Europe has become a spectator to a tsunami of cocaine. Getting drugs in the big cities has become as easy as ordering a pizza. People are using messaging applications like WhatsApp and Signal to place an order for required drugs and within 20 minutes, a dealer shows up at the door with the parcel.

UK: Drug cartels bringing in more crimes to Europe

Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 which now accounts for a quarter of US Covid-19 cases could become the dominant strain in Europe. Within a few months, mathematical modeling done by the European Center For Disease Prevention and Control suggests that the subvariant which is the most transmissible to date could become the dominant variant in the European Union.

Gravitas Global Headlines: XBB.1.5 could be dominant in Europe soon

Thousands of Kurdish people living in France marched in the streets of Paris to mark the 10th anniversary of the killing of three Kurdish activists in the French capital.

Thousands of Kurds from around Europe protest over killings in Paris

Temperatures in Europe have increased at more than twice the global average over the past 30 years. This was the largest rise in any continent in the world. However, scientists have not yet analyzed the specific ways in which climate change affected the recent high temperatures.

WION Climate Tracker | Climate change: High temperatures in Jan

There is not always gloom and doom on the climate front. Conservationists in the United Kingdom are celebrating. They are happy about the return of Europe's heaviest flying birds, the great Bustard is back on grasslands of Southern England for the first time in a century and a half.

WION Climate Tracker: The return of Europe's heaviest bird

As Europe ushered in the new year with record-breaking temperatures, some low-level ski resorts have been forced to closedown&nbsp;due to unseasonably warm weather and a lack of snowfall. Fears about the impact of climate change on several mountain villages that rely on winter tourism have been rekindled by these bare mountainsides.&nbsp;Numerous European countries have already smashed their January temperature records with&nbsp;meteorologists&nbsp;describing it as "hard to comprehend."

Why is Europe experiencing a record-breaking warm winter? Will things ease off or worsen in the coming years? We take a closer look.&nbsp;

<h2>Feels like summer: Winter in Europe this year</h2>

On New Year's Day this year, eight European nations reported having their hottest January day ever. On the same day, a meteorological station in the Jura mountain range near the French border documented a record-breaking average daily temperature of 18.1 degrees Celsius.

French weather forecaster,&nbsp;Meteo France reports that the last quarter of the year had the highest temperatures in the country in 25 years,&nbsp;reports&nbsp;Sky News.&nbsp;Similar trends were observed in Switzerland, where a meteorological station in the Jura range recorded a record daily average temperature of 18.1C on January 1.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coral-bleaching-loss-of-food-leading-to-unnecessary-fish-fights-marine-ecologists-549440">Coral bleaching, loss of food leading to ‘unnecessary’ fish fights: Marine ecologists</a>

In recent days, Poland has experienced daily high temperatures in the double digits.

According to The Guardian, which cited MeteoSwiss, Switzerland's official meteorological and climate service, temperatures on the north side of the Alps are "worthy of June" due to a Foehn effect and a light south-westerly breeze.

London-based meteorologist Scott Duncan tweeted on New Year's Day: "We just observed the warmest January day on record for many countries in Europe. Truly unprecedented in modern records."

<h2>Ski resorts shutting down</h2>

There is not enough snow at Lenggries, Germany, Villars-Sur-Ollon, and Crans-Montana in Switzerland, as well as Innsbruck, Austria.&nbsp;Numerous ski resorts have shut down or are adjusting to the reality of little or no snow.

“There literally is no snow this year,” Christine Harrison, a long-time visitor of Le Praz De Lys-Sommand, a small ski resort in the French Alps, told&nbsp;CNN.

Ax 3 Domaines, located close to the French-Andorran border, was one of the most recent resorts to close its slopes due to the warm, rainy weather.

Splugen-Tambo, a resort in Switzerland, also made the decision to close "until further notice" on Monday.&nbsp;“Unfortunately, due to the lack of snow, the heavy rainfall and high temperatures, we have to close our ski resort from 2 January 2023, until further notice,” it said in a statement, as per&nbsp;Sky News.

Over half of the 7,500 ski slopes in France have been shut due to “a lack of snow and a lot of rain”, Laurent Reynaud, managing director at Domaines Skiables de France, the national body representing ski resorts, told&nbsp;CNN Travel.

The snow that is present in these destinations at lower elevations is not appropriate for winter sports.

Hacher Bernet, the director of Splügen’s ski lifts, told&nbsp;BBC, “It’s really too wet, like in spring. For skiing, the snow needs to hold together – there’s just too much water in this, it’s impossible.”

