Newsflash

Hungary and Slovakia expand Russian fuel use while EU cuts imports

Hungary and Slovakia remain heavily dependent on Russian oil, gas, and nuclear fuel, despite possessing the technical and economic means to diversify their energy sources. A joint report by the Centre for the Study of Democracy and the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air reveals that both countries have exploited EU sanctions exemptions to deepen ties with Russian suppliers, undermining EU unity and energy security. Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Hungary and Slovakia have not reduced their imports of Russian oil and gas. In fact, Hungary increased its reliance on Russian crude from 61% in 2021 to 86% in 2024, while Slovakia's dependence remained at nearly 87%. These imports have generated approximately €5.4 billion in tax revenue for the Kremlin, which could theoretically fund the production of 1,800 Iskander-M missiles used to target Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian areas.

The report highlights the central role of Hungarian oil and gas company MOL, which owns the only refineries in both Hungary and Slovakia. MOL's strategic decisions on crude origin determine national energy sourcing, and the company has profited significantly from processing discounted Russian crude. Despite securing contracts for non-Russian oil via the Adria pipeline, MOL has continued to rely on Russian supplies, contributing to Hungary's strained budget through a windfall tax. The report also exposes intermediary networks, such as Normeston Trading SA, which have facilitated massive markups on Russian oil imports, skimming profits outside the scope of EU oversight.

In the nuclear sector, both countries continue to receive large volumes of fuel from Rosatom, despite signing deals with US and French suppliers. The Paks II nuclear project in Hungary, led by Rosatom and financed through a Russian loan, is flagged as a long-term strategic risk that locks Hungary into Russian influence for decades. The report concludes that continued exemptions and reliance on Russian energy sources serve no technical or economic rationale and must be ended to protect European energy security, reduce Kremlin revenues, and restore EU sanctions integrity. The EU is urged to terminate crude oil import exemptions, end loopholes allowing oil product exports derived from Russian crude, and impose full traceability of oil and gas origin. Additionally, the report recommends investigating MOL's role in prolonging dependency and sanctioning Rosatom and its subsidiaries to reduce nuclear dependence. 🇷🇺💥💸

Drones hit alleged Russian military positions in Kursk amid threats of new offensive from this direction

On the night of May 31, drones struck multiple locations in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, near the Ukrainian border, with reports suggesting that the attacks targeted Russian military positions. The strikes hit the city of Rylsk and the Lgov district, causing fires and injuries. Acting Kursk governor Alexander Khinshtein reported that residential areas were affected, including apartment buildings in Rylsk and structures in the village of Artakovo, resulting in 14 injuries. However, Russian media outlet Pepel and Ukrainian open-source intelligence (OSINT) sources indicated that the drones specifically targeted locations housing Russian soldiers. This incident follows Ukraine's August 2024 incursion into Kursk Oblast, which aimed to create a buffer zone and divert Russian resources. Since then, Russian forces, bolstered by North Korean troops, have largely regained control of the region. Ukrainian authorities have not yet commented on the recent drone strikes. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

US senators roll into Kyiv with a plan to make Russian oil 500% more expensive

In a show of bipartisan support for Ukraine, U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R–SC) and Richard Blumenthal (D–CT) met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv. The senators, who are co-authors of a bipartisan bill, discussed significant new sanctions on Russia, including 500% tariffs on countries importing Russian oil, gas, and other critical resources. Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for their efforts, noting Russia's disregard for diplomacy and ongoing military preparations. The senators emphasized the bill's intent to penalize buyers of Russian energy, with Senator Blumenthal specifically mentioning China and India. Senator Graham highlighted the bill's broad support, with backing from 82 U.S. senators, and indicated that the Senate could begin reviewing it next week.

