Stories from Amsterdam · Netherlands

Morocco successfully entered the Dutch frozen raspberry market, achieving record export volumes in 2025.

The A4 and A10 South motorways are partially closed in the Amsterdam area. Drivers are advised to expect delays and use alternative routes until the weekend. Commuters are encouraged to check traffic information and the NS app for updates. Roadwork on the southern side of Amsterdam will cause closures on the A4 and A10 motorways. The closures are scheduled to take place between April 27 and May 14. Drivers should expect an additional 30 to 60 minutes of travel time. Construction work will take place on the south side of Amsterdam between April 27 and May 14. Authorities recommend checking routes before departure due to the closures.

Major banks are demanding that platforms including Meta, TikTok, and Google take action against the rise in crimes targeting women. The Dutch Banking Association (NVB) stated that over 70 percent of female victims report experiencing fraud through social media. Reported crimes include extortion, investment scams, and the use of fake profiles. Fraud expert Marco Doeland stated that social media companies are structurally absent from consultations regarding online crime. This announcement coincides with the release of annual fraud statistics. While the number of victims is decreasing, the total amount of money stolen is increasing. According to the association, half of the reports investigated by the police, including those involving webshop fraud, originate from Meta platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

The Euro is currently trading at 4.24 Polish Zloty, and the British Pound is at 4.90 Polish Zloty.

The retail company Douglas is experiencing stronger growth in Eastern European markets such as Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, Estonia, Hungary, and Romania, compared to Western Europe. While sales prices are comparable across regions, consumer spending in Western Europe, particularly Germany and France, is currently weaker. Douglas operates in 22 countries.

Amsterdam police have reported no problems despite large crowds celebrating Koningsdag. The city experienced high numbers of people in Eindhoven, Utrecht, and Breda, with Amsterdam also urging people to avoid specific busy areas. Food inspectors issued nearly 40 warnings for the sale of unregulated meat and food.

The Dutch government has demonstrated political will to implement climate solutions, distinguishing itself from regular UN climate summits. This political commitment is seen as for moving forward with these initiatives. The D66 party and Hart have agreed to form a municipal government in the Netherlands. This follows an advisory from explorer Aboutalep. The two parties had previously ceased negotiations due to disagreements regarding asylum reception. Aboutalep stated that the parties did not need to agree on every issue to proceed.

A highly successful operation was executed in the water to apprehend pirates. An operation conducted on the water has resulted in the apprehension of pirates. The details of the operation, including its location and the number of pirates captured, were not disclosed. A multinational operation, led by France and conducted outside of NATO and the EU, has resulted in the apprehension of pirates. Discussions are ongoing with other parties involved in the region. The operation was initiated due to a perceived problem, with positive experiences noted from the OEC. The operation was described as a national, multinational effort.

Kajsa Ollongren, a special envoy for human rights and former Minister of Defense, is involved in discussions concerning the EU. The discussion occurred within the framework of a national defense procurement law aimed at strengthening domestic capabilities.

Donald Trump has extended the ceasefire agreement with Iran. The agreement was extended in 2021. This is the first time in ten years that the ceasefire has been extended. The agreement aims to bring international responsibility and solidarity.