However, not every area is in the same position.&nbsp;There is ample snow for skiers in French locations that are higher up, such Les Deux Alpes, where 70% of the slopes are over 2,000 metres.

For the time being, Switzerland's top resorts are still operating, but several of them rely largely on artificial snow, as reported by the BBC.

Due to a lack of snow, mid- and low-level resorts in the northern Alps and throughout the Pyrenees are struggling to provide tourists with alternatives.

<h2>Is climate change the culprit?</h2>

Long-term global warming will result in warmer, wetter winters, according to climate experts.&nbsp;By the end of the century, "skiing in the Alps as we know it is basically going to be over," according to Wim Thiery, a professor of climate science at the University of Brussels who spoke to the Guardian. As long as the climate continues to warm, these issues will only become worse.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Tobacco companies to pay for clean up

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A new research by the University of Basel has warned that higher resorts' reliance on artificial snow will grow, with their water use increasing by as much as 80%.

Additionally, The Alpine climatic scenario is becoming more "volatile," according to weather tracker Wilkin, and will further worsen as the climate catastrophe spreads to Europe, as per CNN reports.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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As Europe ushered in the new year with record-breaking temperatures, some low-level ski resorts have been forced to closedown due to unseasonably warm weather and a lack of snowfall.

As Europe ushered in the new year with record-breaking temperatures, some low-level ski resorts have been forced to closedown due to unseasonably warm weather and a lack of snowfall. Fears about the impact of climate change on several mountain villages that rely on winter tourism have been rekindled by these bare mountainsides. Numerous European countries have already smashed their January temperature records with meteorologists describing it as "hard to comprehend." Why is Europe experiencing a record-breaking warm winter? Will things ease off or worsen in the coming years? We take a closer look. Feels like summer: Winter in Europe this year On New Year's Day this year, eight European nations reported having their hottest January day ever. On the same day, a meteorological station in the Jura mountain range near the French border documented a record-breaking average daily temperature of 18.1 degrees Celsius. French weather forecaster, Meteo France reports that the last quarter of the year had the highest temperatures in the country in 25 years, reports Sky News. Similar trends were observed in Switzerland, where a meteorological station in the Jura range recorded a record daily average temperature of 18.1C on January 1. Also read | Coral bleaching, loss of food leading to ‘unnecessary’ fish fights: Marine ecologists In recent days, Poland has experienced daily high temperatures in the double digits. According to The Guardian, which cited MeteoSwiss, Switzerland's official meteorological and climate service, temperatures on the north side of the Alps are "worthy of June" due to a Foehn effect and a light south-westerly breeze. London-based meteorologist Scott Duncan tweeted on New Year's Day: "We just observed the warmest January day on record for many countries in Europe. Truly unprecedented in modern records." Ski resorts shutting down There is not enough snow at Lenggries, Germany, Villars-Sur-Ollon, and Crans-Montana in Switzerland, as well as Innsbruck, Austria. Numerous ski resorts have shut down or are adjusting to the reality of little or no snow. “There literally is no snow this year,” Christine Harrison, a long-time visitor of Le Praz De Lys-Sommand, a small ski resort in the French Alps, told CNN. Ax 3 Domaines, located close to the French-Andorran border, was one of the most recent resorts to close its slopes due to the warm, rainy weather. Splugen-Tambo, a resort in Switzerland, also made the decision to close "until further notice" on Monday. “Unfortunately, due to the lack of snow, the heavy rainfall and high temperatures, we have to close our ski resort from 2 January 2023, until further notice,” it said in a statement, as per Sky News. Over half of the 7,500 ski slopes in France have been shut due to “a lack of snow and a lot of rain”, Laurent Reynaud, managing director at Domaines Skiables de France, the national body representing ski resorts, told CNN Travel. The snow that is present in these destinations at lower elevations is not appropriate for winter sports. Hacher Bernet, the director of Splügen’s ski lifts, told BBC, “It’s really too wet, like in spring. For skiing, the snow needs to hold together – there’s just too much water in this, it’s impossible.” However, not every area is in the same position. There is ample snow for skiers in French locations that are higher up, such Les Deux Alpes, where 70% of the slopes are over 2,000 metres. For the time being, Switzerland's top resorts are still operating, but several of them rely largely on artificial snow, as reported by the BBC. Due to a lack of snow, mid- and low-level resorts in the northern Alps and throughout the Pyrenees are struggling to provide tourists with alternatives. Is climate change the culprit? Long-term global warming will result in warmer, wetter winters, according to climate experts. By the end of the century, "skiing in the Alps as we know it is basically going to be over," according to Wim Thiery, a professor of climate science at the University of Brussels who spoke to the Guardian. As long as the climate continues to warm, these issues will only become worse. Also watch | WION Climate Tracker: Tobacco companies to pay for clean up A new research by the University of Basel has warned that higher resorts' reliance on artificial snow will grow, with their water use increasing by as much as 80%. Additionally, The Alpine climatic scenario is becoming more "volatile," according to weather tracker Wilkin, and will further worsen as the climate catastrophe spreads to Europe, as per CNN reports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

