Newsflash

Ukraine strikes Russian bombers, over 40 Russian military planes destroyed

Ukraine launched a significant drone strike deep within Russian territory, destroying over 40 Russian military aircraft. The attack, confirmed by a Ukrainian security official, comes as Russia continues to bombard Ukraine with missiles and drones. This escalation occurs just before scheduled direct talks between the two nations in Istanbul. The strike underscores Ukraine's growing capability to target Russian assets within its borders, marking a notable shift in the conflict's dynamics. 🇺🇦💥

Ukraine says it destroyed 41 Russian bomber planes deep inside territory

Ukraine has reportedly conducted a daring drone attack deep within Russian territory, targeting and destroying 41 strategic bomber planes at multiple airbases. The operation, which took over a year to plan and execute, was personally overseen by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The targeted aircraft, including Tu-95 and Tu-22 strategic bombers, are crucial for Russia's long-range missile strikes against Ukraine. The airbases struck are located thousands of kilometers from the front lines, including sites in Siberia, the Arctic, and near Moscow.

The attack involved a sophisticated strategy of hiding explosive-laden drones inside wooden sheds, which were then transported to the airbases. Upon reaching the perimeter, the drones were remotely activated to fly out and commence their assault. The operation marks a significant escalation in Ukraine's defensive measures, aiming to disrupt Russia's ability to launch long-range attacks from distant bases. Russian officials confirmed a drone attack near the village of Sredny in the Irkutsk region, acknowledging the unprecedented nature of the incident. The strike also targeted the Olenya airbase in the Murmansk region, further demonstrating Ukraine's capability to reach deep into Russian territory. 🛩️💥

At least 150 AI-guided Ukrainian drones strike 41 Russian aircraft in historic truck-smuggled strike

In a groundbreaking operation codenamed "Web," Ukrainian forces executed precise strikes on Russian military airbases using drones equipped with artificial intelligence. On June 1, these advanced drones targeted multiple Russian airfields, destroying or damaging over 40 aircraft, including strategic bombers used to attack civilian targets. Unlike previous attacks, the drones were transported into Russian territory by trucks and launched locally, catching the enemy off guard.

The operation involved two types of drones: vertical takeoff quadcopters and "wing-type" drones launched from mini catapults. Ukrainian military intelligence had spent the previous year scanning Russian bomber aircraft and training AI to recognize and automatically attack these targets. The results were striking, with 41 aircraft hit across four airbases, as confirmed by Ukrainian journalist Yurii Butusov.

The Security Service of Ukraine orchestrated the operation, smuggling 150 small strike drones and 300 munitions into Russia. Of these, 116 drones took off, utilizing Russian telecom networks for auto-targeting. The drones conducted close-range daylight attacks deep within enemy territory, exploiting the element of surprise. The most devastating strike occurred at Olenya airfield, where drones targeted fuel tanks, resulting in the complete destruction of numerous aircraft. All Ukrainian agents involved in the operation returned safely. 🛸💥

Explosion derails Russian military convoy in occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast, HUR says

A Russian military train was destroyed near the occupied town of Yakymivka in Zaporizhzhia Oblast on the night of May 31. The explosion targeted a freight train carrying fuel, causing several tanker cars to derail and severely damaging the railway track. This critical supply route is essential for Moscow’s forces to support occupied Crimea and maintain military logistics in the south. In response, Russian occupation forces heightened security measures, increasing patrols and checkpoints across the occupied region.

