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Category: Europe-Asia

  • Trump secures three-day Russia-Ukraine ceasefire ahead of Victory Day celebrations

    Trump secures three-day Russia-Ukraine ceasefire ahead of Victory Day celebrations

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — United States President Donald Trump has announced a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as part of efforts to ease tensions in the ongoing war between both countries.

    The ceasefire, scheduled to hold from May 9 to May 11, 2026, is expected to coincide with Victory Day commemorations in Russia.

    In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said the temporary truce would create an enabling environment for the celebrations in both countries, noting that Ukraine also played a major role during World War II.

    “This ceasefire will include a suspension of all kinetic activity, and also a prison swap of 1,000 prisoners from each country,” Trump stated.

    According to the U.S. president, the request for the brief pause in hostilities was made directly by him, adding that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had both agreed to the arrangement.

    “Hopefully, it is the beginning of the end of a very long, deadly, and hard-fought war,” he added.

    Trump further disclosed that negotiations aimed at permanently ending the conflict — which he described as the biggest war since World War II — were ongoing and making steady progress.

    The development comes amid intensified cross-border attacks by both sides in recent days. Ukraine has significantly expanded its capacity to strike targets deep inside Russia.

    On Thursday, Ukrainian forces reportedly struck a facility belonging to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) in Chechnya. The FSB, known in Russian as Federalnaya Sluzhba Bezopasnosti, is Russia’s principal domestic security and intelligence agency.

    Ukraine also reportedly carried out a drone strike on an aviation control centre facility, forcing the temporary closure of 13 airports across Russia and disrupting thousands of flights.

    In recent months, Kyiv has also intensified long-range strikes targeting Russian oil and gas infrastructure, describing the operations as part of efforts to enforce sanctions against Russia’s energy exports.

    Russia, on its part, has continued heavy drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian targets, in what observers describe as an escalating cycle of retaliatory strikes by both sides.

    The ceasefire agreement is expected to reduce tensions temporarily and may help prevent disruptions to events scheduled to take place in Moscow during the Victory Day celebrations.

  • Kemi Badenoch hails Conservative comeback as Labour suffers major losses in local elections

    Kemi Badenoch hails Conservative comeback as Labour suffers major losses in local elections

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — The Leader of the Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, has said the Conservatives are returning to mainstream political leadership in Britain following early results from the 2026 UK local elections, which show the Labour Party losing at least 254 council seats across England.

    Badenoch said voters across several key areas were signalling renewed confidence in the Conservatives.

    “From Westminster to Wandsworth, Harlow to Bexley, Fareham to Broxbourne, people can see the Conservative Party is renewed. There is much more to do, but we have the plan and team to get Britain working again,” she said.

    Earlier, Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the scale of Labour’s losses, describing the outcome as “tough results for Labour” and conceding that the party had lost “brilliant representatives who stood up for their communities.”

    The opposition Labour Party, led by Starmer, suffered its worst performance in several key regions, with at least 254 council seats lost across England, according to early confirmed results.

    The defeats were particularly pronounced in northern and working-class strongholds, including parts of Greater Manchester and Hartlepool, long considered core Labour territory.

    The election also saw significant gains by Reform UK, while the Green Party and Liberal Democrats recorded modest advances, further weakening Britain’s traditional two-party dominance.

    Political analysts say voter dissatisfaction over the economy, public services, and the perceived slow pace of reforms contributed to Labour’s losses.

    Starmer admitted public frustration, saying, “People are still frustrated. Their lives aren’t changing fast enough. We haven’t offered enough hope or optimism for the future,” reflecting growing pressure on the party’s leadership following the results.

  • Labour’s local election huge losses signal deeper political shifts in the UK

    Labour’s local election huge losses signal deeper political shifts in the UK

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — Prime Minister Keir Starmer has openly acknowledged the scale of Labour’s losses in the 2026 local elections, describing the outcome as “tough results for Labour” and conceding that the party has lost “brilliant representatives who stood up for their communities.” His remarks underscore the gravity of the setback and the mounting challenges facing Labour’s leadership.

    Labour lost at least 254 council seats across England, according to early confirmed results, with Reform UK making significant inroads into traditional Labour strongholds. The Greens and Liberal Democrats also registered gains, signaling a broader erosion of Britain’s two-party dominance. Particularly striking were Labour’s defeats in northern and working-class councils, including parts of Greater Manchester and Hartlepool, areas long considered central to the party’s base.

