Ozetta
Dutch news, in your languageThursday, 24 September 2026No. 16,612

Tuesday, 22 September 2026

Putin Ready for Talks to End Ukraine War, Claims Trump

US President Donald Trump stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to meet with the United States to end the war in Ukraine, following a discussion with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the UN General Assembly in New York. Trump and Zelensky are collaborating on a conflict resolution, with discussions including the delivery of Patriot air defense systems. French President Emmanuel Macron also joined the talks, pledging to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses with radars and interceptors. Meanwhile, Latvia announced it will impose national sanctions on Russian-Ouzbek billionaire Alisher Usmanov and Russian billionaire Mikhail Fridman after their removal from the EU sanctions list. Although EU ambassadors narrowly agreed to extend sanctions against approximately 3,000 Russia-linked entities, Usmanov and Fridman were excluded. In military developments, Russia launched a large-scale attack on Zaporizhia, damaging civilian infrastructure, while a Ukrainian drone strike on an ambulance in the region killed one person and injured three.

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Macron Criticizes UN: 'We Must All Be Ashamed'

French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a sharp critique of the international community during the UN General Assembly, stating that nations are doing too little to stop violence in Gaza and on the West Bank. He warned against a return to the law of the jungle and proposed a double moratorium on attacks against energy infrastructure in Ukraine and Russia, as well as a ceasefire in the Black Sea to secure grain exports. Additionally, Macron called for an independent coalition to develop open-source artificial intelligence models to reduce dependence on US and Chinese dominance.

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Ye's Mother Honored with Street Naming in Chicago

Donda West, the late mother of rapper Ye (Kanye West), was honored with a street naming ceremony in Chicago. The intersection of 78th Street and South Shore Drive was renamed in her tribute to her contributions to education, literature, and culture. West served as a professor and head of the English department at Chicago State University, where she founded the Gwendolyn Brooks Center for Black Literature and Creative Writing. Ye attended the event and posed with the new sign but did not speak to the media.

RTL Nieuws

Queen Máxima and Queen Mathilde Attend UN General Assembly Together in New York

Queen Máxima of the Netherlands and Belgian Queen Mathilde sat side by side at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday. During the event, Máxima, the UN Special Advocate for Financial Health since 2024, met with representatives from various member states to discuss the establishment of a new Group of Friends for Financial Health. The initiative, organized by Singapore, is chaired by the Philippines, Peru, and Kenya.

RTL Nieuws

German Finds Roman Coins Worth Three Times a Soldier's Annual Salary

Amateur archaeologist Oliver Riedl discovered 934 denarii near Wesseling, Germany, using a metal detector. The hoard, weighing over 3 kilograms, dates to the reign of Emperor Hadrian between 117 and 138 AD. It represents three times the annual salary of a Roman soldier at that time. Local authorities were notified immediately, and the coins were transferred to the Lvr-LandesMuseum in Bonn. Archaeologist Erich Classen suggests the money was likely buried for safekeeping in the mid-second century. This is considered the largest find from Hadrian's era, though the specific reason for burial remains unclear.

NU.nl

New Dutch Junior Champions Absent: Spanish and Polish Riders Win World Time Trial Titles

At the junior world cycling championships in Montreal, Benjamín Noval of Spain won the men's time trial title, while Poland's Maria Okrucinska took the women's title. Dutch riders Karlijn Wijma, Gijs Winters, and Thijs Wiersma failed to medal, finishing 18th, 11th, and 15th respectively. Italy also secured its first mixed team time trial gold, beating France and Switzerland.

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ShinyHunters: FBI Hacked, Data on Secret Agents Stolen

The hacker group ShinyHunters claims to have stolen sensitive data from the FBI, including information on current and former agents, as retaliation for an FBI statement advising against paying ransoms. The group posted a declaration on the darkweb and provided Reuters with images and sample data matching previous leaks. This incident follows their high-profile hack of telecom provider Odido, where they released customer data after non-payment. The breach involves nearly all FBI agents and job applicants, marking a significant security compromise for the US intelligence agency.

