A View from the Mountains

The heavy rain and thunderstorms of the last couple of weeks, combined with a lousy infrastructure has left whole areas of the Serrania de Ronda flooded, with roads blocked by rockfalls and houses soaked, gardens waterlogged and frequent power cuts.

Worse still, a major rockfall has blocked the main route from the Costa del Sol and the towns of San Pedro, Marbella and Estepona to the capital and main town of the Serrania, namely Ronda.

Roads into and out of Estación de Jimera de Líbar have been blocked by flood water and mud and rocks washed down from the surrounding mountains.

Further down the River Guadiaro, the village of Cañada del Real Tesoro (Estación de Cortes de la Frontera) has also suffered.

What to do?

According to experts the blockage of the A 376 will take at least nine months to fix. It could be longer. So, what happens next?

The hundreds of workers from the Serrania who race down the San Pedro road to work on that part of the coast, will have to find a new route, which will take them longer and cost them more in fuel. I doubt their bosses will increase their wages to compensate them.

Tourists who come up to Ronda in their coaches will have to find another route or not come.

Ronda residents who need to go to the coast for medical treatment will have to make a detour.

The alternative routes

There are four alternatives, I reckon. All of them will take longer than previously. But it is what it is – we’ll just have to adapt and make the best of it.

Ronda – Gaucín – Casares/Estepona

Ronda – Gaucín – Puerto de Manilva

Ronda – Cortes de la Frontera – San Luque/Gibraltar/Tarifa

Ronda – Ardales – Malaga/Alhaurín El Grande - Fuengirola

[Map courtesy of niamhanddavid.com]    

Other damage in the Ronda area

Benaoján

The Hotel Molino de Cuatro Paradas by the river Guadiaro has been flooded and is closed.

Fuente de la Higuera

The Hotel Ronda Valley (formerly Hotel Don Benito) has been closed for several days because run off from the hills above crossed the road and inundated the cellar, where the beer equipment and the heating system are housed.

The bar re-opened today (Thursday 13 March) but the kitchen, the restaurant and the hotel remain closed.

The Hotel Molino del Puente escaped unscathed and has been open all week.

Our garden at Villa Indiana is a lake. The huge quantities of water have knocked out our boiler, so we have no hot water and no central heating. Thank God we have a chimenea and plenty of dry logs! 

Yesterday we had no running water at all and several electricity circuits were knocked out, including the kitchen and at one point all our lights.

This morning, I managed to get the lights and water back on, but the caldera (boiler) has defeated me. We’re hoping our heating engineer can get to us tomorrow.

If not, we shall decamp to Montejaque (Málaga) where everything is working, despite the constant rain.

Photos and Images:

andalucia.com, Diario Sur, Karl Smallman, niamhanddavid.com, Paul Whitelock, Secret Serrania, SUR in English

© Paul Whitelock

Acknowledgements:

Andalucia TV, Diario Sur, Guardia Civil, Julie Wilkinson, La 1

Tags:

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áéíóú

The situation in Ukraine is at a critical stage, following some bizarre statements and behaviour coming out of the White House at the end of last week. Europe's leaders met at a summit in London on Sunday 4 March to wrest the initiative back. 

Ukraine summit in London on 4 March [France 24]    

The so-called “coalition of the willing”, is the name given by UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer to those nations which are in a position to further the four aims of the summit meeting in London without delay.

Which countries are in the “coalition of the willing”?

The UK and France have already confirmed their commitment.

Spain had already made a significant commitment at the conference in Kyiv two weeks ago, although they currently have no further plans to commit funding.

Norway indicated before the London Summit on 4 March that they would be on board.

Summit meeting at Lancaster House [The Guardian]

Germany too, according to outgoing chancellor Olaf Scholz.

Countries that border Russia will be especially keen to join the coalition, with the exception of Hungary. Their autocratic president Viktor Orban is a pal of Vladimir Putin. “Kick Hungary out of the EU,” I say!

It was interesting that Turkey was represented – not EU members of course and never likely to be with their human rights record, but clearly concerned about Russia to their north.

Canada was also at the summit, which was good to see. They have been heavily involved in training Ukrainian volunteers.

The Baltic States were conspicuous by their absence. A reason was given but this commentator didn’t understand the reasons. Nevertheless, they must be “quaking in their boots” if Putin decides to invade more former Soviet territories.

Ii is understood that Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are fully on board and intend to commit to the "coalition of the willing".

Map of Europe [Wikipedia]

The UK's position

Sir Keir Starmer is quite clear about what the UK government will contribute straightaway. In his remarks ahead of the summit he declared:

“Three years on from Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, we are at a turning point. Today I will reaffirm my unwavering support for Ukraine and double down on my commitment to provide capacity, training and aid to Ukraine, putting it in the strongest possible position.” 

In the press conference following the summit meeting, Starmer confirmed that the European powers must realise it is “not a moment for more talk, it is time to act.

