Zhanna Shamalova represents a notable example of entrepreneurial success in the post-Soviet era, having transformed early adversity into opportunity through strategic vision and adaptability. Her journey from late Soviet Moldova to becoming a sophisticated London-based investor and healthcare innovator illustrates the possibilities that talented individuals may exploit in a period of profound global change. I…
Photo by Myko Makhlai on Unsplash Russia’s persistent efforts to undermine trust in Ukraine are playing out both domestically and internationally, with the Kremlin deploying a range of propaganda tactics aimed at distorting reality. From claims about Ukraine’s alleged failure to manage effective mobilisation to the unfounded fears of Western support being cut off, the…
Photo by Julia Sadowska on Unsplash You may remember it from the glittering opening ceremony directed by Danny Boyle, which featured British icons such as Queen Elizabeth II, James Bond and Mr Bean. Or perhaps you remember it from Super Saturday, when Team GB won three gold medals in just 44 minutes? All that was…
Photo by Harold Mendoza on Unsplash Europe finally has a heavyweight ambassador in Washington. A man who knows many of Europe’s leaders, he has devoted his adult life to arguing that the European Union needed more unity, more common purpose and can be a power for good for the world, writes Denis MacShane. Unfortunately the new…
The French Directorate General of Foreign Intelligence (DGSE) announced on Thursday the release of four French officials detained for a year in Burkina Faso. Paris has thanked Morocco for its role as mediator in this case. Following the mediation of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, His Excellency Mr. Ibrahim Traoré, President of the Republic of…
Photo by Julius Drost on Unsplash Russia is waging war against Ukraine in the forests of Kharkiv, the steppes of Kherson, and the coal dumps of Donbass. However, the battlefield extends beyond Ukraine’s east and south. Russia’s use of rockets, guided bombs, tanks, and artillery is matched by its strategic war on the information front,…
A senior MEP has used a meeting with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to warn that the West is facing a critical geopolitical period. S&D leader in the EU Parliament Iratxe García met with Zelenskyy on 11 December and reiterated her group’s continued full support to Ukraine for whatever it takes to win the war. The…
Photo by Ahmad Sofi on Unsplash In a surprising development, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has announced his decision to step down and leave Syria, directing the government to transfer power peacefully. This unexpected move marks a dramatic shift in the political landscape of the Middle East. It raises questions about Syria’s future stability and the…
Photo by Elevate on Unsplash Beer remains a motor for Europe’s economy but continues to face multiple challenges, ranging from the aftershocks of the Covid pandemic to supply chain turbulence, say The Brewers of Europe. The 2024 edition of the European Beer Trends Report, released on 3 December, provides a snapshot of country-by-country production, consumption…
Belgium is often either sadly misrepresented or just ignored when it comes to international discourse. But there is one artist from these shores who is most certainly flying the flag for Belgium when it comes to artistic endeavour. The man in question is Felipe Garcia who has built up a well-earned name for himself for…
