Newsflash

ISW: Russia continues to want Ukraine’s “complete destruction.” Russian missile stockpile only grows.

Russia has made it clear that it seeks the "complete destruction" of Ukraine, with no genuine interest in peace negotiations. This stance was underscored by Russian Security Council Deputy Chairperson Dmitry Medvedev, who stated that Russia aims for a swift victory and the dismantling of the Ukrainian government, rather than a compromised peace. This aggressive posture is reflected in Russia's maximalist demands, which include recognition of its control over Crimea and four occupied Ukrainian oblasts, permanent Ukrainian neutrality, and the cancellation of Ukraine's NATO aspirations. Russia also insists on Ukraine's withdrawal beyond current front lines, demobilization, ending martial law, and a regime change in Kyiv.

In contrast, Ukraine has proposed an unconditional ceasefire, the return of deported Ukrainian children and prisoners of war, a long-term peace agreement with security guarantees and full territorial integrity, and continued talks aiming for a Zelenskyy-Putin meeting. Ukraine also insists on the right to join security alliances like NATO. However, the talks have only yielded agreements on prisoner exchanges and the return of bodies. Russia's Istanbul memorandum reflects its demands for significant territorial and political concessions from Ukraine, with no concessions offered in return.

Russia continues to expand its military capabilities, with reports indicating a stockpile of over 13,000 ballistic, cruise, and other missiles as of mid-May 2025. This arsenal includes a variety of advanced missiles, such as Iskander-M, Kinzhal, Kh-101, Kalibr, Kh-22/32, Oniks, Zirkon, KN-23, and S-300/400 air defense missiles. Russia's production capacity is estimated at 150-200 missiles per month, and it has significantly increased its production of Shahed drones, upgrading them with AI and improved navigation to evade Ukrainian defenses. These efforts are likely part of Russia's preparations for a prolonged war in Ukraine and potentially a future conflict against NATO. Despite ongoing U.S. mediation efforts, Russia has shown no willingness to compromise on its demands, which amount to Ukraine's full capitulation. 💥🚀

Putin tells Trump in phone call he will retaliate recent Spiderweb drone operation on Russian airfields

President Donald Trump revealed that he held a lengthy phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, lasting approximately one hour and 15 minutes. The discussion focused on Ukraine's recent surprise operation targeting Russian aircraft, which caused an estimated $7 billion in damages and significantly impaired Russia's long-range aerial strike capabilities. The mission, personally overseen by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, was executed without prior notification to the U.S.

Trump described the conversation as constructive but acknowledged that it did not lead to immediate peace prospects. Putin strongly indicated that Russia would respond to the recent attacks on its airfields. U.S. intelligence anticipates a significant Russian retaliation, potentially involving massive drone strikes on civilian targets, attacks on energy infrastructure, or new waves of medium-range ballistic missiles. The leaders also discussed Iran and a proposed nuclear agreement, with Trump emphasizing the importance of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Putin offered to participate in discussions with Iran to expedite a resolution. The conversation underscores the ongoing tensions and the delicate balance of power in the region. 📞🌍

Empty chair policy ? US defence secretary skips Nato Ukraine support meeting

The United States' commitment to Ukraine's defense is facing uncertainty as the U.S. Defense Secretary skipped a crucial NATO meeting focused on supporting Ukraine. This absence raises questions about the sustainability of U.S. intelligence sharing and military aid, which have been vital for Ukraine's resistance against Russian aggression. Recent Ukrainian operations, such as drone raids in Russian territory and attacks on strategic infrastructure like the Kerch Strait bridge, demonstrate Kyiv's resolve but also highlight the challenges of maintaining such efforts against a superior adversary.