    Analysts point to voter dissatisfaction with the economy, public services, and the perceived slow pace of reforms as key drivers of the electoral backlash. Starmer himself admitted that “people are still frustrated. Their lives aren’t changing fast enough. We haven’t offered enough hope or optimism for the future.” His candid assessment reflects both the scale of discontent and the urgency of recalibrating Labour’s message.

    Despite the losses, Starmer, in a statement on Friday, insisted that his determination remains intact. “I was elected to change this country. These results do not weaken my determination — they strengthen it,” he declared, framing the setback as a catalyst for renewed resolve rather than retreat.

    The outcome highlights two critical dynamics: the rise of smaller parties reshaping local governance, and the vulnerability of Labour in constituencies once considered secure. Reform UK’s gains, in particular, suggest a shifting political map that could complicate Labour’s national strategy ahead of future contests.

    For Labour, the challenge now lies in restoring confidence among disillusioned voters, articulating a clearer vision of economic and social renewal, and countering the momentum of insurgent parties. The 2026 local elections may thus prove less a temporary setback than a warning sign of deeper structural changes in British politics.

  • DRC Deepens Cooperation with Uganda and Russia

    DRC Deepens Cooperation with Uganda and Russia

    KINSHASA, DRC (NPA) — The Congolese Minister of State, H.E. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, today, received in audience the Ugandan Republic’s Deputy Minister for Regional Integration, John Mulimba. The DRC’s Minister for Regional Integration, Floribert Anzuluni Isiloketshi, also joined the discussions.

    Talks focused on preparations for the 9th session of the DRC–Uganda Joint Great Commission, scheduled to take place in Uganda from May 8 to 12, 2026. The meeting reflects the two countries’ shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across sectors of mutual interest.

    In a separate engagement the same day, Minister Wagner also met with H.E. Karl Tikhaze, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the DRC. Their discussions centered on the DRC’s participation in the upcoming 3rd Russia–Africa Summit, set for October 28–29, 2026 in Moscow.

    The Minister welcomed Russia’s continued support for the DRC, particularly on security challenges in the eastern region. Talks also explored collaboration on peace and security issues in the context of the DRC’s upcoming presidency of the United Nations Security Council in July 2026.

    Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the DRC–Russia strategic partnership, with emphasis on cooperation in health, scientific research, education, and judicial affairs.

  • ADB Targets $50bn to Boost Cross-Border Power Grids Across Asia

    ADB Targets $50bn to Boost Cross-Border Power Grids Across Asia

    SAMARKAND, Uzbekistan (NPA) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) says it is mobilising $50 billion by 2035 to support the development of cross-border power grids across Asia and the Pacific, aimed at lowering energy costs, improving reliability, and expanding clean energy trade.

    ADB President, Masato Kanda, disclosed this at the Governors’ Seminar on the Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative (PAGI) during the bank’s 59th Annual Meeting.

    “The $50 billion Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative is about building the infrastructure required for a more connected, resilient, and prosperous Asia and the Pacific,” Kanda said. “Countries that stay connected attract investment and weather shocks better than those that turn inward. Connectivity is our answer to fragmentation.”

    The initiative, launched on Sunday, is designed as a flagship regional platform to accelerate cross-border electricity trade, scale up renewable energy integration, and strengthen energy security across participating countries.

    According to the ADB, the programme targets the integration of about 20 gigawatts of renewable energy, the development of 22,000 circuit-kilometres of transmission lines, improved electricity access for 200 million people, and the creation of about 840,000 jobs by 2035.

    Kanda said the bank is shifting from isolated infrastructure projects to integrated regional systems that support long-term economic growth, resilience, and energy security.

    ADB is also leveraging its convening power to bring together governments, regulators, utilities, private sector players, and development partners to align policies, coordinate investments, and address regulatory bottlenecks that often delay large-scale infrastructure projects.

    The bank has previously supported major cross-border energy projects, including the Bangladesh–India grid interconnection and the Monsoon Wind Power Project in Laos, using blended finance to attract private investment.

    To further accelerate grid interconnections in Southeast Asia, ADB has launched a dedicated Regional Connectivity Fund backed by Australia, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. The fund is expected to de-risk early-stage projects, finance preparation activities, and mobilise larger pools of public and private capital.

