Last week, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a mutual defense agreement, which Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif described as a framework similar to NATO, intended to connect predominantly Muslim countries.

Firefighting helicopter collects seawater in southeastern Attica, July 2025. © Sanin Mirvic/Corella Greece is once again facing the harsh...

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s section of Via Dinarica offers one of Europe’s most authentic hiking adventures. From highland villages like Lukomir to dramatic peaks, canyons, waterfalls, and pristine national parks, this trail combines unspoiled nature with rich traditions. As sustainable tourism grows, Bosnia stands out as the heart of Via Dinarica, offering hikers wild beauty, cultural depth, and true off-the-beaten-path exploration.

India faces mounting U.S. pressure under Donald Trump to abandon Russian oil and weapons, and instead align firmly with Washington. While Joe Biden sought to pull New Delhi closer to the West without forcing a break with Moscow, Trump offers F-35 jets and U.S. oil in exchange for cutting ties with Russia. The decision pits Modi’s strategic balancing act between great powers against Trump’s demand for clear allegiance.India faces mounting U.S. pressure under Donald Trump to ab

A little-known Spanish media outlet has thrown the Caucasus into turmoil with claims of a secret deal between Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the U.S. to build a “Trump Bridge” corridor linking Nakhchivan and mainland Azerbaijan. The report, denied by Yerevan, has ignited fierce debate, drawing in Russia, Iran, Turkey, and the EU, as Armenia weighs closer ties to the West amid a shifting balance of power in the region.

In August 2021, the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan, leaving a power vacuum quickly filled by the Taliban. While the West turned away, Russia and China opted for diplomacy. This July, Moscow officially recognized the Taliban government, a former enemy once labeled terrorist. The move marks a major geopolitical shift, as Russia seeks influence in Central Asia and challenges Western dominance—betting on stability through cooperation, not war.

Ukraine’s new Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko faces the dual challenge of reforming the war-torn economy while maintaining the political direction set by President Zelensky. As a trusted ally and seasoned economic strategist, she is expected to deepen cooperation with Western allies, boost domestic arms production, and reduce reliance on foreign military aid—all while preparing the country for both prolonged conflict and eventual peace.

Halal and Kosher certifications are emerging as vital tools for Greek food exporters aiming to access global markets. With the Halal market surpassing $2.5 trillion, Greece is being urged to develop a national strategy to support producers. Certifications not only enable exports to Muslim and Jewish consumers but also boost credibility, hygiene, and traceability standards. A coordinated public-private approach could unlock major growth for Greek agrifood products worldwide.

In the former Yugoslavia, mass gatherings—like Marko Perković Thompson’s Zagreb concert and student protests in Belgrade—are reigniting nationalist sentiments. Thompson, more than a musician, symbolizes disillusionment with Croatian politics. Meanwhile, Serbian student movements reveal deep frustrations with a state drifting further from Europe. Together, these events reflect a volatile regional identity crisis fueled by nostalgia and geopolitical anxiety.

The war in Ukraine has reached a prolonged stalemate with no major offensives but continued heavy fighting. While Trump and Putin negotiate, both sides are trying to gain leverage. Russia pushes in the east, aiming for key territories like Pokrovsk and Sumy, while Ukraine counters with innovation and growing domestic arms production. With U.S. aid uncertain and Europe stepping up, both sides seek stronger positions ahead of a possible ceasefire.