ROME

They wear black, hide their faces and vanish into crowds: The mysterious movement from the 1980s unsettling Europe

Masked protesters known as the Black Bloc utilize a collective identity to evade police identification during demonstrations. This tactic has escalated violence and conflicts during protests across various European countries. Authorities struggle to address this phenomenon due to the absence of a formal organizational structure. While some view these methods as legitimate political expression, others believe they undermine peaceful movements.

Air India starts using Iraq airspace for New York, Newark direct flights; likely to see 10% fuel savings

Air India has resumed non-stop flights to New York and Newark using Iraqi airspace, cutting journey times by around four hours to 16 hours and saving nearly 10% in fuel costs. The revised routes also offer greater flexibility in crew deployment and help ease the impact of prolonged airspace restrictions.

EU Transport Commissioner activates security protocols after flight bomb threats; says "too early" to establish links

European Union Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas expressed concern over recent hoax bomb threats affecting flights in Europe. Many budget airlines were targeted, with investigations ongoing to determine the source of the threats. Multiple countries reported threats that prompted increased security measures and emergency landings. All affected flights were able to land safely after thorough inspections confirmed no explosives were present.

Italy's Meloni warns Europe risks irrelevance in Ukraine peace talks

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed concern over Europe's fragmented approach to Ukraine peace negotiations. She highlights that differing diplomatic initiatives reduce Europe's credibility on the global stage. Meloni emphasizes the need for the EU to appoint a single representative with a clear mandate for negotiations. She insists on addressing this matter at the upcoming informal European Council in Dublin.

After freezer attacks and fake nuclear alerts, Europe hit by wave of bomb threats targeting flights: Which flights were affected and who's behind it?

In light of recent bomb threats troubling various European nations, numerous airlines including Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Finnair were forced to reroute flights and implement military escorts. Authorities found that the threats were ultimately empty, but heightened vigilance remains with ongoing cyberattacks and drone activity demanding attention. Governments are now urging citizens to stockpile emergency supplies as a precautionary measure amidst these escalated security challenges.

Italy says open to change planned 'exit tax' on the rich, after criticism

Italy's Deputy Economy Minister Maurizio Leo indicated that there may be changes to the proposed exit tax. This tax imposes a 26% levy on wealthy individuals transferring their tax domicile abroad. The levy applies to those holding financial investments exceeding €800,000. Criticism from tax experts and financial advisers has prompted discussions on the tax's structure. The government is open to dialogue regarding alternative proposals to the exit tax.

Multiple flights in Europe diverted because of bomb threats after earlier hoaxes

Several flights across Europe were diverted and made emergency landings due to bomb threats received recently. Airports in Prague, Sofia, and Evreux were among those involved in these emergency responses. Inspections revealed no hazardous materials on board the flights after their safe landings. Authorities suspect these incidents may be hoaxes linked to heightened geopolitical tensions in the region.

Dublin-Rome Airbus A320 diverted to France after bomb alert

An Airbus A320, en route from Dublin to Rome, was rerouted to France following a bomb alert, triggering security protocols and increased vigilance from the French authorities. This occurrence comes on the heels of several false bomb threats that have disrupted flights throughout Europe, leading to multiple diversions and delays.

Tata Sons Chairman Chandrasekaran meets Italian PM Meloni after Iveco acquisition

Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently discussed the acquisition of Iveco Group. This meeting focused on the strategic industrial ties between Italy and India, enhancing their collaboration. The acquisition allows Tata Motors to become a significant player in the commercial vehicle market. Chandrasekaran expressed gratitude for the support received from the Italian government during the acquisition process.

Dana White breaks silence on Ilia Topuria's UFC return after brutal Justin Gaethje defeat, reveals comeback timeline

After a brief hiatus stemming from his first professional loss, Ilia Topuria is gearing up for his UFC return. UFC president Dana White confirmed that Topuria's comeback is planned for early 2027. As he prepares to step back into the octagon, several contenders in the lightweight division are emerging as potential opponents.

Pope Leo XIV meets Bob Dylan at the Vatican, exchanges gifts. What did they give each other?

