About this Episode
Hashim Thaçi, Kosovo’s former president and ex-KLA commander, was sentenced to 25 years by the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague for war crimes, including dozens of murders, torture and illegal detentions during the 1998–99 conflict. Three other senior KLA figures received prison terms. Judges found Thaçi “actively participated in and encouraged crimes,” while noting the verdict did not question the KLA’s aim of independence. The convictions, opposed by many in Kosovo, follow a lengthy, contentious trial; Thaçi may appeal and also faces a separate trial on witness-intimidation charges. Protests and political ire erupted in Pristina after the ruling.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen backed proposals to make Canada the EU’s first “associate member,” aiming for closer cooperation on AI, defence, energy, critical minerals, and supply chains. Speaking in Strasbourg, she framed the move as strengthening shared democratic values, not opposing any third country, and noted talks with Canadian PM Mark Carney. Von der Leyen offered few details; the status doesn’t exist today and would take years to create. She also proposed a European Security Council including partners like the UK and Ukraine, measures on AI safety and children’s social media use, and an emergency migration tool — plans that may face legal, political and NATO-related scrutiny.
At least 21 people, including eight children, died and dozens remain missing after a war-damaged six-storey building collapsed overnight in Gaza City’s Tal al-Hawa. Displaced families were sheltering in the tilted structure, damaged in an Israeli strike over a year ago. Rescue teams—some working by hand—are searching for survivors but lack heavy equipment; UN and Egyptian teams have joined efforts. Officials warn 70–100 people may be trapped and say around 400 other damaged buildings risk collapse ahead of winter. The UN urged Israel to allow delivery of machinery, shelter supplies and parts; Israel says restrictions prevent military diversion.
