Belgium News

Belgian authorities are probing a series of alleged sexual assaults affecting at least 41 women, with three bar managers identified as key suspects. Prosecutors revealed that victims' drinks, reportedly spiked with drugs such as ketamine, were often served in bars located in Kortrijk from December 2021 to December 2024. According to Griet De Prest, a spokesperson for the Western Flanders public prosecutor's office, the suspects discussed the assaults amongst themselves and have been linked to the spiking incidents. One suspect has been arrested, another is set to appear before a judge, and a third was released amid a series of arrests. The suspects are facing charges that include rape, sexual assault, and the illegal administration of harmful substances. Tom Janssens, another spokesperson for the prosecutor's office, noted that the young women typically consumed alcohol shots with an amaretto flavor before awakening in unfamiliar settings with clear signs of sexual abuse. Belgium’s Interior Minister, Bernard Quintin, labeled the incidents "unacceptable" and expressed concern over the accessibility of drugs like ketamine, stating, "Women must be able to go out safely, wherever they want, whenever they want."

Belgian author Caroline De Mulder's novel, "Himmler's Children," reveals the dark reality of Nazi Lebensborn nurseries, established by Heinrich Himmler in 1935 to increase the Aryan population. According to De Mulder, these facilities, disguised as maternity homes, were focused on producing "racially valuable" offspring to bolster the SS ranks. The narrative unfolds through three intertwining perspectives set in 1944, including a nurse and a pregnant woman tied to the SS, highlighting the chilling practices enforced in these nurseries. De Mulder explains that while the Lebensborn program appeared as a benevolent initiative, it was akin to a "baby factory." Mothers were often coerced into a system that stripped them of autonomy and reduced them to vessels for producing children deemed suitable by Nazi ideology. The story also touches on the grim fate of those deemed unfit, illustrating the horror of a system that linked childbirth to extermination. Despite the grotesque themes, De Mulder insists on the importance of confronting this unsettling history as a way to prevent such ideologies from resurfacing.

Belgian author Caroline De Mulder's novel, "Himmler’s Children," sheds light on the disturbing history of the Nazi Lebensborn program, which aimed to produce "racially pure" children to support Heinrich Himmler's vision for the SS. Established in 1935, Lebensborn included maternity homes that catered to single mothers selected for their Aryan heritage, serving as breeding grounds for future Nazi leaders. De Mulder explores life within these institutions through intertwining narratives from three characters: a nurse, a pregnant young woman, and a prisoner from the Dachau concentration camp. The novel portrays the chilling realities of the program, including the euthanizing of infants deemed "unfit," as well as the indoctrination of caregivers. The author emphasizes that while the maternity wards exhibited a veneer of care, they operated on the same principles as concentration camps, resulting in the systematic oppression of women and children. "Although we are shocked by the contrast…the same criminal racist program underpinned both," De Mulder remarked. Her work aims to provoke reflection on the nature of "ordinary evil" in historical atrocities.

Coca-Cola is recalling some of its products in the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Belgium after discovering potentially harmful levels of chlorate in beverages produced at its Belgium facility. According to The Associated Press, the contamination, traced back to a single water treatment container, does not pose a serious threat to public health. Medical expert Philippe Jorens noted the chlorate levels found in the drinks would require consuming numerous bottles to incur health risks such as vomiting and thyroid issues in children. Officials have reached out to authorities in Great Britain, France, and Germany, as these countries might have received the affected products. While Coca-Cola has begun pulling these items from shelves, the incident has sparked concerns over corporate accountability and product safety. This recall highlights the increasing vigilance needed regarding food and beverage safety, as consumer trust wavers in the wake of such revelations. Coca-Cola's proactive measures aim to mitigate potential risks while reassuring the public that safety remains a priority.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's recent remarks at a NATO meeting in Brussels have sparked uncertainty regarding America's commitment to European security. Hegseth stated that the U.S. must prioritize its own security amidst growing global threats, explicitly rejecting Ukraine's aspirations for NATO membership and suggesting that it may not recover all territory lost to Russia. He urged European nations to assume greater responsibility for their defense, asserting that no American troops would participate in any peacekeeping missions in Ukraine. French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu responded, emphasizing the critical juncture NATO faces as the alliance deals with external threats while questioning its long-term viability. Hegseth's comments come in the context of increasing defense spending commitments among NATO members, with many nations now aiming for a minimum of 2% of GDP on defense amid the ongoing Ukrainian conflict. The change in tone from the U.S. raises alarms over Article 5 of NATO's treaty, which ensures mutual defense obligations among member states.

