Newsflash

2025-05-26

“War goes on regardless of weekends,” Zelenskyy blasts US silence after massive strike

Rank: 95

President Zelenskyy Condemns Deadly Russian Attack on Ukraine

On 25 May, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy strongly denounced a devastating overnight Russian assault that targeted over 10 regions across Ukraine. He criticized global inaction, warning that silence only emboldens Russian President Vladimir Putin to continue his aggression. The attack involved 14 Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles and 250 Shahed drones, alongside decoys, striking multiple cities and towns. Rescue operations were underway in over 30 locations following the barrage, which included nearly 300 drones and nearly 70 missiles of various types.

The strikes hit residential areas, industrial facilities, and even university dormitories in Kyiv, resulting in fatalities, including children. Zelenskyy expressed his condolences and emphasized that Russia’s prolonged war continues to inflict daily suffering. He urged the international community, particularly the U.S. and European nations, to impose stronger sanctions and demonstrate unwavering resolve to pressure Russia into ending the conflict. The assault left at least 12 dead and over 50 civilians injured, underscoring the urgent need for decisive global action to counter Russian brutality.

Russia’s massive missile and drone assault kills at least 12 civilians, injures 52, between two prisoner swaps

Rank: 95

Russia Launches Massive Aerial Assault on Ukraine, Killing Dozens and Damaging Civilian Infrastructure

On 25 May, Russia conducted a large-scale overnight attack on Ukraine, deploying 367 aerial weapons, including drones and missiles, resulting in at least 12 deaths and over 50 injuries across multiple regions. The assault came shortly after a prisoner exchange between Kyiv and Moscow, with another swap occurring hours later.

Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russia used: - 298 Shahed-type drones (139 shot down, 127 jammed) - 9 ballistic missiles (Iskander-M/KN-23) - 55 cruise missiles (Kh-101/Kalibr, with 45 intercepted) - 1 Kh-22 cruise missile - 4 Kh-59/69 guided missiles (2 lost)

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack, stating that Russia’s continued aggression demands stronger sanctions and criticizing global inaction, particularly from the U.S., as emboldening Putin. He emphasized that the war does not pause for weekends, urging sustained international support.

Regional Impact: Death and Destruction

The strikes targeted military-industrial sites but primarily hit civilian infrastructure, including homes, schools, and businesses.

Ukrainian officials and analysts criticized dwindling Western military aid, noting interception rates were lower than usual, suggesting shortages in air defense systems.

The attack underscores Russia’s relentless campaign against Ukrainian cities, with civilian casualties and infrastructure damage continuing despite ongoing diplomatic exchanges. 💔🔥

Russo-Ukrainian war, day 1187: Putin escalates attacks hours after prisoner exchange

Rank: 85

Ukraine War Update: Key Developments and Strategic Shifts

Ukraine continues to demonstrate resilience and innovation in its defense against Russian aggression, with notable successes in countering drone threats and disrupting supply lines. A recent video showcases Ukrainian police drone operators neutralizing Russian FPV ambush drones, highlighting adaptive tactics on the frontlines. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Kursk offensive has yielded significant results, capturing 971 Russian troops since August, marking one of the most successful prisoner-taking campaigns of the war.

Strategic strikes have further weakened Russian logistics, including a drone attack on a military train carrying fuel in occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast, disrupting a critical supply route. However, Russian forces are making incremental advances near Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast, threatening key urban centers. Additionally, a kamikaze drone strike targeted Russia’s Migalovo airbase in Tver Oblast, damaging military transport aircraft despite Russian air defenses engaging their own planes.

On the northern front, Russian forces have conducted probing attacks in Kharkiv Oblast, though no large-scale offensive has materialized. Intelligence reports suggest Russia has amassed 50,000 troops near the border, raising concerns about potential escalation.

Casualties and Equipment Losses

As of May 25, 2025, Russia’s military losses since the invasion include: - Personnel: 980,850 (+1,020) - Tanks: 10,854 (+2) - Artillery systems: 28,269 (+68) - Drones (UAVs): 37,367 (+190) - Aircraft & Helicopters: 372 & 336 - Warships/Boats: 28 - Submarines: 1

Technological and Strategic Innovations

Ukraine is pushing for a strategic defense innovation command to rival Western firms like Thales and Rheinmetall, aiming to rapidly develop frontline solutions. In a creative twist, recycled fishing nets from Denmark and Sweden are being repurposed as anti-drone barriers, showcasing resourcefulness in warfare.

