This winter naturally poses a raft of challenges for Ukraine as it continues its fight against Moscow’s invasion. Indeed, conditions during the previous two winters only exacerbated issues on the front line. Despite this, problems related to infrastructure may make the coming months especially difficult for Kyiv.

Without solving historical issues, Polish-Ukrainian relations will be neither healed nor improved. They are burdened by a dispute over the commemoration of Polish victims on Ukrainian soil from the Second World War, as well as diverging perceptions of Polish involvement in helping Ukraine after the full-scale Russian invasion.

Moldova recently endorsed the ideas of its pro-EU President Maia Sandu and her party during recent votes in October. However, it is unclear if this will prove to be the end of Chisinau’s political uncertainty regarding foreign affairs. While one round of voting is over, the country now looks to new elections next year.

Recent years have seen criticism directed at countries like Poland and Hungary for a level of semi-authoritarianism in their governance. Whilst such issues clearly persist, the parliamentary systems in many of the region’s states have allowed for key checks and balances that have challenged these political shifts.

The creation of a European Security Council could be the right answer to growing uncertainty on the continent and beyond. Such a new format would be a signal to both allies and adversaries that Europe takes its own security seriously.

The BRICS summit in Kazan could have paved the way for the future accession of new members. Belarus would like to join as it views membership as a chance to break free from its international isolation. Brazil could be the one blocking the organization's expansion as it is becoming increasingly worried about the growing Chinese influence.

Ukrainians recently marked 1000 days at full-scale war defending their country against Russian invasion. In that time, the nation has developed many positive habits that are improving society as a whole. Such lessons could prove to be relevant for others around the world.

Beijing and other non-western capitals’ calls for a ceasefire and negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv have, after the Ukrainian occupation of Russian lands, acquired new meaning. A Chinese or other non-western push for a Russo-Ukrainian accommodation could lead now to meaningful peace talks.

North Macedonia’s path to the EU has now been stalled by a dispute with Bulgaria related to language and identity. Such issues have now become embedded in the integration process. The bloc must do everything it can to make sure that this problem does not hold up other discussions related to Skopje’s accession.

While the 2024 Paris Olympics were a showcase of athletic excellence, they also highlighted the challenges of maintaining political neutrality in a globalized world. A united European voice could have played a significant role in shaping the narrative surrounding the games and addressing the complex issues that arose.

The 2024 Paris Olympic Games, marked by controversy and intertwined with societal issues, offered a microcosm of contemporary Europe. The opening ceremony's depiction of religious scenes, drawing parallels to iconic western art, ignited public debate and political divisions. While athletes prepared for their performances, the rhetoric surrounding these depictions fuelled tensions both within Europe and globally. In contrast, the games also celebrated the EU's motto of “United in diversity”, highlighting freedom of movement and rights. The European Commission's introduction of “Team Europe 2024”, a medal counter, aimed to foster a sense of European unity and pride in athletic achievements.

Romania’s Klaus Iohannis and Moldova’s Maia Sandu have built a strong friendship that is leading Europe’s response to a neo-imperialist Russia.

From February 24th to March 31st 2022, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and the entire exclusion zone were under occupation by Russian troops. Although the area was cleared up fairly quickly after the withdrawal of the aggressor's troops, the effects of the occupation are still being felt.