The visit coincides with preparations for a new round of peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, scheduled for June 2 in Istanbul. While Moscow has proposed the meeting, Ukraine has not confirmed its attendance, demanding that Russia publish its proposed peace terms in advance. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Moscow of using diplomatic platforms to delay negotiations rather than engage in meaningful talks. The last round of talks, held in mid-May, resulted in a major prisoner exchange but little progress toward a lasting ceasefire. As international observers watch closely, Kyiv insists that without substantial Russian concessions, negotiations will remain ineffective. 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇷🇺

Russo-Ukrainian war, day 1192: Ukraine war gets nastier right before peace talks – with calls, threats, and drone hell

In recent developments, Ukraine has claimed responsibility for an explosion at a Russian marine base near Vladivostok, over 6,000 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. Meanwhile, Russia has accused Ukraine of attacking a trolleybus depot in Kharkiv and a Nova Poshta terminal in Odesa using drones, resulting in injuries and significant damage. Additionally, a Russian-linked vessel was detected near a crucial undersea power line connecting Poland and Sweden, prompting Polish military intervention.

On the diplomatic front, Russia is delaying the submission of its peace terms to pressure Ukraine ahead of a planned meeting in Istanbul. The U.S. has proposed a plan to make Russian oil significantly more expensive through crushing tariffs, while France and Germany have urged the U.S. to act decisively on Russian behavior. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced up to €800 billion in defense funding as part of a broader strategy for European independence and Ukraine's potential EU membership.

In the Black Sea, the EU is establishing a spy hub to monitor Russian warships and any signs of a ceasefire. Ukraine is also ramping up its defense capabilities, planning full production of Czech BREN 2 assault rifles. Meanwhile, Turkish President Erdogan has urged Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to engage in direct talks with Russian President Putin and U.S. President Trump.

The humanitarian impact of the conflict continues to be severe, with a Ukrainian teenager who saved lives during a Russian attack in Sumy winning a silver medal at the European wrestling championship despite sustaining head injuries. Politically, a Ukrainian Supreme Court judge is under scrutiny for living rent-free in a luxury apartment owned by her Russian niece, and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has detained several collaborators who worked with Russian forces during the occupation of Kherson. Additionally, protests erupted in Khmelnytskyi Oblast after allegations of abuse by draft office officials. 🇺🇦🇷🇺🇺🇸🇪🇺

Erdogan’s push for a new constitution and the erosion of Turkish democracy

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is actively pursuing a new constitution that could significantly extend his rule beyond 2028, raising serious concerns about the erosion of democracy in Turkey. This constitutional overhaul is part of a broader trend of consolidating power, which has been ongoing since Erdogan's Justice and Development Party (AKP) came to power in 2002. The proposed changes aim to strengthen the presidency, potentially allowing Erdogan to remain in office indefinitely and further diminish the role of parliament and other democratic institutions.

The push for a new constitution comes amid a backdrop of increasing authoritarianism, including the suppression of political opposition, media censorship, and human rights abuses. Erdogan's government has been criticized for using the state apparatus to silence dissenting voices, with numerous journalists, activists, and political figures facing imprisonment or exile. The proposed constitutional changes would likely exacerbate these issues, as they would concentrate even more power in the hands of the president, making it difficult for any opposition to challenge his rule.

The implications of these developments extend beyond Turkey's borders, with significant ramifications for the United States and Europe. Turkey's strategic location and role in regional security make it a crucial ally, particularly in areas such as counterterrorism and migration management. However, Erdogan's authoritarian tendencies and increasingly assertive foreign policy have strained relations with Western countries, leading to concerns about Turkey's commitment to democratic values and human rights.

For the US and Europe, the situation in Turkey presents a complex challenge. On one hand, maintaining strong ties with Turkey is essential for addressing shared security concerns and promoting regional stability. On the other hand, supporting a government that is increasingly authoritarian and undemocratic undermines the very principles that Western democracies seek to uphold. As Erdogan continues his push for a new constitution, the international community must carefully navigate this delicate balance, advocating for democratic reforms while also engaging with Turkey on critical security issues. The future of Turkish democracy hangs in the balance, and the decisions made in the coming years will have far-reaching consequences for the country and the broader region. 🌍🏛️

Encryption-breaking and beyond — Finland to lead EU defence project on quantum technology

Finland is spearheading an EU initiative focused on leveraging quantum technology for defense purposes, a project named Quantum Enablers for Strategic Advantage (Quest). This venture, part of the EU’s Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) program, aims to enhance Europe’s defense capabilities through advanced quantum technologies, including quantum computers, which promise unprecedented processing power and speed. The project has garnered significant interest, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has underscored the importance of cutting-edge defense technologies.

