1. European Capitals Celebrate 2025 with Spectacular Fireworks
Celebrating New Year 2025 in European cities like Paris, Rome, Berlin, and Athens was not without spectacular fireworks. The light display was held on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and the Colosseum in Rome was used for the New Year’s celebration. Berlin saw the sky so perfectly lit by the Brandenburg Gate, while Athens had a unique silent fireworks spectacle near the Acropolis. The continent merrily ushered in the New Year.
2. Romania and Bulgaria Join Schengen Area
Now, Romania and Bulgaria have officially joined the Schengen Area, abolishing land borders between 25 million people. It provides visa-free travel across 29 countries that include France, Spain, and Norway, without checks. After many negotiations, it is a big step for the two countries in getting integrated into the EU. However, random checks will still be held for six months on larger vehicles to prevent crime.
3. Russia Ends Gas Supply to Europe via Ukraine
On January 1, 2025, Russia closed its gas supply pipelines to Europe through Ukraine after the previous five-year deal with Ukraine ended. President-zero-sum_volodymyr_zelenskyy did not sign that deal again because it would help Europe get rid of Russian energy. Meanwhile, the EU has made efforts to find other alternative gas sources;) for some Eastern European countries and Moldova, where the majority still use Russian gas as the only option. It affects energy costs and competitiveness for the entire European industry.
4. Tbilisi Anti-Government Protests Continue on New Year’s Eve
Tens of thousands of pro-European protesters gathered in Tbilisi for the 34th day in a row after Georgia’s government suspended the EU accession talks. Protesters demanded early elections and freedom for imprisoned activists. Several of them even organized a traditional dinner. European ministers condemned the use of violence against the protesters and vowed to continue supporting Georgia’s democratic aspirations.