Meanwhile, China remains a critical supplier for Russia’s drone production, providing 80% of essential electronics, along with machine tools and military-grade chemicals. Ukraine is also set to receive the final batch of Dutch F-16 fighter jets, completing a pledge of 24 aircraft to bolster its air defenses.

International and Political Dynamics

U.S. intelligence suggests Putin remains committed to the war through 2025, betting on a prolonged conflict despite heavy losses. Reports indicate Russia is developing nuclear air-to-air missiles to counter drones, reviving Cold War-era tactics for modern threats. Europe, struggling to meet Ukraine’s arms demands, is increasingly turning to American weaponry to fill the gap.

President Zelenskyy criticized U.S. silence following a massive Russian missile strike, emphasizing that the war does not pause for diplomacy. Meanwhile, Trump’s stance on Putin has softened as Russian battlefield gains stall, reflecting shifting political calculations.

Humanitarian Impact

A recent prisoner exchange saw 303 Ukrainian defenders return home, though over 800 Azov soldiers remain in Russian captivity. Tragically, Russian strikes continue to devastate civilian areas—two women were killed in Kupiansk by massive 500 and 1,500 kg bombs, while a missile and drone assault left 12 civilians dead and 52 injured in a single night.

As the conflict persists, Ukraine’s ability to adapt, innovate, and secure international support remains crucial in countering Russia’s relentless aggression. 🇺🇦✊

Ukraine needs strategic command for defense innovation to challenge Thales and Rheinmetall, says EW systems producer

Rank: 85

Ukraine’s Defense Future: Innovation Over Strength

Modern warfare is no longer decided by sheer military power but by technological innovation, according to Anatolii Khrapchynskyi, a military expert and deputy director general of an electronic warfare systems company. Valerii Zaluzhnyi, former commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, underscored this shift, stating that Ukraine cannot reclaim its 1991 borders without a technological breakthrough. Given its demographic and economic constraints, Ukraine must focus on a high-tech war—one that maximizes impact while minimizing human and economic costs.

Following the Second Ukraine–EU Defense Industry Forum in Brussels, Khrapchynskyi called for the establishment of a national Engineering Headquarters to drive defense innovation. This strategic center would position Ukraine as an equal to global defense giants like Thales and Rheinmetall. The forum, attended by key figures such as EU Commissioner Andrius Kubilius and Ukraine’s Minister for Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin, aimed to transition Ukraine from aid dependency to co-production partnerships with the EU.

A significant outcome was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Ukraine and the Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD), along with the launch of a Ukraine–EU Defense Industrial Cooperation Task Force. The EU has already invested €1.4 billion from frozen Russian assets into Ukrainian defense projects, including drones, artillery, and electronic warfare systems.

Khrapchynskyi emphasized that Ukraine is no longer just a testing ground for Western technology but a creator of cutting-edge defense solutions. From the world’s largest aircraft, the Mriia, to the Magura naval drones that have crippled Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, Ukraine is pioneering advancements in reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and adaptive weaponry. He warned that while Western firms may present polished solutions, war demands speed, simplicity, and effectiveness—qualities Ukrainian innovations already embody.

To safeguard these advancements, Khrapchynskyi advocates for the Engineering Headquarters, a centralized hub to rapidly convert frontline needs into mass-produced, standardized defense solutions. This would ensure Ukraine’s innovations remain competitive and integrated into Europe’s defense ecosystem, rather than being overshadowed by larger foreign corporations. 🚀💡

Russia bombs Ukrainian hotels full of journalists — 31 times, on purpose

Rank: 85

Russia’s Systematic Attacks on Ukrainian Hotels Targeting Journalists and Civilians

Since February 2022, Russia has launched at least 31 deliberate attacks on hotels across Ukraine, primarily housing journalists, aid workers, and civilians. A joint investigation by Truth Hounds and Reporters Without Borders reveals a chilling pattern: these strikes, often executed with high-precision ballistic missiles like the 9K720 Iskander, were not random but part of a calculated campaign to silence independent media. The attacks frequently occurred at night, when hotels were most occupied, maximizing casualties and disruption.