This incident is part of a series of recent attacks on Russian trains and infrastructure. On May 25, a Ukrainian drone strike targeted another Russian freight train transporting fuel in the occupied part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Additionally, a train in Russia’s Belgorod Oblast was damaged after hitting an explosive device. Early on June 1, two bridge collapses occurred in Bryansk and Kursk oblasts, with one incident resulting in at least seven fatalities. These disruptions highlight the ongoing efforts to impede Russian military supply lines and infrastructure, underscoring the strategic importance of these targets in the conflict. 💥🚂

Polls begin voting for new president in pivotal runoff election

Polls opened on Sunday for the decisive second round of Poland's presidential election, featuring a contest between Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski and conservative historian Karol Nawrocki. The outcome of this runoff election is crucial for Poland's political future, with the winner set to shape the country's direction for the next five years. An Ipsos exit poll is anticipated at 9 PM, but official results are not expected until Monday. The election has drawn significant attention both domestically and internationally, as it will influence Poland's stance on various political, economic, and social issues. 🗳️🇵🇱

Russia tries to break through to northern Ukraine’s Sumy city amid ceasefire talks

Amid renewed ceasefire negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, spurred by U.S. President Donald Trump's pressure, Russian forces have launched a significant offensive in northern Ukraine, focusing on border villages in Sumy Oblast. The goal appears to be the creation of a buffer zone, with intensified assaults reported in Oleksiivka, Yunakivka, and Yablunivka. Ukrainian sources confirm that Russian troops have captured several settlements, including Vodolahy, and are advancing towards strategically important locations like Khotin and Yunakivka. These attacks are supported by drone strikes and artillery shelling, targeting both military and civilian areas.

The Ukrainian General Staff reported numerous combat clashes, airstrikes, and shelling attacks in the region. DeepState, a Ukrainian war monitoring group, warned that securing Yunakivka could enable Russian forces to launch drone attacks on the city of Sumy, similar to tactics used in Kherson. In response to the escalating threat, Sumy Oblast authorities have initiated a mandatory evacuation of 11 border villages, with over 2,800 residents, including 367 children, affected.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that approximately 50,000 Russian troops are concentrated near Sumy, forming the core of the new offensive. Russian forces are employing airborne troops and special operations units to penetrate Ukrainian defenses and advance from the Kursk area into Sumy Oblast. Active combat is ongoing in several locations, with Russian troops making progress in areas like Bilovody and Loknia. The Kremlin's broader summer campaign includes accelerated military actions in Donetsk Oblast, aiming to complete the conquest of the Donbas region. Military analysts note improvements in Russian tactics, drone capabilities, and logistics, contributing to their recent advances. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Gas to flow from Greece to Slovakia, Ukraine

A significant shift in Europe's energy landscape is underway as Greece spearheads a plan to reverse the flow of natural gas from south to north, enhancing the region's energy independence from Russia. The "Vertical Gas Corridor" will transport natural gas from Greek terminals in Revithoussa and Alexandroupoli through Bulgaria, Romania, and onward to Hungary, Slovakia, Moldova, and Ukraine. This initiative aims to diversify gas sources and bolster energy security, with an estimated 20-25 billion cubic meters of gas to be transported annually.

The project took a major step forward with the inauguration of a key branch of the Bulgarian gas network in Kresna. This expansion, expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026, will increase gas transport capacity from Greece to Bulgaria and onwards to Romania. Additionally, the nine operators involved in the project have agreed on uniform transit fees, resolving previous discrepancies that threatened the project's viability. The first auction for capacity reservation was held, securing 31 gigawatt hours per day of capacity for delivery from Greece to Ukraine in June. This strategic move not only strengthens Europe's energy security but also elevates Greece's geopolitical standing in the region. 🇪🇺💨

Ukraine strikes deep into Russia, destroys strategic bombers in drone attack

Ukraine launched a significant drone strike deep into Russian territory, targeting multiple military airfields and destroying a substantial number of strategic bombers. This operation, codenamed "Spider Web," was Ukraine's longest-range mission since the war began, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The strike, planned for over a year and a half, successfully hit Tu-95, Tu-160, and Tu-22 aircraft across several airbases, including those in Murmansk, Irkutsk, Ivanovo, Ryazan, and Amur. At least four Tu-95 bombers and one An-12 transport aircraft were confirmed destroyed at the Olenya airbase.