During his inaugural visit to NATO headquarters in Brussels, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged a shift in the alliance's approach, emphasizing the need for NATO to become "a stronger, deadlier force" rather than just "a diplomatic club." Hegseth shared this sentiment through a post on X, alongside a photo marking his arrival at the headquarters. Hegseth's visit coincides with a meeting of over 50 countries supporting Ukraine, led for the first time by the UK following the US's withdrawal from leadership under former President Donald Trump. On Thursday, he is set to meet with the defense ministers of all 31 NATO member states, including a session with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerow. Prior to this visit, Hegseth toured US military bases in Germany, where he stated that European nations should invest at least 5% of their GDP in defense, echoing Trump’s earlier remarks. He reassured allies over the presence of approximately 100,000 US troops in Europe, asserting that there are currently no plans to reduce their numbers. However, he noted an intention to reassess global military deployments in light of increased focus on China in the Indo-Pacific region.

Belgian police are engaged in a manhunt for two suspects after a shooting incident at the Clemenceau metro station in central Brussels on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred around 6:15 AM, but officials reported no injuries, as confirmed by the Belgian prosecutor's office. According to local broadcaster VRT, the shooting may be drug-related and the attackers seemingly targeted a specific individual. In the aftermath of the incident, images circulated showing two individuals entering the Clemenceau station and opening fire. Following the shooting, multiple metro stations in Brussels, a city that houses many European Union institutions and NATO's headquarters, were temporarily closed. Heavily armed police were seen assembling at the station as investigations and searches commenced. The Clemenceau station's proximity to the Brussels Midi train station, a major hub for Eurostar services from Paris and London, further complicated operations and disrupted metro service across the city. Investigative sources have yet to confirm additional details about the suspects as the search continues.

Belgian police have initiated a manhunt following a shooting incident near the Clemenceau metro station in Brussels, which occurred around 6 a.m. local time on Wednesday. No injuries were reported, and authorities have closed several metro stations while conducting searches in the city’s underground system, according to The Brussels Times. CCTV footage reportedly captured two individuals entering the station and firing shots. A police spokesperson confirmed that the suspects fled toward the metro tunnels between Clemenceau and Midi stations, while the Brussels Midi police and federal railway police continue their search. Reports from Belgian broadcaster VRT indicate that the suspects aimed at a target but missed. Prosecutors have stated that the incident does not appear to be connected to terrorism, and a forensic team has been dispatched to collect evidence, including shell casings found at the scene. A police cordon was established as emergency services responded. Several tram and metro services in the area have been suspended amid ongoing investigations, which may suggest the shooting could be drug-related.

Belgian police are conducting a manhunt following a shooting incident that occurred around 6:30 AM on Wednesday outside the Clemenceau metro station in Brussels. Local media, including The Brussels Times, reported that the suspects allegedly fired shots into the air using an automatic rifle before fleeing towards the metro station. In response to the incident, police closed several nearby stations, including Clemenceau, Trone, and Gare de l'Ouest, while conducting extensive searches in the area. “The suspects fled in the direction of the metro station and may still be in the tunnel between the Clemenceau and Midi stations,” a police spokesperson told the Belga News Agency. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, and the prosecutor's office has confirmed that no one was hurt. Images from the scene show emergency services establishing a police cordon, with tram and underground lines also affected by the closures. Authorities stated the shooting might be related to drug activity. The investigation is ongoing as police seek to apprehend the suspects.

Belgian police are actively searching for armed individuals following a shooting incident outside the Clémenceau metro station in central Brussels early Wednesday morning. According to Sarah Frederickx, a spokesperson for Brussels police, CCTV footage captured at least two suspects wearing balaclavas and carrying weapons resembling Kalashnikovs at the metro entrance. The exchange of gunfire occurred at approximately 06:15 local time. Frederickx stated that the suspects fled into the metro station, suggesting they may still be hiding in the underground tunnels. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries from the incident. In response to the shooting, Clémenceau station has been closed, along with the nearby Brussels-Midi station, which serves as a terminal for Eurostar trains. Additionally, two major metro lines serving the city center have been temporarily suspended, affecting services from Gare de l'Ouest to Trône, close to the European Parliament. Both local and federal railway police are currently involved in the ongoing search efforts.