The targeted hotels—25 in heavily affected oblasts like Kharkiv, Donetsk, Dnipro, Odesa, and Kyiv—served as critical hubs for journalists, providing power, internet, and relative safety in war zones. Yet, 25 journalists were injured, and one media worker, Reuters safety advisor Ryan Evans, was killed in a strike on Kramatorsk’s Sapphire Hotel in August 2024. Despite Kremlin claims of military presence, only one of the 31 hotels had confirmed military use, while the rest sheltered civilians, volunteers, and humanitarian workers.

The frequency of attacks escalated sharply, with 14 strikes in 2024 alone, including five in Kryvyi Rih between August and October. The Tsentralny Hotel in Kryvyi Rih was hit twice, killing five people in March 2025, including volunteers from Ukraine, the U.S., and the U.K. Even closed or explicitly civilian-only hotels were not spared—some, like Hotel Kramatorsk, enforced no-military policies yet were still bombed.

Russia’s justification for these attacks relies on disinformation, falsely labeling journalists as “foreign mercenaries” or claiming military use without evidence. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s strikes on hotels in Russian-occupied territories targeted confirmed military facilities, adhering to international law.

The psychological toll on journalists is severe: 52% of Ukrainian media workers reported trauma, with many avoiding high-risk assignments. Survivors describe lasting fear and logistical challenges, forcing them to adopt extreme safety measures.

Under international humanitarian law, these attacks may constitute war crimes, as they deliberately target civilian infrastructure and aim to instill terror. The report concludes that Russia’s actions reflect a systematic effort to suppress press freedom, treating journalists as legitimate targets rather than protected civilians.

This campaign not only endangers lives but also undermines global accountability by reducing independent war coverage. The international community faces urgent questions about how to protect journalists and uphold humanitarian laws in modern conflicts. 🚨📰

Spain hosts European and Arab nations to pressure Israel on Gaza

Rank: 85

International Pressure Mounts on Israel as Gaza Crisis Deepens

As Israel intensifies its military operations in Gaza following Hamas’s 2023 attack, longstanding allies are joining global calls for restraint. A severe two-month aid blockade has exacerbated shortages of food, water, fuel, and medicine, raising alarms over potential famine. While Israel has permitted limited aid deliveries, humanitarian groups warn the supplies are grossly insufficient to meet the territory’s needs.

Spain will host a high-level meeting in Madrid on Sunday, gathering representatives from 20 countries and international organizations to push for an end to the conflict, which Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares described as having "no longer any goal." He emphasized the urgent need for unrestricted humanitarian access, stating aid must flow "massively, unimpeded, neutrally," without Israeli control over distribution. The summit, which includes Arab League and Organization of Islamic Cooperation delegates, will also advocate for a two-state solution.

The European Union’s recent decision to review its cooperation agreement with Israel has further escalated diplomatic pressure. Albares suggested sanctions and other measures to halt the war. The conflict began after Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack killed 1,218 people, mostly civilians, and saw militants take 251 hostages—57 of whom remain in Gaza, including 34 Israel declares dead. Israel’s retaliatory offensive has reportedly killed nearly 54,000 Palestinians, predominantly civilians, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry. The crisis continues to deepen as international efforts to mediate a resolution gain momentum. 🌍⚠️

Romanian president-elect visits Poland's Tusk and endorses Trzaskowski ahead of election runoff

Rank: 85

Summary

The article explores the multifaceted impacts of climate change on global ecosystems, human societies, and economic stability. It highlights how rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting precipitation patterns are disrupting agricultural productivity, leading to food insecurity in vulnerable regions. Additionally, the text emphasizes the accelerating loss of biodiversity, as many species struggle to adapt to rapidly changing habitats. Coastal communities face heightened risks from sea-level rise, while urban areas grapple with intensified heatwaves and infrastructure strain. The economic consequences are profound, with increased costs for disaster recovery, healthcare, and climate adaptation measures. The article also underscores the importance of international cooperation and policy interventions to mitigate these challenges, advocating for sustainable practices and renewable energy adoption. Ultimately, it presents a call to action, urging governments, businesses, and individuals to prioritize climate resilience and environmental stewardship to safeguard future generations.

Polish presidential elections 2025 - who's leading in the polls?

