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Archived edition · July 27, 2026 Today's news →

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Corruption 🏦

New Corruption Allegations Rock Nation, Economic Warnings Issued

Croatia is grappling with significant domestic challenges, including a major embezzlement scandal involving over 1 billion kuna from INA and allegations of a widespread cover-up of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. These high-profile cases are dominating the national news landscape, raising concerns about corruption and institutional integrity.

Economically, the Croatian National Bank is cautioning consumers about the risks associated with the return of variable-rate housing loans. Meanwhile, a critical infrastructure project, the Pelješac Bridge, requires serious renovation due to a network of cracks, highlighting ongoing maintenance needs. The capital city is also seeing political debate over public works, with the Zagreb HDZ criticizing new underground waste bins.

Beyond these pressing issues, the country is preparing for extreme heat, while local football club Dinamo Zagreb is finalizing its squad for European competitions. Smaller incidents include a customs operation, a conviction in a robbery case, and a serious electric scooter accident involving minors. Internationally, Croatian media is following wildfires in France, nuclear concerns, and the conflict in Ukraine.

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Major Corruption and Church Abuse Allegations

Croatia is facing two significant scandals: an indictment for the alleged embezzlement of over 1 billion kuna from the energy company INA, with one suspect missing, and a report suggesting the worst scandal in modern Croatian Catholic Church history, involving a potential cover-up of sexual abuse of minors by the Croatian Bishops' Conference.

Infrastructure Challenges and Political Debates

The Pelješac Bridge requires extensive renovation due to a network of cracks, with work expected to last for months. Separately, the Zagreb branch of the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) has criticized the installation of underground waste containers, comparing it to historical 'political devastations'.

Public Safety Incidents and Extreme Weather

Two minors were seriously injured after falling from an electric scooter in Vrsi, with one fighting for life. Separately, an expert discussed the survivability of falling into the Adriatic Sea. The country is also bracing for extreme heat, with temperatures expected to rise significantly in four regions.

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