Stories from Belgium

Only 12 of the 27 European Union member states currently maintain active nuclear power plants. Countries such as Poland and Estonia are evaluating nuclear energy to improve power grid sustainability. Proponents argue that domestic nuclear production increases energy independence and provides predictable, environmentally friendly supply. The average age of the approximately 100 active reactors in the EU is 40 years. Countries like France are planning to extend reactor lifespans to 50 or 60 years. Some nations, including Poland and Estonia, are currently reviewing nuclear energy options. Emmanuel Macron leads a nuclear alliance consisting of 15 EU member states that positions nuclear energy alongside renewables. Environmental historian Frank Ükert from Ruhr University Bochum criticized the move, citing unresolved issues regarding waste disposal, radiation risks, and environmental damage.

EU representatives and Middle East nations have agreed on three urgent action priorities for the region. These include restoring maritime freedom in the Strait of Hormuz through multilateral coordination and promoting a sustainable ceasefire as a foundation for peace. The plan also aims to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons in the area. A coalition of over 50 nations, led by France and the United Kingdom, is currently advancing a multilateral mission plan. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for the establishment of a collective security mechanism in the Middle East that operates without United States intervention. Araghchi met with Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq in Muscat on Sunday to discuss regional mediation efforts. The Iranian official stated that the presence of US military forces in the region leads to instability and division.

Colombian cyclist Egan Bernal finished the Liège-Bastogne-Liège classic in Belgium 1 minute and 42 seconds behind the winner. The race covered a distance of 259 kilometers. Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogacar secured the victory. This marks the fourth title for the event. Bernal's performance concluded the professional cycling stage in Belgian territory.

Remco Evenepoel is trailing Tadej Pogacar and Paul Seixas by over a minute in a cycling race. Pogacar has reportedly improved the climbing time on the Redout. The race features challenging parcours from Leukbass to Kulijk.

Belgian artisans are creating intricate glass and crystal pieces, including decorative elements for buildings and detailed pantography work. The process involves recuisson for stabilization and meticulous shaping. The exhibition features reproductions of archival documents and photographs.

In a challenging cycling race, Remco Evenepoel is trailing Tadej Pogacar and Paul Seixas. Pogacar holds a lead of 1 minute and 41 seconds over the third-place rider. Pogacar's recent performance indicates he is now among the world's best riders and is a serious contender for the Tour de France. The 27-year-old rider has participated in relatively few races compared to competitors in the top three. Commentators noted his potential to remain a top competitor for the next decade if he remains healthy. A 19-year-old talent is emerging as a potential challenger for his position in upcoming races. Tadej Pogacar secured a victory at the Liège race on April 26, 2026. He finished ahead of his closest competitor by nearly one minute. Reporter Moritz Kasselet observed the finish in Liège. The race was held under sunny conditions with temperatures around 18 degrees Celsius.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted that Middle East conflicts and the closure of the Armus Strait are negatively impacting the EU economy. The European Union is evaluating strategies for modular nuclear reactors and extending the lifespan of existing plants. The average age of the approximately 100 active reactors in the EU is 40 years. Countries like France are planning to extend operational lifespans to 50 or 60 years. Concerns exist regarding rising operating costs for older reactors. This debate occurs 40 years after the Chernobyl disaster. The European Union's new strategy to promote nuclear energy faces potential financial challenges due to rising operational costs. Experts warn the strategy could become a financial burden as maintenance costs for aging infrastructure increase.

Tisza party leader Péter Magyar plans to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to discuss unfreezing EU funds for Hungary. The deadline to utilize these funds expires in August. The head of the European mission described a meeting in Brussels as very good. Discussions focused on necessary steps to unblock European Union funds previously frozen for Hungary due to corruption and rule of law concerns. The funds were withheld due to concerns regarding corruption and judicial independence under Viktor Orban. It remains unclear how quickly Prime Minister Viktor Orban can secure the funds for Hungary. The European Commission and the Hungarian government maintain tensions over migration policy. The source did not specify the outcome of the talks.

Cyclist Tadej Pogacar enters the Liege-Bastogne-Liege race as the primary favorite aiming for a fourth victory. Seixas achieved his first podium finish during this participation. He won by a solo margin of 45 seconds. French rider Paul Sextas finished in second place in his debut at the event. Demi Vollering won the women's category of the race. The rider launched his first major attack 35 kilometers before the finish line in Liège. Pogacar stated he was proud of the team's performance during the race. Pogacar successfully distanced his main rivals during the competition to secure the Ardennes classic. Paul Sextas maintained contact for several kilometers before eventually dropping off in the Roche-aux-Faucons segment. The race took place in Belgium. Cyclist Tadej Pogacar won the Liège-Bastogne-Liège race on Sunday. The race was completed in a time of 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 41 seconds.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis are advocating for an extension of the EU Recovery Fund repayment period. Brussels is discussing whether member states can extend a deadline set for the end of August. The discussion involves whether a majority of member states can postpone the deadline or if funds could be parked in the Hungarian Development Bank. Current EU rules suggest that without these reforms, necessary funds may be lost. Implementing complex reforms within a few months is described as technically difficult. Approximately 70 million euros of EU infrastructure and development funds are subject to pending reforms. These reforms are being addressed in the context of an ongoing political and stability crisis. The implementation of these reforms is expected to occur in June.