The upcoming NATO summit in the Netherlands and the initiation of Germany's new chancellor, Friedrich Merz, are pivotal moments that will shape the future of European defense and Ukraine's fate. If the U.S. under the current administration reduces its engagement, European allies like Germany and France will need to step up their support. The situation underscores the need for a united and robust response from NATO members to ensure Ukraine's security and maintain regional stability. The world watches as key decisions are made that could significantly impact the ongoing conflict and the broader geopolitical landscape. 🌍💥

Pistorius: Allies to further strengthen Ukraine’s military defence

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced that allies are prepared to bolster Ukraine’s military defenses, particularly its air defense capabilities. At a meeting of the Ukraine Contact Group in Brussels, Pistorius revealed plans to relaunch an international support initiative focused on enhancing Ukraine’s air defense. This effort will be joined by Belgium, Estonia, Italy, Sweden, and Turkey, who will collaborate to expand Ukraine’s electromagnetic combat capabilities. These capabilities include securing Ukrainian communications, conducting reconnaissance, disrupting Russian communications, and defending against drone attacks.

Pistorius emphasized the urgent need for this support, highlighting the daily, large-scale aerial assaults by Russia on Ukraine. These attacks, involving drones and cruise missiles, result in the loss of innocent lives and injuries among Ukrainian civilians. The initiative aims to provide Ukraine with the necessary tools to better protect its people and infrastructure from these relentless attacks. 🇺🇦🛡️

Russia ramps up Shahed production to 170 daily, eyes 190 by year-end

Russia's production of Shahed drones and their variants has surged to approximately 170 units per day as of May 2025, with plans to increase this output to 190 drones daily by year's end. The country has significantly advanced its drone technology since 2022, introducing substantial modifications to enhance their effectiveness. These upgrades include diverse warhead types, increased explosive payloads, and improved electronic warfare resistance. Some drones are now equipped with Starlink terminals for real-time control, although reports of their connection to Ukrainian mobile networks have been refuted.

Russia initially acquired hundreds of Shahed drones from Iran in 2022 and began domestic production by mid-2023 at a facility in the Alabuga special economic zone. The locally produced version, designated Geran-2, plays a pivotal role in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Drones have become indispensable in modern warfare, providing real-time intelligence, conducting precision strikes, and disrupting enemy logistics. Both Russia and Ukraine employ a wide array of drones for various missions, fundamentally altering battlefield dynamics and tactics. 🛸💥

Leire Díez: The latest chapter in the corruption saga embroiling Spain's PM

Leire Díez, a figure under intense scrutiny, has been implicated in a corruption scandal after leaked audio recordings revealed her discussions with a police commander and a businessman involved in corruption investigations. In these conversations, Díez appears to offer judicial leniency in exchange for potentially damaging information on high-ranking members of the Guardia Civil's anti-corruption unit, which is probing allegations against Prime Minister Sánchez's wife, brother, and a former aide. This has sparked accusations of attempted interference in the ongoing investigations.

Díez has attempted to downplay the scandal, claiming she was conducting research for a book and was not acting on behalf of the party or Sánchez. She also dismissed the leaked recordings as "calculated and fabricated leaks," asserting her long history of investigative work. However, tensions escalated when businessman Victor de Aldama, a key figure in one of the corruption cases, tried to confront Díez during a press conference, accusing her of lying and mocking everyone.

The main opposition Popular Party (PP) has organized a protest in Madrid to denounce what they describe as "mafia practices" by the government. Both the PP and other political parties, including the far-left Podemos and the Catalan pro-independence ERC, have demanded that Sánchez appear in parliament to address the allegations. Sánchez, however, has dismissed the probes as part of a right-wing "smear campaign" aimed at undermining his government. The unfolding scandal has further intensified political tensions in Spain. 🇪🇸💥

Japan records lowest-ever birth rate as population decline continues

Japan is grappling with a severe demographic crisis, as the nation recorded its lowest number of births since record-keeping began in 1899, with just 686,061 babies born in 2024. This marks the ninth consecutive year of declining births, with the total fertility rate dropping to a record low of 1.15, well below the replacement level of 2.1. Simultaneously, the number of deaths reached an all-time high of 1,605,298, resulting in a natural population decline of 919,237—the largest ever recorded and the 18th consecutive year of population loss. These trends raise serious concerns about labor shortages, the sustainability of social security, and economic growth. Despite government efforts to promote child-rearing and work-life balance, Japan's population continues to age and shrink, presenting significant challenges for the future. 🇯🇵📉

Trump envoy warns Ukrainian strikes on Russian bombers push conflict toward dangerous escalation

Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian strategic aviation airfields have heightened tensions, according to U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg. The warning comes after Ukraine's successful "Spiderweb" operation on June 1, which targeted four Russian military airbases deep within Russian territory. Using 117 AI-powered FPV drones, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) reportedly destroyed and damaged over 40 strategic aircraft, including Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers and A-50 radar planes, causing an estimated $7 billion in damage.

