About this Episode
The air quality has improved significantly after recent rain and stronger winds cleared smoke from the High Fens wildfires, authorities say. Readings that were “miserable” two days ago now range from good to very good across monitoring stations. Rain helped wash fine particles from the air, though experts warn levels should continue to be monitored as weather and ongoing emissions can change conditions quickly. The fires are not yet contained, so health officials advise caution: vulnerable people—those over 65, pregnant women, or with heart or lung issues—may choose to wear FFP2 masks if they experience discomfort. No general mask recommendation or ozone alerts are currently in force.
Fuel supply is under pressure but not at risk of major disruption, says the Luxembourg Energy and Mobility Consortium (GEML). GEML president Eric Bleyer said stations have largely remained stocked. Only brief, very localised shortages affecting one or two products occurred at isolated pumps. Fuel stocks are sufficient and authorities warn against panic buying. Regulation also prevents immediate price spikes, Bleyer added. The Ministry of the Economy calls the situation “tense,” but suppliers say they are managing logistics to keep pumps running.
Luxembourg will allocate €324.5 million over about ten years to buy and maintain ammunition stocks for the future Belgian-Luxembourg combat reconnaissance battalion, Defence Minister Yuriko Backes proposes. The law covers an initial acquisition—about €318 million—for munitions, specialised tools, documentation and training, plus administrative, maintenance and industrial support costs; a 25% margin is included for price and technology changes. Stocks aim to provide NATO’s required “sustainability” so the battalion can operate in high-intensity combat until resupply arrives, but won’t cover prolonged wartime consumption or training needs. Deliveries will be phased and some munitions may be prepositioned abroad or stored with allies rather than entirely on Luxembourg soil.