The operation was executed by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) and involved a covert "office" near a regional FSB office. Zelenskyy emphasized the strategic importance of the mission, stating that it would strengthen Ukraine's negotiating position ahead of a meeting in Istanbul. The goals of the Ukrainian delegation include achieving a full ceasefire, the return of prisoners, and the repatriation of children taken from Ukraine. "Russia started this war, Russia must end it," Zelenskyy declared.

Russia acknowledged the drone attacks, labeling them "terrorist acts" by the "Kyiv regime." While claiming that several attacks were repelled and no personnel were injured, Russian authorities confirmed that fires broke out at airbases in Murmansk and Irkutsk due to drones. The strikes followed a series of alleged sabotage incidents, including explosions that destroyed railway bridges in Russia's Bryansk and Kursk regions, resulting in multiple casualties. Additionally, Ukrainian military intelligence claimed responsibility for a rail explosion in occupied southern Ukraine, disrupting a key military supply line toward Crimea. 🇺🇦💥

Ukraine is conducting an operation against military aviation in Russia

Ukraine has launched a significant operation targeting Russian military aviation, with a drone strike deep within Russian territory reportedly destroying over 40 Russian aircraft. This operation comes amidst ongoing Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian soil, just a day before scheduled peace talks in Istanbul. The operation underscores Ukraine's proactive stance in defending its territory and disrupting Russian military capabilities. The talks in Istanbul are expected to be crucial in potentially de-escalating the conflict, but the recent drone attack highlights the persistent tensions and military actions between the two nations. 🇺🇦🇷🇺💥

Ukraine’s own drones crash Putin’s $7-billion “red lines” aircraft — while Russia fights them back with sticks

Ukraine has rapidly transformed its drone capabilities, evolving from improvised, garage-built models to a sophisticated, high-volume, precision-strike ecosystem. This shift has been driven by a massive investment in domestic drone production, with Ukraine now manufacturing millions of drones annually. These drones have become integral to Ukraine's military strategy, enabling precise strikes and relentless pressure on Russian forces. The country's drone arsenal includes everything from small, agile FPV drones to heavy bombers like the "Baba Yaga," which can carry significant payloads and strike deep behind enemy lines. Ukraine's drone innovation has not only changed the dynamics of the current conflict but has also positioned the country as a potential defense hub for Europe, with its expertise attracting international attention and training requests from NATO allies. However, Ukraine faces a narrowing technological gap as Russia, with support from Iran and China, accelerates its drone development and deployment. This escalating arms race underscores the urgent need for Ukraine to maintain and enhance its technological edge to counter evolving threats. 🛸💥

Trojan truck op: Kyiv destroys “34%” of Russia’s strategic bomber fleet within hours with truck-launched FPV drones (updated)

On June 1, Ukraine executed a daring and unprecedented drone strike against Russian strategic bombers, an operation dubbed the "Trojan truck" mission. This audacious attack, reminiscent of Princess Olha of Kyiv's legendary retaliation against the Drevlians, saw Ukrainian forces using disguised long-haul trucks to deliver drones close to Russian airbases. The strike targeted and destroyed a significant number of Tu-95 and Tu-22 bombers, which have been instrumental in Russia's missile strikes on Ukrainian cities since 2022.

The operation, named "Operation Spiderweb" by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), involved 117 drones and was meticulously planned over a year and a half. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the mission as "absolutely brilliant" and "unique," noting that it was coordinated from within Russia, near an FSB office. The SBU confirmed that 34% of Russia's strategic missile-carrying aviation was damaged or destroyed, with an estimated value of $7 billion. Open-source intelligence (OSINT) analysts confirmed the destruction of at least eight aircraft at two airbases: Belaya in Irkutsk Oblast and Olenya in Murmansk Oblast. Additional damage is expected to be verified through upcoming satellite imagery.

