EU candidate countries in the Balkans and Eastern Europe made significant strides toward EU membership last year, but there are still plenty of challenges such as instability and political opposition.
National mourning declared in Spain for victims of deadly floods as death toll rises to 95. Extreme weather phenomenon 'Dana' causes worst flooding of the century in the southeast of the country, leaving dozens missing and prompting rescue efforts and promises of reconstruction from the government.
Extreme hailstorm in Spain causes widespread damage, rescues, and power outages. Local agriculture suffers millions of euros worth of damage.
Phoenix residents support expanding abortion access according to a door-to-door campaign by Democratic activist Libby Goff, prompting a local abortion provider to advocate for its inclusion in the constitution to end political polarization and misinformation.
Israel passes law banning UN aid agency for Palestinian refugees, which will have major implications for food, education and stability in Gaza and the West Bank, among other things. There has been international criticism of the decision and fears of further escalation and humanitarian crisis.
Possible conflicts in the criminal milieu appear to play a role in several explosions in Den Bosch, targeting roofers and their businesses. Police are urging witnesses to share information.