International tensions, major infrastructure projects, and climate challenges at the center of the news
The Israeli army announced that it is expanding its ground operations in Lebanon, moving into targeted actions beyond the first line of defense. At the same time, tension is also rising in Ukraine, as the speaker of the Russian parliament, Vyacheslav Volodin, threatened Kyiv with the use of weapons of mass destruction. These statements, which speak of weapons that "leave nothing behind," are causing great concern in the international community.
In the diplomatic field, Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting Kazakhstan for important contacts. On the agenda of the visit is the signing of an agreement for the construction of a nuclear power plant, as well as a discussion on increasing the transport of Russian oil to China through Kazakhstan. Meanwhile, France is considering taking legal action against the Israeli government over the treatment of French activists who participated in a humanitarian mission to Gaza.
In Europe, France, Italy, and Spain are asking the European Union to take stricter trade measures against cheap imports from third countries. These countries want to protect European production and ensure fair competition in the market. The EU is expected to review its trade rules within the current year, responding to pressure from member states.
In Greece, the justice system is preparing for the trial regarding the tragic accident in Tempi. A new supplementary provision determines the number of people who will be allowed inside the courtroom in Larissa, in order to ensure the smooth conduct of the proceedings. Also, a political confrontation has broken out over OPEKEPE, with the SYRIZA MEP group denouncing efforts to control and cover up the procedures of the organization that manages agricultural subsidies.
In the infrastructure sector, the cabinet approved the contract for the operation of Kalamata International Airport, with the Fraport-Delta-Pileas consortium being declared the preferred investor. In addition, Deputy Minister Vasilis Spanakis announced that the works on the Ilissos river will be completed as scheduled at the end of July. This project is considered particularly important, as it is a prerequisite for the major redevelopment of Faliro Bay.
Finally, France is facing an unusual heatwave for the season, which meteorologists describe as "unprecedented." The temperature is expected to reach up to 39 degrees Celsius in some places in the coming days. This phenomenon is causing intense concern about the effects of climate change and the extreme weather conditions affecting Europe.