Today’s headlines focus on several significant legal and political developments. In Rotterdam, the trial against Sywert van Lienden and his associates regarding a face mask deal begins, while France awaits a verdict in the rape case involving Gisèle Pelicot. Additionally, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers his annual state address, and EU leaders gather to discuss pressing issues including migration and support for Ukraine. Other news includes concerns over electricity network overload in the Netherlands and criminal allegations against a Los Angeles deputy mayor.