European leaders are currently deliberating on the critical issue of utilizing frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's defense amidst ongoing military pressures from Russia. In a separate development, a French anaesthetist has been sentenced to life in prison for murdering patients, while Russian President Vladimir Putin made inflammatory comments about European leaders and Ukraine. Additionally, the UK government has downplayed concerns regarding electric vehicle sales targets, and the world mourns the loss of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Peter Arnett.

EU LEADERS DEBATE UKRAINE FUNDING
During a summit in Brussels, European leaders are being urged to decide whether to use Russia's frozen assets to finance Ukraine's defense. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that failing to agree on this matter could create significant challenges for Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed confidence in finding a compromise to support Ukraine while addressing the contentious Mercosur trade deal that France opposes. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned that Europe faces a choice between "money today or blood tomorrow," underscoring the urgency of the situation. Belgium's Prime Minister Bart De Wever remains cautious about the proposed reparations loan, citing concerns over potential repercussions from Russia.

FRENCH ANAESTHETIST SENTENCED FOR MURDERS
Frédéric Péchier, a French anaesthetist dubbed "Dr. Death," has been sentenced to life imprisonment for intentionally poisoning patients, resulting in the deaths of 12 individuals over nearly a decade. Prosecutors described Péchier as a "serial killer" who manipulated medical supplies to harm patients, sometimes resuscitating those he poisoned to appear heroic. The court revealed that his actions stemmed from a desire for power and to undermine colleagues. Péchier, who denied the charges, faces a potential appeal within ten days.

PUTIN'S PROVOCATIVE REMARKS ON EUROPEAN LEADERS
In a recent address, Russian President Vladimir Putin disparaged European leaders, referring to them as "little pigs," and asserted that Russia would achieve its territorial objectives in Ukraine through either diplomacy or military force. He criticized the previous U.S. administration for escalating tensions and accused European leaders of colluding with Washington. Putin's comments come amid ongoing discussions about Ukraine's territorial integrity and military support from Western nations, with significant doubts remaining about Russia's willingness to compromise.

UK GOVERNMENT ADDRESSES ELECTRIC VEHICLE TARGETS
The UK government has sought to clarify reports regarding the review of electric vehicle (EV) sales targets. Industry Minister Chris McDonald stated that preparatory work for the review will begin next year, but the full review is still slated for 2027. This comes after car manufacturers expressed concerns about the economic viability of the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate. The government emphasized its commitment to transitioning to electric vehicles while maintaining plans to ban new petrol and diesel car sales by 2035.

REMEMBERING PULITZER PRIZE-WINNING JOURNALIST PETER ARNETT
Peter Arnett, renowned for his coverage of the Vietnam and Gulf wars, has passed away at the age of 91. His career was marked by courageous reporting from conflict zones, earning him a Pulitzer Prize in 1966 for his Vietnam War reporting. Arnett became a household name during the 1991 Gulf War when he provided live updates from Baghdad. His contributions to journalism were significant, and he is remembered for his dedication to delivering firsthand accounts of war.

Wrap-up
As European leaders navigate the complexities of funding Ukraine's defense amidst Russian aggression, the sentencing of a French doctor for patient murders highlights the darker side of the medical profession. Meanwhile, Putin's belittling remarks towards Europe and the UK government's stance on electric vehicle targets reflect ongoing geopolitical tensions and industry challenges. The passing of Peter Arnett serves as a reminder of the vital role of journalism in documenting history.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team