Finland, known for its expertise in quantum technology, will lead the project alongside Germany, Denmark, Latvia, and Italy, with Sweden, Greece, and the Netherlands participating as observers. The initiative will concentrate on applying quantum technology to positioning, territorial surveillance, and air and missile defense. Despite the technology being in its early stages, its potential to revolutionize defense strategies has sparked considerable investment and political involvement. The U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency has also highlighted the growing relevance of quantum technologies on the battlefield, noting their potential to break encryption and enhance sensing capabilities.

The Quest project will be a collaborative effort between Finland’s defense administration and the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland. While specific details about the budget and implementation are yet to be disclosed, the project is expected to lay a strong foundation for integrating quantum technology into European defense systems. Finland’s leadership in this area is further bolstered by its involvement in other NATO initiatives focused on quantum technology and artificial intelligence, demonstrating the country’s commitment to advancing defense capabilities through innovative technologies. 🇪🇺💻🔍

Russian bomb kills child, injures teen in massive attack. Terror of Ukrainian civilians continues.

On the night of May 30-31, Russian forces launched a significant aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying over 100 drones and five missiles across the country. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 71 of the 114 launched weapons, but the strikes still caused substantial damage and casualties. The assault primarily targeted the Sumy, Kharkiv, and Donetsk oblasts, with a notable strike in Zaporizhzhia Oblast resulting in the death of a 9-year-old girl and injuries to a 16-year-old boy. The attack in Zaporizhzhia destroyed a house and damaged several buildings, vehicles, and agricultural structures.

In Sumy Oblast, drone strikes hit a bread delivery vehicle and a farm facility, causing injuries and fires that resulted in livestock deaths. Agricultural enterprises in the Trostyanetska community were also targeted, leading to fires that destroyed buildings and equipment. Meanwhile, in Kharkiv, night strikes ignited fires across multiple districts, damaging an enterprise building and vehicles. The extensive assault underscores the ongoing intensity of Russia's military campaign, with civilian areas and infrastructure bearing the brunt of the destruction. 💥🏙️🌾

Iran dismisses Austrian intelligence claim on nuclear weapons as ‘fake’

Iran has vehemently denied allegations from an Austrian intelligence report that it is pursuing nuclear weapons, dismissing the claims as "fake." The Austrian domestic intelligence agency, the DSN, asserted in its annual report that Iran's nuclear weapons development program is "well advanced." This accusation aligns with longstanding allegations from the United States, Israel, and several Western governments, which Iran has consistently refuted.

Iran maintains that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful, civilian purposes. However, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that Iran is enriching uranium to 60%, significantly above the 3.67% cap set by the 2015 nuclear deal, though still below the 90% threshold required for weapons-grade material. The Austrian report concluded that efforts to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions through sanctions and agreements have thus far been ineffective.

Iran's foreign ministry strongly rejected the Austrian report's findings, demanding an explanation from the Austrian government. The IAEA is expected to release its own assessment of Iran's nuclear activities soon. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear accord, which was abandoned by the Trump administration, remain uncertain. Recent talks mediated by Oman have not yielded a clear path forward, with Iranian officials expressing doubt about the prospects of a deal. 🇮🇷💣

Swedish rapper's concert cancelled after murder plot reports

Swedish rapper Yasin Mahamoud, known for his controversial yet influential presence in the music scene, faced another setback when his highly anticipated concert at the Brannbollsyran music festival in Umeå was abruptly canceled. The decision came after police arrested two individuals suspected of plotting to assassinate the 27-year-old artist, raising significant safety concerns. Festival organizers, prioritizing the well-being of attendees and staff, made the call to cancel the performance based on a thorough assessment with law enforcement. Despite this disruption, the festival continued as planned.