The operation utilized AI-trained drones and long-haul trucks as launch platforms, allowing the drones to evade Russian air defenses. Footage showed drones being launched from trucks, followed by the self-destruction of the vehicles by fire. A warehouse in Chelyabinsk Oblast was identified as the assembly point for the drones, supporting Zelenskyy's claim that the drones and launchers were assembled on Russian territory. Despite Russia's attempts to downplay the attack, admitting only minor fires and no casualties, the operation marks a significant blow to Russia's strategic capabilities and a bold demonstration of Ukraine's growing military prowess. 🇺🇦💥

Russia: Two bridges collapse in overnight 'blasts', 7 people died

In a series of overnight incidents, two bridges in Russian regions bordering Ukraine collapsed due to explosions, resulting in the deaths of seven people. Russian officials have classified these events as acts of terrorism. The collapses occurred in the early hours of the morning, causing significant damage and loss of life. The incidents have raised concerns about security in the border regions and the potential for further escalation. Authorities are investigating the causes and perpetrators behind these explosions, which have been described as deliberate and malicious acts. 🇷🇺💥

Exit poll shows Poland’s pivotal presidential election too close to call

In a closely contested presidential election, Poland witnessed a record-breaking turnout of nearly 73%, with exit polls indicating a razor-thin margin between the two leading candidates. Rafał Trzaskowski, representing the centrist Civic Platform, secured 50.3% of the vote, narrowly edging out Karol Nawrocki, backed by the national-conservative Law and Justice party, who received 49.7%. A separate exit poll by the OGB agency showed an even closer race, with Trzaskowski at 50.2% and Nawrocki at 49.8%. The final results, expected on Monday, will significantly influence Poland's governance and foreign policy direction. Trzaskowski, aligned with Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s ruling coalition, favors closer ties with the EU, while Nawrocki, endorsed by the Trump administration, leans towards stronger relations with the U.S. and holds eurosceptic views. The election has been marked by intense debates on security, migration, and controversial scandals involving both candidates. The outcome will shape Poland's political landscape for the next five years, with the winner wielding considerable influence over the government's agenda. 🇵🇱🗳️

Championing the decimal point

The Greek government is emphasizing the country's economic growth rate, which slightly outpaces other European nations, as a sign of its economic dynamism and prudent governance. However, this focus on marginal growth rates overlooks several critical issues. The Greek economy is characterized by a high proportion of low-wage jobs, with 62.5% of employees earning up to €1,200 gross per month. Additionally, the economy is heavily reliant on services, particularly traditional ones, and lacks a robust production base, making it less vulnerable to the energy crisis but also less resilient overall.

The recent growth spurt is largely attributed to investments and consumption fueled by the European Recovery and Resilience Fund, with projections indicating a significant slowdown to around 1% GDP growth post-2026. The government's emphasis on these minor growth rates serves a broader propaganda purpose, justifying the current economic model and deflecting criticism. This approach prioritizes maintaining the status quo over promoting green and digital modernization, sustainable development, and addressing environmental concerns. The focus on decimal points in GDP growth distracts from fundamental questions about the nature of economic growth, the role of democratic participation, and the values that should guide economic policy. 🇬🇷💸

In changing times, young Germans gun for defence sector jobs

In Germany, a significant shift in attitudes towards the defense sector is underway, driven by geopolitical tensions and concerns about U.S. security commitments. Young Germans, once hesitant to engage with the defense industry due to historical stigma and ethical concerns, are now showing increased interest in careers within this sector. This change is evident at job fairs, where German arms manufacturers, some of the world's largest, are actively recruiting to meet surging demand.

The outbreak of the Ukraine war has played a pivotal role in altering public perception, with many Germans now viewing the Bundeswehr's focus on national defense and NATO as crucial. This shift is reflected in the growing number of students exploring opportunities with defense companies, despite some lingering unease. For instance, Rheinmetall, Germany's biggest weapons maker, faced protests at a recent job fair, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the defense industry.

