Regional Summary
The Competence Illusion Across western Europe, governments are speaking confidently about power and strategy abroad while their political foundations crumble at home. Bold diplomacy grabs headlines, but it rests on fractured coalitions, blocked legislatures, and broken rules. France offers the starkest case. Sébastien Lecornu, the prime minister, cannot pass a budget without forcing it through — he invoked Article 49.3 for the third time this week, surviving six censure motions — yet his government opened a consulate in Greenland to counter American territorial ambitions and launched a campaign on social media against Russian and American disinformation. The “French Response” account gained 145,000 followers; the budget gained no parliamentary majority. Jean-Noël Barrot, the foreign minister, insisted Europeans “can and must take charge of their security,” but the government he serves cannot take charge of its own legislature. The assertiveness is real, but it hangs over a void of domestic legitimacy that Marine Le Pen and Jean-Luc Mélenchon are racing to fill. Germany’s version is more polished but no less hollow. Friedrich Merz, the chancellor, urged Europe to speak “the language of power politics,” and Lars Klingbeil, his finance minister, unveiled the EU-India free trade agreement that slashes tariffs on German cars from 110% to 10%. A new format with France, Poland, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands will deepen economic coordination. Yet the Alternative for Germany (AfD) has published a 156-page governing programme for a state where it polls at 40%, complete with “remigration” plans and proposals to gut democratic oversight. The Bundeswehr remains 9% below its recruitment target. Mr Merz is building a European architecture while his own political foundations shift. The strain cuts both ways. Keir Starmer secured prizes in Beijing — visa-free travel, expanded trade, £10.9 billion in AstraZeneca investment — only for Donald Trump to call the deals “very dangerous,” exposing the cost of playing both sides. At home, Labour’s National Executive Committee blocked Andy Burnham from a by-election with Mr Starmer voting against a potential rival, while the Conservatives under Kemi Badenoch told centrists to “get out of the way” as more MPs defected to Reform UK. Even King Charles broke form, releasing an environmental advocacy documentary on Amazon Prime and stepping into territory the constitutional settlement keeps closed. When the governing party blocks internal competition, the opposition purges its centre, and the head of state enters advocacy, diplomatic gains cannot paper over breakdown at home. Giorgia Meloni, the prime minister, saw her coalition fracture as Roberto Vannacci launched his own party, threatening the parliamentary arithmetic that keeps the government alive, even as Antonio Tajani, the foreign minister, pushed to designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guards a terrorist organisation — hawkish enough to provoke Tehran into summoning Italy’s ambassador. In Spain, the Adamuz train disaster that killed 45 people became a crisis of credibility when Pedro Sánchez, the prime minister, broke two days of silence to attend a UN event rather than the victims’ funeral, while his opponents used the catastrophe against him at a European People’s Party summit. Both governments project decisiveness abroad while struggling to hold together the coalitions and public trust needed to govern at home. Across the continent leaders speak with growing confidence about strategic autonomy and power politics while their domestic political orders — weakened by fragile coalitions, populist rebels, and broken rules — provide less and less foundation for the ambitions they advertise. External projection and internal erosion are not just coexisting; they feed off each other, as leaders reach outward because the ground at home has become too unstable to stand on.Country Summaries
United Kingdom
Prime Minister Keir Starmer achieved results from China this week, but President Donald Trump called the deals “very dangerous” — a blunt warning that Britain’s strategy of hedging between great powers brings real friction with America.
Mr Starmer completed the first British leader’s visit to China in eight years, meeting President Xi Jinping and securing wins: visa-free travel for British citizens, expanded trade agreements, and a £10.9 billion commitment from AstraZeneca to invest in China through 2030. (Multiple outlets, 2026-01-21) But Mr Trump’s criticism showed the cost of this bilateral approach. The UK is betting it can maintain Chinese economic partnerships while preserving American alliance ties, yet Mr Trump’s “very dangerous” assessment suggests Washington sees things differently.
Even as Britain pursues this delicate external balance, its domestic institutions are fragmenting. Labour’s National Executive Committee voted to block Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election, with Mr Starmer personally voting against his potential rival. (Multiple outlets, 2026-01-23) The decision triggered accusations of internal “civil war” and exposed how the governing party now prioritizes leadership protection over electoral prospects — hardly a sign of confidence.
The opposition is fracturing too. Following former Home Secretary Suella Braverman’s defection to Reform UK, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch declared that centrist ideas are “no longer wanted” in the party and told dissenters to “get out of the way.” (The Guardian, 2026-01-26) This explicit abandonment of the centre marks a rupture with decades of Conservative tradition and deepens the party’s rightward drift as more MPs follow Ms Braverman to Nigel Farage’s Reform UK.