No snow in paradise: Ski resorts in Europe shut shop right at the beginning of the year

Europe’s famous ski resorts are shutting down because there’s no snow! Climate change has ruined winter holidays for the rich and famous. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: The rich and famous stare at snowless slopes

European nations have reported record high temperatures for the month of January leading to balmy weather in many places at the start of this year.

WION Climate Tracker: 'Unprecedented' warm weather reported in Europe

The dawn of 2023&nbsp;has not been a cold, wintry one for Europe. In fact, parts of the continent set off their warmest-ever start to January.

Temperatures in Berlin, the German capital, reached 16 degree Celsius on January 1, a January record, national forecaster Deutscher Wetterdienst said on Twitter. In Warsaw, the Polish capital, the mercury surpassed the previous peak by more than 5 degrees as it recorded 19 degree Celsius.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-full-context-understanding-europes-heat-wave-499221">The Full Context: Understanding Europe’s heat wave</a>

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France saw record winter temperature values such as a high of 24.8 Celsius in Verdun in northeastern France. The country as a whole saw its warmest New Year’s Eve.

The Czech Republic, too, reportedly registered its warmest ever New Year’s eve, the country's weather service tweeted. Prague set a new monthly maximum of 17.7 Celsius.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/did-cops-of-2022-catch-up-with-earths-climate-change-runner-543025">Did COPs of 2022 catch up with Earth's climate change runner?</a>

In what has emerged as a silver lining, Europe’s winter heat wave has led to a decreased demand for natural gas, easing pressure on the continent’s fragile energy systems and pushing energy prices down amid Russia-Ukraine war.

According to forecaster Maxar Technologies, a total of 75.4 heating-degree days — a measure of the energy needed to heat homes — are expected next week in Europe.&nbsp;

That’s below the 10-year average of 79.9 days. European gas prices fell as much as 6.5 per cent on Tuesday, a day after touching their lowest level since the beginning of Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;

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The dawn of 2023 has not been a cold, wintry one for Europe. In fact, parts of the continent set off their warmest-ever start to January. Temperatures in Berlin, the German capital, reached 16 degree Celsius on January 1, a January record, national forecaster Deutscher Wetterdienst said on Twitter.

The dawn of 2023 has not been a cold, wintry one for Europe. In fact, parts of the continent set off their warmest-ever start to January. Temperatures in Berlin, the German capital, reached 16 degree Celsius on January 1, a January record, national forecaster Deutscher Wetterdienst said on Twitter. In Warsaw, the Polish capital, the mercury surpassed the previous peak by more than 5 degrees as it recorded 19 degree Celsius. WATCH | The Full Context: Understanding Europe’s heat wave × France saw record winter temperature values such as a high of 24.8 Celsius in Verdun in northeastern France. The country as a whole saw its warmest New Year’s Eve. The Czech Republic, too, reportedly registered its warmest ever New Year’s eve, the country's weather service tweeted. Prague set a new monthly maximum of 17.7 Celsius. ALSO READ | Did COPs of 2022 catch up with Earth's climate change runner? In what has emerged as a silver lining, Europe’s winter heat wave has led to a decreased demand for natural gas, easing pressure on the continent’s fragile energy systems and pushing energy prices down amid Russia-Ukraine war. According to forecaster Maxar Technologies, a total of 75.4 heating-degree days — a measure of the energy needed to heat homes — are expected next week in Europe. That’s below the 10-year average of 79.9 days. European gas prices fell as much as 6.5 per cent on Tuesday, a day after touching their lowest level since the beginning of Russia-Ukraine war. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Europe faces climate change heat with warm winters as temperatures break records

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants were reported to have crossed the English Channel from mainland Europe to the UK, breaking the record of the previous years.

Gravitas Global Headline: Record number of migrants crossed English Channel to UK in 2022

India's Foreign Minister S.Jaishankar has responded firmly at what he termed Europe's hypocrisy when it comes to Russia. Speaking to Austria's national broadcaster on the Russia-Ukraine war, Jaishankar slammed Europe for criticizing India's arms and energy imports from Russia.