RTL Nieuws

Nobel Laureates Express Support for Billionaire Tax in California

Six Nobel Prize winners in Economics have signed an open letter supporting a proposed billionaire tax in California. The plan for a one-time five percent wealth tax on billionaires is scheduled to appear on the ballot in November in the state known as 'The Golden State,' where it has already sparked intense debate.

de Volkskrant

MAGA Festival Featuring Kid Rock Cancelled Due to Poor VIP Ticket Sales

The Patriots Day Freedom Fest in Kentucky, scheduled for Saturday and featuring Kid Rock, Republican Congressman James Comer, and Joe Concha, was cancelled after only six of the expected 100 VIP tickets sold. Organizer Eric Deters relied on $1,000 VIP sales to cover costs since regular admission was free, but he announced the cancellation after learning of the low demand. Although Deters claimed there was sufficient interest from general visitors, he stated he no longer wishes to organize the event described as the "best MAGA event."

RTL Nieuws

Canadian Engineering Firm WSP Global Abandons Arcadis Takeover Bid

Canadian engineering firm WSP Global has abandoned its attempt to acquire Dutch competitor Arcadis after failing to reach an agreement on share transfer terms. Arcadis CEO Heather Polinsky stated that remaining independent was the most effective way to create shareholder value, a stance supported by employees holding 19% of shares via a foundation. Consequently, WSP Global will not submit a formal bid to the Dutch Financial Markets Authority (AFM) as previously planned for October 15.

NOS

US to Build Two Military Bases in Greenland

The United States will construct two military bases in Greenland following an agreement with Denmark and the Greenlandic government. This deal aims to resolve a year and a half of disputes within NATO regarding the strategic status of the world's largest island.

FD

Real Madrid Calls for New Leadership Amid Escalating Conflict with La Liga President Javier Tebas

Following Real Madrid's 2-1 defeat to Atlético Madrid, manager José Mourinho criticized the refereeing, prompting a sharp response from La Liga president Javier Tebas. Tebas dismissed claims of bias against Real Madrid as a conspiracy theory and an excuse for on-field shortcomings. In retaliation, Real Madrid issued a statement demanding neutral leadership in Spanish football, asserting that the La Liga president serves the clubs rather than owning the competition. The club also referenced the ongoing Negreira bribery scandal involving FC Barcelona, arguing it should have led to consequences. Atlético Madrid responded to the controversy by calling for an end to such disputes while joking about the environmental impact of printing alleged referee errors.

NOS

Anger and Grief at Funeral of Alfredo Goeloe Who Died During Arrest: 'He Was a Very Cheerful Man'

Approximately 200 people attended the funeral of 51-year-old Alfredo Goeloe in Rotterdam, who died after being restrained by police during an arrest related to a stolen fatbike on September 12. Friends described him as cheerful, while experts and legal representatives debate whether excessive force or medical neglect caused his death, as the Public Prosecution Service confirms he possessed drugs and an independent investigation is underway.

NOS

The Hague Sounds Alarm Over Criminal Care Providers: 'Mopping with the Tap Running Open'

The municipalities of Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague are urging the Dutch national government to implement measures against fraudulent care providers and criminal networks exploiting vulnerable citizens. They argue that current local actions are insufficient without federal intervention, describing the situation as ineffective. The cities criticize Minister Mirjam Sterk’s plan to address these issues by 2028 as too late, calling instead for immediate national screening and uniform admission requirements. Additionally, the 50Plus party in the House of Representatives has requested the appointment of a government commissioner to coordinate the fight against care fraud nationwide.

Omroep West

Minute of Silence for Bartina Koeman Before Netherlands vs. Germany Match

The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) announced a minute of silence before the Nations League match between the Netherlands and Germany at the Johan Cruijff ArenA to honor Bartina Koeman, who died last week at age 65 from chronic breast cancer. The KNVB stated that she stood by her husband, former international and coach Ronald Koeman, throughout his career and during her illness, expressing support for the family.

RTL Nieuws

Minute of Silence for Bartina Koeman Before Netherlands vs. Germany Match: 'She Always Stood by Ronald's Side'

The KNVB observed a minute of silence before the Nations League match between the Netherlands and Germany to honor Bartina Koeman, who died at age 65 from chronic breast cancer. The football federation stated that she supported her husband, former coach Ronald Koeman, throughout his career and illness, while noting that new national team coach Xavi Hernandez makes his debut in the game.