"Every nation must contribute ..... in the best way that it can, bringing different capabilities and support to the table, but all taking responsibility to act, all stepping up their own share of the burden.

Starmer Press Conference [UNITED24 Media]

The following steps were agreed:

"First, we will keep the military aid flowing and keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia to strengthen Ukraine now.

“Second, we agreed that any lasting peace must ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, and Ukraine must be at the table.

"Third, in the event of a peace deal, we will keep boosting Ukraine’s own defensive capabilities to deter any future invasion.

“Fourth, we will go further to develop a 'coalition of the willing' to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee the peace.”

Whilst acknowledging that "not every nation will feel able to contribute but that can’t mean that we sit back. Instead, those willing will intensify planning now with real urgency.”

He stated quite clearly that the UK will put "boots on the ground" and planes in the air.

“Europe must do the heavy lifting.”

France

The details of France’s commitment were not made clear in any detail, but they are believed to be similar to those of the UK. Emmanuel Macron is fully committed to taking the lead with Starmer.

Macron was the first foreign leader to be invited to the White House, where the signs were of a positive “relationship” with Trump.

    Emmanuel Macron [El Correo]

France has the largest standing army in Europe and is also a fully independent nuclear power.

Spain

It is being reported that Spain is not on board.

However, the fact that arguably Spain was “first out of the blocks”, announcing increased support last month, surely means it is indeed part of the “coalition of the willing”.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced in Kyiv on Feb. 24 during the “Support Ukraine” summit, that Spain will deliver a new 1 billion euro ($1.04 billion) military aid package to Ukraine in 2025.

Spain and Ukraine will also set up the “House of Ukraine” in Torrevieja (Alicante).

This centre will cater to the needs of the Ukrainian community in Spain.

    Pedro Sánchez [Agencia EFE]

The “House of Ukraine” will become one of four Reception, Attention, and Referral Centres (Creade) set up by the Spanish government, alongside those in Madrid, Barcelona, and Málaga.

“House of Ukraine”

The decision to place the “House of Ukraine” in Torrevieja is no coincidence. Before the war, the city already had a significant Ukrainian population.

Over the past two years, Ukrainians have become the largest foreign community in Torrevieja, with 9,500 registered residents. They outnumber the Russian and British communities, which are also well-represented.

Local schools have adjusted to the growing Ukrainian population. Since February 2022, additional teachers have been assigned to help Ukrainian students. In schools 14 and 15, the entire class consists of Ukrainian children. These students share classrooms with many Russian students, as Torrevieja is also home to around 6,000 Russian residents.

[Image courtesy of Facebook]

Further updates will be made as soon as they are confirmed by individual nations in the coming days.

© Paul Whitelock

Photos and images:

Agencia EFE, El Correo, Facebook, France 24, The Guardian, UNITED24 Media, Wikipedia

Acknowledgements:

Bing, El Confidencial, EWN, Le Figaro, MSN,

Tags:

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áéíóú

UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer has come to the fore this week. After a friendly and successful meeting with US president Donald Trump in The Oval Office on Thursday he has emerged as "the adult in the room" following the disgraceful ambush of Ukraine president Vlodymyr Zelenskyy and childlike temper tantrum from Trump and his co-conspirator, vice-president J D Vance, in the same venue on Friday.

Trump "loses it" with Zelenskyy [Video courtesy of CNN]    

Even Piers Morgan, close buddy of Trump for 10 years, conceded that Starmer has just had his best week in the job of UK prime minister. Words and phrases like "statesmanlike" and "stepping up to the plate" have been uttered across Europe as European leaders have declared their support for Zelenskyy and the beleauguered Ukraine.

On Saturday, in Downing Street, Zelenskyy and Starmer signed an agreement to accelerate $2.8 billion worth of loans to Ukraine. The first tranche of funding is expected to be disbursed next week, according to the UK government. The loan will ultimately be repaid using Russian funds seized by the West in the early stages of the war. Zelenskyy said “This is the fair way: the one who started the war should pay.” 

That so many leaders "downed tools" and flew to London at short notice for this afternoon's summit is testament to the important point Europe, NATO and the world have reached in the last few days. A "once in a generation moment", according to Starmer.

Some 18 dignitories have assembled at Lancaster House for the summit, including Justin Trudeau, prime minister of Canada, whose country is not directly involved. 

    Zelenskyy and Starmer at the London Summit [AP News]

Noticeably absent were the leaders of the three Baltic states, Estonia,  Latvia and Lithuania, but we were given to understand that they are fully behind Ukraine and NATO. These three republcs are deemed to be the most at risk, should Vladimir Putin's expansionist plans not be stopped.