India's Foreign Minister slams Europe's 'double standards' on Russian oil

"Europe has managed to reduce its imports while doing it in a manner it's comfortable..if at 60,000 euros you are so caring about your population, I have a population at $2000..", EAM S. Jaishankar on India importing Russian energy.

Watch: India's S. Jaishankar takes on Europe on importing Russian energy

Record number of migrants crossed English Channel to UK in 2022

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants were reported to have crossed the English Channel from mainland Europe to the UK, breaking the record of the previous year with more than 17,000, as per the government figures published on Sunday.&nbsp;In total, 45,756 citizens crossed the dangerous and one of the busiest shipping lanes in a small boat, in comparison to 28,526 in 2021.

Last month, four people lost their lives after their small boat full of migrants capsized in the English Channel's freezing temperatures.&nbsp;

Around 43 people were saved from the frigid waters by a fishing boat. Just a year before this incident took place, 27 people lost their lives in drowning after their dinghy capsized.&nbsp;

2022 also broke the record for the highest crossing by migrants in a single day, as 1,295 migrants made it to the UK on August 22.

For the Conservative government, this is a huge political issue in the wake of promises made by them on decreasing illegal immigration and getting hold of smuggling gangs that make these crossings possible.

Recently the Rwanda asylum plan of the government, which is aimed at solving the issue of migrants crossing the English Channel, was ruled legal by the High Court.&nbsp;

Rwanda asylum plan

According to the government's Rwanda asylum plan, some asylum seekers, who have entered the UK illegally, will be sent on a one-way ticket to Rwanda, where they can claim asylum.

The asylum seekers may get refugee status in Rwanda. In case they fail to get refugee status, they can apply for staying in Rwanda on other grounds or can seek asylum in some other "safe third country".&nbsp;

The government said that this will stop people from entering the UK through "illegal, dangerous or unnecessary methods", like small boats or dinghies which cross the English Channel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants were reported to have crossed the English Channel from mainland Europe to the UK, breaking the record of the previous year with more than 17,000, as per the government figures published on Sunday.

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants were reported to have crossed the English Channel from mainland Europe to the UK, breaking the record of the previous year with more than 17,000, as per the government figures published on Sunday. In total, 45,756 citizens crossed the dangerous and one of the busiest shipping lanes in a small boat, in comparison to 28,526 in 2021. Last month, four people lost their lives after their small boat full of migrants capsized in the English Channel's freezing temperatures. Around 43 people were saved from the frigid waters by a fishing boat. Just a year before this incident took place, 27 people lost their lives in drowning after their dinghy capsized. 2022 also broke the record for the highest crossing by migrants in a single day, as 1,295 migrants made it to the UK on August 22. For the Conservative government, this is a huge political issue in the wake of promises made by them on decreasing illegal immigration and getting hold of smuggling gangs that make these crossings possible. Recently the Rwanda asylum plan of the government, which is aimed at solving the issue of migrants crossing the English Channel, was ruled legal by the High Court. Rwanda asylum plan According to the government's Rwanda asylum plan, some asylum seekers, who have entered the UK illegally, will be sent on a one-way ticket to Rwanda, where they can claim asylum. The asylum seekers may get refugee status in Rwanda. In case they fail to get refugee status, they can apply for staying in Rwanda on other grounds or can seek asylum in some other "safe third country". The government said that this will stop people from entering the UK through "illegal, dangerous or unnecessary methods", like small boats or dinghies which cross the English Channel. (With inputs from agencies)

In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants crossed English Channel to reach UK from Europe

Sweden will take the rotating EU presidency on January 1 and has pledged to promote free trade and maintain unity on the Ukraine crisis in the face of demands for a more forceful reaction to U.S. green subsidies. The biggest concerns for Stockholm as it assumes leadership of the 27-nation bloc at this turbulent moment might be how new dynamics in its own domestic politics play out in the European arena.

After eight years of centre-left dominance, the conservative Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's cabinet, which was founded in October, is reliant on an unusual coalition with the far-right Sweden Democrats to win a majority in parliament.

Despite rejecting previous calls for Sweden to leave the EU, the populist party's uncompromising position on issues like immigration appears certain to spark domestic conflict and reduce the amount of leeway for manoeuvre.

There have been "plenty of lovely words" from the Swedish government on its plans, according to Helene Fritzon, a member of the opposition Social Democrats in the European Parliament.

Stockholm has underlined climate change and defending EU "basic values" in the face of disagreements with Hungary and Poland as priority, in addition to Russia's aggressiveness and trade.