The defense sector, employing about 600,000 people in Europe, is poised for significant growth, particularly in Germany. Chancellor Friedrich Merz's plans to increase military spending are expected to create numerous job opportunities. Companies are offering attractive perks, such as relocation assistance and scholarships, to attract talent. However, the industry still faces challenges, including its conservative culture and the need to integrate individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Economic struggles in Germany have made the defense sector's growth even more appealing, with arms manufacturers potentially providing a lifeline to troubled companies. For example, Rheinmetall has already hired workers from the ailing auto supplier Continental. Despite these opportunities, not all students are eager to join the defense industry, with some prioritizing roles in fields like health and sustainable development. This evolving landscape underscores a complex interplay of geopolitical realities, economic needs, and shifting societal values. 🇩🇪💼

The water torture in the fields

Water scarcity is severely impacting agriculture in Greece, particularly for crops like tomatoes, which require abundant water and light. In eastern Crete, the Municipality of Gortyna has halted approvals for irrigating new seasonal vegetable crops, affecting the cultivation of zucchini, eggplants, tomatoes, and peppers. Similarly, in the Thessaly Plain, water shortages are leading to potential bans on cotton cultivation. Experts warn that 83% of Greece is at medium to high risk of desertification, with only 17% at low risk.

The Greek government has proposed measures to address water scarcity, including settling debts of water management organizations, constructing new dams and reservoirs, and establishing regional water management bodies. However, the effectiveness and timeliness of these measures remain uncertain. Currently, outdated irrigation methods, an aging infrastructure network, and uncontrolled drilling contribute to significant water waste. Farmers are increasingly forced to adapt by replacing water-intensive crops with more drought-resistant varieties. The climate crisis demands that Greek farmers innovate and reinvent their practices to ensure agricultural sustainability. 🌱💦

A policy shift in Berlin: What Germany’s new migration course means for Greece

Germany's new chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has initiated a significant shift in migration policy, aiming to curb irregular migration and increase deportations. This policy change is particularly contentious in the context of German-Greek relations, as it involves the issue of secondary migration—individuals who initially sought asylum in Greece and then moved to Germany for a second application. Estimates suggest around 100,000 people fall into this category, though exact numbers are uncertain.

Tensions arose during a meeting between Chancellor Merz and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, where Merz emphasized the need to reduce secondary migration and increase returns. However, Greece's Interior Minister Makis Voridis has stated that Greece will not accept returns without fair burden-sharing within the EU. This stance complicates negotiations, as Germany's new Interior Minister, Alexander Dobrindt, is set to visit Athens to address these issues.

Germany's Federal Administrative Court recently ruled that deportations of single, healthy, and employable migrants to Greece are generally lawful, providing a legal basis for Berlin's new policy. The German Interior Ministry has reportedly accelerated deportation procedures, with estimates suggesting up to 40,000 people could be affected. However, the success of this policy hinges on cooperation from Greece, which is facing its own challenges, including a labor shortage and increased refugee arrivals from the Mediterranean.

Both countries are committed to finding a solution, with regular consultations and diplomatic efforts underway. Germany's ambassador to Athens, Andreas Kindl, has emphasized the shared interest in protecting the EU's external borders. However, past experiences with intra-European solidarity offer little optimism for a swift resolution. The long-term impact of Germany's policy shift on Greece remains to be seen, but it is likely to result in more migrants staying in Greece and increased pressure on the country's resources. 🇩🇪🇬🇷🛂

Athens has returned €670 mln to Brussels

Over the past 15 years, Greece has been compelled to return approximately €670 million to the European Union due to various irregularities and mismanagement of EU subsidies. This significant financial loss stems from issues in calculating agricultural subsidies, rural development program financing, and illegal activities in promoting Greek products. The European Commission has issued 43 executive decisions between 2010 and 2024, mandating the repayment of funds misallocated under the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

The most recent decision, issued on November 13, 2024, requires Greece to refund over €60 million due to implementation problems in cross-compliance measures for 2019-2022 and irregularities in development program aid. The €670 million figure accounts for amounts returned to Greece following the Court of Justice of the EU's decisions, covering financial years from 2004 to 2023. This persistent issue highlights a longstanding problem in controlling the distribution of agricultural subsidies in Greece, where expediency often overshadows proper oversight.