    ADB, founded in 1966 and owned by 69 member countries, is a leading multilateral development institution focused on promoting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific.

  • Macron condemns renewed Iranian Strikes on UAE, calls for security guarantees in Gulf

    Macron condemns renewed Iranian Strikes on UAE, calls for security guarantees in Gulf

    PARIS, France (NPA) — President Emmanuel Macron of France has condemned the resumption of missile attacks reportedly carried out by Iran against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), following UAE claims that its military intercepted incoming projectiles launched from Iranian positions.

    Macron said strikes targeting civilian infrastructure in the Gulf state were “unjustified and unacceptable,” warning that such actions risk further destabilising an already fragile regional security environment.

    “As it has done since the start of the conflict, France will continue to support its allies in the Emirates and in the region for the defence of their territory,” he said.

    The French President stressed that any durable resolution to the crisis would require the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to unrestricted maritime traffic, alongside a comprehensive security agreement addressing regional threats.

    He said such a framework must include firm guarantees against what he described as Iran’s nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile activities, and wider regional destabilisation.

    The renewed hostilities come amid heightened tensions following a United States initiative dubbed “Project Freedom,” announced by former President Donald Trump, aimed at deploying U.S. naval assets to secure safe passage for commercial vessels transiting the strategic waterway.

    U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine, speaking jointly to reporters, today, described the operation as a humanitarian mission designed to protect neutral shipping interests in the region.

    Hegseth clarified that the renewed reports of Iranian missile activity in the Gulf did not signal the collapse of ongoing ceasefire arrangements, adding that diplomatic engagements were still underway to de-escalate tensions and bring an end to the conflict.

  • Guðbrandsson, Abou Jamous named laureates of 31st Council of Europe North-South Prize

    Guðbrandsson, Abou Jamous named laureates of 31st Council of Europe North-South Prize

    STRASBOURG, France (NPA) — The jury of the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe has announced Bragi Guðbrandsson and Rami Abou Jamous as laureates of the 31st edition of the North-South Prize of the Council of Europe, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to human rights, democracy, and intercultural dialogue.

    The award, established in 1995, honours individuals and institutions from both the Global North and South who have demonstrated sustained commitment to strengthening human rights, the rule of law, and international solidarity. Previous recipients include former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, former Irish President Mary Robinson, musician Bob Geldof, and singer Peter Gabriel, reflecting the prize’s long-standing tradition of recognising global figures who influence peace and social justice.

    Bragi Guðbrandsson, a distinguished children’s rights advocate, was recognised for his pioneering work in child protection systems across Europe and beyond, particularly his development of the Barnahus (“Children’s House”) model, which has reshaped how justice systems respond to cases involving violence and sexual abuse against children. His leadership within international human rights frameworks, including collaborations with the Council of Europe and the United Nations, has helped establish stronger, more child-sensitive justice practices and reinforced global standards in child protection.

    Rami Abou Jamous, a renowned war correspondent, was awarded for his courageous and independent journalism from conflict zones, especially his reporting from Gaza, where he has documented the realities of life under war in extremely dangerous conditions. The jury highlighted his contribution to advancing North-South dialogue through frontline reporting and his role in amplifying the voices of civilians affected by conflict, underscoring the risks faced by journalists working in active war zones.

    The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on 19 May at noon (1pm CET) at the Portuguese Parliament in Lisbon, and will be presided over by Speaker José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, with the presentation made by Portuguese President António José Seguro in the presence of senior Council of Europe officials and distinguished guests.

    Organisers noted that this year’s edition carries added significance, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of Portugal’s accession to the Council of Europe, a milestone reflecting decades of democratic engagement within the institution.

  • Saudi leadership congratulates Polish President on Constitution Day

    Saudi leadership congratulates Polish President on Constitution Day

    RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (NPA) — The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Prime Minister, have congratulated President Karol Nawrocki of the Republic of Poland on the occasion of his country’s Constitution Day.

    In separate cables, King Salman and the Crown Prince extended warm wishes of continued good health and happiness to President Nawrocki, and expressed hopes for steady progress and prosperity for the government and people of Poland.

    A part of the statement shared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on its official channels reads: “The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques @KingSalman and HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulate the President of the Republic of Poland on his country’s Constitution Day.”

    The Ministry emphasized that the gesture reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and fostering goodwill with Poland.