Yasin, who has amassed millions of streams on Spotify and several chart-topping hits in Sweden, has a tumultuous history. In 2021, he was sentenced to 10 months in prison for his involvement in the kidnapping of rival artist Einar, who was later murdered. Despite his controversial past, Yasin was honored as Artist of the Year and Hip Hop/R&B Artist of the Year at the P3 Guldgalan awards in 2021. This is not the first time one of his concerts has been canceled due to safety concerns; a planned performance in Stockholm last September was also scrapped after police warnings. The ongoing threats against Yasin highlight the volatile nature of his career and the challenges he faces in performing publicly. 🎤🎵

Is there a property bubble in Spain and will it burst in 2025?

Spain is currently experiencing a significant housing crisis, with soaring property prices and high demand, leading some experts to warn of a potential property bubble. The Bank of Spain has noted that housing prices are overvalued by up to 8.5%, with a substantial supply deficit of approximately 450,000 homes. The market saw a record number of home sales in early 2025, with 183,140 transactions registered between January and March, the highest since 2007, when Spain last faced a property bubble.

The rapid price increases and high demand have sparked concerns about a bubble, with some analysts pointing to a "rush effect" where buyers fear missing out on affordable homes. However, not all experts agree that a bubble is imminent. Some argue that higher salaries and purchasing power, along with lower household debt levels, differentiate the current situation from the 2007 crisis. Additionally, the lack of new construction and tighter lending standards are seen as mitigating factors.

While the current housing crisis is severe, with a significant shortage of affordable homes, the overall health of Spain's banking sector and the absence of previous crisis triggers, such as cajas de ahorro savings banks, reduce the likelihood of a property bubble bursting in 2025. The consensus is that, although the situation is critical, it differs markedly from the 2008 financial crisis, with strong demand and closely supervised loans. 🏠📈

TELL US: Are you affected by Germany's plan to scrap fast-track citizenship process?

A significant shift in Germany's immigration policy is on the horizon, as a proposed law change threatens to extend the naturalization process for highly integrated foreigners. Currently, well-integrated immigrants can obtain German citizenship after just three years, a policy introduced in mid-2024 as part of a comprehensive overhaul of the country's citizenship rules. This reform also allowed non-EU nationals to acquire German citizenship and maintain dual nationality, a privilege previously reserved for EU citizens.

However, the conservative Christian Union parties (CDU/CSU) and the center-left Social Democrats (SPD) have agreed to reverse the three-year naturalization track, potentially pushing the timeline back to the standard five years. This change could impact thousands of immigrants who have been working towards German citizenship under the accelerated timeline. The proposed amendment has sparked debate, with some advocating for the benefits of faster integration and others expressing concerns about the potential consequences of expedited naturalization. The outcome of this policy shift remains to be seen, as stakeholders weigh in on the implications for Germany's immigrant population. 🇩🇪📜

Sinai monastery’s status must be preserved, PM says

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece engaged in a crucial phone conversation with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to address the recent developments surrounding Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai. The discussion followed an Egyptian court ruling that raised concerns about the monastery's ownership and the potential confiscation of its property by the Egyptian state. Mitsotakis underscored the significance of preserving the monastery's status as a Greek Orthodox pilgrimage site and advocated for a resolution through established diplomatic channels. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the mutual understanding reached during El-Sisi's visit to Athens earlier this month, agreeing that this understanding would guide the resolution process. To advance this dialogue, a Greek delegation is set to visit Egypt to finalize the terms of the agreement. The monastery, a revered site for Orthodox Christians, faces potential eviction of its monks and seizure of its property, making this diplomatic effort critical for its preservation. 🇬🇷🇪🇬🏰

Digital euro inches closer to reality: Will Europeans trust a virtual currency?

