WHO-Europe has announced an increase in human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a well-known respiratory virus that is causing alarm in China. Although HMPV usually causes mild symptoms, neighboring countries of China are monitoring the situation and there is talk on social media of overburdened hospitals.
Dutch Special Envoy for Syria visits Damascus for first time since Assad regime fell, holding talks with ruling group HTS to gain insight on current security situation and emphasize the importance of an inclusive political transition and protection of minorities in Syria. However, no plans for Dutch embassy to open in Damascus yet until the formation of Syria's government by HTS and other groups is known.
Ann Telnaes, a Washington Post cartoonist, resigned after the opinion editorial board rejected a drawing criticizing Jeff Bezos, the newspaper's owner. Telnaes claimed this was a danger to the free press and received support from other cartoonists who accused the newspaper of political cowardice.
A possible serial killer has been arrested after three random shootings in the past two weeks in Rotterdam-IJsselmonde, killing three people. This is a very rare case in the Netherlands, where violent crime is generally relatively rare.
Ukrainian forces launch new offensive in Russian border region Koersk, first attack since their initial invasion in August, as Russian military claims they have repelled two attacks and are surprised by the sudden advance of mechanized units.
Dutch frigate Zr.Ms. Tromp takes command over a group of NATO ships active in the North Sea, Baltic Sea, and Atlantic Ocean, working to prevent incidents like the recent sabotage of undersea cables in the region. The Tromp, led by Commander Arjen Warnaar, will lead the rapid response force and work closely with coast guards and individual country's navies to deter threats in the region.