Conflict reporter covering Eastern Europe since 2014. Reports on front-line developments, weapons deliveries and the diplomacy around them, with a habit of naming her sources.
Ukraine says it has put more than 51% of Russia's oil refining capacity out of action, just days after reports suggested Russia's economy could fund two more years of war. The strikes could undermine that resilience and have knock-on effects on global energy prices — and on energy bills in the Netherlands.
Ukraine received €6.2 billion from the EU in two weeks for defence and reforms. The Netherlands contributes to these funds, affecting Dutch taxpayers. Expats should be aware of potential impacts on national spending and political discourse.
Putin's United Russia wins historic supermajority with 86 war veterans entering parliament. Foreign assets of Auchan, Nestlé, and Leroy Merlin are seized. Gas talks with Germany's AfD loom. Expats in the Netherlands face continued energy volatility and tighter EU sanctions.
After earlier forecasts of rain and thunderstorms, the latest KNMI prediction shows a mostly dry and sunny weekend for the Netherlands, with highs up to 25°C. Only the north may see some showers. Expats can plan outdoor activities, especially on Sunday.
Dutch PM Rob Jetten faces criticism for saying Netanyahu should address the UNGA despite an ICC warrant, while warning Putin's G20 attendance would send 'very wrong signal'. The contrasting stance raises questions about selective justice, especially as the Netherlands hosts the ICC.
The EU lifted sanctions on oligarchs Usmanov and Fridman after French pressure, alarming Brussels. Meanwhile, Germany’s far-right AfD won a state election, boosting Kremlin-friendly forces. For expats in the Netherlands, this signals a fracturing European unity on Russia policy.
Russia's United Russia party won a landslide parliamentary election on September 18–20, 2026, with 86 war participants entering the Duma. The Kremlin nationalized assets of Auchan, Nestlé, and Leroy Merlin, while gas talks with Germany's AfD loom. For expats in the Netherlands, this means potential energy price shifts, investment risks, and a reminder of Russia's crackdown on media freedom.
After a final summer-like day on 7 September, the Netherlands has entered an autumn pattern. This week brings cloudy skies and midweek rain (60-70% chance) but a warm weekend up to 23°C. Expats should plan outdoor activities for Sunday and prepare for cooler, wetter days ahead.
Smuggling gangs use mega-dinghies as small boats dwindle; UK jails 19-year-old for steering overcrowded vessel. The crackdown could shape Dutch migration policy debates.
Russia is holding its first parliamentary election since the Ukraine war, while Putin nationalizes assets of Auchan, Nestlé, and Leroy Merlin. NHL star Ovechkin defends his pro-Putin campaign ad. For expats in the Netherlands, these moves signal potential new EU sanctions and risks for European companies still in Russia.
Dutch police and the Public Prosecution Service warn that 2.5 million people fell victim to cybercrime in 2025, with AI and cybercrime-as-a-service fuelling the surge. A new ABN Amro study shows one in seven young adults was scammed, often due to overconfidence. For expats in the Netherlands, the risks are higher due to language barriers and unfamiliarity with local institutions.