Asia & Australia

The Netherlands engages in EU–Taliban meeting on Afghan returns — "No recognition, but practical approach"

The Dutch government has confirmed it is participating in exploratory talks between the European Union and the Taliban on the return of rejected Afghan asylum seekers, while stressing it does not recognise the regime as Afghanistan’s legitimate government.

The dilemma for the Dutch Caribbean: EU shift or status quo? ‌

Should Bonaire, Aruba and the other Caribbean parts of the Kingdom move closer to the European Union – or instead preserve their autonomy? A major new study now before the Dutch House of Representatives makes one thing clear: the answer is far less straightforward than The Hague had hoped.

Insider Preview: Europe's Ukraine coalition meets in Paris, joint military exercises now on the table

Could Monday's gathering of more than 30 Ukraine-supporting countries mark the next step? Will allied nations move beyond political declarations and begin preparing joint military exercises? And what does this mean for Ukraine as hopes for a ceasefire remain distant? Those are some of the questions hanging

Russian spies hacked cameras along Dutch military routes, Dutch Intelligence reveals

Dutch intelligence services have now revealed that Russian state-backed hackers managed to compromise a number of internet-connected cameras in the Netherlands, including devices positioned along military logistics routes used to transport equipment and weapons. The answers offer a rare glimpse into a covert surveillance campaign stretching across NATO

The Netherlands finally unveils new law against Russia's shadow fleet in the North Sea

How far is the Netherlands prepared to go against vessels suspected of helping Moscow evade sanctions? What specific powers will Dutch authorities gain? Which ministries will be responsible for enforcement? Subscribers can read the full political and security implications here.