Newsflash

2025-06-06

Ukraine warns of Europe-wide nuclear disaster as Russia plans to reconnect Zaporizhzhia plant

Ukraine has raised alarming concerns about the potential for a nuclear disaster at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), the largest in Europe, which could have catastrophic consequences for the entire continent. The plant, currently under Russian control, is reportedly facing severe technical issues and a lack of qualified personnel, making any attempt to reconnect it to the Russian energy grid extremely dangerous. The ZNPP's power units are in a cold shutdown state, and the plant is still reliant on Ukraine's energy grid for power.

Ukrainian officials, including Yury Sheiko, First Deputy Minister of Energy, have emphasized the grave risks associated with the plant's current condition. They highlight that Russia lacks the necessary spare parts, equipment, and expertise to safely maintain or repair the facility. The absence of qualified Ukrainian personnel and the unknown technical state of the plant further exacerbate the situation. Ukraine accuses Russia of using the prospect of restarting the plant as a form of nuclear blackmail, aiming to pressure both Kyiv and the international community.

Reports suggest that Russia may be constructing a power line to reconnect the ZNPP to its own grid, despite warnings from Ukrainian officials that the plant is not ready for restart. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated that it has no evidence of an imminent reconnection, but also notes that the plant cannot be restarted due to a lack of cooling water for the reactors. The situation remains tense, with the potential for a nuclear disaster looming over Europe. 💥💥💥

War in Ukraine: What’s in the Russian memorandum?

Russia has released a memorandum outlining its conditions for a ceasefire in Ukraine, revealing its strategic goals as the conflict enters its fourth year. The document, made public by the Russian press agency Tass, sets forth stringent terms for a settlement and provides insights into the Kremlin's ambitions for Ukraine.

The memorandum demands international recognition of Crimea, Donbas, and "Novorossia" as part of Russia, along with guarantees for the rights of Russian speakers in Ukraine. It insists on making Russian an official language, banning the glorification of Nazism, lifting restrictions on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, and ensuring Ukrainian neutrality, which includes prohibiting Ukraine from joining military alliances or hosting foreign military forces. Additionally, it calls for caps on Ukraine's military strength, the lifting of all sanctions, and the waiver of mutual claims related to war damages.

For a ceasefire, Russia offers two options. The first involves the complete withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions within 30 days of a ceasefire. The second option includes a ban on redeploying Ukrainian armed forces, halting Western arms supplies, excluding foreign military presence, and establishing a bilateral monitoring center. Both options require the dissolution of nationalist formations, amnesty for political prisoners, and the release of military personnel and civilians.

The memorandum also outlines the procedure for signing a peace treaty, which includes the transfer of 6,000 bodies of deceased Russian military personnel to Ukraine, a 30-day ceasefire, elections, and the formation of new authorities in Ukraine. The treaty must be approved by a legally binding resolution of the UN Security Council. These conditions reflect Russia's desire to control Ukraine's political, linguistic, and religious landscape while securing its territorial gains and limiting Ukraine's future military capabilities. 🇷🇺🇺🇦

Greece and Egypt turn to Libya amid new concerns over the Turkey-Libya maritime deal

Greece and Egypt are closely monitoring developments in Libya, particularly concerning the controversial Turkey-Libya maritime deal. This agreement, which delineates maritime boundaries in the Eastern Mediterranean, has raised significant concerns in Athens and Cairo, as it potentially infringes upon their own maritime claims and economic interests. The deal, signed in 2019, has been a contentious issue, with Greece and Egypt arguing that it violates international law and their sovereign rights.

The situation has become more pressing as there are indications that the deal might be endorsed by the eastern Libyan authorities, further complicating the geopolitical landscape. This endorsement could embolden Turkey's claims and potentially lead to increased tensions in the region. Both Greece and Egypt have been actively engaging with Libyan stakeholders to counter Turkey's influence and protect their maritime interests. The outcome of these diplomatic efforts will significantly impact the stability and economic prospects of the Eastern Mediterranean. The stakes are high, as the region is rich in natural resources, including significant gas reserves, making it a strategic priority for all parties involved. 🌊🏛️

New chief of Ukraine’s drone corps sets 100-day plan to reshape the sky

Ukraine is set to significantly enhance its drone capabilities under the leadership of Robert "Madiar" Brovdy, the newly appointed commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces. Brovdy's ambitious plan aims to elevate several units within the Drone Line to the top ranks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces' effectiveness charts. Over the next 100 days, key initiatives will include the deployment of a unified electronic system for planning, coordination, command, and real-time reporting across all Unmanned Systems Forces (USF) units. This system will streamline operations and improve tactical and operational depth, encompassing 12 levels of application from reconnaissance to countering enemy drones.