"But there is great concern when, in practice, it is the Sweden Democrats who have the whip hand," Fritzon said.&nbsp;

Others, though, are less concerned about the possibility that the far-right party may interfere with Stockholm's moment in the limelight on its European tour.

The Sweden Democrats must formally be notified of any decisions made regarding the EU as a result of the agreement reached to form the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sweden will take the rotating EU presidency on January 1 and has pledged to promote free trade and maintain unity on the Ukraine crisis in the face of demands for a more forceful reaction to U.

Sweden will take the rotating EU presidency on January 1 and has pledged to promote free trade and maintain unity on the Ukraine crisis in the face of demands for a more forceful reaction to U.S. green subsidies. The biggest concerns for Stockholm as it assumes leadership of the 27-nation bloc at this turbulent moment might be how new dynamics in its own domestic politics play out in the European arena. After eight years of centre-left dominance, the conservative Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's cabinet, which was founded in October, is reliant on an unusual coalition with the far-right Sweden Democrats to win a majority in parliament. Despite rejecting previous calls for Sweden to leave the EU, the populist party's uncompromising position on issues like immigration appears certain to spark domestic conflict and reduce the amount of leeway for manoeuvre. There have been "plenty of lovely words" from the Swedish government on its plans, according to Helene Fritzon, a member of the opposition Social Democrats in the European Parliament. Stockholm has underlined climate change and defending EU "basic values" in the face of disagreements with Hungary and Poland as priority, in addition to Russia's aggressiveness and trade. "But there is great concern when, in practice, it is the Sweden Democrats who have the whip hand," Fritzon said. Others, though, are less concerned about the possibility that the far-right party may interfere with Stockholm's moment in the limelight on its European tour. The Sweden Democrats must formally be notified of any decisions made regarding the EU as a result of the agreement reached to form the government. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sweden takes over rotating EU presidency amid turbulent times, concerns over domestic politics

European investigators will visit Lebanon next month as part of a probe into the wealth of central bank governor Riad Salameh, a judicial official said on Tuesday.

The long-serving central bank chief, 72, is among top officials widely blamed for Lebanon's unprecedented economic crisis, dubbed one of the worst in modern global history by the World Bank.

In March, France, Germany and Luxembourg seized properties and frozen assets worth 120 million euros ($130 million) in a major operation linked to a probe launched by French investigators into Salameh's personal wealth.

"Delegations including general prosecutors and investigative judges and financial prosecutors from Germany, Luxembourg and France... will arrive in Beirut between January 9 and 20," the Lebanese judicial official told AFP.

The visit aims to conduct investigations into financial affairs linked to Salameh, the official added, requesting anonymity as he was not authorised to speak to the media.

Authorities in the three European countries notified Lebanon's general prosecutor of their intention to question "Salameh, officials at Lebanon's central bank and the heads of commercial banks", the official said.

The delegations have not requested assistance from the Lebanese judiciary, according to the official.

Lebanon opened a probe into Salameh's wealth last year after the office of Switzerland's top prosecutor requested assistance in an investigation into more than $300 million which he allegedly embezzled out of the central bank with the help of his brother.

In June, a Lebanese prosecutor probing Salameh on suspicion of financial misconduct requested charges be issued against him based on preliminary investigative findings, a court official said at the time.

Both Salameh brothers have repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.

The central bank chief has remained at the helm despite the probes and Lebanese courts imposing a travel ban on him.

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European investigators will visit Lebanon next month as part of a probe into the wealth of central bank governor Riad Salameh, a judicial official said on Tuesday.

European investigators will visit Lebanon next month as part of a probe into the wealth of central bank governor Riad Salameh, a judicial official said on Tuesday. The long-serving central bank chief, 72, is among top officials widely blamed for Lebanon's unprecedented economic crisis, dubbed one of the worst in modern global history by the World Bank. In March, France, Germany and Luxembourg seized properties and frozen assets worth 120 million euros ($130 million) in a major operation linked to a probe launched by French investigators into Salameh's personal wealth. "Delegations including general prosecutors and investigative judges and financial prosecutors from Germany, Luxembourg and France... will arrive in Beirut between January 9 and 20," the Lebanese judicial official told AFP. The visit aims to conduct investigations into financial affairs linked to Salameh, the official added, requesting anonymity as he was not authorised to speak to the media. Authorities in the three European countries notified Lebanon's general prosecutor of their intention to question "Salameh, officials at Lebanon's central bank and the heads of commercial banks", the official said. The delegations have not requested assistance from the Lebanese judiciary, according to the official. Lebanon opened a probe into Salameh's wealth last year after the office of Switzerland's top prosecutor requested assistance in an investigation into more than $300 million which he allegedly embezzled out of the central bank with the help of his brother. In June, a Lebanese prosecutor probing Salameh on suspicion of financial misconduct requested charges be issued against him based on preliminary investigative findings, a court official said at the time. Both Salameh brothers have repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. The central bank chief has remained at the helm despite the probes and Lebanese courts imposing a travel ban on him. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Europe investigators to visit Lebanon in central bank chief probe

Much to the surprise of the western world, Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novakis has hinted at resuming gas supplies to Europe via the Yamal-Europe pipeline.