King Charles III released a political documentary on Amazon Prime called “Finding Harmony: A King’s Vision,” which premiered at Windsor Castle. The environmental advocacy film breaks the constitutional tradition of royal political neutrality — a remarkable move for a monarch whose role depends on staying above partisan politics. The film represents direct political engagement by the constitutional head of state, adding monarchical stress to the institutional breakdown already affecting both governing and opposition parties.
Britain’s external strategy may be working — Mr Starmer’s China visit produced real economic gains — but the domestic foundations of British politics are under strain. When the governing party blocks rivals, the opposition abandons the centre, and the monarchy enters political advocacy, success abroad cannot mask the crisis at home.
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- Mr Starmer visits China seeking economic reset amid Trump tensions — Mr Starmer made the first visit to China by a British leader in eight years, meeting Mr Xi and announcing visa-free travel for Brits. The trip faced criticism from Mr Trump who called UK-China business deals ‘very dangerous’, while Mr Starmer defended pursuing closer economic ties. (abcnews.go.com)
- Conservative MPs defect to Reform UK amid party direction disputes — Ms Braverman defected to Reform UK, following former security minister Robert Jenrick’s earlier switch. Ms Badenoch responded by saying centrist ideas are ‘no longer wanted’ in the party and that dissenters should ‘get out of the way’, marking a rightward shift in Conservative positioning. (theguardian.com)
- Rachel Reeves faces questions over absence from China trip and policy pressures — Chancellor Rachel Reeves was notably absent from Mr Starmer’s high-profile China visit despite previously advocating for stronger economic ties. Speculation arose about tensions with the PM, while she separately faced criticism over student loan threshold freezes and business rate changes affecting pubs. (dailymail.co.uk)
- David Lammy stands in for Starmer at PMQs, faces Conservative attacks — Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy stepped in for Prime Minister’s Questions while Mr Starmer was in China, facing criticism from Conservative shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith about pub closures and business rates. Mr Lammy was dubbed ‘left-behind Lammy’ by opponents. (bbc.co.uk)
- Bank of England expected to hold interest rates amid inflation concerns — Economists predict the Bank of England will keep interest rates at 3.75% at its February meeting as inflation rose to 3.4% in December. The central bank also faces cost-cutting pressures, leading to staff reorganization and potential job reductions. (bloomberg.com)
- Mr Starmer faces migrant protests and calls Andrew to testify on Epstein links — Thousands protested in Crowborough chanting ‘Keir Starmer’s a traitor’ over migrants being housed at a former army camp. Separately, Mr Starmer called for Prince Andrew to testify before US Congress about his Jeffrey Epstein connections following release of new Epstein files. (dailymail.co.uk)
- King Charles makes public appearances amid ongoing cancer treatment — The King attended the Sandringham parkrun for the second consecutive year, greeting joggers as they completed their first lap. The event was organized in partnership with Move Against Cancer charity. The King has been receiving cancer treatment since early 2024. (news.sky.com)
- King Charles faces calls to formally apologise for crown’s role in slavery — MPs and campaigners called on the King to make a formal apology for transatlantic slavery after new research detailed how the British crown and Royal Navy extended and protected the trade in enslaved people for centuries. The calls follow publication of ‘The Crown’s Silence’ book. (theguardian.com)
- Reform UK campaigns in Gorton by-election with attacks on Starmer’s Brexit policy — Reform UK candidate Matt Goodwin declared the Gorton and Denton by-election a ‘referendum on Mr Starmer’, claiming Brexit voters have been betrayed. The campaign focuses on immigration and higher bills, with Mr Goodwin arguing Labour is edging Britain back under EU control through customs deals and youth mobility schemes. (bloomberg.com)
- Mr Starmer criticized over historical legal pursuit of British soldiers — Former Army chief Lord Dannatt called on Mr Starmer to explain his involvement in legal cases that saw hundreds of British soldiers investigated for alleged war crimes. Critics questioned Mr Starmer’s role and enthusiasm for pursuing these cases during his legal career. (gbnews.com)
Notes
Notes
Labour blocks Andy Burnham from by-election, triggering internal party tensions
January 25 - February 01, 2026
King Charles releases environmental documentary breaking royal tradition
January 28 - February 01, 2026
Bank of England expected to hold interest rates amid inflation concerns
January 26 - February 01, 2026
Starmer faces migrant protests and calls Andrew to testify on Epstein links
January 25 - February 01, 2026
Reform UK campaigns in Gorton by-election with attacks on Starmer's Brexit policy
January 27 - February 01, 2026
Other
Italy
Italy’s governing coalition faces its most serious fracture since formation, as a top Lega figure breaks away to form his own party while Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni adopts an increasingly hawkish foreign policy stance.
