The article recounts the devastating flash floods in the Valencia region of Spain, which resulted in at least 95 deaths. Despite early warnings from Spain's meteorological agency Aemet, many residents were caught off guard by the rapid rise of floodwaters. The floods caused significant destruction, sweeping away cars and damaging infrastructure. Criticism has been directed at the timing of warnings issued by civil protection authorities, which some argue came too late to prevent casualties. Survivors shared harrowing experiences of escaping the floods, while emergency services struggled to respond to the unprecedented situation.

Moldova's referendum on EU membership and presidential election results are too close to call, with Yes and No votes nearly tied. Pro-EU President Maia Sandu accuses foreign interference, particularly from Russia, of influencing the vote. Sandu will face a runoff against pro-Russian candidate Aleksandr Stoianoglo. Allegations of vote-buying and foreign influence have marred the election process, with the Kremlin denying involvement. The referendum, though not legally binding, was intended to solidify Moldova's EU accession talks, which will continue despite the uncertain outcome.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed new EU legislation to increase migrant deportations, drawing inspiration from Italy's controversial policy of processing migrants in Albania. The EU summit on migration highlights the pressure on von der Leyen to address migration issues, with only 20% of irregular migrants currently deported. Italy's offshore processing centers, criticized by NGOs and political opponents, aim to examine asylum claims outside the EU. The plan reflects a broader European trend of hardening migration policies in response to rising far-right support. Recent violent incidents in France and Germany have intensified calls for stricter immigration measures.

The Portuguese government, led by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, plans to implement tax cuts for individuals aged 35 and under to curb emigration and attract foreigners. The proposal, part of the budget presented to parliament, aims to eliminate taxes for the first year for those earning up to €28,000, with a gradual increase over ten years. This measure, a compromise with the Socialist Party, faces criticism for not addressing high housing costs and low wages. The budget's approval is uncertain, contingent on the opposition's stance, with potential political ramifications if it fails.

A Russian court sentenced 72-year-old American Stephen James Hubbard to nearly seven years in prison for allegedly serving as a mercenary for Ukraine. Prosecutors claimed he was part of a defense unit in Izyum, Ukraine, and received compensation for his involvement. Hubbard, who pleaded guilty, was described by his sister as non-military and unlikely to have fought. His case became public during his trial in Moscow. Separately, ex-US marine Robert Gilman received an additional sentence for assaulting a prison officer.

A Russian court has sentenced 72-year-old American Stephen James Hubbard to nearly seven years in prison for allegedly serving as a mercenary for Ukraine. Prosecutors claim Hubbard was part of a defense unit in Izyum, Ukraine, when captured by Russian forces in April 2022. The case highlights ongoing tensions and legal actions amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Images of fascist salutes at a rally commemorating the deaths of three far-right activists have gone viral, causing significant political controversy in Italy. The incident has sparked a debate over the presence and influence of far-right movements in the country.

Ukraine's air force intercepted 31 Russian missiles over Kyiv, resulting in at least 17 injuries. The attack, the largest in weeks, followed Russia's threats of retaliation for Ukrainian strikes. President Zelensky called for more Western military aid, highlighting the need for air defense systems and criticizing unrestricted Russian access to the European market. EU leaders are considering increased support for Ukraine, including using frozen Russian assets. Meanwhile, Russian towns like Belgorod have also experienced attacks, with plans to evacuate children. Putin has promised to continue the war, while EU officials discuss putting the economy on a 'war footing' to support Ukraine.

Israeli forces continued their ground operation against Hamas, surrounding several hospitals in Gaza City amid shelling, gunshots, and explosions. The Red Cross and WHO highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, with hospitals overwhelmed and many non-functional. The IDF stated they do not target hospitals but will act if Hamas fires from hospital grounds. Tensions remain high with ongoing clashes and significant casualties reported.

Israeli forces continued their ground operation against Hamas, surrounding several hospitals in Gaza City amid intense fighting. The Red Cross and World Health Organization reported dire conditions in Gaza's hospitals, with many facilities damaged or non-functional. The IDF stated they do not target hospitals but will act if Hamas fires from hospital grounds. Hamas denied using hospitals as shields. The US announced Israel's agreement to daily four-hour military pauses for humanitarian purposes, though fighting remained intense.