The European Union is advancing plans for a digital euro to keep pace with the increasing use of digital payments and to maintain control over its monetary system amidst the rise of private tech platforms like Apple Pay and Revolut. The European Central Bank (ECB) has been spearheading this initiative since 2021, with support from the EU Commission and the European Parliament. The ECB presents the digital euro as a beneficial tool for consumers, retailers, and payment service providers, aiming to ensure that the EU does not cede monetary control to private companies or big tech entities that may have political agendas contrary to the EU's interests.

However, the success of the digital euro hinges on public trust. Citizens must believe that the virtual currency will deliver on its promises of convenience, security, and reliability. The EU is navigating this challenge by engaging with policymakers and stakeholders to address concerns and build confidence in the digital euro. The outcome of this effort will shape the future of Europe's monetary landscape in an increasingly digital world. 💳💻

Ecumenical Patriarchate urges Egypt to uphold Sinai Monastery’s ownership status

The Ecumenical Patriarchate has expressed deep concern and disappointment over a recent Egyptian court ruling that challenges the historic ownership status of Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai. The Istanbul-based patriarchate criticized the decision, which grants the local monastic community only usage rights to the monastery’s property, rather than full ownership. The monastery, established by Emperor Justinian in the sixth century, is one of the oldest functioning Christian institutions globally and holds immense historical, religious, and interfaith significance.

The patriarchate urged the Egyptian government to uphold the monastery’s established ownership, which has been protected for centuries, even under Islamic rule. It emphasized the importance of respecting longstanding traditions and agreements to enable the monastery to continue its religious and cultural mission. The statement highlighted the monastery’s role as a "precious spiritual and cultural treasure for Egypt" and called on Egyptian authorities to act in accordance with principles of religious freedom and human rights. The patriarchate also urged the implementation of a recent agreement reached with the monastic community, stressing the need for Egypt to uphold its reputation as a civilized, law-abiding nation that respects religious freedom. 🕍🇪🇬

Russian cyberattackers target Greek company

A recent cyberattack on the Greek logistics company Orphee Beinoglou International Transportation has compromised the personal data of Nespresso Greece customers. The breach, which occurred in February 2025, was claimed by the Russian-speaking Clop ransomware group. Potentially exposed information includes names, phone numbers, addresses, emails, and tax numbers of invoice customers. Nespresso has advised its customers to exercise caution with unsolicited communications, avoid suspicious links or attachments, and use protective software on their devices.

Orphee Beinoglou has confirmed the breach, assuring that no financial data was compromised and that security measures have been bolstered. The Clop group, known for its activities since 2019 and a notable attack on U.S. federal agencies in 2023, has been responsible for 384 breaches in 2023 alone. Greek authorities, including the Personal Data Protection Authority and the National Cybersecurity Authority, have been informed of the incident. Additionally, Adidas Greece customers have received similar breach notifications, indicating a broader pattern of cyber threats targeting Greek companies. 💻🔒

Greece, UAE aim to finalize Apache helicopter support agreement

Greece and the United Arab Emirates are advancing their defense cooperation with a significant agreement on Apache helicopter support. General Dimitris Houpis, Chief of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff, is set to visit the UAE to finalize a bilateral deal focused on supplying spare parts and components for Greece's Apache helicopter fleet. The agreement, valued at €50 million, is a crucial step in bolstering the Greek Armed Forces' capabilities, particularly for their aging AH-64D Apache helicopters, which have faced maintenance challenges since 2011.

This deal, which is in its final approval stages, follows a previous €5 million spare parts delivery in 2022 for Greece's AH-64A helicopters. The reduced cost, from an initial €75 million estimate, underscores the deepening defense ties between the two nations. Greece's strategic engagement with Gulf countries, including the UAE, is part of a broader policy to strengthen regional alliances and enhance national security. The agreement will soon be presented to the Greek Parliament and the Government Council on Foreign and Defense Affairs for formal approval. 🚁🇬🇷🇦🇪