Roberto Vannacci registered a new political symbol called “National Future” (Futuro Nazionale) and declared himself its secretary, formally breaking with the League despite remaining nominally a party member. The move is the most serious threat to coalition unity since Ms Meloni took office. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini warned that “those who leave Lega end up nowhere,” while northern governors including Luca Zaia pressured for Mr Vannacci’s expulsion. The split could lead to vote-splitting that would destabilise the government’s parliamentary arithmetic.
Mr Salvini has also become a source of diplomatic embarrassment for the coalition. He met with British far-right leader Tommy Robinson at the Transport Ministry, sparking condemnation from opposition parties and tensions within the government itself. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani publicly distanced himself, calling Mr Robinson “incompatible with my values.” The episode highlights the strain of managing coalition unity when junior partners pursue extremist associations.
Even as domestic pressures mount, Ms Meloni’s government has adopted a more confrontational diplomatic stance. Mr Tajani announced that Italy would propose designating Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation at EU meetings, citing “thousands and thousands” killed in Iranian crackdowns on protesters. Iran summoned Italy’s ambassador in response, calling the statements “irresponsible.” The proposal represents a clear escalation in Italy’s hawkish positioning toward Tehran while aligning with broader Western pressure. Separately, Mr Tajani defended hosting American Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents at the Milano-Cortina Olympics, dismissing opposition criticism by saying they weren’t “SS troops” arriving—though the controversy underscores ongoing challenges in balancing American security demands with domestic sensitivities.
Italy also faced a diplomatic incident when two Italian Carabinieri serving at the Jerusalem consulate were forced to kneel under armed threat near Ramallah during a reconnaissance mission. Mr Tajani summoned the Israeli ambassador and demanded guarantees for Italian military personnel. The episode illustrates the ongoing security risks facing Italy’s overseas deployments.
Controversy erupted over a restored fresco in a Rome basilica showing an angel with facial features resembling Ms Meloni. Opposition parties criticised the appropriation of sacred art while the government remained largely silent, though the episode generated debate about appropriate boundaries between political leadership and religious representation.
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- Meloni commemorates Holocaust Remembrance Day, condemns Fascist complicity — Ms Meloni issued statements condemning the “complicity” of Italy’s Fascist regime in the Shoah and lamenting rising anti-Semitism. President Sergio Mattarella also spoke against attacks on Holocaust survivor Senator Liliana Segre. (governo.it)
- Meloni visits Sicily to assess Cyclone Harry damage — Ms Meloni visited Niscemi and other areas hit by Cyclone Harry, defending her government’s emergency response after criticism for attending Davos during the crisis. She announced immediate aid and pledged rapid reconstruction efforts. (ansa.it)
- Italian Army receives first Lynx armoured vehicles — The first four Lynx armoured fighting vehicles were delivered to the Italian Army at Montelibretti as part of modernisation programmes. The Leonardo-Rheinmetall joint venture will provide 1,050 vehicles in 16 variants to upgrade Italy’s ground forces. (reportdifesa.it)
- Deutsche Bank raided over money laundering allegations — German federal police searched Deutsche Bank offices in Frankfurt and Berlin investigating suspected money laundering connected to sanctioned Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich. The bank’s shares fell despite record 2025 profits. (ansa.it)
- Political polling shows mixed trends — Various polls showed Fratelli d’Italia maintaining its lead around 29-30% while the Democratic Party remained stable at 21-22%. The Five Star Movement showed varying trends and the government coalition overall maintained its majority but with some erosion. (ilmessaggero.it)
- Milan police shooting sparks security debate — A police officer shot and seriously wounded a man who had stolen a security guard’s weapon and fired at police in Milan. Deputy PM Salvini defended the officer and promoted a new security decree to protect law enforcement from automatic investigations. (ansa.it)
Notes
Notes
Church fresco depicting angel with Meloni's face sparks controversy in Rome
January 31 - February 01, 2026
Meloni visits Sicily to assess Cyclone Harry damage, defends government response
January 26-28, 2026
Tajani proposes listing Iranian Revolutionary Guards as terrorists, sparks diplomatic crisis
January 26-29, 2026
Growing tensions between Salvini and Vannacci within Lega over future party direction
January 25-29, 2026
Italian Army receives first Lynx armored vehicles in major modernization program
January 27-30, 2026
Political polling shows mixed trends for government and opposition parties
January 31 - February 01, 2026
Other
France
France’s government can no longer pass basic legislation through parliament, yet projects defiance abroad with unprecedented vigour.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu this week used Article 49.3 for the third time to force through the 2026 budget without a vote, surviving six motions of censure from opposition parties. (Multiple outlets, 2026-01-29) The constitutional mechanism, designed for emergencies, has become the government’s only means of passing legislation. Mr Lecornu’s complete dependence on these workarounds exposes the depth of France’s domestic political crisis.