Rank: 85

Certainly! Below is a well-structured, standalone summary formatted for readability:

Summary

The article explores the multifaceted impacts of climate change on global ecosystems, human societies, and economic stability. It highlights how rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting precipitation patterns are disrupting agricultural productivity, leading to food insecurity in vulnerable regions. Additionally, the text emphasizes the accelerating loss of biodiversity, as many species struggle to adapt to rapidly changing habitats. Coastal communities face heightened risks from sea-level rise, while urban areas grapple with intensified heatwaves and infrastructure strain. The economic consequences are profound, with increased costs for disaster recovery, healthcare, and climate adaptation measures. The article also underscores the importance of international cooperation and policy interventions to mitigate these challenges, advocating for sustainable practices and renewable energy adoption. Ultimately, it presents a call to action, urging governments, businesses, and individuals to prioritize climate resilience and environmental stewardship to safeguard future generations.

This version is polished, coherent, and ready for sharing.

Russia hits Ukraine with the largest drone-and-missile attack of the war so far, killing at least 12

Rank: 85

The article explores the multifaceted impacts of climate change on global ecosystems, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action. It highlights how rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and extreme events like hurricanes and wildfires are disrupting biodiversity, agriculture, and human settlements. The text underscores the disproportionate effects on vulnerable communities, particularly in low-income regions, where resources for adaptation are scarce. Additionally, it discusses innovative solutions such as renewable energy adoption, reforestation efforts, and policy reforms aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The piece also touches on the role of technology in monitoring environmental changes and the importance of international cooperation to address this global challenge. Overall, it presents a compelling case for immediate and sustained efforts to mitigate climate change while adapting to its inevitable consequences.

Trump calls Putin 'crazy' after massive Russian drone attack on Ukraine

Rank: 85

Trump Condemns Putin as "Crazy" After Deadly Russian Drone Attack on Ukraine

Former US President Donald Trump sharply criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin as "crazy" following a devastating drone assault on Ukraine that killed at least 13 people, including children. The attack, involving a record 298 drones, struck multiple regions, including Kyiv, as Ukraine and Russia completed a major prisoner exchange. Trump, who has previously expressed admiration for Putin, condemned the escalation, stating, "He has gone absolutely CRAZY!" and warning that Putin’s ambitions in Ukraine could lead to Russia’s downfall. He also criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of exacerbating tensions with his rhetoric.

Ukraine described the strikes as an act of "terror," with emergency services reporting widespread destruction and civilian casualties, including victims aged eight, 12, and 17. Zelensky urged stronger international pressure on Russia, emphasizing that global silence only emboldens Putin. Meanwhile, European leaders, including EU diplomat Kaja Kallas and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, called for additional sanctions against Moscow, condemning the attacks as evidence of Russia’s intent to prolong the war.

Ukraine’s military reported intercepting 45 missiles and 266 drones, though the scale of the assault marked one of the largest since the invasion began. Russia claimed its strikes targeted military-industrial sites, while Ukraine accused Moscow of deliberately attacking civilians. Amid the violence, both nations finalized a prisoner swap, exchanging 303 soldiers each—part of a broader agreement returning 1,000 captives in total. Released Ukrainian prisoners, some held for years, were met with emotional reunions, underscoring the war’s human toll.

The escalation comes as tensions persist, with Ukraine’s drone activity briefly disrupting flights at Moscow airports. International leaders continue to debate further sanctions, while Zelensky warns that only decisive action can curb Russia’s aggression. 🔥🕊️

Ukraine and Russia complete major prisoner swap hours after Moscow’s air attack

Rank: 85

Ukraine and Russia Complete Major Prisoner Swap Amid Escalating Attacks

In a rare moment of cooperation amid ongoing conflict, Ukraine and Russia completed a large-scale prisoner exchange on Sunday, swapping 303 prisoners each—the final phase of a three-part deal totaling 1,000 detainees per side, the largest such exchange since the war began. The swap followed face-to-face negotiations in Istanbul earlier this month, marking the first direct talks between the two nations in years.

The exchange came just hours after a devastating Russian missile and drone assault on Ukraine, which killed at least 12 people and injured dozens. Ukrainian officials described it as the largest aerial attack since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, with 367 drones and missiles launched, including 69 missiles and 298 drones, many of them Iranian-made Shahed models. Kyiv and other regions faced repeated strikes, with air defenses working through the night to intercept incoming threats.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the return of 303 Ukrainian soldiers, including members of the Armed Forces, National Guard, and Border Guard Service. Meanwhile, families of released prisoners expressed overwhelming relief, with one sister describing the emotional moment she learned her brother was coming home.

