As the world gears up for the upcoming World Summit in Switzerland, Russian propaganda has once again resorted to its familiar tactics of attempting to discredit Ukraine. This insidious manoeuvre underlines just how pivotal this summit is perceived to be by the Russian regime. This time, Russian propagandists have launched a narrative accusing Ukrainian authorities…
Foreign Affairs
Reactions to Death of Iranian President Raisi
Photo by Omid Armin on Unsplash On Sunday 19 May 2024, Ebrahim Raisi, the president of the Iranian regime, and 8 others were killed in a helicopter crash in north-west Iran. Commenting on his death in an open letter, Firouz Mahvi a member of the Iranian opposition in Belgium said, “While the president is a functionary in Iran,…
Defending Democracy
As Ukraine approaches the end of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s first term, questions about his legitimacy linger, particularly amidst Russia’s attempts to delegitimise him. However, a recent analysis by the influential weekly publication, The Economist, suggests that these efforts from the Kremlin are futile. Despite the ongoing conflict and propaganda onslaught, Zelenskyy’s legitimacy remains solid, both…
Taiwan and the Loch Ness Monster
Taiwan’s absence from international organisations has been likened to the search for the Loch Ness Monster. The Taipei Representative Office in Brussels says the search for “Nessie” in the Scottish loch is like looking for Taiwan’s involvement in organisations like the UN. The Taiwan Representation has collaborated with the Belgian cartoonist, Lectrr, to create a cartoon comparing finding…
Russians Target Kharkiv
Kharkiv after bombardment by Russia / photo by UNIAN (Andriy Mariienko) The city of Kharkiv, situated near the border with Russia, has become a focal point of Russian aggression in Ukraine. In March of this year, Russian President Putin introduced the term “sanitary zone” in reference to the border area of the Kharkiv region. This…
European Commitment to Support Ukraine
Photo by Hristo Sahatchiev on Unsplash European Parliament President Roberta Metsola’s visit in Kyiv on Europe Day demonstrated, she said, the Parliament’s continued support and commitment to Ukraine and its European path. In Kyiv on 9 May, Metsola met with the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, addressed the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine and met…
Defending Freedom on Victory Day
Throughout history, the pivotal role of Ukrainians in the victory over fascism during the Second World War stands as a testament to their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to freedom. Ukrainians fought on the side of the anti-Hitler coalition, both within the ranks of the Red Army and among the armies of Western allies and…
Arms and Ammunition for Ukraine
Photo by Myko Makhlai on Unsplash Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has praised the “bravery of the Ukrainian forces and people.” But he also acknowledged that “leadership and bravery alone cannot repel the Russian forces; you also need arms and ammunition.” He recognised that serious delays in support have translated to serious consequences on the battlefield. “Ukraine has been outgunned for months… fewer…
Putin’s Inauguration
Putin’s inauguration on May 7th will be exploited by the Kremlin to portray the narrative of Putin’s supposed triumph over international isolation and the acknowledgement of his “legitimacy” by the global community. Putin is eager to ensure the high attendance of foreign leaders and heads of international organisations at the event, aiming to reinforce his…
Kazakhstan’s new gambling regulation: A step too far?
Photo by Cleyton Ewerton on Unsplash Laws regulating the Kazakh gambling and betting market are being hit with big changes. It is argued that the new amendments and laws will prohibit a large circle of people from participating in gambling and betting. Such concerns are particularly timely as they come at a time with efforts being made in…