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Poland has assumed the rotating presidency of the European Union from Hungary, with a focus on security, defense, migration, and reducing dependency on energy.

Bulgaria and Romania have officially become part of the Schengen area, allowing visa-free travel, following a decision by the EU Council. This decision, ratified on December 12, 2024, marks an important milestone for the two countries.

The upcoming year of 2025 is set to bring new challenges and opportunities on the global stage. From geopolitical shifts to technological advancements, a wide range of topics will shape the agenda for the year ahead.

French President Emmanuel Macron admitted regret over calling for early parliamentary elections in June, stating that it resulted in more instability than peace.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has emphasized the need for Turkey-EU relations to return to the pre-Sarkozy era, highlighting the importance of a merit-based membership path for Turkey to become a more effective regional power in partnership with Europe.

A look back at the key events that shaped 2024, from political uprisings to natural disasters.

Former Russian international footballer Aleksej Boegaev, who played in the 2004 UEFA European Championship, has been reported dead in the ongoing war with Ukraine.

Despite not being allowed to be registered in Flanders, Tesla's Cybertruck is already roaming around Limburg in the Netherlands.

The presidential election in Croatia has ended with a close result, leading to a second round. The current President Zoran Milanovic finished the first round ahead, but fell short of the required percentage for an outright victory.

The political crisis in Georgia continues as the outgoing President refuses to transfer power, sparking concerns of escalating tensions in the country.

The damage to energy and communication cables under the Baltic Sea has intensified discussions of 'hybrid warfare' in the region.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on China to exert necessary pressure on North Korea to prevent them from losing their lives in European wars.

Croatia, a member of the EU and NATO, is going to the polls for the 8th time for the presidential election. More than 3.7 million voters in Croatia will cast their votes for the 3rd time this year, following the European Parliament and parliamentary elections.

Slovakia threatens Ukraine over gas transit, causing concerns in Europe. The possibility of gas supply disruption between the two countries raises alarms.

Russian energy giant Gazprom announced that it will stop natural gas supplies to Moldova as of January 1, 2025, due to unpaid bills.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has rejected Donald Trump's plan for peace in Ukraine, stating the dissatisfaction of the Kremlin with the proposals.

The political crisis in Georgia threatens to escalate further with the inauguration of the new president Micheil Kavelasjvili, while the incumbent president refuses to leave. Thousands of protesters took to the streets demanding new elections under international supervision.

Turkish customs officials intercepted a living baby gorilla at Istanbul airport, surprising everyone. The gorilla was found in a wooden crate with air holes, wearing an old t-shirt.

2025 holds uncertainties for Ukraine as the country faces challenges in its ongoing war with Russia. The role of Donald Trump in the future of the conflict remains uncertain.

Experts suggest that basic security measures could have prevented the recent attack in Maagdenburg, highlighting the importance of proper safety precautions at public events.

At least 76 people have been confirmed dead on the island of Mozambique after the passage of cyclone Chido, which also caused considerable damage on the French island of Mayotte.

Researchers have discovered 27 new species, including a blobfish and an aquatic mouse, during an expedition in Peru.

The European Commission is assisting Mayotte and African countries like Mozambique affected by cyclone Chido. Belgium, Germany, Italy, and Sweden have offered tents and other goods at the request of France.

Researchers reveal new insights into the reconstruction of Stonehenge and its origins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky lashes out at Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's idea for a ceasefire during Christmas and a major prisoner exchange.

European leaders, including Premier Dick Schoof and Giorgia Meloni, met to discuss creating a stable regime in Syria and innovative solutions for migrant returns.

NATO Chief Mark Rutte is meeting with the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders to discuss the future of the conflict in Ukraine. The meeting comes ahead of Donald Trump's return to the White House.

The French Court of Cassation upholds the conviction of former President Nicolas Sarkozy for corruption, resulting in a final sentence. Sarkozy must wear an electronic tag for a year.

A cordon sanitaire appears to be forming against the PVV from the liberals in the European Parliament. Read more on Telegraaf.nl.

The German election campaign heats up with a change in approach towards President Putin, as the CDU/CSU lead in polls.