Thousands of Slovaks protested across the country against Prime Minister Robert Fico’s pro-Russian stance. Demonstrations erupted after Fico’s December meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, fuelling concerns about Slovakia distancing from the EU. Protesters, chanting “Slovakia is Europe,” condemned Fico’s threats to exit the EU and his advisors’ pro-Russian remarks. Fico, who survived an assassination attempt in 2024, has halted military aid to Ukraine and opposed EU sanctions on Russia. His administration’s growing alignment with Moscow continues to spark nationwide unrest, with calls for his resignation intensifying.
EUROPE BACKS GAZA RECONSTRUCTION PLAN
France, Germany, Italy, and the UK have endorsed an Arab-backed $53 billion plan to rebuild Gaza. Proposed by Egypt and adopted at the Arab Summit in Cairo, the plan aims to restore the Palestinian enclave without displacing its residents. It includes phased reconstruction over five years, adding 400,000 housing units and infrastructure like an airport and industrial zones. The plan also advocates for a reformed Palestinian Authority governing Gaza and excludes Hamas. While Europe supports the initiative, the US has rejected it, favouring a controversial alternative proposed by former President Trump.
UN CONDEMNS TALIBAN’S GENDER RESTRICTIONS
On International Women’s Day, the Taliban reiterated their commitment to protecting Afghan women’s rights, despite global condemnation. Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid claimed women in Afghanistan enjoy security and fundamental rights, but the UN strongly disagreed, highlighting bans on education, employment, and public participation. The UN mission chief called for urgent action, stating, “The erasure of women and girls cannot be ignored.” International bodies, including UNESCO, continue to push for change, but the Taliban remain globally isolated, facing calls for sanctions and arrest warrants for their officials over rights violations.
SYRIA CONFLICT WORSENS WITH REPRISALS
Violence in Syria’s Latakia region has claimed over 500 lives, including 330 civilians from the Alawite minority, in reported reprisal attacks. The transitional government accuses pro-Assad forces of orchestrating the unrest, while opposition-led security forces have been accused of mass executions. Germany has called for de-escalation, urging all parties to seek peaceful solutions. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has asked pro-Assad fighters to surrender, as clashes continue between government troops and armed loyalists. The crisis underscores Syria’s fragile transition following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, with fears of further sectarian violence growing.
SOUTH KOREA’S YOON RELEASED FROM PRISON
Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was released from detention after a court cancelled his arrest warrant, questioning the legality of the investigation. Yoon had been jailed since January 15 for leading an insurrection after declaring martial law in December. Despite his release, he still faces criminal charges that could lead to life imprisonment. The Constitutional Court is deliberating whether to remove or reinstate him permanently. Yoon maintains that his actions were necessary for national security. His arrest marked the first time a sitting South Korean president was detained. Public and political divisions remain strong.
