How Hungary’s knife-edge election could impact the US and Russia
How Hungary’s Knife-Edge Election Could Impact the US and Russia
For over a decade and a half, Viktor Orbán has led Hungary as its prime minister. His administration has drawn the interest of global powers, particularly due to his close ties with Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. The BBC’s Europe Editor Katya Adler traveled to Felcsút, Orbán’s hometown, to explore the significance of the 12 April election, which has become a pivotal moment for international observers.
Meanwhile, in the Vatican, the Harlem Globetrotters demonstrated their skills by balancing a basketball on the pontiff’s fingertip. This event coincided with a separate tragedy: the mother of a 16-year-old girl, killed by a scrambler, described her life since the incident as a “living nightmare.”
On the other side of the world, Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit reflected on her past, stating she regretted ever meeting the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The incident has been linked to recent scandals within the royal family, including allegations of his influence.
A commercial flight from Dubai landed in Dublin on Wednesday night, marking the first arrival after US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Video footage from the Italian fire brigade revealed a wolf rescued from beneath a bridge, while in Germany, onlookers witnessed the collapse of a decommissioned power plant’s cooling tower.
Residents in Ukraine’s capital have found small moments of happiness amid ongoing challenges. Despite Russian attacks and harsh winter conditions, they continue to seek joy in unexpected places. Meanwhile, over 1,000 people on an Italian island were evacuated as storms caused severe flooding.
“It is inconceivable that the man I shared my life with could have committed these horrors,” said Ms Pelicot, describing the trauma of a violent event.
Back in Italy, the city’s iconic fountain now requires a €2 fee for entry, a change from its previous free access. Jessica and Jacques Moretti face criminal charges, including involuntary manslaughter, bodily harm, and negligent arson.
Russian strikes targeting energy systems have plunged millions into darkness during freezing temperatures. The attacks have also disrupted daily life, with power cuts affecting both infrastructure and civilians. In Rome, crowds gathered to honor the late fashion designer Valentino, who passed away at 93.
Steve Rosenberg, the Russia editor, reported from the outskirts of Moscow where Lt Gen Vladimir Alexeyev was injured in an ambush. In Oslo, Paul Kirby covered the trial of Marius Borg Høiby, who denies multiple serious allegations, including rape.
News from the frontlines in Ukraine highlighted the grim experiences of soldiers on the Russian side, who described the devastation they encountered. The 12 April election in Hungary remains a focal point, with its outcome potentially reshaping political alliances and energy policies across Europe.