The European Court of Auditors (ECA) has consistently pointed out these issues, noting that even after the creation of the national agricultural payments organization (OPEKEPE), problems persisted. Before OPEKEPE, agricultural cooperatives mismanaged subsidies, and post-OPEKEPE, the ECA continued to issue warnings, accusing the Commission of lifting reservations too early against the Greek paying agency. This ongoing challenge underscores the need for stricter controls and better management of EU funds in Greece. 🇬🇷💸

Orpo: West must intensify pressure on Russia to end war in Ukraine

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has called for intensified Western pressure on Russia, emphasizing the need for additional sanctions to compel President Vladimir Putin to pursue a ceasefire and engage in peace negotiations. Orpo, speaking on Yle Radio Suomi, highlighted the urgent necessity for the United States and Europe, alongside like-minded nations, to bolster support for Ukraine's defense against ongoing Russian aggression. He noted that Europe is preparing a new sanctions package, while the U.S. already has stringent measures in place, urging their swift implementation.

Orpo recently visited Ukraine, where he witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of Russia's actions. During his trip, he visited a Hesburger facility near Kyiv, an event that drew domestic criticism. Defending his actions, Orpo stated that the visit was part of a broader initiative by Finland's foreign ministry to support Ukrainian businesses and demonstrate solidarity with the country's efforts to maintain normalcy amidst the conflict. He emphasized that the people of Ukraine aspire to return to everyday life despite the war.

In the lead-up to the upcoming NATO summit, Orpo discussed the potential increase in defense spending, with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte proposing that member states aim for 3.5% of GDP on defense and an additional 1.5% on related investments. Orpo acknowledged the significant financial commitment but stressed its importance for Finland's security. He warned that insufficient defense capabilities could jeopardize the nation's safety, underscoring the critical need for robust military preparedness. 🇫🇮💥

Fewer Finnish parents buying smartphones for grade schoolers

In Finland, there is a growing trend among parents to delay giving smartphones to young children, a shift supported by both telecom operators and child development experts. A recent survey by Yle revealed that most parents do not believe a child starting school should have their own phone. This sentiment is reflected in the market, with telecom operators Elisa and DNA observing a significant decrease in the number of seven-year-olds owning smartphones, dropping from over 70% to 36% in the past year.

This change in attitude marks a departure from the previous eagerness to equip preschoolers with smartphones to foster digital skills. Experts and operators now emphasize the importance of responsible internet use and the potential risks of excessive screen time. Dr. Silja Martikainen, an associate professor of developmental and educational psychology, welcomes this shift, citing research that links excessive screen time to reduced physical activity, poorer mental health, and lower academic performance in children.

The Finnish government has responded to public concern by passing a bill allowing schools to ban mobile phones. Additionally, a report from the Mannerheim League for Child Welfare highlighted issues such as increased cyberbullying and excessive screen time among youth. In response, telecom providers like Elisa and DNA now recommend delaying smartphone use until at least the age of nine, with some parents waiting until their child is 11. Smartwatches, offering basic call and messaging functions, are becoming popular alternatives.

Experts caution that bans and restrictions alone are not the solution. Dr. Martikainen emphasizes the need for open conversations and active parental involvement. She advises parents to approach their children's digital lives with curiosity, discuss phone use rules, and show interest in their online activities. For older children and teenagers, phones can serve positive purposes, and maintaining open communication is key. 📵👨‍👧