Deutsche Welle: DW.com - Europe

Hungary: Scandal, fear and hope ahead of vote Fake news and a growing number of political scandals: Hungary hasn't seen an election this fraught since after 1989's collapse of the Soviet Union. As Hungary gears up for a historic election, DW answers a few key questions Hungary's election on April 12 is the most important for the state since 1989, and also of historic significance for the EU. DW takes a more detailed look. Ukraine: Russia's Putin declares Easter ceasefire Russian President Putin has announced a ceasefire in its war in Ukraine over the Orthodox Easter holiday. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said his country will "act accordingly" during the truce. Ukraine and Syria tighten relations Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to Syria was not only a diplomatic gesture but motivated by strategic considerations regarding Russia, once a strong supporter of the Middle Eastern state. Hungary election: Voters want new EU approach, but tough Ukraine stance, poll shows A new poll ahead of Hungary's election suggests that most voters want at least minor changes to ties with the EU. But it also found skepticism of financial support for Ukraine, and voters prioritizing domestic issues. Fact check: Orban points to Ukraine over pipeline bomb Orban strongly suggests explosives found near a key gas pipeline in Serbia are evidence of Ukrainian sabotage. Serbia's intelligence chief publicly disagrees. Migrant dinghy sinks in English Channel off France, 4 people die A boat carrying more than 40 people ran into trouble early in the morning, with two men and two women dying in the waters. Crossings are building up after the winter lull, but the sea temperatures are slower to rise. Hungary election: How football has helped Orban keep power Viktor Orban is a football fanatic but has long used the sport as a political tool, both in Hungary and abroad. With polls predicting election defeat, he could also lose his chance of hosting the Champions League final. Trump criticizes NATO over Iran in meeting with Rutte President Donald Trump said NATO "wasn't there" after the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran. But NATO head Mark Rutte said "a large majority of European countries" lived up to their side of the deal. JD Vance criticizes Zelenskyy and Ukraine in Hungary on visit campaigning for Viktor Orban US Vice President JD Vance has criticized EU leaders and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his visit to Hungary, echoing Prime Minister Viktor Orban's campaign messaging. The Kremlin chimed in from Moscow, too.