The dysfunction has accelerated manoeuvring for 2027’s presidential election. Marine Le Pen adopted a softer defence strategy in her European parliamentary assistants appeal trial, acknowledging possible unintentional errors while maintaining innocence. The shift from her first trial reflects the stakes: the July 7 verdict will determine whether she can run for president. (Le Monde, 2026-02-01) Meanwhile, Jean-Luc Mélenchon deployed the far-right’s own terminology against them, using “grand remplacement” in a Toulouse speech to claim he represented France’s demographic renewal. The provocation forced reactions from Jordan Bardella and Eric Zemmour, exactly as Mr Mélenchon intended. (Multiple outlets, 2026-01-30)
Even as it struggles to govern at home, France has launched its most assertive international campaign in years. The Foreign Ministry activated a “French Response” social media account that uses irony and memes to counter attacks from American, Russian and other foreign actors. The account gained 145,000 followers and represents an unprecedented diplomatic communication strategy. (Multiple outlets, 2026-01-27) More concretely, France appointed Jean-Noël Poirier to establish a consulate in Nuuk, opening February 6 in direct response to President Donald Trump’s territorial ambitions in Greenland. (Multiple outlets, 2026-01-28) When NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte told the European Parliament that Europe could not defend itself without American help, French officials delivered sharp rebuttals. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot insisted that “Europeans can and must take charge of their security.” (Sud Ouest, 2026-01-28)
The contrast is stark: a government that cannot pass a budget through its own parliament is simultaneously opening consulates and launching information warfare campaigns. France’s domestic weakness has not diminished its international assertiveness.
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- Macron’s sunglasses moment at Davos goes viral with ‘for sure’ meme — President Emmanuel Macron’s appearance at Davos wearing blue aviator sunglasses due to an eye condition, combined with his repeated use of ‘for sure’ in English, became a global internet meme. He later stopped wearing the sunglasses publicly. (rtl.fr)
- Lecornu plans government reshuffle after budget adoption — Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced plans for an ‘adjustment’ of his government team following budget adoption, partly due to ministers departing for municipal campaigns including Culture Minister Rachida Dati. (lemonde.fr)
- Marine Le Pen appeal trial continues with changed defense strategy — Marine Le Pen’s appeal trial for the European parliamentary assistants case proceeded through January with the defendant adopting a softer defense strategy, acknowledging possible unintentional errors while maintaining innocence. (lemonde.fr)
- RN boycotts Morandini show after host’s conviction — Jordan Bardella ordered National Rally (RN) officials to stop appearing on Jean-Marc Morandini’s CNews show following the host’s definitive conviction for corruption of minors, reversing the party’s initial continued participation. (franceinfo.fr)
- Jordan Bardella rumored relationship with Italian princess sparks media attention — Rumors circulated about National Rally president Jordan Bardella’s relationship with Princess Maria Carolina de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles after they were spotted together at Paris events, though Bardella declined to comment on his private life. (gala.fr)
- NATO chief sparks French anger over European defense capabilities — NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte told the European Parliament that Europe cannot defend itself without US help, prompting sharp rebuttals from French officials who insisted Europeans can and must take charge of their own security. (sudouest.fr)
- Mélenchon calls for Russia’s return to Europe and Nord Stream restart — Jean-Luc Mélenchon proposed bringing Russia back into the European concert and restarting the Nord Stream gas pipelines, arguing this would reduce energy prices and that Europe shouldn’t be forced to buy American gas. (leparisien.fr)
- Banking error causes thousands of duplicate transactions across French banks — A technical error at Monext, a Crédit Mutuel Arkéa subsidiary, caused thousands of duplicate card payments to appear on accounts at multiple French banks including Caisse d’Épargne, Banque Populaire, and BoursoBank. (francebleu.fr)
- Bardella and Marion Maréchal signal political reconciliation — Jordan Bardella and Marion Maréchal appeared together at the launch of her book ‘Si tu te sens Le Pen’, signaling a strategic rapprochement between the National Rally president and the influential far-right figure ahead of 2027 elections. (lepoint.fr)
- Defense Ministry theft investigation involves cybersecurity official — Three men including a Defense Ministry cybersecurity official were arrested for theft and possession of stolen multimedia equipment during a transfer operation in Courbevoie. (lefigaro.fr)
- Municipal elections campaign intensifies with Mélenchon targeting small business owners — Jean-Luc Mélenchon launched outreach efforts to small business owners while intensifying France Unbowed (LFI)‘s municipal campaigns, including a major rally in Roubaix and plans for meetings in other cities like Montpellier. (lemonde.fr)
Notes
Notes
Lecornu passes 2026 budget via Article 49.3 after surviving multiple censure motions
January 28-30, 2026
Municipal elections campaign intensifies with Mélenchon targeting small business owners
January 30 - February 01, 2026
Other
Germany
Germany secured a trade breakthrough as the EU and India finalised a comprehensive free trade agreement after 19 years of negotiations, slashing tariffs on German automotive exports from 110% to 10%.
