Ukraine Weakened As U.S. Military Support Diminishes Amid War

Feb 22 2025

After three years of war, Ukraine is facing growing uncertainty as U.S. support erodes.

Negotiations between Washington and Kyiv over a deal granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s mineral resources in exchange for military aid have stalled, straining ties between Presidents Zelensky and Trump.

The rift has deepened as Trump engages directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, excluding Ukraine from key peace talks.

European leaders have reacted with alarm, with Germany warning of a weakening transatlantic alliance.

In response, the EU is preparing a €6 billion military aid package, while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce further support for Ukraine, despite U.S. pressure for Kyiv to seek a peace deal with Moscow.

As Ukraine battles diminishing Western backing, its future now hinges on European aid and its own resilience.

#MaltaDaily

New Study Links Broccoli Sprouts To Pre-Diabetes Management

Feb 22 2025

A study from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden suggests sulforaphane, which is found in broccoli sprouts, could help treat pre-diabetes.

The research highlights its potential for personalised treatment based on metabolism and gut bacteria profiles. A 2017 study also linked it to improved glucose control in type 2 diabetes.

Experts stress that sulforaphane should complement and not replace a healthy diet and regular exercise. Further research will explore its role in treatment plans and its interaction with gut microbiota for potential future therapies.

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45 Concerts Announced As Part Of Rock’N Malta 2025

Feb 21 2025

Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici announced that 45 concerts will receive funding through Rock’N Malta in 2025.

Administered by Festivals Malta, the fund provides financial aid, logistical support, and marketing assistance to organisers, promoters, and local rock artists.

Minister Bonnici highlighted the initiative’s increasing popularity, noting a record number of applications this year. “With the fund now raised to €1 million, more artists will benefit.

This will support 45 projects and involve around 700 local and international artists, further strengthening Malta’s music scene.

The investment will also create opportunities for emerging talent, encourage artistic collaboration, and boost interest in live music, enriching our cultural landscape,” he said.

Festivals Malta Chairman Aaron Zahra underscored the fund’s impact on local productions. “Through Rock’N Malta, we continue to invest in rock concerts and their sub-genres, ensuring top-quality events for both locals and visitors.”

CEO Frans Agius outlined upcoming events, reaffirming the organisation’s dedication to enhancing event quality through logistical and marketing expertise.

The supported concerts will take place between February and December 2025.

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77% Of Maltese Youth Avoid Drugs Due To Lack Of Interest

Feb 21 2025

A study funded by the Faculty for Social Wellbeing at the University of Malta, with support from Caritas Malta, surveyed 400 Maltese young adults (aged 18-30) who had never used drugs for non-medical reasons.

The results provide a statistically detailed insight into the attitudes toward drug use among abstainers.

Among the respondents, 77% reported having no interest in drugs, a figure significantly higher than those who indicated difficulties in accessing drugs (62% stating drugs were not easily available, and 61% saying drugs were too expensive).

Health concerns emerged as a critical factor: 98% of participants stressed that they did not wish their health to be negatively affected by drug use, with 96% fearing the development of addiction.

Additionally, 95% expressed concerns about the potential adverse impact on memory, concentration, and work or study performance, while another 95% feared losing control of their actions.

Social consequences also played a significant role, with 91% agreeing that drug use could negatively affect intimate relationships and an identical percentage indicating that their family, partner, or peers would disapprove.

Interestingly, only 53% believed that drug use was always harmful, and 44.7% were open to the possibility that some drugs might be acceptable under certain circumstances: 18.5% felt moderate use could be acceptable, and 18% considered responsible drug use potentially beneficial, with 8.8% supporting personal choice.

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