Domestic production of munitions will be ramped up, accompanied by the establishment of a centralized supply depot for critical components such as Starlink, batteries, electronic warfare systems, and first-person view (FPV) parts. Ground robotic complexes will be utilized for logistics, ensuring efficient transport of munitions, drones, and related equipment. A unified recruitment campaign and proprietary training network will be launched to train drone pilots and operators, with a focus on matching individual skills with specific combat roles. Personnel will undergo re-certification and retraining to optimize their combat effectiveness.

The reform also includes a strategic analysis of drone capabilities and operational data to inform precise planning and real-time supply of units. Additionally, there are plans for a secretive initiative involving the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at strategic depths. The Innovation and Development Center will be transformed to support the entire branch of the armed forces, moving from a brigade-level operation to a broader, more impactful role. These comprehensive upgrades are poised to revolutionize Ukraine's drone warfare capabilities, enhancing both operational efficiency and strategic reach. 🛸💥

NATO to propose upping members' defence spending to 5% in line with Trump demand

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has announced plans to propose a significant increase in member countries' defense spending, aiming for 5% of their gross domestic product (GDP) at the upcoming summit. This proposal aligns with U.S. President Donald Trump's demand for increased defense investments, with broad support from most NATO allies. The new target, which includes 3.5% for core military spending and 1.5% for infrastructure to enhance rapid deployment, represents a substantial increase from the current 2% GDP target set in 2023. The proposal comes amid heightened security concerns due to Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and Trump's insistence on shifting U.S. focus to the Indo-Pacific and domestic security. The new goal is expected to be endorsed at the June summit in The Hague, with a seven-year time frame for implementation, reflecting the urgent need to bolster NATO's defense capabilities in the face of evolving threats. 🌍💥

Kim Jong Un promises full support for Russia’s Ukraine war, says North Korea

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged "unconditional support" for Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine, as announced during a meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu in Pyongyang. This declaration marks a deepening alliance between the two nations, with both leaders agreeing to strengthen their strategic partnership and coordinate on international issues, including the Ukraine conflict.

The meeting, held on June 4, saw Kim affirm North Korea's backing for Russia's foreign policies, particularly regarding Ukraine. Both officials discussed ways to bolster their cooperation and reached a consensus on the Ukraine issue and other global situations, although specific details were not disclosed. This alignment comes amid reports of significant North Korean military involvement in the Russian-Ukrainian war.

In April 2025, North Korea and Russia officially acknowledged the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia, with estimates suggesting that between 10,000 and 12,000 troops were sent last fall, and an additional 3,000 dispatched earlier this year. North Korea has also supplied Russia with substantial military aid, including 9 million rounds of ammunition and 100 ballistic missiles since 2023. Despite Russia's claims of full control over Ukraine's Kursk Oblast, Ukrainian forces maintain a presence in the region, indicating ongoing conflict. The two leaders also discussed the reconstruction of Kursk Oblast and honoring the contributions of North Korean soldiers involved in the fighting. 🇷🇺🇰🇵💥

Ukraine gets green light to strike Russia — and it’s no longer enough

The escalating conflict in Ukraine has underscored the urgent need for a strategic shift in Western military support. Recent announcements by Germany, the United States, France, and the United Kingdom have lifted long-standing restrictions on the use of Western weapons for offensive operations within Russian territory. This decision comes as Ukraine faces an intensifying barrage of Russian drones and missiles, with the Kremlin deploying hundreds of Shahed drones and dozens of missiles nightly, a stark increase from previous years.

The evolving threat landscape includes advanced weaponry, such as ballistic missiles from North Korea and AI-guided Shahed drones that can evade defenses and utilize local internet networks. Russia's drone production has surged, with the capability to produce 500 drones daily, posing an insurmountable challenge for Ukraine's air defense systems. The sheer volume of attacks has led to significant civilian suffering, economic disruption, and morale crises, as seen in last year's "missile crisis" that resulted in prolonged power outages.

To counter this threat, Ukraine must adopt a proactive strategy that includes striking at the heart of the Russian military infrastructure. This approach will not only defend Ukrainian territory but also enable counterattacks, saving lives and protecting critical infrastructure. The time for hesitation is over; a new strategy, backed by adequate weapons and funding, is essential to defend Ukraine effectively and work towards a lasting peace. The stakes are high, and the need for decisive action is urgent.