The European Union is experiencing increasing pressure to suspend its controversial minerals agreement with Rwanda after the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group captured the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The agreement, signed in February 2024, aimed to secure vital raw materials for Europe’s microchips and electric car batteries. However, Belgium's Foreign Minister Bernard Quintin has called for a re-evaluation in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Goma, where residents are facing acute hunger due to the conflict. Concerns have been raised by governmental and non-governmental organizations regarding Rwanda's involvement in exploiting resources in the DRC. Reports suggest armed groups benefit from illegal mineral trades facilitated by Rwandan support, a claim Rwanda denies, asserting it is focused on eradicating groups related to the 1994 genocide. In response, Belgian MEP Hilde Vautmans has urged immediate action to suspend the agreement, citing overwhelming evidence of Rwanda's role in the violence. The EU has so far defended the agreement, emphasizing its goal of sustainable sourcing of critical materials.

The European Union faces intensified calls to suspend its 2024 minerals agreement with Rwanda, amid accusations that the deal exacerbates conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The M23 rebel group, which has been linked to Rwandan support, recently captured the city of Goma, worsening the humanitarian crisis in the region where relief efforts are currently stalled, according to reports. Belgium, historically associated with both the DRC and Rwanda, is leading the push for suspension. Belgian Foreign Minister Bernard Quintin stated, “The international community must consider how to respond,” during a recent visit to Morocco. Diplomatic sources indicate Belgium has advocated for this suspension at various meetings, including among EU foreign ministers. The EU's partnership with Rwanda was intended to secure critical raw materials like tantalum and lithium, vital for microchips and electric vehicle batteries. However, DRC President Félix Tshisekedi has termed the agreement a “provocation” as he alleges Rwanda is exploiting Congolese resources. In response to growing concerns, some EU officials and lawmakers have called for targeted sanctions against Rwanda and a halt to all aid until the situation stabilizes.

Belgian footballer Radja Nainggolan has been arrested in connection with a cocaine trafficking investigation. The 36-year-old midfielder was apprehended by Belgian police during a series of raids conducted on Monday morning, which led to multiple arrests across the country. According to the Brussels prosecutor's office, the investigation is focused on the alleged importation of cocaine from South America to Europe, specifically through the port of Antwerp, with plans for redistribution within Belgium. Nainggolan's arrest occurs just six days after he came out of retirement to join Lokeren, a club in the Belgian second division, where he made an immediate impact by scoring on his debut in a 1-1 draw against K. Lierse. Originally from Antwerp, Nainggolan enjoyed a successful career in Italy, playing for major clubs such as Roma and Inter Milan, and he earned 30 caps for the Belgium national team between 2009 and 2018. Further details regarding the case have yet to be disclosed to the public.

Google has launched an appeal against a record antitrust fine of 4.3 billion euros imposed by the European Union, claiming that the penalty punishes the company for its innovation. The case is being presented to the Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union, following a 2023 decision by a lower tribunal that upheld the European Commission's ruling that Google used its Android operating system to stifle competition. During the hearing, Google's lawyer, Alfonso Lamadrid, argued that the European Commission failed to meet its burden of proof and erroneously penalized Google for its business practices, which he contended actually promote competition. He defended agreements made with phone manufacturers that required pre-installation of Google services, stating that these agreements did not limit competition but rather enhanced it. The EU's original findings indicated that such requirements hindered rival products, and the initial fine was reduced to 4.1 billion euros after an appeal to a lower court. The judges are expected to deliver a final ruling in the coming months, which will not be subject to appeal. This legal battle is one of several ongoing challenges for Google in the EU, particularly concerning its advertising technology.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has announced a significant recall of several beverage products, including Coke and Sprite, due to elevated levels of chlorate detected in their contents. The recall affects products distributed across Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain, Germany, France, and Luxembourg since November last year. Chlorate, a contaminant that can originate from chlorine disinfectants utilized in water treatment and food processing, has raised safety concerns particularly regarding long-term exposure, especially for children. Although the company has not provided an exact quantity of affected products, it acknowledged that the recall involves a considerable amount. The majority of these products have already been removed from shelves, and the company is working to eliminate any remaining goods from the market. An analysis conducted by independent experts indicated a very low probability of health risks associated with the chlorate levels found, and to date, Coca-Cola has not received any consumer complaints related to this issue. Affected products include brands such as Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico, with specific production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. The company has taken proactive measures to ensure compliance with health authorities in each impacted country and has issued an apology for any concerns caused by this recall.

