested Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, a key rival to President Erdoğan, days before his Republican People’s Party (CHP) holds its presidential candidate elections. Authorities accuse İmamoğlu of aiding a terrorist organization and engaging in corruption, claims he denies. His detention follows the annulment of his university degree, which could disqualify him from running for office. Critics see the move as politically motivated, targeting opposition figures amid Erdoğan’s increasing crackdown. Meanwhile, thousands have rallied in support of İmamoğlu, demanding fair elections and judicial independence. The arrests are expected to intensify Turkey’s political tensions ahead of upcoming elections.
JFK JR. CALLED BIDEN ‘TRAITOR’
Recently declassified JFK assassination files have revealed a shocking letter from John F. Kennedy Jr. to then-Senator Joe Biden in 1994, in which he called Biden a “traitor.” The letter, delivered by a special agent, has fuelled speculation about its context, though further details remain undisclosed. The release follows Donald Trump’s executive order declassifying all JFK-related records, reigniting interest in the decades-old mystery. While historians doubt major revelations, the new information has sparked debates about Biden’s past political decisions. The files also confirm that the CIA had been monitoring Lee Harvey Oswald before President Kennedy’s assassination.
ISRAEL RESUMES GAZA GROUND OPERATIONS
Israel has launched a “limited ground operation” in central Gaza, reclaiming control of the Netzarim corridor. The military buffer zone divides the strip into northern and southern sections. This escalation follows Israel’s ongoing efforts to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages. The renewed offensive comes two months after a ceasefire paused hostilities. Reports indicate at least 13 fatalities in overnight airstrikes. Meanwhile, protests in Israel intensified, with over 100,000 citizens opposing Prime Minister Netanyahu’s handling of the war. Critics argue that political motives are driving military actions, with concerns that continued conflict endangers hostages and prolongs instability.
INDIA OPPOSES DUTCH DEFENCE DEAL
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged his Dutch counterpart, Ruben Berkelmans, to cease defence exports to Pakistan, citing concerns over regional security and cross-border terrorism. The Netherlands, known for its advanced defence industry, has previously engaged with Pakistan in military cooperation. During their meeting, Singh highlighted India’s commitment to defence collaboration with the Netherlands while reinforcing opposition to Pakistan’s military buildup. Discussions also covered cybersecurity, Indo-Pacific strategy, and emerging technologies. India seeks to strengthen defence ties with the Netherlands under its ‘Make in India’ initiative, aiming to expand its domestic defence industry while curbing security threats in South Asia.