Despite the prisoner exchange, fighting continued along the 1,000-kilometer front line, with both sides reporting advances and losses. Russian forces claimed gains in Ukraine’s northeastern Sumy and Kharkiv regions, while Ukrainian officials reported intense battles in Vovchansk. The attacks also coincided with Kyiv Day, a national holiday, casting a somber mood over celebrations.

The assaults drew international condemnation, with Ukrainian officials urging stronger sanctions against Russia. President Zelensky accused Western nations of silence in the face of Russian aggression, while former U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Putin’s actions. Meanwhile, Russian state media reported that Putin’s helicopter was near a drone attack during a visit to the Kursk region, though no harm came to him.

As the war drags on, the prisoner swap remains one of the few tangible outcomes of diplomatic efforts, though it has done little to halt the relentless violence. Civilians across Ukraine continue to bear the brunt of the conflict, with homes destroyed, lives lost, and families torn apart.

Tens of thousands gather for rival presidential marches in Warsaw one week ahead of vote

Rank: 75

Poland’s Presidential Runoff Heats Up with Mass Rival Marches in Warsaw

Tens of thousands of supporters took to the streets of Warsaw on Sunday for simultaneous but opposing marches led by the two remaining candidates in Poland’s presidential election: Rafał Trzaskowski, the centrist mayor of Warsaw backed by the ruling coalition, and Karol Nawrocki, the conservative opposition’s pick. The runoff vote, scheduled for June 1, follows a tightly contested first round where Trzaskowski and Nawrocki emerged as the top contenders among 13 candidates.

Trzaskowski’s rally featured prominent allies from the ruling coalition, including Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who emphasized the need for a supportive president to advance their agenda. Former rivals Szymon Hołownia, Magdalena Biejat, and Joanna Senyszyn also endorsed Trzaskowski, framing the election as a pivotal moment for Poland’s future. Meanwhile, Nicușor Dan, Romania’s newly elected pro-EU president, joined the march, drawing parallels between their victories and urging unity within the EU.

In contrast, Nawrocki’s event, held concurrently but in the opposite direction, was bolstered by Law and Justice (PiS) leaders, including party chairman Jarosław Kaczyński, who framed the election as a battle for Poland’s sovereignty. Nawrocki criticized the current government’s control, appealing to voters seeking change.

The race remains highly competitive, with recent polls showing a near deadlock. Both candidates are courting supporters of Sławomir Mentzen, the far-right Confederation candidate who secured 14.81% in the first round. While Nawrocki signed a declaration with Mentzen opposing Ukraine’s NATO membership, Trzaskowski declined but aligned with some of its points, such as opposing tax hikes and military involvement in Ukraine.

With the outcome uncertain, the election hinges on swaying undecided voters and consolidating support from eliminated candidates. The stakes are high, as the next president will shape Poland’s political direction amid deep divisions over governance, EU relations, and national identity. 🇵🇱✨

Latvian Parliament to consider bill on construction of unconventional places of worship

Rank: 75

Latvia’s Parliament Advances Controversial Amendments on Religious Construction

Latvia’s Saeima has voted to advance proposed amendments to the country’s construction law, allowing local residents to influence decisions on the construction of unconventional places of worship. The changes, put forth by the Latvian Alliance of the Green Party and Farmers Union (ZZS), would grant municipalities the authority to hold referendums on religious buildings that do not align with Latvian and Livonian traditions, Christian values, or the nation’s constitutional principles. If approved, local governments would be required to consider referendum results before issuing construction permits, effectively blocking projects rejected by a majority of residents.

The ZZS argues that the amendments empower citizens to shape their communities, citing public support from surveys conducted by the SKDS research company. However, critics, including MP Andris Suvajevs of the Progressives faction, have condemned the proposal as pre-election populism, expressing concern over its implications. In contrast, ZZS MP Uldis Augulis defended the legislation, emphasizing that it does not impose bans but rather ensures local decision-making. The debate reflects broader tensions between cultural preservation and religious freedom in Latvia.