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Major Saudi Oil Pipeline Restored After Drone Attack

Saudi Arabia's 1,200-kilometer East-West pipeline has resumed operations following a drone attack that damaged three pumping stations nearly two weeks ago. The State Oil Company Aramco aims to restore daily flows of 4 million barrels within seven weeks, allowing the kingdom to bypass the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. Consequently, crude oil prices dropped by approximately $2 to $97 per barrel, their lowest level since September 8. This development coincides with diplomatic efforts, as President Trump announced that envoys Witkoff and Kushner held a productive three-hour meeting with Iranian officials in New York. During his UN address, Trump threatened to "destroy" Iran if an agreement is not reached quickly and accused Tehran of delaying negotiations until after the November US midterm elections.

NOS

Dutch Investor Arrested in Major Corruption Case Involving Former Spanish Prime Minister

German police arrested Dutch investor Simon V. at the request of Spanish authorities, accusing him of leading a criminal organization involved in corruption with airline Plus Ultra and former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero. Prosecutors allege V. facilitated loans to Plus Ultra using state pandemic aid as collateral, channeling funds through shell companies and tax havens. The case, known as 'caso Zapatero,' implicates Zapatero as a key facilitator who received approximately 400,000 euros via a consultancy firm. Zapatero denies all allegations, insisting his actions complied with the law, while judges have issued an ultimatum for him to hand over documents regarding seized jewelry. His daughters are scheduled to be questioned as suspects on November 30.

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Bartina Koeman to be remembered with a minute of silence before Netherlands-Germany match

Bartina Koeman, wife of former national team coach Ronald Koeman, will be honored with a minute of silence before the Netherlands vs. Germany match on Thursday. She died at age 65 last week after battling breast cancer, first diagnosed in 2010 and recurring in 2018. The KNVB stated it is appropriate to remember her and support the family, noting she stood by Ronald throughout his career. An earlier tribute occurred during an AZ vs. Telstar match. Ronald had previously stepped down as coach to care for his wife. Xavi Hernández makes his debut as the new national team coach.

NU.nl

De L'Europe remains top hotel in Benelux according to Michelin

Hotel De L’europe in Amsterdam has been rated again as the best hotel in the Benelux region in the 2026 Michelin Guide for hotels. It is the only hotel in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg to receive three keys in this edition of the guide.

De Telegraaf

Jan van Halst learns from son Mick in 'Race Across the World' about his lifelong hope as a father

During a bus ride in Turkey on RTL 4's 'Race Across the World', Jan van Halst was moved by his son Mick’s declaration that he considers his father his best friend. Mick, who enjoys giving pleasure to others, reassured Jan that he no longer worries excessively about friendships. Jan explained that hearing his child view him as a trusted friend fulfilled his dream of establishing a strong, supportive relationship with his children. The emotional moment highlighted their bond as they travel toward Singapore.

RTL Nieuws

Privacy watchdog advises banning 'spy glasses' in house rules

The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) recommends that organizations, such as hospitals and courts, prohibit the use of camera glasses in their house rules due to privacy risks. Unlike earlier models, new devices from companies like Meta resemble ordinary eyewear and may lack visible recording indicators, making it difficult for individuals to know if they are being filmed or analyzed by AI. This practice potentially violates the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). While the Dutch Hospital Association plans to advise members to ban these devices, the Council for the Judiciary states existing filming bans already cover them. Meanwhile, the digital rights group Bits of Freedom is launching a campaign against the technology.

Trouw

GVVV and Eemdijk advance to KNVB Cup main tournament; Spakenburg and DOVO in extra time

GVVV and Eemdijk have qualified for the main tournament of the KNVB Cup, while Sportlust'46 was eliminated in the second preliminary round. Matches involving Spakenburg and DOVO were tied 2-2 and 1-1 respectively at full time, leading to extra time after late equalizers by Mark van der Weijden and Milan Gardien. GVVV defeated DVS'33 4-0 and Eemdijk beat RBC 2-1 to secure their spots. The draw for the first main round, featuring FC Utrecht, will take place on Friday, with matches scheduled for October 27–29.

