Photo : Foreign Policy
13 May 2025, Tuesday | NIAS Europe Daily Brief #1133
By Padmashree Anandhan and Fleur Elizabeth Philip
TURKIYE
Kurdish militant group PKK announces its disbandment
On 12 May, according to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), the Kurdish militant group plans to cease operations as soon as possible and has called for the closure of the organization. This comes after 40 years of the deadly armed conflicts with the Turkish government, over the autonomy of ethnic Kurds in the country. The purpose of their disbandment as per the statement: “The 12th PKK Congress has decided to dissolve the PKK's organizational structure and end its method of armed struggle…the recent summit has brought the Kurdish issue to the point of resolution through democratic politics, thus completing its historical mission.” The group also responded to the call made by PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan, to lay down their arms. Ocalan has been behind bars since 1999 near an island in Istanbul. Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke on the decision made by the PKK and said that they are taking calculated steps to have a terror-free Turkey. The Kurds are an ethnic group of 30 million people, that includes Turkey, Iraq, Iran and Syria after the West redrew the borders in WWI. The PKK was founded in 1978, aiming to create an independent Kurdish state, but in 1990. (Elizabeth Schumacher, “Turkey: PKK announces intention to disband,” Deutsche Welle, 12 May 2025)
ALBANIA
Parliamentary elections to test EU membership bid
On 12 May, France24 reported on Albanians vote to closely watch election that could determine its path toward EU membership. The contest primarily pits Prime Minister Edi Rama, seeking a fourth term with his Socialist Party, against his longtime rival Sali Berisha, leader of the Democratic Party and a coalition of about 20 right-wing parties. The campaign centered on economic issues, but corruption and organized crime—key factors in Albania’s EU accession bid—were also in focus. Voter turnout reached 41.17 per cent, and results are expected by 13 May. The election was monitored by over 2,000 observers, with five cases of electoral crimes reported. Postal voting was introduced for the large diaspora, with over 192,000 ballots received. While Rama promises EU membership by 2030, Berisha—who is under investigation and has been blacklisted by the US and UK—has pushed a nationalist economic agenda. The election is viewed as a critical test of Albania’s democratic institutions and its readiness for deeper European integration. (“Albanians vote in election set to test EU ambitions,” France24, 12 May 2025)
Prime Minister Edi Rama to contest for fourth term
On 11 May, Prime Minister Edi Rama looks to take over his fourth term in office. During the campaigns, he promised to get an EU membership and eliminate widespread corruption. The election results are to come out soon. PM Rama has been the head of the Socialist party since 2013, having beaten his old rival, former two-time PM Sali Berisha from the Democratic Party. In Albania, around 3.7 million citizens are eligible to vote for the 140 Members of Parliament (MPs), and this election, there has been participation from the Albanian diaspora. World Bank reports on the performance of PM Rama, and has concluded that the economic growth of the country has risen by four per cent, and trade with the EU and the tourism industry have been booming, but have been hindered by the persistent corruption that lies in the region. The Socialist Party promises to attain EU membership in the next five years. Rama’s main opponent, Bershia, leading the Democratic Party, has argued that Albainia is not ready for EU membership until and unless the corruption remains. (Foteini Doulgkeri, “Albania elections: Prime Minister Edi Rama seeks fourth term in office,” Euronews, 11 May 2025)
AUSTRIA
Government commemorates the survivors of the Mauthausen concentration camp
On 11 May, thousands took part in commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Mauthausen concentration camp, which has been an annual event since the Holocaust. The purpose of this ceremony is to commemorate the survivors and their associations. This camp in 1946 was known for its harsh conditions, and it is considered one of the worst camps that held over 190,000 prisoners during WWII. According to the President of the International Mauthausen Committee, Guy Dockendorf, “Nothing can be erased,” the transport, forced labour, imprisonment, barracks, illness, cold, lack of sleep, and many other challenges faced by the people. Austria’s President Alexander van der Bellen and several members of the government took part in the ceremony. International guests like the Spanish King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia took part. Inmates in the camp included Jews, Romani, socialists, anarchists, Germans, Czechs, Slovaks, Polish, Spanish Republican fighters, Yugoslavia partisans, were in this camp. The first commemoration in Mauthausen took place in 1946. In 2025, there was a participation of more than 100,000 people gathered at the foot of the Todesstiege (Death Stairs), in the camp’s quarry. (“Solemn ceremony marks 80 years of Mauthausen concentration camp liberation,” Euronews, 11 May 2025)