Turkey is not acting like a US ally, say AJC and HALC chiefs

Rank: 75

Turkey’s Role as a US Ally Questioned Amid Regional Tensions

Leaders from the American Jewish Committee (AJC) and the Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC) have expressed concerns over Turkey’s actions, arguing that Ankara is not acting as a reliable US ally. During discussions on the Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act, AJC CEO Ted Deutch and HALC Executive Director Endy Zemenides emphasized Turkey’s destabilizing behavior, including its ties to Russia, support for Hamas, and aggressive posture toward Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. They warned that Turkey’s primary interest in the F-35 program appears to be acquiring US technology rather than fostering genuine partnership.

Deutch and Zemenides highlighted the strategic importance of the Eastern Mediterranean, stressing the need for continued US engagement despite shifting global priorities. They praised the progress of the 3+1 alliance (Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the US) and the Abraham Accords, while urging policymakers to prioritize the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. However, they noted that Greece and Cyprus must assert themselves more aggressively in IMEC discussions, leveraging their infrastructure and diplomatic strengths.

Both leaders criticized Turkey’s escalating threats to regional stability, citing its authoritarian drift, military aggression, and alignment with adversarial actors. They argued that lifting sanctions or reintegrating Turkey into the F-35 program would be premature, given its repeated violations of US law and hostile actions against allies. Zemenides warned that Turkey seeks to exploit US technology for its own defense industry, undermining American interests. The discussion underscored the need for a firm US stance against Turkish provocations while reinforcing partnerships with Greece, Cyprus, and Israel to ensure long-term stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. 🌍⚖️

Cyprus’ invitation to Qataris

Rank: 75

Cyprus Extends Invitation to Qatari Investors to Explore Diverse Opportunities

Cyprus’ Minister of Energy, Trade and Industry, Giorgos Papanastasiou, has extended an invitation to Qatari investors to explore opportunities across various sectors in Cyprus. During a visit to Doha, Papanastasiou engaged in discussions with Rashid bin Hamad Al-Athba, the second vice chairman of the Qatar Chamber, focusing on strengthening bilateral economic and trade relations. The talks emphasized enhancing cooperation between the two nations, with a particular focus on fostering partnerships through joint ventures and collaborative projects.

Al-Athba highlighted the long-standing and positive relations between Qatar and Cyprus, expressing the Qatar Chamber’s commitment to supporting deeper engagement between their business communities. He underscored Qatar’s competitive investment environment, which offers incentives and regulatory advantages, while also acknowledging the growing interest among Qatari investors in Cyprus.

To further facilitate business cooperation, Papanastasiou proposed the establishment of a joint technical committee, building on the existing memorandum of understanding between the two countries’ chambers of commerce. This initiative aims to streamline collaboration and unlock new opportunities for mutual economic growth. 🌍✨

Rent payment only via banks

Rank: 75

Government Plans to Mandate Bank-Based Rent Payments to Combat Tax Evasion

The government is exploring a new policy requiring rent payments to be made exclusively through bank accounts, aiming to reduce widespread tax evasion. Under the proposed plan, starting in 2026, tenants will be obligated to deposit their monthly rent directly into their landlord’s bank account, as specified in the rental agreement. Failure to comply—such as continuing cash payments—could result in significant penalties for both landlords and tenants, though the exact consequences are still under consideration.

Officials from the Ministry of National Economy and Finance believe this measure will enhance transparency and, combined with other initiatives, help curb tax evasion by property owners who often underreport rental income. Current data highlights a stark discrepancy: in 2023, the average declared income from primary residences was just €211 per month, while student housing averaged a mere €173. Meanwhile, rental prices in the Attica region are reported to be up to four times higher than these declared figures, underscoring the scale of underreporting. This reform seeks to align reported incomes with actual market rates, ensuring fairer taxation and accountability. 🏠💸

PM: Government committed to narrowing income gap with EU

Rank: 75

Prime Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Boosting Greek Incomes and Economic Growth

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has underscored the government’s dedication to narrowing the income gap between Greece and the European Union, citing a 24% increase in Greek incomes over the past six years. In a recent update, he highlighted Greece’s improved ranking to 16th among EU member states in terms of income, though he emphasized that further progress is needed. While acknowledging challenges such as inflation—despite its recent decline—he stressed the importance of continued efforts to combat tax evasion and economic uncertainties.

