Maximus Textoris Pulcher, the Belgian prime minister's rescue cat, has become a popular social media star with over 142,000 followers, subtly sharing political messages and behind-the-scenes glimpses of government life, enhancing Prime Minister Bart De Wever's public image.
Zhang Zhizhen won a grueling match against Zizou Bergs to keep China's hopes alive in the United Cup, while Elise Mertens led Belgium to a strong start with a victory over Zhu Lin, setting the stage for a decisive mixed doubles match in Sydney.
Europe has lost its grip on the internet security landscape, according to Belgium's cybersecurity chief, highlighting concerns over digital vulnerabilities across the continent.
The EU's plan to create a reparations loan for Ukraine using Russian assets failed due to opposition from Belgium and other member states, leading the bloc to opt for raising funds through joint debt instead.
EU leaders are debating a massive loan to Ukraine funded by frozen Russian assets, with Belgium demanding guarantees against Russian retaliation before supporting the plan. The summit's outcome could significantly impact Europe's support for Ukraine and its decision-making processes, amid concerns over Russian sabotage and legal challenges.
European leaders are debating whether to unlock 210 billion euros in frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, amid Russian threats and hybrid warfare tactics targeting Belgium and other EU countries. Belgium's Prime Minister Bart De Wever opposes the plan due to fears of Russian retaliation, highlighting the geopolitical tensions and risks involved. The decision is crucial for Ukraine's future and Europe's unity, with potential for increased Russian destabilization efforts regardless of the outcome.
The European Commission proposed a €210 billion financial package to support Ukraine, funded by frozen Russian assets across the EU, mainly in Belgium. The plan faces opposition from Belgium over concerns of Russian retaliation and risk-sharing, with key questions about the loan's structure, safeguards, and impact on peace negotiations. The proposal aims to strengthen Ukraine's defense and financial stability while addressing legal and political hurdles within the EU.
Eva Kaili, a Greek MEP and former vice president, criticizes Belgium's political environment, claiming it is unsafe for politicians and linking her ongoing corruption investigation to broader issues of foreign influence and political persecution, while denying any wrongdoing.
Belgium opposes the EU plan to use frozen Russian assets as a €140bn reparations loan to support Ukraine, citing legal and financial risks, and urging alternative funding methods like market borrowing. The proposal faces opposition from Belgium and Russia, with concerns over legal liabilities and potential retaliation, while EU countries continue to debate the best approach to aid Ukraine.
Belgian actor Matthias Schoenaerts has been sentenced to six months in prison in absentia for multiple driving offences, including riding without a valid license despite previous bans, and has been fined €4,000. He has a history of driving violations and was recently detained again for refusing a breath test and behaving aggressively. The actor may appeal the ruling, and the likelihood of actual imprisonment is low.
Belgium criticizes the EU's plan to use Russian frozen assets held in Belgium to fund a 140 billion euro reparations loan for Ukraine, citing legal and solidarity concerns, and demands guarantees from other EU countries. The EU is also considering borrowing options to support Ukraine amid these complexities.
The European Commission is urgently trying to secure Belgian backing for a Russian asset loan to support Ukraine, but faces resistance from Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and other EU countries, who are wary of guarantees and the risks involved.
EU leaders are considering a Plan B to support Ukraine's economy, involving a potential grant funded by market-raising, while Belgium's demands for extensive guarantees on Russian assets threaten to delay or block the reparations loan, amid internal disagreements and geopolitical tensions.
Five drones buzzed a nuclear power plant in Belgium, causing concern and highlighting security vulnerabilities, as the country struggles to manage drone activity near critical infrastructure.
The UK is deploying anti-drone personnel and equipment to Belgium following recent drone sightings near airports and military bases, including a NATO and EU hub, with concerns over hybrid threats and spying operations. The move aims to bolster security amid multiple drone incidents that have disrupted airport operations and raised fears of espionage or hybrid warfare.