Deutsche Welle: DW.com - Europe

Ukraine's monthly civilian casualties highest since 2022 UN monitors say civilian casualties in Ukraine hit their highest monthly level since the start of Russia's full-scale war. The latest attacks included a Russian drone strike on a train, killing two workers. Why is Russia's Yabloko party barred from upcoming election? Russia's highest court has banned anti-war opposition party Yabloko from September's parliamentary election. What does this mean for the election campaign, opponents of the war and for the political mood in the country? 25 years Ohrid Agreement: Is N. Macedonia's peace holding? A quarter of a century after the Ohrid Framework Agreement ended North Macedonia's 2001 conflict, analysts warn that peace between ethnic communities remains fragile. Mozart tribute ends on sour note after mass figurine theft A playful tribute to Mozart has turned into a whodunit after 210 gold-colored figures disappeared from one of Austria's busiest tourist spots. The mass theft forced organizers to end the outdoor display early. Italy: Etna eruption in Sicily halts Catania flights Sicily's Catania airport has suspended flights again as Mount Etna continues to spew lava and volcanic ash. The eruption has disrupted travel during the peak summer holiday season. Short on US Patriot missiles, Ukraine looks for alternatives Russia is putting pressure on Ukraine with ballistic missiles, but Kyiv is short of Patriot interceptors. Domestic production and European alternatives take time. Can Kyiv realistically reduce its dependence on the US? EU waste packaging rules: Why small businesses are worried The EU has introduced new rules targeting packaging waste and "forever chemicals." Although the changes will be phased in slowly, some small sellers have already paused shipments due to the additional red tape. Can Turkey's new PKK law bring peace? Turkey's parliament has passed a framework law for the peace process with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). What does it stipulate, why is it controversial and what does it mean for the future of the peace process? Hungary's parliament elects Orban critic as new president Hungary's parliament has overwhelmingly confirmed Andras Baka, formerly the head of the Supreme Court, to the largely ceremonial role of president. New Prime Minister Peter Magyar controversially removed his predecessor. Bulgaria drone crash a wake-up call for country's defenses The explosion of a Ukrainian decoy drone in Bulgaria near the Romanian border reveals gaps in Bulgaria's defenses, raises questions and shines a light on the country's policy shift on the war in Ukraine.