BELARUS
President lists the goals to improve ties with Vietnam
On 12 May, Belarus’s President Aleksandr Lukashenko stated that the main goal of cooperation with Vietnam is to enhance economic ties, particularly through the revival of exports of Belarusian agricultural, mining, and truck machinery, and the development of joint production ventures in tractors and automotive equipment. During talks with Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary To Lam, Lukashenko highlighted recent progress such as a mutual visa waiver and intergovernmental meetings. He emphasized expanding collaboration in science, technology, education, tourism, and culture, stressing Vietnam's role as a strategic and reliable partner in Southeast Asia and reaffirming Belarus's commitment to deepening the bilateral relationship across all sectors.
BULGARIA
Bulgarian sentenced 10 years for engaging in Russian intelligence operations
On 12 May, a Bulgarian citizen known as the ringleader of a Russian spy circle in the UK was sentenced to more than 10 years of prison. This comes after Roussev and five other Bulgarians have put the lives of several through intelligence operations in Germany, Austria, Spain, and Montenegro in three years, serving Russia. The group has also targeted diplomats and several Ukrainian troops and has murdered those who have spoken against the Kremlin. Roussev worked for Russian agent Jan Marsalek, an Austrian, and is wanted by Interpol on charges of fraud and embezzlement. His current whereabouts are unknown. Roussev was the first of the five to be sentenced to 10 years and eight months, whereas his aliases were charged with 10 years and two months. All the technology used was confiscated, including Wi-Fi jammers, GPS, eavesdropping devices and car tracking. (Gavin Blackburn, “Bulgarian boss of Russian spy ring gets more than 10 years in prison, UK judge says,” Euronews, 12 May 2025)
CYPRUS
Government to send back Syrian migrants who entered through the Mediterranean Sea
On 12 May, Cyprus Deputy Minister for migration, Nicholas A Ioannides said that the Syrian government has agreed to take back all of its citizens who are trying to come there by boat. He confirmed that 30 were travelling in the Mediterranean Sea using inflatable boats and were made to turn back, which is a part of a bilateral agreement signed between Cyprus and Syria in Damascus. Ioannides told Antenna, about the rise in the migration from Syria. Cyprus and Syria are fighting against human trafficking. They supply labourers to the underground markets. According to Ioannides, the human traffickers are striking deals with the Syrians by bringing local employers to Cyprus, despite the laws preventing asylum seekers from working, until they complete their nine-month residence. The Cypriot government has approved bringing in asylum seekers solely based on merit, which is created according to European laws. This was executed after the ousting of the Assad regime in December. (Gavin Blackburn, “Syria will take back citizens trying to reach island by boat, Cyprus says,” Euronews, 12 May 2025)
GERMANY
Government begins to tighten illegal migrant entry at the borders
On 11 May, the new government began tightening the immigration rules, and asylum seekers are being rejected at the border. According to the data provided by Bild am Sonntag, there have been 365 undocumented entries, and 286 people have been sent back, along with the 19 who are seeking asylum. The major reasons for these rejections are: no visa, fake documents, and entry suspension. There have also been reports of the detention of 14 smugglers along with 48 open arrest warrants, and arrests of nine individuals on charges of extremism laws, targeting the hard-left, far-right, and Islamist ideas. From the first day in the office, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has vowed to implement permanent controls over the border areas to curb illegal migrants. He backed his move by saying Germany is surrounded by safe European states, where they could apply for asylum. According to the Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, asylum seekers would be rejected under certain conditions, and only the following are exempted: children, pregnant women, and individuals identified as vulnerable. To