RTV Utrecht

Broccoli with cashew nut butter and noodles

Culinary explorer Judith Cyrus shares a recipe for broccoli with cashew nut butter and noodles, inspired by Asako Yuzuki’s book Butter. The article explains how clarified butter withstands high heat better than regular butter, making it ideal for cooking. Cyrus provides instructions for clarifying butter at home and details the preparation of the dish, which combines blanched broccoli, noodles, fried cashews, and aromatics seasoned with sesame oil and chili oil.

Trouw

A homosexual man wanting to adopt his niece faces difficulties in Poland

HBO Max produced the Polish-language series Proud, which depicts Filip Raczyński's struggle to adopt his niece Tosia following his sister's death. The show has sparked controversy in conservative Poland, with some viewing it as Western political interference, while others praise its humor and acting. The narrative highlights societal resistance to same-sex adoption, contrasting with recent moves in Hungary to allow such adoptions. Critics argue the public broadcaster would not produce such content, yet the series features acclaimed actress Maja Ostaszewska and explores themes of responsibility and family bonds amidst bureaucratic and social hurdles.

Trouw

Homeowners associations receive help combining maintenance and sustainability upgrades

Many homeowners associations in the Netherlands have insufficient funds reserved for both building maintenance and sustainability improvements. To address this financial gap, the National Heat Fund is now providing low-interest loans specifically designed to enable these communities to combine necessary repairs with energy-efficient upgrades.

Trouw

Opinion: Social security reform empowers employers

Researcher Timon de Groot responds to Hans Borstlap’s call for social security reform, arguing that weakening safety nets shifts power toward employers. De Groot contends that robust social security protects workers from accepting poor working conditions and maintains the International Labour Organization’s principle that labor is not a commodity. He warns that reducing benefits during labor shortages forces workers into undesirable jobs, exacerbating existing trends of employer dominance through precarious contracts and digital control.

Trouw

Chess Olympiad Becomes Arena for Political Maneuvering

The Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, is overshadowed by political disputes rather than gameplay. The Israeli team’s refusal to play on Yom Kippur led to walkover wins for the Netherlands and Bulgaria, while Pakistan declined to compete against Israel in solidarity with Palestinians. Simultaneously, the election for FIDE president features candidates Wadim Rosenstein, Jan Henric Buettner, and Timur Turlov. They accuse each other of unethical campaign tactics and lack transparency. Turlov faces scrutiny due to his Russian origins, though he claims Kazakh citizenship and supports Russia's suspension from chess events.

Trouw

AI Companies Must Contain the Dangers of AI Themselves

Trouw editorial board members argue that tech firms must take responsibility for containing AI risks rather than resisting regulation. This stance follows alarming predictions from Anthropic employees about potential existential threats and calls from leaders like Dario Amodei, Sam Altman, and Elon Musk for stricter safety controls and external verification of AI models.

Trouw

Cycling Needs a 'Plan B' Amid Safety and Weather Challenges

Professional cycling faces increasing pressure regarding safety and extreme weather conditions in 2026. Following incidents like Finlay Tarling’s death and heat-related illnesses during the Vuelta d’Espana, stakeholders are discussing improvements. Proposed solutions include publishing alternative routes or schedules in advance to ensure rider safety without compromising broadcast times. Additionally, RCS Sport head Luca Guercilena suggested moving the Giro d'Italia to June for better weather, while Tadej Pogacar advocated swapping the Giro and Vuelta dates to avoid summer heat.

Trouw

With Winter Approaching, It Is Time to Insulate Your Home, but How Can You Do It Sustainably?

As winter approaches, homeowners are considering insulation to reduce energy costs, with Piet Eichholtz noting it can cut gas usage by 20 percent. While DIY methods save money, professional installation is often safer to avoid moisture issues. Material choices range from recyclable mineral wools to fossil-based foams and renewable options like straw, with Milieu Centraal advising against sheep wool due to its environmental impact unless sourced sustainably.

Trouw

Ahmed Aboutaleb, president of Youth Care Netherlands for a year, wants less youth care. 'Sometimes a system is just done'

Ahmed Aboutaleb, former mayor of Rotterdam and current president of Jeugdzorg Nederland, advocates for reduced youth care, increased prevention, and greater acceptance of risk. Following Minister Mirjam Sterk's apology for suffering in closed youth care, Aboutaleb emphasized the need for systemic change and scientific grounding in care practices. He supports closing forced confinement facilities, currently housing over 460 children, in favor of small residential forms, though he warns against inadequate temporary solutions like holiday park accommodations. Aboutaleb calls for regular self-assessments and external audits to address violence and misconduct within institutions, aiming to rebuild trust among victims and professionals alike.

