As the nitrogen crisis continues to hang over the country like a vaguely threatening cloud, we examine how cutting speed limits became such a hot political potato. A court orders the government to bring home the children of jihadist mothers, while the MH17 takes another twist as prosecutors implicate Russian military commanders. The start of Sinterklaas season triggers the annual tide of rage about Zwarte Piet and GroenLinks leader Jesse Klaver is named the brightest star in the Dutch political firmament. And after a six-year absence from international football tournaments, can the Netherlands seal qualification for Euro 2020 this weekend?

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Ophef of the week: André Hazes says his ‘life has become hell’ since new relationship

Top story

MH17 investigators issue new appeal for witnesses to Russian influence

News

Dutch state has obligation to bring IS children home, but not their mothers

Demonstration by Kick Out Zwarte Piet in The Hague given the go-ahead

GroenLinks leader Klaver flies Dutch flag alone on Time’s Next 100 list

Small changes to health insurance premiums as collective policy discount is slashed

• Should you switch health insurer in 2020? (sponsored feature)

Facebook facing €1m fine over bitcoin ads after media mogul De Mol wins case

Groningen hospital lets dog say last goodbye to dying owner

Gay penguins attempt to hatch pilfered egg

Sport

Preview of Northern Ireland v Netherlands (Uefa.com)

The birthday effect: why winter babies have the best chance of becoming footballers (tussendelinies.nl, Dutch}

Discussion

Daytime speed limits to be cut to 100km to cut nitrogen pollution

Nitrogen pollution plan may not be enough to comply with European law

Mixed reactions for new anti-nitrogen measures

• Catch up with our previous discussions on the farmers’ protests and nitrogen ruling in Week 40 and Week 42.