The agenda for the summit has been set by Starmer in consultation with Zelenskyy and French president Emmanuelle Macron, who also had a successful visit with Trump last week. The plan is to thrash out three goals: "Ukraine’s short-term needs; securing a “lasting deal” to end the conflict; and “planning for strong security guarantees.”, according to a statement from Downing Street.

"Family photo" of the delegates at the Ukraine Summit in London [France 24]

Back row (L-R): 

NATO secretary-general Mark Rutte; Netherlands' Prime Minister Dick Schoof; Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson; Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz; Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store; Czech Republic's Prime Minister Petr Fiala; Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni; Turkey's Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan

Middle row (L-R)

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez; Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen; European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen; European Council President Antonio Costa; Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau; Romania's Interim President Ilie Bolojan

Front row (L-R)

Finland's President Alexander Stubb; French President Emmanuel Macron; UK Prime Minster Sir Keir Starmer; Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy; Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk

In a statement ahead of the London summit Starmer said: “Three years on from Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, we are at a turning point. Today I will reaffirm my unwavering support for Ukraine and double down on my commitment to provide capacity, training and aid to Ukraine, putting it in the strongest possible position.” 

The delegates at the Ukrainian Summit in London [The Guardian]

STOP PRESS:
 

After the meeting broke up several participants answered questions from the Press, while Vlodymyr Zelenskyy flew by helicopter to Sandringham House in Norfolk for an audience with King Charles III.

Reaction to that meeting and the official Press conference by Sir Keir Starmer to come .....

King Charles III meets Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Sandringham [SKY News]

UPDATE:

At the official press conference following the summit, Sir Keir Starmer said that the European powers must realise it is “not a moment for more talk, it is time to act.

"Every nation must contribute ..... in the best way that it can, bringing different capabilities and support to the table, but all taking responsibility to act, all stepping up their own share of the burden.

"So we agreed some important steps today.

"First, we will keep the military aid flowing and keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia to strengthen Ukraine now.

“Second, we agreed that any lasting peace must ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, and Ukraine must be at the table.

Starmer's press conference 2 March 2025 [UNITED24 Media]

"Third, in the event of a peace deal, we will keep boosting Ukraine’s own defensive capabilities to deter any future invasion.

“Fourth, we will go further to develop a 'coalition of the willing' to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee the peace.

"Not every nation will feel able to contribute but that can’t mean that we sit back. Instead, those willing will intensify planning now with real urgency, the UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air, together with others. Europe must do the heavy lifting.”

Starmer declined, when asked, to say which countries were "in", saying that it was their prerogative to announce their intentions themselves in the coming days.

He also announced that the group would reconvene "soon" to keep developments moving at pace.

© Paul Whitelock

Photos and videos:

AP News, CNN, France 24, SKY News, The Guardian, UNITED24 Media

Acknowledgements:

BBC News, CNN, Manchester Evening News, MSN, SKY News, The Guardian

Tags:

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According to the highly regarded British newspaper, The Guardian, Spain is “a progressive beacon in dark times”.

In an editorial published on Wednesday 26 February 2025, the paper claims that Pedro Sánchez’s Socialist-led government has welcomed immigration and boosted public spending, with stellar results.

    [Photo courtesy of El Confidencial]

Background

In a week when the seismic election result in Germany has focused on the disturbing rise of the far right party, the AfD, and chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz’s warning that Europe can no longer rely on the United States for its security, Europe, nay the World, could be forgiven for thinking the worst.

Friedrich Merz (CDU) [Photo: El Periodico]    

But for European progressives, there was also a third depressing takeaway: the comprehensive rejection of Olaf Scholz’s Social Democratic party, which recorded its worst postwar result.

Across the continent of Europe, centre-left parties have been exiled from the corridors of power, while the radical right has fuelled anxieties over immigration and economic stagnation to extend its influence.

There is, however, one country which stands out as startling exception to this dismal trend – Spain.

Spain’s success

Last year, Spain recorded the highest growth of any major country, at 3.2%.

This was achieved under a Socialist-led coalition government that has welcomed high levels of immigration as a driver of economic prosperity, and which from this year plans to offer residency and work permits to up to 900,000 undocumented migrants.

In 2024, over 400,000 vacancies were filled by migrants and dual nationals, as overall unemployment figures fell to their lowest levels since the 2008 economic crash.

[Graph courtesy of CaixaBank Research]    

The case for migration in a country with one of the lowest birthrates in the European Union – forcefully made by the prime minister, Pedro Sánchez – has been complemented by a commitment to generous public spending that is also at odds with the zeitgeist.

Boosted by EU post-pandemic recovery funds, levels of government expenditure reached an all-time high at the end of last year. Most of the money has gone on upgrading vital infrastructure and green investment, including urban low-emission zones and subsidies for small businesses.

Spain and Europe

On the European stage, too, Spain is blazing a progressive trail.

As crucial negotiations over future EU spending begin, Madrid has proposed a doubling of the next seven-year budget, to be financed by joint borrowing mechanisms pioneered after the Covid-19 pandemic.