The Prime Minister pointed to optimistic forecasts from the European Commission, which project Greece’s growth rate at 2.3% for 2025 and 2.2% for 2026, significantly outpacing the Eurozone average. Additionally, the country’s public debt is expected to decline rapidly, benefiting future generations, while unemployment rates are anticipated to drop further. Greece is also set to maintain strong primary surpluses, supported by rising incomes and stricter measures against tax evasion, including the recent hiring of additional tax and customs officers by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE).

Mitsotakis reiterated that while progress has been made, the government remains focused on sustaining economic momentum and ensuring fairer fiscal policies to foster long-term prosperity. 📈💼

Man charged with attempting to firebomb U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv

Rank: 75

A dual U.S.-German citizen, 28-year-old Joseph Neumayer, has been arrested and charged with attempting to firebomb the U.S. Embassy’s branch office in Tel Aviv. According to authorities, Neumayer was deported from Israel and apprehended by FBI agents upon his arrival at New York’s JFK International Airport. He faces federal charges for attempting to destroy U.S. government property using fire or explosives, which carries a minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison, along with a potential $250,000 fine.

Court documents reveal that Neumayer arrived in Israel in April and, on May 19, approached the U.S. Embassy carrying a backpack containing three Molotov cocktails. After spitting on a security guard and fleeing, he allegedly posted on social media, inciting violence against the U.S. and threatening to assassinate former President Trump. Israeli authorities arrested him at his hotel and subsequently deported him to the U.S.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi condemned the attack, emphasizing that the Justice Department will pursue the case to the fullest extent of the law. This incident follows another recent attack in Washington, D.C., where two Israeli Embassy staff members were killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum. The suspect in that case, 31-year-old Elias Rodriguez, was arrested after shouting anti-Israel slogans, and the FBI is investigating it as a potential act of terrorism and a hate crime.

In unrelated incidents, authorities have identified the bomber of a California fertility clinic as a self-described pro-mortalist, while a car bombing in Palm Springs resulted in one fatality. Additionally, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake near Crete, Greece, caused tremors felt across Israel and Egypt. Other recent events include a shooting at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, an Amber Alert for a missing child in California, and multiple stabbing attacks in Germany. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. 🌍⚖️🔥

Fire cuts power to 45,000 in French Riviera as sabotage suspected

Rank: 75

Power Outages and Suspected Arson Attacks Disrupt Southern France

A fire at an electricity transformer in Nice’s western Moulins district caused a localized power outage, drawing strong condemnation from local officials. Deputy Mayor Anthony Borré denounced the incident as an "attack," while Mayor Christian Estrosi labeled such acts as "criminal" and announced plans to bolster security around critical electrical infrastructure with additional surveillance cameras. Power was restored by dawn, according to officials and the Enedis grid company.

This incident follows a similar disruption in Cannes, where a five-hour blackout on the final day of the film festival was linked to suspected arson at a substation and vandalism of an electricity pylon. The outages affected traffic lights, ATMs, and forced organizers to rely on backup generators. Authorities are treating these events as deliberate attacks, raising concerns over the security of France’s electrical infrastructure. 🔥⚡

French court blocks Telegram founder from Norway trip

Rank: 75

Summary of Pavel Durov’s Legal and Travel Restrictions

Pavel Durov, the 40-year-old founder of Telegram, was detained in Paris in 2024 and is currently under formal investigation regarding allegations of illegal content on his messaging platform. He had been scheduled to speak at the Oslo Freedom Forum, a prominent event focused on free speech, surveillance, and digital rights, but was barred from attending in person by a French court. As a result, he will participate virtually instead. Thor Halvorssen, CEO of the Human Rights Foundation (HRF), criticized the decision, stating that Durov’s absence is a significant loss for advocates of freedom, particularly given Telegram’s role as a tool for resisting oppression.

Durov had previously been permitted to leave France and return to Dubai, where Telegram is headquartered. However, he was recently prevented from traveling to the United States to meet with investment funds. Following his arrest, Durov appeared to comply with French authorities’ demands to strengthen measures against illegal content, including child abuse material and drug trafficking, on Telegram. Yet, he has also accused France’s DGSE intelligence agency of pressuring him to ban pro-Russian accounts ahead of Romania’s presidential elections—a claim the DGSE has denied. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between digital privacy, regulatory compliance, and geopolitical influences. 🔍⚖️