Kellogg acknowledged the operation's boldness but cautioned about the escalation risks, stating that attacking a nation's nuclear triad components significantly raises the stakes. He emphasized the psychological impact of the strikes, which humiliated Russia and demonstrated Ukraine's resolve and capability to hit deep within Russian territory. The operation also served as a stark reminder to Russian leadership of Ukraine's tactical prowess. While the U.S. works to prevent such escalations, the strikes have undoubtedly raised the tension and uncertainty in the ongoing conflict. 🇺🇸🇷🇺💥

Trump says Putin told him that Russia will respond to Ukrainian attack on airfields

U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had informed him during a recent phone call that Russia would retaliate against Ukraine's drone attack on Russian airfields. This development comes as the conflict in Ukraine remains at a stalemate, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejecting Russia's ceasefire proposal. The ongoing tensions highlight the deepening divide and the potential for further escalation in the region. The international community watches closely as both leaders navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, with the possibility of increased hostilities looming. 📞💥

Russo-Ukrainian war, day 1196: Multiple Ukrainian operations hit Crimean Bridge twice

Ukrainian intelligence and special forces have executed a series of daring and sophisticated operations against Russian targets, demonstrating their growing capabilities and resolve. In a single day, Ukrainian demolition teams struck the strategically important Crimean Bridge twice, first with a massive underwater explosion and later with an aerial assault that prompted a scramble of Russian helicopters. These attacks come as a retaliation for Russia's extensive strikes on Ukrainian civilian targets in December 2023, which killed 55 people and prompted Kyiv to develop a counteroffensive plan.

Ukrainian spies have also successfully targeted Russian aircraft responsible for launching cruise missiles at civilian areas, meticulously tracking and striking these assets over several months. Additionally, Ukrainian special forces conducted a covert helicopter raid deep behind Russian lines, disappearing into enemy territory and leaving Russian commanders uncertain about the extent of Ukrainian surveillance and infiltration.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) carried out a significant underwater strike on the Crimean Bridge, reportedly causing substantial damage and putting the structure in a near-emergency state. In another incident, a fire erupted at a Russian military motor plant when a long-haul truck exploded, injuring a worker.

On the technological front, Ukraine is racing to develop domestic drone interceptors to counter Russia's increased use of Shahed drones. The country's Air Force, despite receiving F-16 fighters, still faces challenges due to Russia's advanced aerial fleet. Ukrainian forces have also employed innovative drones, such as the AI-capable Osa model, to strike Russian bombers.

Internationally, the U.S. President has remained silent following Ukraine's major drone attack on Russian bombers, while some of his supporters have reacted with suspicion and anger. In ceasefire negotiations, Ukraine seeks continued dialogue, but Russia insists on capitulation. Humanitarian concerns persist, with Russia exploiting Ukraine's largest nuclear plant and abducting Ukrainian children, dismissing international outcry as a "show for childless European grandmothers."

