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Speaker resumes party talks as bridge collapse cuts off E45

Parliamentary speaker Andreas Norlén has begun a new round of meetings with party leaders to find a government. Magdalena Andersson has admitted her current attempt to form a coalition is at a standstill, while the caretaker prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, says he is open to cooperating with the Centre Party. He also noted he is not particularly worried about the prospect of a new election.

The Strömsund bridge on the E45 is expected to remain closed for at least a month after a truck strike caused the structure to collapse. Authorities have suggested water-based transport as an alternative while repairs are carried out. Meanwhile, a court is due to deliver its verdict today on the Tjörn boat accident; the prosecutor is seeking prison time for the captain and pilot following the release of a recording from inside the vessel seven minutes after the crash.

The Sweden Democrats have launched an initiative to block a planned increase in gasoline taxes. The move follows an admission from the party’s Björn Söder that mistakes were made during the recent election, a rare departure from the party's habit of looking elsewhere for blame. Separately, a commission has concluded that the state should apologize to the Sami people for historical abuses which the chairman described as a disgusting part of national history.

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Government Formation Stalemate Continues

Magdalena Andersson, leader of the Social Democratic Party and Leader of the Opposition, has declared that she cannot form a government, leading Speaker Andreas Norlén to initiate a new round of meetings with party leaders to resolve the political deadlock. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, who leads a caretaker government, has stated he is not worried about a new election and is open to cooperation with the Centre Party under certain conditions.

Bridge Collapse Closes E45 Highway

The Strömsund bridge on the E45 highway has collapsed after being damaged by a truck, leading to its closure for at least one month. Traffic authorities are suggesting alternative transport routes, including over water, due to the severe damage requiring extensive repairs.

Sweden Democrats Seek to Block Gasoline Tax Hike

The Sweden Democrats party is actively working to prevent a proposed increase in the gasoline tax. This initiative comes as Björn Söder, a Member of the Riksdag for the Sweden Democrats, has publicly acknowledged party mistakes following their recent election setback.

Subway Project Stalled, Needs More Funding

The ongoing subway project in the region has reached a standstill, necessitating a request for additional funds due to a loss of control over the project's finances and progress.

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