Much to the surprise of the western world, Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novakis has hinted at resuming gas supplies to Europe via the Yamal-Europe pipeline. "The European market remains relevant, as the gas shortage persists, and we have every opportunity to resume supplies. For example, the Yamal-Europe Pipeline, which was stopped for political reasons, remains unused," Novakis told the Russian news agency TASS. Novakis also said the gas supplies to Europe had increased despite the disruptions. "Even now this market is not closed. For example, we were able to significantly increase LNG supplies to Europe this year; they have increased to 19.4 billion cubic meters in 11 months of 2022, and we expect 21 billion cubic meters by the end of the year." WATCH | EU energy ministers agree on a gas price cap to contain crisis × “Today, we can confidently say that there is a demand for our gas. Therefore, we continue to consider Europe as a potential market for the sale of our products. It is clear that a large-scale campaign was launched against us, which ended with acts of sabotage against Nord Stream." Notably, Russian gas giant Gazprom, in May, earlier this year had blocked the supplies through the mentioned pipeline which runs across Poland. The stopping of supplies was also necessitated after Gazprom's parent company was sanctioned. At the time, Warsaw refused to buy the gas from Russia and focused on drawing energy from Germany's stored gas reserves. Read more: Oil price cap proposal: Russia warns West of dire repercussions The energy conundrum between the western world and Russia has been ongoing ever since Putin and his men invaded Ukraine. Gas and oil form a pivotal part of Moscow's economy and the West wants to hurt it by imposing sanctions. However, in the absence of reliable alternatives that can supply energy on scale - the ploy of sanctions has not worked as well as it was supposed to. After months of dillydallying, the G7 nations, the European Union and Australia, earlier this month agreed to a price ceiling of $60 per barrel of seaborne Russian Urals crude oil. Thus, experts are surprised that Moscow is willing to resume gas supplies through the Yamal-Europe pipeline. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia open to resuming gas supplies to Europe via the Yamal-Europe pipeline

72-year-old, Fabrizio Cardinali has created a small world with zero dependence on energy. He is one of the few people in Europe not worried about rising energy costs this winter. He has no electricity, no gas, and no indoor plumbing.

Meet the 'Hermit of Cupramontana': 72-year-old creates small world with zero dependence on energy

Christmas is just around the corner. This of course is the time when people are in a festive mood, binging on traditional food and also finishing off some last minute shopping.

WION Fineprint: Christmas around the World: Cities decked up for the festive

WION's Ghadi Francis takes us through the streets of the oldest town of Europe - Zurich. She also shows us the famous cafe where John Lennon used to often visit. Watch this for more.

Taking you through the oldest town of Europe: Zurich

Less than three minutes after liftoff from the European base in French Guiana on Wednesday, a European Vega C rocket carrying two Airbus satellites failed to get off the ground.

Arianespace, which provided the launch service, said in a statement that “an anomaly occurred” approximately 2 minutes and 27 seconds after liftoff, “thus ending the Vega C mission.”

It chose not to give any&nbsp;further information, but planned to organise&nbsp;a news conference on Wednesday afternoon.

“Data analyses are in progress to determine the reasons of this failure,” it said.

It was the Vega C rocket's maiden commercial launch. This is Europe's light launcher, with the&nbsp;capacity to carry roughly 800 kilogrammes (1,700 pounds) into orbit.

Two Airbus Pleiades Neo 5 and 6 earth observation satellites were planned&nbsp;to be put into orbit by the launch, which was carried out by the European Space Agency. The constellation of satellites would have been able to capture photos at a resolution of 30 centimetres of any location on Earth (11.8 inches).

On 13 July, the rocket completed its first flight successfully. 12 of the ESA's 22 member states are involved in the Vega C development programme, which is run by the organisation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Less than three minutes after liftoff from the European base in French Guiana on Wednesday, a European Vega C rocket carrying two Airbus satellites failed to get off the ground.