Trouw

Mediamakers, promise never to feature an orthomolecular advisor

Science journalist Adriaan ter Braack urges media professionals to stop presenting orthomolecular therapists as experts, labeling their practice pseudoscience. He argues that these individuals, often trained by supplement-linked institutes like the Stichting Ortho Health Foundation, lack scientific rigor and mislead the public. Ter Braack criticizes outlets for giving such figures a platform alongside legitimate specialists, noting that this undermines credible experts in health and nutrition.

Trouw

What is meant by the phrase 'glass, pee, was'?

The Dutch idiom 'glas, plas, was' abbreviates a rhyme criticizing political indecision and lack of action. Originating from 1716–1717 meetings of the Republic of the United Netherlands that yielded no results despite discussing state finances, the phrase appeared in a 1724 satirical poem. It has been recorded in Van Dale since 1914 and serves as a shorthand for bureaucratic inertia. Similar abbreviated expressions exist in Dutch, but this specific cliché remains a longstanding commentary on the failure of leaders to implement concrete measures during periods of crisis or debate.

Trouw

Forgotten Dutch Tapestry Art Receives Its Due at Gouda Museum

The Gouda Museum is highlighting the history of Dutch tapestry art, which was more expensive than paintings in the 17th century. During the restoration of a famous tapestry from the Gouda city hall, it was discovered that a woman led the weaving workshop that produced it.

Trouw

Sleep like a pro

NRC selected an article from The Economist detailing a company’s failed pilot program to improve workforce rest through pre-industrial sleep patterns and tracking devices. The initiative caused cascading disruptions as senior staff emailed late at night, prompting junior employees to wake earlier and reducing overall organizational sleep quality. Technical issues with trackers led to stress and inaccurate data, while physical aids like weighted blankets and masks caused panic attacks or required fire brigade assistance. The trial was ultimately voided after an error instructed volunteers to take excessive doses of magnesium, which acted as a laxative.

NRC

Reader Reactions: My Mother’s Heart Shrinks Reading About Homo-Acceptance

Readers respond to articles on homo-acceptance and religious communities. One writer expresses concern over the difficult climate for LGBTQ+ youth and questions societal condemnation of differences. Another praises the Nijkleaster faith community in Jorwert for its inclusive gatherings and highlights the Christengemeenschap’s children’s services as a source of comfort and love.

Trouw

Relief in Greenland and Denmark over US agreement, but also doubts

President Trump, Danish Prime Minister Frederiksen, and Greenlandic Premier Nielsen signed an agreement in New York to expand the US military presence in Greenland, resolving a conflict marked by Trump's previous annexation threats. While leaders expressed relief and noted strengthened self-determination rights for Greenland, some politicians and residents remain cautious about the lack of prior parliamentary debate and fears that new bases may displace locals.

NOS

VV Noordwijk and VVSB Qualify for KNVB Cup Main Tournament

VV Noordwijk and VVSB have secured their spots in the main tournament of the KNVB Cup after winning their second qualification round matches. VV Noordwijk defeated LAC Frisia 1-0, while VVSB won 1-0 against FC Rijnvogels. The draw for the first round will take place on Friday during the ESPN program De Voetbalkantine, with matches scheduled from October 27 to 29, 2026. ADO Den Haag, Quick Boys, and Rijnsburgse Boys have already qualified for the main stage.

Omroep West

United Airlines Fired Upon After Woman Files Complaint About Masturbating Passenger

A 25-year-old American woman filed a complaint against United Airlines after being seated next to a man who masturbated while staring at her during a flight from Rochester to Newark. Although cabin crew allowed her to stand elsewhere initially, they asked her to return to her seat before landing, and the airline did not report the incident to the police. The woman also reported the matter to the FAA and the FBI, criticizing the crew's lack of intervention compared to their response to other violations.

RTL Nieuws

Earlier — 21 September