    The Constitution Day in Poland commemorates the adoption of the May 3, 1791 Constitution, a landmark document that introduced modern democratic principles and sought to reform the Polish‑Lithuanian Commonwealth. Though short‑lived, it is regarded as one of Poland’s greatest achievements, symbolizing the nation’s pursuit of sovereignty and justice.

    Today, it is celebrated as a national holiday with parades, ceremonies, and public events, and is considered as significant to Poles as July 4 is to Americans.

  • IAEA reaffirms support for Ukraine’s nuclear safety at 40th anniversary of Chernobyl disaster

    IAEA reaffirms support for Ukraine’s nuclear safety at 40th anniversary of Chernobyl disaster

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Mariano Grossi, has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, as the country marked the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster.

    Grossi made the remarks during a visit to Kyiv, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other senior officials to discuss ongoing efforts to stabilise and rebuild the country’s energy infrastructure amid the continuing conflict.

    According to the IAEA chief, discussions with President Zelenskyy focused on the situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), as well as the agency’s sustained support for Ukraine’s energy sector, including plans for new power units at the Khmelnitsky Nuclear Power Plant and repairs to the New Safe Confinement structure at the Chernobyl site.

    “The IAEA remains committed to supporting nuclear safety and security in Ukraine,” Grossi said, noting the agency’s ongoing presence and technical assistance across the country’s nuclear facilities.

    Ukraine’s Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal, also announced the signing of a memorandum of cooperation between Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy and the IAEA aimed at advancing the recovery and development of the nuclear energy sector.

    The agreement provides a framework for the modernisation of nuclear power plants, restoration of critical grid infrastructure, and facilitation of new power unit construction, particularly at the Khmelnytskyi facility. It also includes support for institutional reforms at Energoatom, the state-owned nuclear energy operator.

    During the visit, Grossi handed over a specialised methodology for operating nuclear power plants under wartime conditions—an initiative both sides agreed upon in 2025. The document is expected to serve as a global reference for managing nuclear facilities in conflict zones and preventing potential disasters.

    In addition, the IAEA delivered two ambulances to support emergency response operations at nuclear facilities, including those in southern Ukraine and the Chernobyl zone.

    Grossi also held talks with representatives of the European Commission, including Valdis Dombrovskis, focusing on reconstruction efforts at Chernobyl and broader nuclear safety initiatives.

    The IAEA chief participated in the Ukraine Energy Coordination Group event titled “40 Years After Chernobyl,” alongside Ukrainian officials, where he highlighted the agency’s decades-long role in shaping global nuclear safety standards and its continued engagement in Ukraine during the ongoing war.

    “From supporting recovery after the 1986 accident to maintaining a presence at all nuclear power plants in Ukraine today, the IAEA has remained committed,” Grossi said.

    Commemorating the anniversary, officials reiterated the importance of sustained international cooperation to ensure nuclear safety, prevent future incidents, and support Ukraine’s long-term energy resilience.

  • Macron meets Middle East leaders, pledges support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and regional stability

    Macron meets Middle East leaders, pledges support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and regional stability

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, and Jordan’s Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah II on the sidelines of the informal European Council meeting in Cyprus. The discussions focused on addressing the challenges facing countries in the Middle East and strengthening cooperation between the region and Europe.

    Macron stressed the importance of working together on a shared agenda of sovereignty, stability, and prosperity, noting that both Europe and the Middle East are grappling with the consequences of ongoing regional conflicts. He emphasized that the Middle East is poised to become a central link in supply routes with the European Union, a development he said would benefit both peoples and economies.

    The French President announced that France will continue to play its part in advancing these objectives, particularly by supporting Lebanon in its efforts to uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity. He underscored France’s backing for the Lebanese state’s monopoly over weapons, describing it as a categorical plan to disarm Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed armed group operating in Lebanon.

    Macron further stated that France stands ready to mobilize its partners when the time comes, including by organizing a conference in support of Lebanon’s armed and security forces as well as the country’s economic recovery.

    European diplomats at the Cyprus meeting welcomed Macron’s initiative, noting that France’s leadership could help galvanize broader EU support for stability in the Middle East. They emphasized that coordinated action is essential to prevent further escalation and to strengthen regional partnerships.

    The meeting in Cyprus highlighted France’s ongoing diplomatic engagement in the Middle East, with Macron positioning his country as a key partner in efforts to stabilize the region and foster closer ties with Europe.