In an era in which spending on defence risks diverting resources away from other public goods and the green transition, Sánchez is right to argue that more Europe, not less, should be part of the solution.

Pedro Sánchez [Efe]    

Growth in Spain

An important factor boosting Spain’s growth has been the booming tourist industry, which is creating tensions in cities and resorts “hollowed out” by Airbnb.

A related housing crisis urgently needs to be addressed. And interpreting to what extent impressive GDP figures translate into general wellbeing is far from straightforward.

Nevertheless, at a time when much of the mainstream centre-left appears to have lost faith in progressive political solutions, the Sánchez government’s achievements deserve to be celebrated.

A robustly social democratic approach to economic renewal, and a recognition of what migrants can offer ageing societies, remains the best response to the rise of nationalist, xenophobic politics.

When unveiling his government’s plans last October to make it easier for migrants to settle, Sánchez said: “Throughout history, migration has been one of the great drivers of the development of nations, while hatred and xenophobia have been – and continue to be – the greatest destroyer of nations. The key is in managing it well.”

It has become vanishingly rare to hear political leaders not only making such an argument but also acting on it. This may be a moment of maximum hubris for the Trumpian right across the west. But Spain continues to show that there is another way.

Conclusion

I have been saying for some time that Spain has been getting it right under Pedro Sánchez.

• His severe Covid-19 lockdowns and restrictions saved thousands of lives.
• His presence as a towering figure in the European Union has made him an important leader in troubled times
• His steadfast approach to both Ukraine and Gaza make him stand out
• His mastery of English is worth its weight in gold. The first of the seven presidents of the Spanish government to have that advantage, demonstrating clearly that monolingualism is not the way forward in these times.
• And now his turning the immigration problem to Spain’s advantage and the investment in green issues is paying dividends.

Pedro Sánchez [Photo: El Mundo]                  

It is regrettable that so many western countries are lurching to the right, eg France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, and the USA.

Civilisation needs to look to the surviving socialist-run countries, currently the Baltic states, Scandinavia, Spain, and the UK.

Links:

© Paul Whitelock

Photos:

CaixaBank Research, Efe, El Confidencial, El Mundo, El Periodico,

Acknowledgements:

The Guardian 

Tags:

2008 economic crash, Airbnb, Baltic states, CaixaBank Research, Covid-19 lockdown, Covid-19 pandemic, diverting resources, driver of economic prosperity, dual nationals, Efe, El Confidencial, El Independiente, El Mundo, Europe, European stage, European Union, EU post-pandemic recovery funds, France, Friedrich Merz, future EU spending, Gaza, Germany, green investment, green transition, hatred, highest growth of any major country, high levels of immigration, housing crisis, Hungary, immigration problem, impressive GDP figures, investment in green issues, Italy, joint borrowing mechanisms, levels of government expenditure, Madrid, mastery of English, migrants, monolingualism, Netherlands, Pedro Sánchez, residency, Scandinavia, seven-year budget, Socialist-led coalition government, Spain, Spanish government, spending on defence, subsidies for small businesses, The Guardian, tourist industry, USA, UK, Ukraine, unemployment figures, upgrading vital infrastructure, urban low-emission zones, wellbeing, work permit, xenophobia, Zeitgeist,

áéíóú

    [Image courtesy of Mubis]

“Black Friday” turned out to be a momentous day for news.

• One month since la DANA struck Valencia, Castilla-La Mancha and Castellón.
• 1000 days since Russia invaded Ukraine.
• General Election in Ireland.
• Vote on assisted dying in the UK parliament.
• New president of the council of Europe appointed.
• A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

One month since the deadly DANA struck in Eastern Spain

The clean-up was slow to get going but since then the army, police and volunteers from all over Spain have worked tirelessly to search for victims, clean up and clear the massive amounts of mud, rubble, other debris and ruined vehicles.

Since 29 October, la DANA has wreaked havoc in other parts of Spain, in Andalucía, Extremadura, Galicia and Asturias, in País Vasco, Catalunya and Aragón, in the Balearics and in Alicante and Murcia.

Some latest statistics: Death toll in Spain 230, 220 in the Valencia region, four are still missing. In Valencia, there were 87 municipalities affected, 69,000 homes, 1,500 garages flooded and 10,000 lifts rendered unusable.

Weather map [Image courtesy of El Tiempo]

La DANA also destroyed 12,500 shops, 125,000 vehicles (98% write-offs) and 115 schools, leaving 10,000 students without classes. 250,000 tons of waste have been removed while 2,300 residents are homeless.

1000 days since the invasion of Ukraine by Russia

At the end of a week in which Vladimir Putin has increased attacks on Ukrainian cities and on power stations and has deployed 10,000 North Korean troops, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made an incredible offer to Putin in an attempt to end the war.