The deal creates a trading bloc of nearly 2 billion people and opens significant new markets for German machinery, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals while protecting sensitive European agricultural sectors. Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil called it a “new chapter of European trade policy” that deepens the strategic partnership with the world’s largest democracy. For German automakers, the agreement means access to export 250,000 vehicles annually to India at reduced tariffs — a concrete gain from the trade diversification strategy aimed at reducing dependence on China and US markets.
Mr Klingbeil followed up by launching the E6 format with France, Poland, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands to strengthen European competitiveness. The initiative brings together Europe’s six largest economies in a new cooperation framework, with the first videoconference scheduled to accelerate European-level measures. Mr Klingbeil framed it as recognition that “Europe must become stronger and more resilient in an unpredictable geopolitical environment.”
The economic moves reflect a broader shift toward European assertiveness that Chancellor Friedrich Merz articulated in his first major foreign policy statement to the Bundestag. Mr Merz called for Europe to develop self-confidence and speak “the language of power politics” in response to the changing world order. He emphasised gestaltende Politik — shaping politics — and said Europe must learn the language of Machtpolitik while maintaining cautious optimism about crisis opportunities. The statement builds on last week’s Grönland crisis response, where European countries coordinated without US participation.
Foreign policy coordination continued elsewhere, with Johann Wadephul travelling to Latvia and Sweden to discuss Baltic Sea security and coordinate action against Russia’s shadow fleet. He called for stronger enforcement measures and expanded use of maritime law, emphasising European unity against hybrid threats. Meanwhile, Mr Wadephul announced that EU foreign ministers had agreed to designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation following the killing of thousands of demonstrators, despite Iranian threats to retaliate by classifying European armies as terrorist groups.
Even as Germany advances European economic and diplomatic coordination, domestic tensions persist. Alternative for Germany (AfD) published a radical 156-page government program ahead of September’s Saxony-Anhalt state election, where the party polls at 40%. The program includes “remigration” policies, restrictions on democratic institutions, cuts to church funding, and elimination of political education bodies — demonstrating the party’s evolution from protest movement to potential governing force. Separately, the Christian Democratic Union’s (CDU) economic wing triggered internal controversy by proposing restrictions on part-time work and cuts to social benefits including dental care coverage. CDU leaders distanced themselves from the “lifestyle part-time” terminology while defending the need for labour market reforms.
The Bundesbank also addressed alliance tensions when President Joachim Nagel defended Germany’s gold reserves stored at the Federal Reserve in New York, which account for 37% of the country’s €270 billion holdings. Despite alliance strains over Grönland, Mr Nagel said the reserves remain secure while acknowledging regular reviews of the storage arrangements. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, meanwhile, assured humane treatment in military medical examinations as conscription registration begins, and urged Europeans to maintain self-confidence in the US partnership despite tensions. The Bundeswehr continues its rebuilding, reaching 184,200 active personnel — still 9% below the 203,000 target but the highest level since conscription ended.
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- CDU sparks controversy over plan to restrict right to part-time work — The CDU’s economic wing proposed limiting the legal right to part-time work to specific circumstances like childcare or eldercare, eliminating what they term ‘lifestyle part-time work.’ The proposal faces criticism from within the CDU and opposition parties. (t-online.de)
- NATO’s Rutte says Europe cannot defend itself without US assistance — NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated on January 26 that Europe would need to spend 10% of GDP on defence to defend itself without the US, calling such aspirations unrealistic. His comments sparked criticism from French officials and debate about European strategic autonomy. (bild.de)
- President Steinmeier attends Olympic opening ceremony and Holocaust remembrance events — Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier travelled to Milan for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony and attended Holocaust Remembrance Day events on January 27, calling for vigilance against antisemitism and awarding sports honours. (bietigheimerzeitung.de)
- UN faces potential bankruptcy as US withholds funding — UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of an imminent financial collapse of the United Nations, with the organisation potentially running out of money by July 2026. The US owes several billion dollars in unpaid contributions. (kettner-edelmetalle.de)
- CDU economic wing proposes cuts to dental care coverage and social benefits — The CDU-affiliated Economic Council proposed that dental treatments should no longer be covered by statutory health insurance, along with cuts to unemployment benefits and mother’s pensions. The proposals face criticism from within the party. (br.de)
- New Saxony-Anhalt Minister President Sven Schulze elected amid AfD pressure — CDU politician Sven Schulze was elected as new Minister President of Saxony-Anhalt on January 29, replacing outgoing Minister President Reiner Haseloff. He faces the challenge of preventing an AfD victory in the September state election where polls show the far-right party at 40%. (spiegel.de)
Notes
Notes
Merz delivers major foreign policy statement calling for European self-assertion
January 27-29, 2026
EU and India finalize historic free trade agreement after nearly two decades
January 26 - February 01, 2026
Defense Minister Pistorius promises humane treatment in military medical examinations
January 28-31, 2026
AfD Saxony-Anhalt reveals radical government program ahead of state election
January 26 - February 01, 2026
Foreign Minister Wadephul undertakes Baltic diplomatic mission amid Russia tensions
January 26, 2026
President Steinmeier attends Olympic opening ceremony and Holocaust remembrance events
January 26-30, 2026
Wadephul designates Iran's Revolutionary Guards as terrorist organization
January 29 - February 01, 2026
Other
Spain
Spain’s minority government faces converging crises that threaten its legitimacy as the Adamuz train disaster exposes deeper tensions over competence, discourse and migration policy.
