London’s Heathrow Airport faced a complete shutdown after a fire at a nearby electricity substation, causing chaos for over 220,000 passengers. A Flightradar24 image revealed 120 planes scrambling for alternate landing spots in mid-air, with many forced to return to origins like Mumbai and Delhi. In total, 1,357 flights were impacted by cancellations, delays, and reroutes to European cities. Witnesses described the fire as “apocalyptic,” with experts warning repairs could take months. Heathrow authorities have advised passengers to avoid the airport until further notice. The incident raises concerns over infrastructure resilience at one of the world’s busiest airports.
SLOVAKIA’S PROTEST GAINS MOMENTUM
Slovakia is witnessing its largest anti-government protests in decades as citizens oppose Prime Minister Robert Fico’s pro-Moscow shift. Demonstrations, sparked by Fico’s meeting with Putin and threats to leave the EU and NATO, have mobilized thousands under the slogan “Slovakia is Europe.” Protesters demand democratic accountability as Fico weakens anti-corruption measures and consolidates power. Analysts warn that Slovakia stands at a crossroads, with the opposition struggling to offer a clear alternative. Despite dwindling numbers, activists vow continued pressure, seeing these protests as crucial for the country’s democratic future.
EU BYPASSES HUNGARY ON UKRAINE
The European Union has once again bypassed Hungary’s veto on Ukraine-related decisions, as 26 out of 27 member states reaffirmed their support for Kyiv. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban refused to sign the joint summit statement, continuing his stance against EU military and financial aid to Ukraine. Instead of negotiating with Orban, the EU moved forward with plans, including a potential €40 billion aid package. However, Hungary’s veto power remains critical for major decisions like Ukraine’s EU accession. As further sanctions on Russia approach renewal, tensions between Budapest and Brussels are expected to escalate.
SUDAN ARMY RETAKES PRESIDENTIAL PALACE
After intense fighting, Sudan’s army has reclaimed the presidential palace in Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Army spokesman Nabil Abdallah announced that government forces “destroyed” RSF fighters and seized weapons. Videos circulating online show soldiers celebrating inside the palace, though their authenticity remains unverified. The RSF had occupied the palace since April 2023 when conflict erupted between the two factions. This battle marks a turning point in the nearly two-year war, which has displaced over 12 million people and triggered one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The army vows to continue its offensive.
UKRAINE’S RETREAT: A CHAOTIC EXIT
Ukraine’s retreat from Russia’s Kursk region was marked by chaos, with soldiers leaving in disarray due to delayed orders and failed communications. Artem Kariakin, a Ukrainian soldier, described the withdrawal as poorly organized, worsened by Starlink malfunctions inside Russia. Despite setbacks, the offensive forced Russia to divert troops from the east. Meanwhile, Trump and Putin’s talks on ending the war are met with scepticism in Ukraine. As cross-border raids into Russia continue, Ukrainian soldiers stress the need for sustained Western support, fearing a ceasefire on unfavourable terms if U.S. backing weakens.