Ukraine will cease hostilities if the country is allowed to join NATO, and will concede the territories in eastern Ukraine and the Crimea for the time being and seek to reclaim those areas by diplomatic means in the future.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy [Photo: Sky News]

A “snap” General Election in Ireland

Irish president Michael D Higgins called a snap general election at the request of the Taoiseach (prime minister) Simon Harris. The vote was yesterday.

Exit polls indicate that it is level-pegging between three parties: Sinn Féin, Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil with Sinn Féin ahead by a small margin.

Taoiseach Simon Harris [Photo: Sky News]

STOP PRESS (Sun 1 Dec at 07.50 am):

Now that the real count is underway, it is becoming clear that Sinn Féin has in fact lost ground and will probably come in third behind Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil who are level-pegging. [Sky News]

Vote on assisted dying in the UK parliament

The debate about assisted dying (euthanasia) has been raised again, largely through the efforts of celebrity Esther Rantzen who herself is facing a painful death from cancer.

Yesterday in the House of Commons a private members' bill introduced by MP Kim Leadbeater, passed its second reading with a vote of 330 to 275, a majority of 55. There were 35 abstentions.

Esther Rantzen [Photo: The Independent]

The vote doesn’t mean the bill will become law just yet. Instead, the legislation can now stand up to further interrogation in the Committee Stage and could undergo amendments, before a third reading before going to the House of Lords.

Those against the bill have argued that it lacks safeguards. Others fear that it can be used as a coercive measure against people experiencing abuse.

Proponents, on the other hand, believe it offers “common sense” and a compassionate and dignified death for people who are terminally ill and in pain.

New president of the Council of Europe named

António Costa from Portugal has been chosen as the successor to Charles Michel from Belgium as president of the Council of Europe, an important post within the European Union.

The appointment was announced yesterday on the same day that Spanish MP Teresa Ribera (PSOE) was announced as number two to president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen (Germany).

António Costa [Photo: 20Minutos]

A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon

Israel and Hezbollah, the extremist Arab group in Lebanon, have agreed to a ceasefire. The Hezbollah leadership has been decimated via targeted bombing by the IDF (Israel Defence Force). It is hoped that the ceasefire will hold, although at the end of the week in which this historic “deal” was made, it is looking somewhat fragile.

[Photo courtesy of Oxfam]

Displaced Israelis and Lebanese will be allowed to return to their home areas and a buffer zone will be created between the north of Gaza and the south of Lebanon.

Israel will now be able to concentrate on its military campaign against Hamas, the extremist Arab group in Gaza Strip.

© Paul Whitelock

Acknowledgements:

BBC

Jenna Moon

RTVE

Wikipedia

www.cuatro.com

Photos:

20Minutos

BBC

Mubis

Oxfam

Sky News

The Independent

Tags:

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By Paul Whitelock

After the devastating storms and floods in eastern Spain last week, which washed away cars, people, livestock and buildings, the authorities have estimated that some 100,000 vehicles have been turned into scrap. And they are in the way of clearing-up operations.                             

Aftermath of La DANA in Valencia [Photo courtesy of MN]

¡Vaya temporada!

La Dana is the worst for over 100 years. It hit the Valencia region with unbelievable force, causing some 315 deaths so far (around 80 people are unaccounted for), damage to homes and businesses and the destruction of thousands and thousands of vehicles, 100,000 according to official estimates, in el País Valenciano alone.

The cars are the biggest problem because they are in the way of clean-up operations.

As a result several desgüaces have been set up in the Valencia region, the worst affected area.

The cars have been logged and insurance assessors are on the way. The bill will be enormous.

 An impromptu desguace in Valencia [Photo: El Periódico Mediterráneo]

Infrastructure repairs

The autovias A1and A7 are expected to re-open soon, although access roads into the affected areas remain closed.

It is expected that the AVE high-speed rail connection between Madrid and Valencia will re-open tomorrow, Monday 11 November, after non-stop repair teams have worked their magic.

    Photo courtesy of 20 Minutos

Who’s to blame?

Carlos Mazón, the beleaguered president of the Generalitat Valenciana, is taking most of the blame for the slow reaction to the emergency. President of the national government in Madrid, Pedro Sánchez, is also being criticised for not intervening sooner.

Last Saturday, during a visit to the area, both were attacked with mud and stones by an angry crowd. The king and queen, Felipe and Letizia, who accompanied the politicians, were also mobbed.     

                                                      Carlos Mazón [Photo: El País]

Yesterday, there was a massive demonstration in Valencia City calling on Mazón to resign. People are angry, understandably.

                 Massive demo in Valencia [Photos courtesy of Diario Público and YouTube]

This is going to run and run ….

.