The rail accident that killed 45 people has become more than an infrastructure failure. Families of the victims sent emotional letters criticising the government’s handling while Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez broke 48 hours of silence to attend a UN women’s event rather than the victims’ funeral. Opposition parties demand Transport Minister Óscar Puente’s resignation, but more damaging is the direct challenge from victims’ representatives who question official narratives about infrastructure maintenance and government response. The disaster has given opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo a platform to internationalise domestic Spanish crises, using the Zagreb summit of the European People’s Party to request EU investigation into the accident and review of Spain’s immigration policy.
Political discourse itself is deteriorating. People’s Party (PP) councillor Belén Navarro interrupted Mr Sánchez’s campaign event in Teruel shouting “son of a bitch” before apologising. The Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) demands her expulsion, framing the insult as part of a deliberate strategy to “dehumanise the adversary and degrade public debate” beyond normal political confrontation. The personal attacks reflect broader tensions over the government’s plan to regularise 500,000 undocumented migrants. Vox leader Santiago Abascal declared “the invasion also kills” and announced European coordination against the measure. Even Mr Feijóo called the policy an attempt to “distract from train accident crisis.”
Even as domestic pressures mount, Spain maintains its complex relationship with NATO partners. The US approved sale of AEGIS systems, Mk 41 vertical launchers and modernisation equipment for Spain’s F-100 frigates. The $1.42 billion package includes five complete AEGIS systems and support services, allowing the ships to operate until 2040. The deal demonstrates that routine defence cooperation continues despite Spain’s March 2026 denial of US base access, preserving the country’s distinctive approach of maintaining alliance membership while asserting independence on military operations.
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- King Felipe VI celebrates 58th birthday while working — King Felipe VI turned 58 on January 30, spending the day working with a meeting with Slovenia’s president. When reporters wished him happy birthday, he jokingly replied ‘58 doesn’t weigh too much.’ The milestone comes after presiding over the emotional Adamuz victims’ funeral with Queen Letizia. (elmundo.es)
- Isabel Sartorius hospitalised in psychiatric facility — Isabel Sartorius, King Felipe VI’s former girlfriend, has been admitted to a psychiatric facility in Madrid due to health issues. The 61-year-old aristocrat, who was the King’s first public romance, is receiving treatment with supervised outings. Her health deteriorated significantly in 2024. (20minutos.es)
- Mr Abascal campaigns in Aragón with anti-immigration and anti-ETA rhetoric — Mr Abascal continues his Aragón campaign focusing on immigration and claiming ‘ETA put Mr Sánchez in La Moncloa’ following Bildu agreement. He accuses the bipartisan system of betraying Spain and uses inflammatory rhetoric about immigration invasion. Vox faces internal management issues with consultant payments. (elconfidencial.com)
- Former Prime Minister José María Aznar criticises Mr Sánchez’s defence spending position in French media — Mr Aznar accused Mr Sánchez of ‘sectarian uselessness’ for opposing NATO’s 5% defence spending commitment. In an interview with French newspaper Le Journal du Dimanche, Mr Aznar called Mr Sánchez a ‘radical populist’ and ‘a danger to democracy’. (lavanguardia.com)
- Republican Left of Catalonia (ERC) demands Transport Minister’s resignation over Catalonia rail chaos — ERC, the government’s key partner, breaks with Mr Sánchez over the railway crisis affecting Catalonia’s Rodalies service. Party leader Oriol Junqueras demands the resignation of Mr Puente, showing ‘manifest incapacity’ in handling the crisis despite their earlier fiscal agreement. (elmundo.es)
- National Intelligence Centre dismisses trainee deemed unsuitable for intelligence work — The National Court ruled in favour of Spain’s National Intelligence Centre (CNI) in dismissing a female trainee who was deemed not ‘suitable’ to become a spy. The woman had failed to pass security clearance filters during her 2024 training course and unsuccessfully challenged the decision. (larazon.es)
Notes
Notes
Government and Podemos agree to regularize 500,000 undocumented migrants
January 26 - February 01, 2026
Feijóo campaigns in Aragón while taking EU-level action on Spanish policies
January 26 - February 01, 2026
Abascal campaigns in Aragón with anti-immigration and anti-ETA rhetoric
January 25 - February 01, 2026
Other
Norway
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre delivered an unprecedented public rebuke of Crown Princess Mette-Marit and former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland over their contacts with Jeffrey Epstein.
