27 March 2026
Libya to Begin Pumping Fuel from Damaged Russian Tanker Next Week
Libyan authorities plan to pump fuel from the damaged Russian tanker Arctic Metagaz next week, with around 700 tonnes of diesel and heavy fuel oil remaining aboard. Maritime experts have assessed the vessel as stable with no environmental risk, though its cooling system failure caused liquefied natural gas to vent into the atmosphere.
Malta's Debt Crisis: €2.5 Million Added Every Day Under Abela
Malta's national debt has hit €11.4 billion, with the country accumulating nearly €2.5 million in new debt every day in 2025. Interest payments alone now cost €814,000 daily, and are set to exceed €1 million per day this year. The PN says PM Abela has borrowed more than all previous prime ministers combined.
Three major developers resign from MDA amid claims of internal discord
Three senior developers have resigned from the Malta Developers Association's council, exposing internal tensions within the influential lobby. The departures follow disagreements over a recent association decision, with activist groups suggesting the organisation has long been riven by factionalism and political manoeuvring.
Top Malta Development Association officials resign in significant shake-up
Senior officials have resigned from the Malta Development Association, including the secretary general and two council members. The departures mark significant internal turbulence within Malta's most influential development lobby group.
Malta Reaches Out to North Africa to Bridge Growing Clean Energy Gap
Malta has launched a pre-market consultation to explore importing renewable energy from North Africa, targeting 0.8 terawatt-hours annually to help bridge its significant clean energy gap [1] [2]. With renewable electricity at just 16.2%—the lowest in the EU—and dependence on solar for 97% of renewable generation, the initiative offers a potential solution to baseload supply issues, though it faces challenges including seven-year infrastructure delays and geopolitical security concerns [1]. The government is also pursuing alternative projects including a second interconnector and offshore wind tender as it attempts to meet its 2030 clean energy targets [1].
Archbishop Urges Faithful to 'Transform Suffering into Love' on Our Lady of Sorrows
Archbishop Charles Scicluna celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows with a homily calling the faithful to transform suffering into love. Speaking at Santa Maria di Gesù in Valletta, he prayed for parents grieving children lost to war, overdose, and tragedy, and invited the faithful to learn from Mary's examples of humility, obedience, and service.
Italy Cracks Down on Sephora and LVMH Over Cosmetics Marketing to Minors
Italian authorities have raided Sephora and LVMH premises in an investigation into alleged aggressive marketing of cosmetics to minors. The companies face potential substantial fines as regulators crack down on youth-targeted beauty product campaigns.
Italian Authorities Launch Probe Into Sephora and LVMH Over Marketing to Minors
Italian authorities have raided Sephora and LVMH premises as part of an investigation into allegations the companies pushed cosmetic sales to minors. The firms could face substantial fines if found to have breached consumer protection laws.
Grima highlights integrity concerns amid water polo gambling probe
Sport minister Clifton Grima has highlighted concerns about integrity education in water polo following a gambling probe involving 15 people, including national team players. While acknowledging the sport's recent progress, Grima stressed that more work is needed to educate athletes and officials about integrity issues.
APS Bank's Holy Week Concert Returns with Rossini's Sacred Masterpiece
APS Bank's Holy Week concert returns on 31 March with a performance of Rossini's Petite Messe Solennelle at the Divine Mercy Sanctuary in Naxxar. The concert features soloists and The New Choral Singers, conducted by Michael Laus in collaboration with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra.
European Parliament acts to ban 'nudifier' apps as Malta shows high concern over AI abuse
The European Parliament has voted to ban AI apps that generate non-consensual intimate images, responding to high-profile cases of digital abuse across Europe. Malta shows particular concern, with 79% of Maltese respondents worried about AI-generated fake content. Negotiations between EU institutions will now determine how the ban will be implemented.
Israeli Military at Breaking Point: Chief Warns of 'Collapse' as Forces Stretched Across Multiple Fronts
Israel's military chief has delivered an unprecedented warning that the IDF faces collapse due to a shortage of 15,000 troops stretched across four fronts. The crisis is being exacerbated by political decisions that exempt the ultra-Orthodox community from military service while placing unsustainable pressure on secular Israelis and reservists. Opposition leaders are calling for systemic change in conscription policies.
Libyan man denied bail after arrest in Ħamrun drug trafficking case
A 36-year-old Libyan man arrested in Ħamrun after being observed passing suspected drugs has been denied bail. Police recovered 28 packets of synthetic drugs, a knuckle duster, and cash during a street search, with the majority of additional drugs subsequently found at his Marsa residence [1][2][3].
EU's Fitto in Malta to Drive Cohesion Policy Forward
EU Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto is in Malta to assess the implementation of European cohesion policy and meet with government ministers. His visit includes inspection of major projects including the second electricity interconnector between Malta and Sicily—the largest EU-funded investment in the country—as well as water and heritage initiatives in Gozo.
When Success Feels Like Stress: Malta's Wellbeing Wake-Up Call
Malta's recent Wellbeing Index Project reveals a troubling paradox: despite economic success, islanders are reporting rising stress and mental health concerns. Experts warn that prosperity without wellbeing rings hollow for everyday Maltese people.
Your Voice, Your Malta: This Week's Letters to the Editor
This week's letters to the editor showcase the diversity of Maltese voices speaking out on issues that matter to everyday island life. From community concerns to constructive ideas, readers continue to use the letters page as a platform for genuine public discourse.
Finding Solace: Our Lady of Sorrows Mass Offers Daily Spiritual Refuge
Daily Mass dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows is now available both in-person and online, bringing spiritual comfort to the faithful across Malta and beyond. These devotional services offer a moment of reflection and community prayer for believers seeking solace and guidance.
26 March 2026
Six Athletes Caught in Doping Tests as Anti-Doping Crackdown Intensifies Across Malta
Six regatta rowers have tested positive for banned substances since September as Malta intensifies anti-doping enforcement. Testing has expanded across multiple sports including bocce, swimming and boxing, with 13 positive cases recorded in recent months. Investigations also extend to suspected match-fixing and illegal betting in water polo and other sports.
Orange Alert Issued as Powerful Winds Batter the Islands
An orange weather alert has been issued across Malta as powerful west-northwest winds intensify, with authorities warning of dangerous conditions until at least 23:00 today. Residents are urged to avoid exposed locations like rooftops and balconies, secure loose outdoor items, and exercise caution along coastal areas where rough seas pose significant risks.
Man Accused of Attempted Murder Freed on Bail Despite New Abuse Allegations
A Cospicua man accused of attempting to murder his two stepdaughters has been freed on bail in a separate domestic violence case, despite new allegations of abuse. The court released him under strict conditions including a daily curfew and financial guarantees, though serious questions remain about the safety of those in his home.