Here are five things you should know at the end of this week:
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Shared values and diplomacy – President Stubb’s visit to Luxembourg underscored the close relationship between the two countries, rooted in shared support for international institutions, rules, and norms. Stubb praised Luxembourg as a ‘beacon of stability’ in Europe and emphasised the importance of small states working together through the EU, NATO, and the United Nations. Meetings with Prime Minister Luc Frieden and other officials focused on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing current European challenges.
Technology and space co-operation – A major theme of the visit was the potential for deeper collaboration in technology, especially in space and quantum computing. Stubb toured the University of Luxembourg and SES headquarters, highlighting opportunities for Finnish and Luxembourgish businesses to work together in satellite technology and space industries. Both countries see agility and innovation as key advantages, with Stubb joking about aiming for ‘space domination’ through joint efforts.
Geopolitics and sanctions – Stubb addressed the impact of global conflicts and the need for robust multilateralism, warning about the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence. He backed Luxembourg’s position on the removal of Russian oligarch Mikhail Fridman from the EU sanctions list, framing it as part of a pragmatic approach rather than war weariness. Both Stubb and Frieden reaffirmed Europe’s commitment to maintaining pressure on Russia while leaving space for diplomacy.
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Ceremony marks leadership change – A formal change of command ceremony was held in Mersch Park, where General Steve Thull officially transferred leadership to General Claude Robinet. The event was attended by military, political, and civil society representatives, as well as the public. The ceremony included military music, troop formations, and personal speeches, marking the end of Thull’s 39-year career and the beginning of Robinet’s tenure.
Thull’s legacy and reflections – General Thull’s six years as chief were characterised by significant modernisation, including the creation of a binational combat battalion with Belgium and the introduction of drones. In his farewell speech, Thull expressed gratitude to his family and colleagues, highlighting the privilege of working with dedicated personnel. He noted the emotional difficulty of leaving the role and wished the Army continued success in safeguarding Luxembourg.
Robinet’s vision and challenges – General Robinet outlined his priorities under the motto 'Let’s Do It Army', focusing on diversity, operational readiness, integrity, and technology. He emphasised the need to integrate new technologies and adapt to evolving security threats, referencing the ongoing war in Europe. Minister of Defence Yuriko Backes stressed the importance of adequate funding and recruitment to support the Army’s transformation under Robinet’s leadership.
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Land prices see sharp correction – After more than a decade of steep increases, Luxembourg’s residential land market experienced a significant correction, with prices falling by 14.9% between 2022 and 2024. The drop was most pronounced in 2024, when prices fell by 10%. By 2025, the decline had largely halted, with only a marginal decrease, signalling a stabilisation of the market after years of rapid growth.
Housing and rental trends – While new flat prices have fallen by more than 10% over the past year, rents continue to rise across all regions. The south of Luxembourg saw the steepest rent increase at 11.6%, while the centre experienced a more modest 3.5% rise. Despite some price drops for new properties, overall housing remains expensive, with existing home prices holding steady or edging up.
Profile of Luxembourg landlords – A Ministry of Housing report reveals that most landlords in Luxembourg are older, wealthier, and often Luxembourgish, with many having benefitted from substantial inheritances. Landlords’ average gross wealth is 3.6 times higher than non-landlords, and they typically earn significantly more. This concentration of property wealth highlights ongoing challenges in making housing more accessible and affordable for the wider population.
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Call for European unity – During his historic trip to Metz, Pope Leo XIV urged Europe to break the cycle of 'lies and deceit' and to rediscover the courage of its founders. Addressing leaders and crowds, he highlighted the need for patient dialogue, compromise, and respect for others, especially as nationalist movements gain ground and Europe faces challenges from war and migration.
Crowds and local excitement – The papal visit drew thousands to Metz, with visitors queuing for official souvenirs and locals expressing pride in their city’s moment in the spotlight. The atmosphere was described as joyful and cosmopolitan, with people travelling from neighbouring countries and beyond. The event was marked by a popemobile procession, a mass at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and a strong sense of community.
Broader messages and debates – Pope Leo XIV used his visit to address broader issues, warning about the ethical risks of artificial intelligence and reaffirming his opposition to assisted dying as a moral, not political, stance. He also acknowledged the Church’s responsibility in the wake of abuse scandals. The visit, closely watched ahead of French elections, was seen as both spiritual and political, sparking debate and reflection across France and Europe.
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Mid-air struggle averts disaster – A dramatic mid-air struggle unfolded when the co-pilot of a flydubai flight allegedly stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the aircraft. Passengers and an off-duty crew member intervened, regaining control as the plane lost around 17,000 feet of altitude. The flight, carrying 174 people – most of them Israeli citizens – was diverted for an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, where all passengers disembarked safely.
Hero pilot praised worldwide – Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, despite being wounded, managed to open the cockpit and allow passengers to subdue the attacker. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi both hailed Machchhar's bravery, with Modi calling him a 'HERO.' Five Israeli passengers who helped overpower the co-pilot are set to receive civilian honours. The incident has sparked national pride in Israel, with many drawing parallels to past acts of collective heroism.
Investigation and wider impact – The United Arab Emirates has launched an investigation into the incident, considering possible terrorist motives. Israeli officials have labelled it an attempted terrorist attack, though mental health factors have not been ruled out. Flydubai has suspended flights to Israel pending the outcome. The event has prompted calls for greater cooperation between Israel and the UAE against extremist threats and has shifted public focus in Israel ahead of upcoming elections.
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Your Weekly Recap is published every Friday at noon.
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