Pope Leo XIV met music legend Bob Dylan at the Vatican, where they exchanged gifts during a brief meeting. The Pope presented the 85-year-old singer with a rosary, while Dylan gifted him his autobiography, Chronicles: Volume One. According to Vatican News, their interaction included greetings and lighthearted exchanges.

Reflecting Pool vs. the state of the economy: Trump and Democrats clash in closing messages

Democrats and Republicans made their final pitches to voters ahead of Tuesday's US midterm elections, with Democrats focusing on rising living costs and the economic impact of the Iran war, while Republicans portrayed their opponents as radical. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, devoted much of his final public address to renovation plans for Washington DC, while acknowledging that his party could struggle in the elections.

Trump spends the day before midterm Election Day promoting his Reflecting Pool makeover

Democrats are concentrating on economic issues while dealing with conflicts in Michigan before the midterm elections. US President Donald Trump aims to showcase construction projects and shifts focus from voter concerns. In Michigan, Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed seeks to maintain voter support despite an endorsement for his rival. Trump acknowledges challenges ahead for his party in the elections, reflecting concern over possible losses.

'I raised a Democrat!': Vance’s hilarious daughter story, 'She stole her brother's toys to donate'

Andreas Almgren: Swedish math master's graduate who quit his data scientist job, watched NYC Marathon last year and returned to win it on debut

Andreas Almgren went from watching the NYC Marathon as a spectator last year to winning it on his debut in 2026. The Swedish distance runner clocked 2:06:01, the third-fastest time in race history. A former financial analyst and data scientist, Almgren quit his job to focus on running full-time. He has studied for a master’s degree in mathematics.

Quote of the day by Marcus Aurelius: 'It is not death that should be feared, but we should fear never beginning to live' - Lesson on importance of being fearless in life by the ancient Stoic philosopher

Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius believed that people should fear wasting their lives more than death itself. In his book Meditations, he reflected on mortality, purpose and the importance of living in the present. His philosophy encouraged people to stop worrying excessively about the past and future and focus instead on living with justice, purpose and awareness.

‘Mothers of Courage,’ documentary on girls’ education in Bihar, wins UN SDG Action Award

Mothers of Courage, a documentary, recently won the 2026 UN SDG Action Award in Rome. This film showcases the grassroots movement led by women to advocate for girls' education in Bihar. Through Shikshagraha, over 1.19 million citizens have been mobilized to support this initiative. The documentary highlights community gatherings where barriers to education are discussed and solutions are sought.

Pope Leo XIV has become the first pope in history to vote in a US general election

The Vatican confirmed Friday that the Chicago-born pontiff had submitted a mail-in ballot in Chicago ahead of the Nov. 3 midterm elections, citing his long-standing belief in civic participation.

London’s Oxford Street goes traffic-free ahead of Christmas: What changes for shoppers and tourists

Oxford Street has become traffic-free across a one-kilometre stretch, impacting various vehicles in the area. The restricted zone will allow mobility scooters and servicing vehicles during designated hours. Changes aim to enhance pedestrian experience in a busy shopping region, especially during the festive season. Future plans include raising sections of the road to pavement level by 2027 for better continuity.

Rome says no to tourist tax, plans short-term rental curbs to tackle overtourism

Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri has decided against implementing an entry fee for tourists visiting the city. He believes that regulating short-term rentals will more effectively protect the historic neighborhoods of Rome. The city is currently working on measures to impose restrictions on various rental properties. Gualtieri emphasized the importance of attracting tourists interested in authentic local experiences rather than transient visitors.

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's email targeted in cyberattack on Italian lower house

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's email account was among those targeted in a cyberattack on the IT systems of Italy's lower house of parliament in recent days, a source in the assembly said on Tuesday.

Europe protests spread to Rome’s Colosseum as demonstrators try to force entry

Italy protests intensified as demonstrators sought to enter the Colosseum amid heightened security measures across public areas. Thousands participated in various rallies across cities such as Milan and Rome, leading to clashes with police. Authorities deployed additional security personnel to maintain order and prevent further violence. Similar demonstrations occurred in other European countries, addressing concerns about public pensions and affordable housing.