Recent Russian attacks have resulted in civilian casualties, including a strike on Sumy using Tornado-S cluster munitions and a "hypersonic" Kinzhal missile strike near Mykolaiv. Ukrainian counterintelligence efforts are focused on identifying potential sleeper agents among freed prisoners, as Russia attempts to brainwash and recruit them. 🇺🇦💥🛸

Bulgaria gets EU approval to adopt euro, PM welcomes ‘remarkable day’

Bulgaria has received the European Commission’s approval to adopt the euro, marking a significant milestone in its economic integration with the European Union. The country is set to become the 21st member of the eurozone, pending final approval from the EU’s finance ministers, expected in July. Bulgarian Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov hailed the decision as a "remarkable day," highlighting the country's years of reforms and alignment with European standards. However, the move has sparked controversy, with nearly half of Bulgarians opposing the adoption of the euro due to fears of economic instability. Despite political turmoil and public opposition, Bulgaria has prepared extensively for this transition, aiming to strengthen its economy through increased trade, investment, and job opportunities. The approval comes 18 years after Bulgaria joined the EU and follows successful efforts to meet the necessary economic criteria, including controlling inflation. The country's journey to the eurozone reflects its commitment to deeper European integration, despite past challenges and setbacks. 🇧🇬💶

Stubb calls Trump and Zelensky; Häkkänen discusses Ukraine in Brussels

Finnish President Alexander Stubb engaged in crucial diplomatic discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump, emphasizing the need for a united Europe in the face of Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine. Stubb stressed the importance of stronger sanctions from both the U.S. Congress and the European Union to exert pressure on Russia and highlighted the constructive role Ukraine has played in negotiations. He also expressed gratitude to U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal for their efforts.

Stubb has maintained frequent contacts with Trump, aiming to convey EU perspectives on a potential Ukraine peace process. Meanwhile, Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen participated in a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) in Brussels, where over 50 defence ministers convened to discuss strengthening deterrence and defence capabilities. Notably absent was U.S. Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, who will join Häkkänen and other NATO defence ministers in a separate meeting the following day. The discussions focused on long-term investments in defence, increased personnel, and expanding the defence industry base to address current security challenges. 📞🇫🇮🇺🇸🇺🇦

Poland’s presidential election run-off in charts

In Poland's closely contested presidential election, right-wing candidate Karol Nawrocki secured a narrow victory with 50.89% of the vote, defeating centrist rival Rafał Trzaskowski, who garnered 49.11%. The election was marked by high youth turnout, with young voters expressing frustration with the traditional political duopoly. Notably, a significant portion of young voters shifted their support from Trzaskowski to Nawrocki compared to the previous election. The youth vote was crucial, with 53% of 18-39-year-olds backing Nawrocki, a stark contrast to five years prior.

The election also highlighted divisions among voters who supported candidates eliminated in the first round. Far-right leader Sławomir Mentzen's supporters overwhelmingly backed Nawrocki, while Trzaskowski attracted more voters from centrist and left-wing candidates. The diaspora vote showed a mix of trends, with Trzaskowski winning globally but Nawrocki prevailing among Polish voters in the United States. Women turned out in higher numbers than men but were split in their support, with a narrow majority favoring Trzaskowski. Geographically, Nawrocki dominated rural and eastern Poland, while Trzaskowski won in urban and western regions. Education level remained a strong predictor, with Nawrocki leading among those with lower education and Trzaskowski dominating among university graduates. The election underscored deep-seated divisions within Polish society, reflecting a complex interplay of age, education, geography, and political ideology. 🇵🇱🗳️

Why Spain's Airbnb crackdown will likely make hotels more expensive

Spanish authorities at national, regional, and city levels are taking decisive action to combat the housing crisis exacerbated by short-term tourist rentals, particularly through platforms like Airbnb. Measures include ordering the removal of 66,000 illegal Airbnb ads, banning tourist apartments in central areas, and prohibiting new tourist licenses. These steps aim to return tourist rentals to the general housing market, addressing the severe shortage of affordable housing, especially for young people and low-income individuals.

However, these actions have unintended consequences, such as hotels increasing their prices due to reduced competition from short-term rentals. This trend has been observed in cities like New York and Barcelona, where hotel prices have surged following restrictions on Airbnb. In Barcelona, hotel prices rose to €188 in 2024, a 30% increase since 2019, making it one of the most expensive hotel destinations in Spain. Similarly, in Madrid, hotel rates increased by 15.9% in 2024, with further price hikes expected as Airbnb competition decreases.