A significant recall of popular soft drinks, including Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, and Fuze Tea, has been initiated across Europe due to potential health risks linked to high levels of chlorate, a chemical by-product from chlorine disinfectants. The recall affects products produced at a Coca-Cola factory in Ghent, Belgium, and includes beverages distributed in Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, France, and Luxembourg since November. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK is currently investigating the presence of products containing "higher levels" of chlorate on the market, although no official recall has been announced for the UK as of yet. Anne Gravett from the FSA indicated that the authority is examining the situation closely. Chlorate can potentially cause iodine deficiency and is commonly associated with water treatment and food processing. Coca-Cola has stated that the majority of contaminated products have already been removed from store shelves, and efforts are ongoing to eliminate all remaining affected items. Belgium’s food safety regulator has confirmed the recall, specifically targeting cans and returnable glass bottles with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. Consumers are advised to check product codes for safety. Although independent experts have concluded that the associated risk is "very low," Coca-Cola emphasizes the importance of safety and compliance in their operations.

Radja Nainggolan, a prominent Belgian footballer, has been arrested in connection with a cocaine trafficking investigation. The 36-year-old midfielder was apprehended by Belgian police on Monday morning following a series of coordinated raids across the country. The Brussels prosecutor's office announced that the investigation revolves around the alleged importation of cocaine from South America to Europe, specifically via the port of Antwerp, and its subsequent distribution within Belgium. Details about the investigation remain limited, and no further information has been disclosed to the public. Nainggolan's arrest comes just six days after he ended his retirement to join Lokeren, a club in the Belgian second division, where he scored in his debut match, helping his team secure a 1-1 draw against K. Lierse. Nainggolan, who was born in Antwerp, has had a significant career primarily in Italy, playing for clubs such as Roma and Inter Milan. He also represented the Belgium national team, earning 30 caps between 2009 and 2018.

A landmark decision by Belgium's court of appeal has deemed the historic kidnapping of mixed-race children during the country's colonial rule in central Africa a crime against humanity. This ruling, delivered last month, could set a precedent for reparations and broader justice measures for the victims and their families. The case was initiated by five women who were forcibly removed from their African mothers in the Belgian Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi between 1948 and 1953. Each plaintiff has been awarded €50,000 in damages. The court identified the systematic practice of taking these children, labeled as “métis,” due to their mixed heritage, as a violation that affected thousands who endured separation from their families. François Milliex, president of the Association of Métis of Belgium, expressed hope that this decision will encourage others to seek financial compensation for their past suffering. Many métis continue to grapple with loss of identity and trauma stemming from their experiences. Despite Belgium’s previous apology in 2019 and efforts to assist victims in tracing their family histories, the government has resisted calls for comprehensive financial reparations, unlike other countries that have faced similar issues. Legal experts believe that while the recent ruling is historic, the path to securing reparations may require substantial advocacy. The Belgian government has yet to finalize its response to the ruling, with discussions around potential appeals still ongoing. Meanwhile, civil society groups are pushing for recognition of the injustices faced by these victims and advocating for remembrance of this overlooked chapter in Belgium's colonial history.

A white powder discovered in a letter sent to the office of Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has been confirmed as strychnine, a highly toxic substance. The identification was made by the Brussels prosecutor's office, revealing that the incident occurred last November. An aide in De Croo's office was hospitalized after opening the letter and sustaining injuries to their hands. The letter was received on November 22, just days after similar packages were sent to the office of Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden and the state security service's headquarters. While one individual was placed under quarantine as a precaution, no further injuries were reported. Strychnine is commonly used as rat poison and can cause severe health issues in humans, including muscle spasms and cardiac arrest. The alarming news follows recent incidents involving threats to politicians across Europe, raising concerns about rising violence against elected officials. Prime Minister De Croo expressed relief that no serious injuries occurred, but conveyed that the incidents have deeply affected his office. "This cannot be the new normal," stated his spokesperson, emphasizing the necessity of strict protocols following the event. The situation mirrors a troubling trend in Europe, where instances of violence and threats against politicians have been increasing, prompting worries about the impact on democratic participation.