EU defense summit opens amid Franco-German industrial deadlock and US absence

EU Defense Ministers gathered in Brussels on Wednesday, February 11, to coordinate military support for Ukraine and defense innovation. High Representative Kaja Kallas led the session, which included an in-person exchange with Ukrainian Defense Minister Mihailo Fedorov.

EU moves to dismantle Russian crypto ecosystem in 20th sanctions package

The European Commission has proposed a comprehensive blanket ban on all Russian-linked cryptocurrency operations. This strategic shift aims to dismantle the financial infrastructure used by Moscow to bypass international restrictions.

Zelenskyy to reveal plan for presidential elections and peace referendum on February 24

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to unveil a comprehensive roadmap for national elections and a sovereignty referendum on February 24, according to sources cited by the Financial Times.

Moldova National Food Safety Agency monitors new animal disease outbreaks

The National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) has announced an escalation in monitoring and intervention protocols following the detection of several animal disease outbreaks across the Republic of Moldova since early February.

Russian food prices soar as cucumber costs reach parity with meat amid war economy

Russia's economy is entering a volatile contraction, with essential goods becoming a luxury for average citizens. Millions confront a mounting financial crisis as defense spending consumes nearly 40% of the national budget, fueling hyperinflation across the Federation.

Moldova natural gas consumption hits record high in January

Natural gas consumption on Moldova’s Right Bank reached a historic peak in January, driven by an extended cold snap that pushed daily demand over 17,000 MWh. The Ministry of Energy attributed this surge to significantly lower temperatures compared to previous months.

Moldova weighs staged EU integration by 2027 to bolster national security

Moldova stands to gain significant strategic advantages from a potential "staged accession" to the European Union, a scenario currently under discussion in Brussels for Ukraine, Moldova, and Albania.

Moldova considers social media restrictions for minors to combat mental health risks

Moldova’s Minister of Education and Research, Dan Perciun, announced that the government is evaluating potential restrictions on social media access for children. A final decision is expected by the end of 2026, following extensive consultations with psychologists, educational experts, and mental health professionals.

ORION 26: 12,000 Allied troops converge in France for high-intensity drills

The French Armed Forces have launched a comprehensive three-month military mobilization to demonstrate France’s resolve in protecting its territory, citizens, and strategic interests.

Amnesty International exposes North Korea's 'Dystopian' execution of youth over foreign media

North Korean authorities are executing students for watching South Korean television shows, including the Netflix hit "Squid Game," and listening to K-Pop. A 2025 Amnesty International report, citing harrowing testimonies from defectors, details a regime increasingly reliant on public executions and forced labor to stifle foreign cultural influence.

Moldova joins European Youth Card network, launching digital-first access to continental benefits

The Republic of Moldova has officially joined the European Youth Card Association (EYCA), marking the nationwide launch of a digital-first platform designed to empower citizens aged 14 to 30 with cross-border opportunities.

Russia oil production drops for second month as US sanctions stifle exports

Russian crude oil output continued its downward slide in January for the second consecutive month. This decline stems from intensifying market access constraints triggered by United States sanctions.