The housing crisis is not confined to major cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Regions such as Andalusia, Valencia, the Balearic Islands, and the Basque Country are also grappling with illegal tourist rentals. In Málaga, there are 43,366 illegal tourist homes, and in Valencia, around 12,000 tourist apartments are illegal. These regions are also seeing hotel price increases, with Málaga experiencing a 21.09% rise and Valencia an 11.1% increase in 2024.

To further reduce the number of tourist apartments, Spanish authorities are implementing stricter regulations, such as requiring separate entrances for tourist apartments and allowing neighbors to veto requests. These measures aim to alleviate the housing crisis but may also make domestic travel more expensive for Spaniards, who frequently travel within their own country during key times like Easter and summer. The combined effects of rising rents, mortgages, and travel costs are creating significant financial challenges for the average population. 🏠🏨💸

Germany unveils tax breaks to boost stagnant economy

Germany is taking bold steps to bolster its economic strength and competitiveness. Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil announced a comprehensive tax reform package worth 45.8 billion euros, aiming to reduce the corporate tax rate gradually from 15% to 10% starting in 2028. Additionally, companies will benefit from tax deductions of 30% on new machinery and equipment investments between 2025 and 2027, and electric company cars will receive favorable tax treatment. Economy Minister Katherina Reiche emphasized that these measures signal Germany's commitment to growth and increased competitiveness, declaring, "Germany is back."

The new government, led by conservative Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has also proposed a 500-billion-euro infrastructure fund to revitalize the economy, which has faced challenges due to high domestic production costs, intense Chinese competition, and global trade tensions exacerbated by U.S. President Donald Trump. However, analysts caution that financial investments alone may not be sufficient without accompanying structural reforms. Deutsche Bank economist Robin Winkler noted that while the tax deductions will provide a short-term boost to the manufacturing sector, their impact on broader economic transformation is likely to be limited.

The proposed tax reforms face scrutiny from regional governments, which must approve the plans in the parliament's upper house. Concerns have been raised about the financial burden, with an estimated 28 billion euros in lost revenue for regional governments between 2025 and 2029. Anke Rehlinger, leader of the Saarland region, warned that without adequate funding, these investments could strain local budgets. Despite these challenges, the government is pushing for swift parliamentary approval of the tax package by the end of the month, demonstrating its resolve to drive economic growth and competitiveness. 💸🏭

Reports of racism and discrimination in Germany hit record high

Germany's Anti-Discrimination Agency released its latest annual report, revealing a stark increase in discrimination complaints. In 2024, the agency received 11,405 complaints, the highest number ever recorded, marking a six percent rise from the previous year. This surge is attributed to the normalization of racist and discriminatory language, fueled by the growing support for extreme right-wing parties. The most reported forms of discrimination were racism (43%), disability-based discrimination (27%), and gender discrimination (24%).

The report highlights significant weaknesses in Germany's General Equal Treatment Act (AGG), which lacks protections for nationality-based discrimination and does not cover government agencies. This gap may encourage anti-Semitic and anti-Roma discrimination and leaves citizens vulnerable to discrimination in public institutions. The agency calls for urgent reforms, including extending the AGG to cover nationality, government interactions, and digital discrimination.

Discrimination is pervasive in both workplaces and daily life, with one in three complaints related to job searches and employment. Gender-based discrimination, particularly in pay and career opportunities, remains a pressing issue. The report also details instances of discrimination in everyday activities, such as housing and healthcare. Despite the grim findings, the increase in complaints may indicate a growing awareness and willingness among victims to report discrimination. The Anti-Discrimination Agency offers free, confidential counseling to those who have experienced discrimination. 📈💼🏠

Greece, Egypt hold talks on status of Mount Sinai monastery

A Greek diplomatic delegation, led by Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, is in Cairo for crucial talks with Egyptian officials regarding the status of the Orthodox Monastery of Saint Catherine on Mount Sinai. The delegation includes representatives from Greece's ministries of education, religious affairs, and culture and sports. The primary focus of these discussions is to evaluate the implications of a recent Egyptian court ruling on an agreement finalized last December but yet to be signed. Despite personal assurances from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the agreement remains unsigned, prompting Greece to seek clarity on Egypt's position. The talks aim to address potential shifts in Cairo's stance and ensure the preservation of the monastery's historical and religious significance. 🇬🇷🇪🇬🏰

Will Sweden's central bank lower the interest rate this month?