successfully execute the proposition, 3000 federal police officers have been sent as support. The new government has a mountain load of pressure in terms of the rising numbers in migration, after the AfD party was confirmed as extremist but later suspended as per court rules. The Greens Party criticized the move and commented that it is “contrary to European Law.” According to the Green Party spokesperson, Marcel Emmerich, the federal government opts for a more isolated and unilateral action, which is creating more chaos, rather than cooperating. The Greens are to raise this issue in the Parliament, clarifying whether this move was mandatory, or discretionary and how the supposedly vulnerable people are to be treated. Christian Social Union (CSU) leader Markus Söder has responded to the concerns of the EU members by stating that this measure has been backed by Brussels. The new government, along with this, is to enable the reintroduction of the temporary checks that were practised during COVID-19, which is to turn away those who do not have the correct entry documentation. (Nik Martin, “Germany turns first asylum seekers away at border — report,” Deutsche Welle, 11 May 2025)
Foreign Minister condemns Israel’s military campaigns during his visit
On 11 May, Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul visited Israel to discuss on the conflict in Gaza. Ahead of the meeting, he said that the war cannot be solved through military actions. According to him, Gaza is a part of Palestine and doubts over the actions conducted by Israel in Gaza, and whether it serves Israeli security. Wadephul further added that Israel’s strategic goals cannot be achieved via a military campaign, and questions as to how it will serve a purpose to Israel. Wadephul during his meeting with Israel’s Foreign Minister Sa’ar, and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee discussed the plans to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Sa’ar replied that any move that recognises Gaza as a part of Palestine would lead to “unilateral actions in response.” Wadephul further added that a two-state solution was necessary for both regions to live peacefully. Wadephul also met with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and discussed the relations between Germany and Israel and looked forward to the constant friendship. (Feliz Tasmut & Richard Walker, “German FM visits Israel, doubts military solution for Gaza,” Deutsche Welle, 11 May 2025)
ITALY
RESQSHIP reports several dead while crossing the Mediterranean from Libya
On 11 May, several found dead during the Mediterranean crossing from Libya to Italy. According to the German aid Organisation, RESQSHIP, the boat was frail, and the engine broke down shortly after leaving Libya. The bodies of the deceased have been brought to the Italian coast of Lampedusa. The cause of death for the three people was thirst. The majority of the migrants have suffered from critical injuries, which include chemical burns from the saline water and fuel. Lampedusa is located in Sicily, and it is the first port where migrants land to reach Europe. According to the International Organisation for Migration, over the past decade, around 25,000 migrants are considered dead or missing, crossing from North Africa. (John Silk, “Mediterranean crossing: At least 3 die, including 2 children,” Deutsche Welle, 11 May 2025)
SWITZERLAND
"Increasing property prices and struggling middle-class” says an opinion in Swissinfo
On 12 May, an opinion in Swiss.info looks at the difficulty of buying a home in Switzerland which has become nearly impossible for middle-class families, as property prices have surged due to limited land, low interest rates, and strong demand fuelled by immigration. Even significant offers on aging properties often fall short, with sellers favouring much higher bids. Between 2017 and 2024, housing prices rose by 30 per cent, and further increases are expected, especially in high-demand areas like Zurich. Only a small percentage of couples can now afford a home, and ownership is increasingly limited to top earners, further widening wealth inequality. With only 36 per cent of Swiss owning their homes—a figure declining over time—the housing market is becoming inaccessible for many. Rising frustration is evident, with comparisons drawn to housing crises in countries like the UK and US. While family inheritance remains a common path to ownership, strategies like buying starter homes are rare in Switzerland. Continued immigration, limited construction, and investor demand suggest the situation may worsen, with experts seeing little chance of prices falling unless a major recession occurs. (Marc Leutenegger, “No house generation: the impossibility of buying property in Switzerland,” Swiss,info, 12 May 2025)
