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LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE

Key International Developments: Italy, Germany, Croatia, and Gaza

A roundup of significant events including Italy’s political visit, Germany’s tariff concerns, a Croatian ministerial resignation, and a new ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

18 January 2025 · 23:40 UTC

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has confirmed her attendance at the upcoming inauguration of former U.S. President Donald Trump, highlighting Italy's diplomatic engagement with the United States.

This visit underscores ongoing political ties between Italy and the U.S., especially in the context of changing American leadership.

In Germany, the nation's economy minister, Robert Habeck, has identified the country as a primary focus of potential tariffs under the Trump administration.

Germany's robust economic relationship with the U.S. and its significant export activities have placed it in the spotlight regarding international trade measures.

In Croatia, Deputy Prime Minister Josip Dabro resigned following the release of a video showing him engaging in gun-shooting activities.

His resignation came after he issued a public apology, describing the incident as a moment of thoughtlessness.

This development underscores the political sensitivity surrounding public conduct by government officials.

Meanwhile, a ceasefire agreement is set to begin on Sunday morning in the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli Cabinet ratified the agreement during the early hours of Saturday, marking a pivotal step towards reducing ongoing hostilities in the region.

The international community continues to watch these developments closely as efforts to maintain peace proceed.

Despite current geopolitical tensions, the European Union has maintained a high rate of consumption of Russian natural gas.

Various challenges, including the war, pressure to impose sanctions, and international dynamics linked to the prospective Trump administration, have not significantly reduced the EU's reliance on Russian energy sources.