WORLD WORLDWIDE EUROPE BELGIUM BRUSSELS - The Brussels Times - THE RECAP: Musk mania, Antwerp's white gold, STIB disruptions

 

View this email in your browser THE RECAP Your daily catch up - great with a morning coffee. Sign up  here. 1. ‘Murdoch on speed’: Why is Elon Musk meddling in European politics? From weighing in on Nigel Farage's ability to lead Reform UK to reports of communication service deals with Italy, Musk is making headlines with his takes on European politics.  Read More .   2. De Croo calls on EU to take action against the ‘rich and powerful’ "Freedom of expression is close to my heart, but it cannot be an excuse for lies and manipulation."  Read More . 3. Cocaine smuggling in the Port of Antwerp: 2024 figures show ‘white gold’ trade is booming Convictions and seizures are rising, but gangs are getting smarter as well. "We know that organised crime will always seek the path of least resistance. It is a difficult battle."  Read More .   4. Several bus and tram routes disrupted until autumn 2025 Tramlines 10, 62, 92 and 93 and buslines 58 and 88 will be affected by construction works.  Read More . 5. Code orange alert for flu declared in Belgium A flu epidemic was declared in December and the alert level rose from yellow to orange on Thursday.  Read More . 6. Baby given micro-pacemaker for the first time in Belgium The procedure has only been performed around fifty times worldwide.  Read More . 7. 12-year-old British boy dies in traffic accident in Belgium The boy was ejected from the vehicle during the crash on the E40 at around 01:00 on Thursday morning.  Read More . 8. White powder sent to Belgian Government revealed to be poisonous The analysis of the powder sent to the Belgian institutions in three separate letters in November was a toxic substance, injuring one person.  Read More . HIDDEN SECRET OF THE DAY 9. Hidden Belgium: Master Frites The place was eventually voted the best fries shop in Brussels.  Read More .