© Paul Whitelock

Links:

El desguace más grande de la historia de España

The King and Queen, and the prime minister attacked by flood victims in Valencia

Acknowledgements:

Diario SUR

MSN

RTVE

Photos:

Diario Público

El País

El Periódico Mediterráneo

Europa Press

MN

YouTube

Tags:

100,000 vehicles, autovía A1, autovía A7, AVE, AVE high-speed rail connection, buildings, Carlos Mazón, cars, car scrapyard, damage to homes, desgüace, destruction of thousands and thousands of vehicles, Felipe, Generalitat Valenciana, king, La Dana, Letizia, livestock, Madrid, País Valenciano, Paul Whitelock, Pedro Sánchez, people, president of the Generalitat Valenciana, president of the national government, queen, scrap, scrapyard, storms and floods in eastern Spain, Valencia, Valencia region

By Paul Whitelock

The Berlin Wall "fell" 35 years ago on 9 November 1989. Soviet guards stood and watched as hundreds, if not thousands, of East Germans walked across borders unchallenged in Berlin and elsewhere on the Oder-Neisse-Linie, the border between the DDR (German Democratic Republic - surely the greatest misnomer in the history of mankind) and the BRD (Federal Republic of Germany).

What happened on 9 November 1989?

After several days of confusion, the Chancellor of East Germany, Erich Honicker, bowed to the inevitable and, under pressure from Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, a fan of perestroika and glasnost keen to "buddy up" to the West, instructed his police and troops to do nothing to prevent this mass exodus.

    Photo courtesy of CNN                                                   Photo courtesy of the BBC

The Berlin Wall had been built overnight in 1961 and divided the city into two, splitting up families and friends.

The collapse of the Wall after nearly 30 years was the start of the Wiedervereinigung Deutschlands, the re-unification of Germany.

What happened next?

Pushed through relatively quickly by West German chancellor Helmut Kohl, it has not been a happy "coming together". The East German infrastructure and economy were in a poor state, so bringing together two economies and two currencies was always going to be difficult.

    L to R: Helmut Kohl, Mikhail Gorbachev and Olaf Scholz [Photos courtesy of the BBC]

Those 35 years have led to increasing discontent in the former East, culminating in the rise of the far right AfD (Alternative for Germany).

With a snap German general election, probably in February, forced by the collapse last week of the Ampel-Koalition, the three-way coalition of socialists, liberals and greens led by chancellor Olaf Scholz, it remains to be seen whether the AfD gains more support and more seats in the Bundestag (German parliament).

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Watch this space!

© Paul Whitelock

Links:

Berlin Wall anniversary: What was the Berlin Wall? - BBC Newsround

Is the German government about to collapse?

Photos and images:

BBC

CNN

Wikipedia

Tags:

1961, 1989, 35 years, 9 November 1989, AfD, Alternative for Germany, Ampel-Koalition, Berlin Wall, BBC, BRD, Bundestag, CNN, DDR, Federal Republic of Germany, German Democratic Republic, glasnost, Gorbachev, Honicker, Kohl, Oder-Neisse Linie, perestroika, re-unification of Germany, Scholz, Wiedervereinigung Deutschlands, Wikipedia

By Paul Whitelock

Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SDP – The German Socialist Party) sacked his finance minister Christian Lindner (FDP – The German Liberal Party) yesterday evening, Wednesday 6 November.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz [Photo courtesy of El Mundo]

Subsequently Lindner withdrew his fellow MdBs (MPs) from the coalition government, leaving the remaining two partners, the SDP and Bündnis 90/Die Grünen (The Green Party) in a minority situation.

This unexpected move has thrown Europe’s largest economy into political disarray and could lead to snap elections in March.

Breaking news

The German government was left on the brink of collapse yesterday after the chancellor, Olaf Scholz, unexpectedly sacked his finance minister, Christian Lindner (FDP).

Lindner was thrown out of the three-way coalition of socialists, greens and liberals during a meeting of high-level government members on Wednesday evening. This followed months of bitter infighting that has contributed to the administration’s growing unpopularity.

Government insiders had suggested Donald Trump’s electoral victory would focus minds in Berlin on a new kind of political future. Not the case, it would seem.

Christian Lindner [Photo courtesy of Stern] 

Hours after Lindner’s sacking, the FDP withdrew the rest of its ministers from the cabinet, spelling the end of the beleaguered and unpopular three-way coalition.

Scholz addresses the nation

In a televised address to the nation, Chancellor Scholz said that he will seek a vote of confidence in January 2025 that would pave the way for early elections by March.

Scholz said he had offered Lindner a plan to bring down energy costs, boost investment and maintain support for Ukraine.

But Lindner had shown “no willingness” to accept it, Scholz said.

“The situation is serious,” Scholz added. “There is war in Europe, tensions are increasing in the Middle East. At the same time, our economy is stagnating.”

Olaf Scholz Press Conference [Photo: The Objective]

He said: “We need to invest considerably more in our defence and in the Bundeswehr (armed forces), especially now, after the outcome of the USA elections.”