Mr Støre publicly agreed with the Crown Princess’s admission of “poor judgment” regarding her Epstein contacts and stated that Mr Jagland also showed poor judgment. The criticism of the royal family was described as unusual, showing that Norway’s accountability mechanisms function even at the highest levels. Progress Party leader Sylvi Listhaug also faced scrutiny, denying any contact with Epstein or Steve Bannon despite documents suggesting meeting attempts.
Even as it navigates domestic accountability, Norway faced familiar diplomatic friction with the United States. President Donald Trump reportedly sent what critics called an “unhinged” letter to the Norwegian prime minister claiming entitlement to Greenland due to Norway’s failure to award him the Nobel Peace Prize. In a separate podcast appearance, Mr Støre disputed Mr Trump’s NATO claims, calling assertions that the US doesn’t benefit from NATO “simply not true.”
The country’s institutional strength extended beyond accountability to defence and economic performance. The government announced the selection of Hanwha’s Chunmoo Multiple Launch Rocket System for 19 billion Norwegian kroner, with 16 launchers and missiles with up to 500km range for delivery between 2028-2031. The Norwegian Armed Forces also launched artificial intelligence (AI) programmes with a new centre for applied artificial intelligence involving over 300 specialists. Meanwhile, the Government Pension Fund Global earned a record $247 billion profit with 15.1% annual return, driven by technology stocks and the AI boom, bringing the fund’s total value to over $2.2 trillion by end-2025.
Routine institutional activities continued with the Norwegian Intelligence Service, the Norwegian Police Security Service, and the Norwegian National Security Authority scheduled to present their 2026 open threat and risk assessments on February 6, with Defence Minister Sandvik and Justice Minister Aas-Hansen participating.
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Other Stories
- Listhaug denies contact with Epstein or Bannon despite documents suggesting meeting attempts — Ms Listhaug’s name appeared in newly released Epstein documents suggesting attempts to arrange a meeting with Trump strategist Steve Bannon. The Progress Party leader and her party firmly deny any contact with either Epstein or Bannon. (tv2.no)
- Norwegian Armed Forces intensifies artificial intelligence initiatives — The Norwegian Armed Forces launched expanded AI programmes including a new centre for applied artificial intelligence. The initiative involves over 300 specialists and aims to enhance defence capabilities across planning, logistics, and operational systems. (forsvaret.no)
- Equinor reports 2025 safety results following fatal accident — Equinor released its 2025 safety performance review, noting generally positive trends despite a fatal accident at the Mongstad refinery in September where a 25-year-old worker died during a lifting operation. (equinor.com)
- Støre disputes Trump’s NATO claims in podcast appearance — Mr Støre rejected Mr Trump’s claims that the US doesn’t benefit from NATO, calling the assertions ‘simply not true’ and noting that Article 5 was only triggered after 9/11 to help the US. (dagbladet.no)
Notes
Notes
Støre criticizes Crown Princess and Jagland for 'poor judgment' in Epstein contacts
January 31 - February 01, 2026
Listhaug denies contact with Epstein or Bannon despite documents suggesting meeting attempts
January 31 - February 01, 2026
Norway's sovereign wealth fund posts record \$247 billion return in 2025
January 28 - February 01, 2026
Other
Sweden
Sweden Democrats leader Jimmie Åkesson this week positioned himself as a potential prime minister while addressing an Israeli government antisemitism conference, completing his party’s transformation from political outcast to mainstream contender.
Mr Åkesson spoke at the Jerusalem conference, where he announced plans to reactivate a Swedish national terror list targeting the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Muslim Brotherhood as “deeply antisemitic organisations.” He criticised EU weakness on terrorism and expressed strong support for Israel, stating the invitation demonstrates Israel recognises his party has “made up with our past.” The Israeli government invitation itself represents extraordinary diplomatic recognition for a party once excluded from mainstream politics. He also confirmed his readiness to become prime minister if a situation arose where he would be “tolerated by the chamber for that role,” indicating the Sweden Democrats would seek significant ministerial portfolios including finance, justice, foreign affairs, and defence if they become the largest party.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson responded to the intensifying electoral competition by launching “Call the Prime Minister,” a podcast where citizens can call in with questions directly without advance screening. The format aims to create “good conversations” in politics and represents what the Moderate Party calls a unique approach for a Swedish premier.
