The assassination of a Ukrainian investigative journalist
Pavel Sheremet’s murder is a threat to Ukraine’s fearless activists
PAVEL SHEREMET sounded characteristically energetic on Ukraine’s VestiFM radio on July 19th: “Welcome, brothers and sisters from Kiev, Kharrrkov, and Dneppppaaa!” It would be Mr Sheremet’s last show. When he set out for the studio the next day, a bomb ripped through the red Subaru he was driving, leaving the 44-year-old journalist dead in Kiev’s city centre. A flower-laden memorial now graces the intersection, adorned with pictures and notes from mourners. One note features lyrics from Vladimir Vysotsky, a Soviet-era folk singer: “Death selects the very best, and pulls them away one by one.”
Jordan Bardella, the French hard right’s young hope
After Marine Le Pen was barred from running for president, the 29-year-old may have to take her place
Europe cannot fathom what Trumpian America wants from it
From tariffs to Ukraine, Europeans are stuck in the Fog of Peace
Germany’s Mütterrente is a poor way to pay parents
A recession is not the time to raise benefits for those who had kids long ago
Russia’s army is being subordinated to its security services
Vladimir Putin mistrusts his generals
Irish willingness to join NATO could ease unification
Support for both is rising among Catholics and Protestants
Marine Le Pen’s ban polarises France
Pending her appeal, it also opens up the presidential election