Scholz made little effort to hide his frustration, accusing Lindner of egotism, refusing to compromise and using “small-minded, party-political tactics” at a time of growing insecurity.

The chancellor apologised to the German people, saying he “would have liked to have spared you this difficult decision, especially in times like these when uncertainty is growing”, a direct reference to the USA presidential election.

What caused this drastic action?

Lindner, 45, is the head of the pro-business FDP, which on Friday delivered a controversial 18-page ultimatum calling on the government to radically redraw its budget plans for next year.

He had repeatedly warned of “an autumn of decisions” as difficult budget talks have loomed.

His sacking is likely to lead to snap elections in March, six months ahead of schedule.

Scholz announced his intention to hold a vote of confidence in the Bundestag (Lower House) in mid-January and suggested that – depending on the outcome of that –elections could be held in March.

After Scholz’s announcement, a clearly fuming Lindner accused the chancellor of having “long failed to recognise that our country needs a new economic awakening” and of “trivialising the economic concerns of citizens”.

    German Parliament, Berlin [Photo: Wikipedia]

The FDP currently stands at about 4% in the polls – below the threshold needed to gain a place in parliament – but he made little secret of his plans to campaign for a place in a new government. “We remain ready to take responsibility for this country and we will fight to do the same in another government next year,” he said.

What is likely to happen next?

The fallout is expected to plunge Germany into a prolonged period of uncertainty at a time when European leaders have been trying to pull together in the face of challenges including a possible trade war with the USA.

As the second biggest backer of Ukraine after the USA, Germany also faces concerns that it will be left to take on a far bigger share of the war effort if President Trump carries out his threat to reduce support for Kyiv.

In a poll by Forsa published on Wednesday, 82% of Germans said they had no faith that the government would fix Germany’s economic crisis before the federal election, which had been scheduled for next September.

    Kyiv, capital of Ukraine [Photo: Britannica]

© Paul Whitelock

Acknowledgements:

The Guardian

Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung

Kate Connolly

Wikipedia

Photos:

Britannica

El Mundo

Stern

The Objective

Wikipedia

Tags:

Britannica, Bündnis 90/Die Grünen, Christian Lindner, El Mundo, Forsa, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, FDP, German Liberal Party, Germany, German Socialist Party, Germany, Green Party, Guardian, Kate Connolly, Kyiv, Olaf Scholz, Paul Whitelock, President Trump, Scholz, SPD, Stern, The Objective, Trump, Ukraine, USA, Wikipedia

For racist, I could have substituted 'fascist', or 'misogynist', even 'Nazi'. They all apply to Donald J Trump, who has today been elected president of the United States for the second time.

[Photo courtesy of RTVE]

How the US electorate could have voted en masse for this disgrace of a man, who is an adulterer and a liar, as well as a convicted felon, facing more trials for a range of crimes, is beyond me.

Didn’t they suss him out when he was president from 2016-2020?

What happened?

Yesterday morning, the day after the election on 5 November, Trump reached the magic figure of 270 electoral college votes he needed to secure his second term, as the 47^th President of the United States of America.

As if that wasn’t bad enough, the US voters also presented him with a majority in the Senate and probably in Congress also!

There’ll be no stopping him now, unless some of the more sensible Republicans can rein him in.

What damage can Trump do?

With his claimed friendships with Putin (Russia), Xi Jinping (China) and Kim Jong Un (North Korea), the world must surely be concerned.

    [Photos of Putin, Xi-Jinping and Kim Jong Un courtesy of Wikipedia]

Added to these pariahs, Trump is also rather too “pally” with rogue leaders in the West and the Middle East, people like Erdogan (Turkey), Netanyahu (Israel), Orban (Hungary) and Al-Assad (Syria).

    [Photos of Erdogan, Netanyahu, Orban, and Al-Assad courtesy of Wikipedia]

Some reactions from around the world

Brenda Mellor (retired lawyer - UK)

“We don’t want or need to be exposed to every post, speech, picture, video of the POTUS over the next four years. His bonkers thoughts, word omelettes, illiterate scribblings, terrible dancing, bizarre fashion sense, ridiculous face are of no interest to us.”

    [Photo courtesy of RocketReach]

Katherine Viner (Editor – The Guardian UK)

“We’ve just witnessed an extraordinary, devastating moment in the history of the United States. …..

….. “Now, with Trump months away from taking office again – with dramatic implications for wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, the health of American democracy, reproductive rights, inequality and, perhaps most of all, our collective environmental future – it’s time for us to redouble our efforts to hold the president-elect and those who surround him to account.”

    [Photo courtesy of The Guardian]

Kristin Tadlock-Hunter (American living in London since 2016)

“Devastated doesn’t cover it ….. It feels like you’re watching your house burn down from across the street, with all your friends and family still inside. People say: ‘Oh, you’re so lucky not to be in the house that’s on fire,’ and you’re like: ‘No, that’s my memories, that’s the people I love, that’s the places I love.’ It’s a really painful experience to watch what you love being dismantled.”