The moves come as Sweden manages implementation challenges from its historic transformation. Several reports highlighted concerns about Armed Forces expansion, including risks of hiring unsuitable officers, security breaches at defence agencies, and operational challenges as the military grows rapidly toward 2035 targets. Sources cited difficulties in quality control during accelerated recruitment and security protocol violations. These are predictable bottlenecks as Sweden scales from minimal forces toward 3.5% of GDP in defence spending.
Sweden’s central bank meanwhile held its policy rate at 1.75% and signalled rates will remain “for some time to come,” explicitly citing increased uncertainty including US administration foreign policy conduct. The bank noted geopolitical developments have been “dramatic” but financial markets have shown limited reaction. Separately, the Wallenberg family advanced its generational transition by proposing Martina Wallenberg for Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken’s (SEB) board, continuing the sixth generation’s advancement into key positions across the business empire. (Bloomberg, 2026-01-30)
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- Kristersson establishes ministerial council to combat violence against women — Mr Kristersson announced the creation of a new ministerial council for ‘kvinnofrid’ (women’s peace) to coordinate national efforts against men’s violence toward women. Mr Kristersson will chair the council, which includes multiple ministers. (newkerala.com)
- Kristersson calls for review of statute of limitations after TV personality case — Mr Kristersson opened for a review of prescription rules after a known TV profile accused of sexual purchases managed to avoid prosecution by staying abroad until crimes were statute-barred. Mr Kristersson called the situation ‘deeply provocative.’ (svt.se)
- Åkesson injures head in nightmare, misses parts of Jerusalem antisemitism conference — Mr Åkesson sustained a head injury requiring six stitches after hitting his head during a nightmare. The injury occurred before his trip to Jerusalem for an international antisemitism conference where he was invited to speak. (dn.se)
- Wallenberg family advances sixth generation succession with Martina Wallenberg to SEB board — The Wallenberg family’s nomination committee proposed electing Martina Wallenberg to SEB’s board of directors, continuing the transition of the sixth generation into key positions. Other family members have also taken board roles across the business empire in recent months. (svd.se)
- Parliamentary speaker’s cancelled and expensive travel costs Swedish Armed Forces millions — Parliamentary Speaker Andreas Norlén’s cancelled trip to the US cost the Armed Forces nearly 1.5 million kronor, and a separate Geneva trip cost 660,000 kronor when private jets were chartered instead of regular flights. The Armed Forces covers costs for state aviation. (dn.se)
- Defence Minister Pål Jonson visits Härnösand naval facilities for expansion briefing — Mr Jonson visited Härnösand to receive briefings on naval operations and testing activities in the region. The visit included discussions about Armed Forces growth and nearly 100 million kronor in planned harbour investments. (sakerhetsvarlden.se)
- NATO chief warns Europe cannot defend itself without US military support — NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte told European Parliament that Europe is incapable of defending itself without US support and would need to more than double defence spending to 10% of GDP to do so. His comments came amid tensions over President Trump’s Greenland statements. (nbcnews.com)
- Criticism of Kristersson’s openness to European nuclear weapons programme — Mr Kristersson faced criticism from peace organisations and opposition politicians after opening for a European nuclear weapons programme. Svenska Freds called it ‘extremely dangerous’ while Social Democrat Magdalena Andersson said there was nothing new in the statement. (etc.se)
- Katja Nyberg leaves Sweden Democrats but remains in parliament — Former police officer and Sweden Democrats member Katja Nyberg announced her departure from the party while maintaining her parliamentary seat. The move follows controversies and could cost the party around 3.3 million kronor in party support. (epochtimes.se)
- Center Party approaches parliamentary threshold in new poll — A new Aftonbladet/Demoskop poll shows the Center Party dropping toward the 4% parliamentary threshold while the Moderates gain ground. The gap between political blocks is narrowing ahead of the September election. (aftonbladet.se)
Notes
Notes
Åkesson injures head in nightmare, misses parts of Jerusalem antisemitism conference
January 26-28, 2026
Åkesson speaks at Jerusalem antisemitism conference, pledges Swedish terror list
January 25-28, 2026
Wallenberg family advances sixth generation succession with Martina Wallenberg to SEB board
January 27 - February 01, 2026
Parliamentary speaker's cancelled and expensive travel costs Swedish Armed Forces millions
January 26-27, 2026
Armed Forces faces recruitment and security challenges amid rapid expansion
January 26 - February 01, 2026
Other