European elections are currently underway, with Dutch voters heading to the polls as part of a four-day, 27-country ballot to select Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). The voting process began on Thursday and will continue until Sunday. This Sunday, Austrians will also participate in the elections to elect 20 members of the European Parliament. The far-right Freedom Party is currently leading in opinion polls, with approximately 29% of the support. The European elections are a significant event that will shape the future of the European Union. Stay tuned for updates on the election results and the impact they will have on the political landscape of Europe.

Parliament president Roberta Metsola is urging people not to take Europe for granted, just days before an important vote. Metsola is calling on citizens to defend Europe by exercising their right to vote, warning that if they don't, others will make decisions on their behalf. Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak's election campaigning and King Charles's recovery from cancer will be paused for 48 hours as they join veterans to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-day. The events will take place at the ports where allied troops departed for their mission and on the French beaches where they initiated the liberation of Europe in 1944. The commemoration will kick off on Wednesday at 11am on Southsea Common in Portsmouth. It is crucial for people to recognize the significance of Europe and actively participate in shaping its future through their votes.