Swiss officials halt further evacuations after glacier collapse

In Switzerland's southern Valais region, the Birch glacier catastrophically collapsed, sending a massive wave of rock, ice, and debris crashing into the village of Blatten below. The resulting debris, stretching over two kilometers, has obstructed the Lonza river, creating an artificial lake that poses a significant flooding risk to the Lotschental valley. Authorities have evacuated 16 people from downstream villages and remain vigilant, acknowledging that the danger is not yet fully averted. The collapse has largely destroyed Blatten, which was evacuated last week due to the impending threat. A 64-year-old man is missing, and search efforts have been hampered by challenging conditions. An artificial dam in the nearby village of Ferden has been emptied as a precaution, and the remnants of Blatten are now submerged beneath the rising waters of the Lonza river. The once-glaciated mountainside now features a massive void where the Birch glacier stood. 🏔️💦

Barcelona ends 'friendship agreement' with Tel Aviv over Gaza war

Barcelona's city council has approved a motion to sever all official ties with Israel until it complies with international law and respects the rights of the Palestinian people. The decision, backed by the governing Socialist party and pro-independence groups, includes suspending a 1998 friendship agreement with Tel Aviv-Jaffa and urging local entities to avoid hosting Israeli government pavilions or arms trade companies. The move follows a year and a half of intense conflict in Gaza, with Mayor Jaume Collboni citing the suffering and deaths in the region as the primary reason for the decision.

This is not the first time Barcelona has taken such a stance; in 2023, then-mayor Ada Colau implemented similar measures, which were later reversed. While the practical impact of Barcelona's decision is limited, it adds to the growing international criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza. The move comes a year after Spain, Ireland, and Norway recognized a Palestinian state, a decision that drew strong condemnation from Israel. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been a vocal critic of Israel's military operations in Gaza, further highlighting the tensions within the European Union regarding the conflict. 🇪🇸🇮🇱

'There's a lot of misunderstanding' on freedom of speech: EU tech sovereignty commissioner

The European Union is actively working to enhance its technological sovereignty, security, and democracy, with a particular focus on balancing freedom of speech with other fundamental rights. Henna Virkkunen, the EU Commissioner for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, emphasizes that while freedom of speech is a core value, it must be balanced with the rights of others, particularly in cases of illegal hate speech. The EU's Digital Services Act requires online platforms to report content removals, with 99% of removals being due to violations of the platforms' own terms and conditions, rather than EU regulations.

The EU is also enforcing the Digital Markets Act (DMA), with recent fines imposed on Meta and Apple for non-compliance. Virkkunen highlights the EU's commitment to protecting minors online and ensuring age verification on adult platforms. The EU is seen as a stable and predictable place for innovation, attracting talent from around the world. However, the EU is often criticized for being slow and bureaucratic, and efforts are underway to streamline processes and create a single market for startups and scale-ups.

The EU is investing heavily in research and innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). With more researchers per capita than the US and a strong scientific community, the EU is focusing on building infrastructure, including supercomputers and AI factories, to support AI development. The goal is to encourage AI uptake by the public sector and industry, fostering growth and innovation across the continent. 🌐💡

Three Eagle S crew members suspected of serious crimes; EstLink 2 cable back online in June

Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has concluded its probe into the oil tanker Eagle S, which is accused of damaging critical infrastructure in the Gulf of Finland last Christmas. The Cook Islands-flagged vessel is suspected of severing the Estlink 2 power cable and four telecommunication cables between Finland and Estonia by dragging its anchor over a distance of more than 100 kilometers. The ship's lawyer, Herman Ljungberg, confirmed the investigation's completion.

The Finnish authorities impounded the Eagle S immediately after the incident, releasing it in early March following the initial phase of the investigation. Three crew members—the ship's captain, first officer, and second officer—are now suspected of serious crimes, including aggravated sabotage and aggravated disruption of telecommunications traffic. These suspects, whose nationalities have not been disclosed, have been barred from leaving Finland since the investigation began. The NBI has handed over the case to a prosecutor, who will determine whether to press charges. Preliminary trial dates have been set, with a possible trial beginning in late August or early September. Meanwhile, Fingrid announced that the EstLink 2 connection is expected to be restored by June 25, earlier than initially anticipated. 🛳️💥