Sweden's central bank is anticipated to lower its policy rate, a crucial tool for monetary policy, to stimulate the economy amid weak GDP figures and persistent inflation. Anders Wallström, Swedbank's head of forecasting, predicts two rate cuts this year, with the first potentially occurring in June and another in September. This move would reduce borrowing costs, encouraging spending and easing inflationary pressures. Susanne Spector, Danske Bank's chief economist, suggests a rate cut might be delayed until August, with a possibility of a slight adjustment in June to alleviate pressure on Swedish households. Both banks agree that recent weak GDP data signals the need for economic stimulation, although the timing remains uncertain. Inflation figures for May, to be released on June 5th, will significantly influence the central bank's decision. While both Swedbank and Danske Bank expect CPIF inflation to remain above the 2% target at 2.7%, a lower-than-expected figure could hasten a rate cut. The central bank's primary goal is to balance inflation control with economic growth, navigating the delicate interplay between these economic indicators. 📉💸

Libyan House reportedly looks to ratify Turkey maritime deal

The Libyan House of Representatives, aligned with General Khalifa Haftar and based in Tobruk, is reportedly preparing to ratify a contentious maritime agreement with Turkey. This move could reshape the geopolitical dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean. The memorandum of understanding, signed in 2019 between Turkey and Libya’s Government of National Unity in Tripoli, grants Turkey access to a significant economic zone in the Mediterranean. This deal has been widely criticized by Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, and the rival Libyan government in Tobruk, which does not recognize the GNU’s authority.

Speaker Aguila Saleh of the Tobruk-based parliament had previously rejected the agreement, deeming it null and void and a violation of Libyan sovereignty. However, recent developments suggest that the House of Representatives has formed a committee to review and potentially approve the agreement. If ratified, this would align all major Libyan factions with Turkey’s maritime claims, countering Greece’s bilateral maritime deal with Egypt and further complicating regional energy exploration efforts.

Turkey has been actively engaging with eastern Libyan authorities, including hosting Haftar’s son and providing humanitarian aid during past crises. These diplomatic efforts aim to strengthen ties and solidify Turkish influence in the region. The potential ratification of the maritime agreement by Libya’s eastern parliament represents a critical juncture in the ongoing disputes over Mediterranean energy resources and regional influence. 🌊🏛️

Decree expands building bonus criteria

The Environment Ministry has proposed a significant expansion of criteria for protecting building permits with New Building Regulation (NOK) bonuses from court annulment. The draft Presidential Decree, submitted to the Council of State, broadens the definition of "commencement of construction" to include the demolition of existing structures within six months of a December 2024 court annulment. This change aims to "save" building permits that include NOK bonuses, even if they do not meet the original Council of State's requirement of excavation work.

The decree also proposes that private construction contracts, regardless of public filing, could be considered valid. This represents a substantial shift from the high court's December ruling, which invalidated certain building bonuses but exempted projects where excavation work had demonstrably begun by December 11, 2024. The proposed regulations appear more lenient than the court's original intent, raising concerns about potential circumvention of its ruling.

To address environmental impacts, the decree introduces an "environmental equivalent" fee system. Developers would pay penalties ranging from 8% to 15% of the construction value derived from applied incentives. These funds would support environmental projects in recipient municipalities, such as creating public green spaces, demolishing illegal structures, and redeveloping environmentally degraded areas. The funds would be managed by the Central Urban Planning Council (KESYPOTHA), an entity criticized for its lack of transparency.

Critics, including Kostas Vourekas, president of the Attica Architects Association, argue that the decree prioritizes saving construction companies' investment plans over protecting the natural and built environment. The decree's legal validity and alignment with the Council of State's original ruling are under scrutiny as it awaits review. The proposed changes have sparked debate about balancing development interests with environmental and legal considerations. 🏗️🌳