Less than three minutes after liftoff from the European base in French Guiana on Wednesday, a European Vega C rocket carrying two Airbus satellites failed to get off the ground. Arianespace, which provided the launch service, said in a statement that “an anomaly occurred” approximately 2 minutes and 27 seconds after liftoff, “thus ending the Vega C mission.” It chose not to give any further information, but planned to organise a news conference on Wednesday afternoon. “Data analyses are in progress to determine the reasons of this failure,” it said. It was the Vega C rocket's maiden commercial launch. This is Europe's light launcher, with the capacity to carry roughly 800 kilogrammes (1,700 pounds) into orbit. Two Airbus Pleiades Neo 5 and 6 earth observation satellites were planned to be put into orbit by the launch, which was carried out by the European Space Agency. The constellation of satellites would have been able to capture photos at a resolution of 30 centimetres of any location on Earth (11.8 inches). On 13 July, the rocket completed its first flight successfully. 12 of the ESA's 22 member states are involved in the Vega C development programme, which is run by the organisation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Europe's second Vega-C mission fails as rocket malfunctions soon after launch

For decades, the West has been the moral authority for the world, setting standards of transparency and accountability. But Europe and the United Kingdom today are struggling to maintain credibility amid a wave of corruption scandals. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Europe not a paradise without vice anymore?

An Italian court on Tuesday postponed hearing on Qatar graft scandal until January. The court will decide whether to hand over to the Belgian authorities a second woman suspected of involvement in EU scandal. Watch further to know more.

Italian Court postpones hearing in EU scandal till January 03

In what is being touted as the worst-ever bird flu outbreak in Europe this year, there were almost 2,500 outbreaks of the flu that were detected on farms in 37 European countries, between October 2021 and September 2022, declared the European Food Safety Authority, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the EU, according to AFP reports.

Read now | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-covid-19-wave-to-hit-europe-in-coming-week-warns-drug-watchdog-528682">New COVID-19 wave to hit Europe ‘in coming week’, warns watchdog</a> 
 
Almost 50 million birds were slaughtered on affected farms, said the EFSA and this toll did not include preventive culls of chickens, ducks and turkeys that were carried out alongside the outbreaks, the health agency told AFP. It also said that for the first time, there was no marked separation between two epidemic waves, as the virus was not brought under control in the summer. The number of infected farms was 35 per cent higher this autumn, the epidemic was more virulent than last year at the same time.&nbsp;

Read now | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bird-flu-crisis-in-europe-termed-worst-ever-522188">Bird flu crisis in Europe</a>

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said that the risk of infection in humans was low, and in between low to medium for people working in contact with birds and poultry. Between September 2 and December 10, 2022, around 400 outbreaks were recorded on farms in 18 European countries.

The virus has also been detected more than 600 times in wild birds, notably ducks and swans, which the report said may have contributed to the spread of the virus between farms.

Watch | Gravitas: Growing concern over bird flu cases in Europe, U.K.
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Currently, health authorities are studying the possibility of using vaccinations to arrest the spread of the virus.

In what is being touted as the worst-ever bird flu outbreak in Europe this year, there were almost 2,500 outbreaks of the flu that were detected on farms in 37 European countries, between October 2021 and September 2022, declared the European Food Safety Authority, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the EU, according to AFP reports.

In what is being touted as the worst-ever bird flu outbreak in Europe this year, there were almost 2,500 outbreaks of the flu that were detected on farms in 37 European countries, between October 2021 and September 2022, declared the European Food Safety Authority, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the EU, according to AFP reports. Read now | New COVID-19 wave to hit Europe ‘in coming week’, warns watchdog Almost 50 million birds were slaughtered on affected farms, said the EFSA and this toll did not include preventive culls of chickens, ducks and turkeys that were carried out alongside the outbreaks, the health agency told AFP. It also said that for the first time, there was no marked separation between two epidemic waves, as the virus was not brought under control in the summer. The number of infected farms was 35 per cent higher this autumn, the epidemic was more virulent than last year at the same time. Read now | Bird flu crisis in Europe The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said that the risk of infection in humans was low, and in between low to medium for people working in contact with birds and poultry. Between September 2 and December 10, 2022, around 400 outbreaks were recorded on farms in 18 European countries. The virus has also been detected more than 600 times in wild birds, notably ducks and swans, which the report said may have contributed to the spread of the virus between farms. Watch | Gravitas: Growing concern over bird flu cases in Europe, U.K. Currently, health authorities are studying the possibility of using vaccinations to arrest the spread of the virus.