    [Photo courtesy of inkl]

Senator Cory Booker (Democrat – New Jersey )

“I can’t imagine, I can’t even get my mind around what it would be like if Donald Trump won, because he is telling us such dark and sinister things that he’s going to do, and I believe him.”

    [Photo courtesy of CNN]

Marina Hyde (Columnist - The Guardian UK)

“A dastardly plot is afoot to burn it all down by any means necessary. Sound familiar? Well … we finally got to 5 November. Of course, you know the story. Once upon a time, there was a bad guy who wanted to set fire to a country’s political system.”

    [Photo courtesy of The Irish Times]

Jamie Lee Curtis (American actor and Oscar winner)

Curtis wrote that it would be “a return to a more restrictive, some fear draconian time” and that minority groups will now be more afraid. “But what it really means is that we wake up and fight,” she wrote. “Fight for women and our children and their futures and fight against tyranny, one day at a time. One fight at a time. One protest at a time. That’s what it means to be an American.”

    [Photo courtesy of El Mundo]

John Cusack (American actor)

“The fact that the country would choose to destroy itself by voting in a convicted felon, rapist and Nazi is a sign of deep nihilism. To put it mildly.”

    [Photo courtesy of elDiario,es]

Stephen King (US author)

“There’s a sign you can see in many shops that sell beautiful but fragile items: LOVELY TO LOOK AT, DELIGHTFUL TO HOLD, BUT ONCE YOU BREAK IT, THEN IT’S SOLD. You can say the same about democracy.”

    [Photo courtesy of XL Semanal]

Cardi B (US Rapper)

“I hate y’all bad. …..I’m sick of you! Burn your f***ing hats, mother***er. I’m really sad. I swear to God I’m really sad.”

    [Photo courtesy of The New York Times]

The beginning of the end?

    [Photo courtesy of El Correo]

Q.E.D.

© Paul Whitelock

Acknowledgements:

New York Times

Paul Whitelock

RTVE

The Guardian

Wikipedia

Photos:

CNN

El Correo

elDiario,es

El Mundo

Guardian

inkl

New York Times

RTVE

RocketReach

The Irish Times

XL Semanal

Tags:

Brenda Mellor, Cardy B, Cory Booker, CNN, El Correo, elDiario,es, El Mundo, Guardian, inkl, Irish Times, Jamie Lee Curtis, John Cusack, Katherine Viner, Kristin Tadlock-Hunter, Marina Hyde, New York Times, RTVE, RocketReach, Stepehen King, The Guardian, Trump, Wikipedia, XL Semanal

A View from the Mountains has received this anonymous post this morning. I sympathise with much of what she writes.

It is almost certain that Donald J Trump will become the 47^th President of the United States of America later today. With few states left to declare he is only four electoral college votes short of the number he needs for a majority.

    [Photo courtesy of France24]

The US Presidential Election 2024

So, the American people have shown once again that they are so unsophisticated that they cannot be trusted to make a reasonable choice for president.

Apart from being a fascist, a racist and a misogynist, he is is a convicted felon; has been impeached twice; is (allegedly) guilty of inciting the insurrection against the Capitol on 6 January 2021, following his defeat by Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election; and is facing further lawsuits.

Despite all of this he has succeeded in being re-elected as president. Unbelievable!

He should already be in gaol, but, of course, that won’t happen, as he appoints the Supreme Court judges.

Should I be wrong and he does indeed “do time”, according to the Constitution, he can continue to serve as president from behind bars! Shocking! Time to amend the Constitution, guys!

    Official sketch of Trump in court [BBC]

What the future holds

So, what are we looking forward to over the next four years:

The USA could cease to be a democracy and become a dictatorship. Don’t laugh!

The Ukraine will lose the war with Russia and end up conceding territory to Russia. The country’s ambition to join NATO and the European Union will be over.

The Middle East? God knows what he will come up with his murderous Israeli chum Benjamin Netanyahu.

Women will no longer have a say over their own bodies. I’m talking about the anti-abortion issue. As a woman of child-bearing age, I find this outrageous!

Endword

I suspect no western European country wanted a second Trump presidency, yet, of course, they have all congratulated him already and they will have to “kow-tow” to him.

The only heads of government likely to stand up to him are Sir Keir Starmer (UK), Emmanuel Macron (France) and Pedro Sánchez (Spain). Perhaps Olaf Scholz (Germany) as well. Maybe there are others, but I don’t know who they are at this time.

Thank God Trump doesn’t take over until January 2025. Time for someone to assassinate him (“Third time lucky!”)

   Trump shot in the ear in failed assassination attempt [Reuters]

© Anonymous

Photos:

BBC

France24

Reuters

Tags:

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