Slovakia’s PM flies long route to Moscow as EU shuns victory parade
Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico is the only EU leader attending Russia’s May 9 military parade, defying airspace bans and EU pressure to stay away.
Slovakia has rejected the European Commission's proposal to phase out Russian gas and other energy imports by the end of 2027. Prime Minister Robert Fico called the plan "unacceptable" in its current form, warning it would raise energy prices across the EU and hurt its economic competitiveness.
The European Commission announced it would propose legal measures next month to end imports of Russian gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and introduce trade restrictions on Russian enriched uranium. The goal is to sever long-standing energy ties with Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Fico said while he supports reducing reliance on foreign energy, the EU’s plan could amount to "economic suicide", criticizing what he described as a new ideological divide between the West and countries like Russia. He added that Slovakia would push for changes during the legislative process.
The Commission's proposals will need backing from the European Parliament and a qualified majority of member states to become law.
Slovakia, which still receives gas and oil from Russia, has raised concerns about the consequences of terminating its long-term supply contract with Gazprom. Last year, 10 of the EU's 27 member states imported Russian gas. While most Russian oil has been sanctioned, gas imports continue via TurkStream and LNG, with Slovakia and Hungary opposing a full gas ban due to their dependence and closer ties to Moscow.
India has fired a series of missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory, in what it has described as “Operation Sindoor”
For the first time in history, an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church, as Cardinal Robert Prevost is named pope.
A Rafale fighter jet operated by the Indian Air Force has reportedly been shot down for the first time in combat, according to sources cited by CNN, marking a significant and symbolic development in the ongoing escalation between India and Pakistan.
Pope Leo XIV made a surprise visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Genazzano. AnewZ covered the event, with journalist Maria Rodriguez Abalde on-site. She witnessed the occasion firsthand and documented key moments. More images and footage will be available soon.
President Donald Trump is set to begin his Middle East tour, visiting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. The trip aims to boost trade and investment, with a focus on energy, defense, and technology deals, including a $1 trillion commitment from Saudi Arabia.
From May 13–24, the 78th Cannes Film Festival brings together veteran auteurs like Wes Anderson and breakout talents such as Ari Aster, alongside Hollywood heavyweights—from Tom Cruise to Emma Stone—on a red carpet primed for glamour and cinematic competition.
Qatar has denied reports of gifting a luxury jet to President Trump for use as Air Force One, stating the matter is still under legal review with no final decision made.
Hamas has released a hostage, identified as Alexander, in what it described as a goodwill gesture toward U.S. President Donald Trump. The confirmation came late Sunday from Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff in a message to the Associated Press.
U.S. and Chinese officials reported "substantial progress" in tariff negotiations held in Geneva, though specific details remain scarce. A joint statement is expected to be released on Monday.
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