Worst ever bird flu outbreak in Europe this year, declares EU

The impact of Russia's conflict in Ukraine on Europe was estimated at $1 trillion, and the worst crisis in decades is only getting started. After this winter, the area will have to replenish its gas supplies without many Russian deliveries, which will make it more difficult to find fuel tankers.

WION Fineprint: Europe faces energy crunch as a fallout of Russia-Ukraine war

The prospects were revived European Super League received a major blow after key legal option argued that UEFA and FIFA were within their rights to sanctioned clubs who would join any breakaway. The football governing bodies - UEFA and FIFA - won the backing of an advisor to Europe's top court on rules contested by potential rivals.

Big blow for European Super League; EU legal advisor backs UEFA in battle

After 2 years of Covid-19 pandemic, you know what freedom looks like? Being out in the open and travel to the places that were sitting in your wishlist all this time. WION's Ghadi Francis is on a holiday in Europe and she is going to bring to you stories from Paris, Hamburg, Amsterdam, Zurich and a lot more cities and add a little joy to your Christmas. Keep watching this space for more.

WION’s Ghadi Francis on a Europe trail

Do you live in Europe or the US? Are you in the need of prescribed antibiotics? If your answer to both the questions is yes then you know what we are talking about. Several western countries are reporting a serious shortage in antibiotics or paracetamol.

Europe hit by shortage of antibiotics; doctors and officials express concern

Europe: UK reports shortage in supply of antibiotics; doctors to recommend shorter courses

Antibiotics manufacturers are facing supply-chain challenges as several countries across Europe are reporting shortages of antibiotics amid a rise in the demand for the medicines.&nbsp;A report by The Wall Street Journal stated that data from various nations show that amoxicillin, and cephalosporins, are among other widely used antibiotics that are reported to be short in supply.&nbsp;

As per the health authorities in the countries and the manufacturers, the shortage is because of the sudden rise in the demand for antibiotics in the post-pandemic era as the removal of COVID-19 restrictions led to several diseases.&nbsp;

The doctors and officials have raised concerns over the data as the shortage can hamper the treatment of conditions such as ear infections, pneumonia, etc.&nbsp;

The Covid restrictions in China, which are now easing gradually, also played a part in the shortage of antibiotics in the European nations as manufacturers are facing delays in the supply of ingredients, packaging and other components.&nbsp;

The spike in energy costs, especially after the Russia-Ukraine war, is also causing some energy-intensive production difficult to maintain. As quoted by WSJ, Remi Salomon, a paediatrician at Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital in Paris, said: "We are very afraid, because we heard that the shortage will be for three or four months." Salomon also represents physicians at the city’s public hospitals.&nbsp;

A report published on December 9, a new World Health Organization (WHO) report revealed that "high levels of resistance in bacteria, causing life-threatening bloodstream infections, as well as increasing resistance to treatment in several bacteria causing common infections in the community based on data reported by 87 countries in 2020". &nbsp;

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Antibiotics manufacturers are facing supply-chain challenges as several countries across Europe are reporting shortages of antibiotics amid a rise in the demand for the medicines.

Antibiotics manufacturers are facing supply-chain challenges as several countries across Europe are reporting shortages of antibiotics amid a rise in the demand for the medicines. A report by The Wall Street Journal stated that data from various nations show that amoxicillin, and cephalosporins, are among other widely used antibiotics that are reported to be short in supply. As per the health authorities in the countries and the manufacturers, the shortage is because of the sudden rise in the demand for antibiotics in the post-pandemic era as the removal of COVID-19 restrictions led to several diseases. The doctors and officials have raised concerns over the data as the shortage can hamper the treatment of conditions such as ear infections, pneumonia, etc. The Covid restrictions in China, which are now easing gradually, also played a part in the shortage of antibiotics in the European nations as manufacturers are facing delays in the supply of ingredients, packaging and other components. The spike in energy costs, especially after the Russia-Ukraine war, is also causing some energy-intensive production difficult to maintain. As quoted by WSJ, Remi Salomon, a paediatrician at Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital in Paris, said: "We are very afraid, because we heard that the shortage will be for three or four months." Salomon also represents physicians at the city’s public hospitals. A report published on December 9, a new World Health Organization (WHO) report revealed that "high levels of resistance in bacteria, causing life-threatening bloodstream infections, as well as increasing resistance to treatment in several bacteria causing common infections in the community based on data reported by 87 countries in 2020". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Doctors show concern as countries across Europe face shortages of antibiotics

EU-funded study says teenagers in Europe are normalising risky and criminal behaviour online. Trolling, revenge porn and hate speech part of the new normal. Priyanka Sharma brings you the details

Gravitas: Teens in Europe normalising online crime?

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