Federal Office of Transport approves new solar energy project for railway tracks
On 12 May, Swiss start-up Sun-Ways launched a pioneering solar energy project by installing removable solar panels between active railway tracks in Buttes, canton Neuchâtel. Inspired by the underused space between rails, founder Joseph Scuderi developed a system that allows solar panels to be installed and removed quickly for maintenance, making it the first of its kind used on functioning train lines. Backed by Swiss innovation agency Innosuisse and multiple partners, the CHF 585,000 trial aims to generate solar energy for the local grid and, if scaled across suitable parts of the 5,320 kilometres Swiss rail network, could supply power to 300,000 households—around two per cent of national demand. As Switzerland pushes to expand solar output sevenfold by 2035, using existing rail infrastructure offers a land-efficient solution. While similar concepts are being explored in countries like Germany and Japan, Sun-Ways' removable system has drawn particular international interest from South Korea, Indonesia, and the US Experts praise the approach for maximizing built-up space, though some argue fixed panels may be more practical long-term. The Federal Office of Transport has approved a cautious three-year trial due to operational concerns, but if successful, the concept could reshape solar energy deployment worldwide. (Luigi Jorio, “Switzerland turns train tracks into solar power plants,” Swiss.info, 29 April 2025)
THE UK
Prime Minister Starmer to impose strict immigration rules to reduce net migration
On 12 May, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is to set stricter immigration rules, as it has been revealed by the parliament that there have been several policies that aim to reduce the number of people coming into Britain, but there has been no change. This comes after the victory secured by the Reform Party in the mayoral elections, where they have gained 10 of 23 councils, and won 677 of 1600 seats. In Downing Street, the Prime Minister issued a statement in which he vows to take back control of the borders. PM Starmer looks to reduce the migration numbers by the end of his term and emphasizes that the new rules are a necessity, otherwise the region will be filled with strangers. According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS), the net migration dropped in June 2024, and according to Starmer, during the leadership of the Conservative Party, the migration numbers were high, reaching a million. During the COVID-19 phase, the net migration was estimated to be around 111,000 in June 2020. (Clea Skopeliti, “Keir Starmer sets out new policies to 'significantly' restrict immigration to the UK,” Euronews, 12 May 2025)
VATICAN CITY
Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in first address
On 11 May, Pope Leo XIV, in his first Sunday address, in St Peter’s Square, spoke about the war in Ukraine and Gaza. He has urged a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all the hostages. He addressed the recent 80th anniversary of the end of WWII, and said: “No more War!” He commented that, from the way the world is going, there would be WWIII. Regarding Ukraine, he spoke on the suffering of the Ukrainians and appealed for negotiations for a lasting peace, and Gaza, urged the delivery of humanitarian aid and the release of the remaining hostages. (Nik Martin, “Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in first Sunday address,” Deutsche Welle, 11 May 2025)
INTERNATIONAL
China and the US to hold trade talks in Geneva
On 11 May, a meeting between China and the US took place in Geneva. This is an attempt to resolve the trade war between the two countries. According to Trump, the meeting was successful. He looks for the greater good for both China and the US, and opening up the Chinese to American business. To look into what is at stake for both countries, high-ranking officials were sent to Switzerland. Representing the US, would be Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, and representing China is Vice Premier He Lifeng. Since US President Donald Trump took over, there has been an imposition of 145 per cent tariffs on China, and the Chinese have imposed 125 per cent tariffs on American products. This has resulted in a pause in the bilateral trade, and disruptions in the markets. According to Fox News, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, the President looks to resolving the issue with China and is thinking of reducing the tariffs by 80 per cent. Director General of the World Trade Organisation commented on the talks in Geneva and said that “this looks to be a positive and constructive step towards de-escalation.” (“Trump hails ‘great progress’ at US-China trade talks in Geneva,” Swiss Info, 11 May 2025)