Sketch News

Security, Trump and Ukraine draw politics and voters back to center

Political center makes a comeback in Dutch politics, with polls showing a shift towards moderate views and prioritization of European security and aid to Ukraine. Opposition party PVV declines while coalition parties move closer to Greens and Labour.

March 19, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

More than 100 cases of measles already this year; number rising rapidly

Measles infections in the Netherlands are rising sharply with 108 cases this year, mainly due to imports from Morocco and Romania. Despite local clusters in elementary school, there has not yet been a nationwide outbreak.

March 19, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

Party of jailed Istanbul mayor: 'Erdogan undermines democracy'

Turkish opposition leader arrested despite upcoming election, European Commission concerned about Turkey slipping in democratic standards. International concerns and condemnation follow arrest of popular mayor and opposition leader in Istanbul.

March 19, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

Astronomers fear light pollution under 'best starry sky in the world'

One of the best places on Earth for stargazing, Chile's The Atacama Desert, is in danger of losing its perfect conditions due to the construction of a hydrogen plant nearby. European scientists object to its impact on research with the world's largest telescopes.

March 18, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

Major power outage in The Hague over

Massive power outage causes chaos in The Hague and Scheveningen, shutting down trams, government buildings, and a swimming pool. Over 45,000 customers affected before power was restored.

March 18, 2025, 7:57 p.m.

Is this the end of the truce? Four questions about the Israeli attacks

Israel has broken the ceasefire in Gaza by launching large-scale airstrikes, resulting in over 400 deaths according to authorities. Talks are ongoing between Hamas and mediators, but Israel and its powerful ally the US continue to support the attacks. The second phase of the ceasefire, which would involve permanent Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, is being delayed due to disagreements between Israel's ultranationalist coalition partners and Prime Minister Netanyahu.