China secretly helps Russia build massive long-range drone fleet

Russia has surpassed Ukraine in the production of long-range drones, with Chinese technology playing a pivotal role. Despite China's public neutrality in the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, it has maintained strong economic ties with Russia and is reportedly supplying critical components for Russian drone and ammunition production. By early 2025, 80% of the electronics in Russian drones were sourced from China, according to Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service. These components include electronics, navigation systems, engines, and processor modules, often sourced through shell companies to evade export controls and sanctions.

Ukraine, which initially led the drone war, has seen its advantage narrow. While Ukraine planned to produce 2.5 million tactical and 30,000 long-range drones in 2025, Russia has significantly ramped up its production, aiming to manufacture up to 2 million tactical drones and 30,000 long-range drones this year. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine produces about 100 long-range drones daily, while Russia produces 300 and targets 500. Additionally, Russia has adopted advanced drone technologies, such as fiber optic-powered drones that are immune to radio jamming and harder to detect, and has improved its electronic warfare capabilities.

Ukraine faces further challenges as China has restricted its access to new drones while allowing Russia continued access. This disparity has forced Ukrainian troops to adapt, relying on acoustic tools to detect drones and constantly upgrading their own capabilities. Russia's drone production is concentrated in several key locations, including the Alabuga special economic zone in Tatarstan and the Kupol plant in Izhevsk, with plans to produce a vast number of drones in 2025. The escalating drone war underscores the urgent need for Ukraine to enhance its defense capabilities and secure reliable access to advanced technologies. 🛸🇷🇺🇨🇳

Why is Spain so vulnerable to cyberattacks?

Spain is grappling with a surge in cyberattacks, ranking second globally in terms of vulnerability. Recent high-profile breaches have targeted major corporations like Telefónica, Santander Bank, and even the Spanish Armed Forces, with public administrations bearing the brunt of roughly a third of these attacks. The country's strategic location, economic significance, and rapid digital transformation have made it an attractive target for cybercriminals, who exploit weaknesses in cybersecurity systems.

The rise in ransomware attacks, which have increased by 120%, poses a significant financial threat, particularly to small businesses. The Spanish government, acknowledging the growing danger, has announced plans to enhance telecommunications and cybersecurity capabilities. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has emphasized the need for a "digital shield" to protect critical infrastructure and essential services from escalating cyber threats. The global cost of cybercrime now stands at 1.5% of the world's GDP, highlighting the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures. 🌐🔒

Ukraine’s drone strikes are a strategic game-changer

Ukraine has executed a series of audacious drone strikes, marking a significant shift in modern warfare. In "Operation Spiderweb," Ukraine deployed domestically built first-person-view (FPV) drones from deep within Russian territory to target multiple military airbases, destroying or severely damaging up to 41 strategic aircraft, including nuclear-capable bombers. This operation, costing less than the price of an iPhone per drone, achieved a staggering 300,000-to-one return on investment, striking a blow to Russia's military capabilities and challenging its nuclear deterrent.

The strikes, followed by an underwater explosion damaging the Kerch Bridge, sent a clear message: Ukraine can strike hard and far, despite being smaller and seemingly weaker. This asymmetric warfare strategy, using cheap and scalable technology, has global implications, from Taipei to Islamabad. The attacks also challenge Russian President Vladimir Putin's assumption that time is on his side, potentially altering the diplomatic landscape and forcing Russia to consider the escalating costs of continued war.

The timing of these operations, just before talks in Istanbul, was strategic, signaling Ukraine's strength and unwillingness to accept a coercive deal. While the talks were inconclusive, they highlighted Ukraine's newfound leverage. However, this success also raises the risk of further escalation, as Putin may feel compelled to restore his credibility through more dramatic actions, including potential nuclear strikes. The West must navigate this delicate situation carefully, using coordinated pressure to encourage limited agreements and potentially pave the way for a more durable peace. The alternative is a deeper, more unpredictable conflict that grows increasingly dangerous. 🇺🇦💥

Drone attacks are the new front in war. NATO is trying to catch up

The recent surge in drone attacks, particularly in Ukraine, has highlighted a new era of warfare and exposed the vulnerabilities of Western nations, including NATO members. Ukraine's successful drone strikes on Russian air bases, using over 100 smuggled drones, have raised alarms about the potential threats to NATO's own military infrastructure. This incident underscores the need for NATO to reassess and bolster its defenses against drone threats, which can target critical assets far beyond traditional battle lines.

Russia's near-daily drone attacks on Ukraine have demonstrated its capability to launch thousands of uncrewed aircraft rapidly, a feat that Western defense manufacturers have struggled to match. NATO is now focusing on learning from Ukraine's experiences, opening a joint training center in Poland to share insights from the ongoing conflict. However, much of the alliance remains focused on traditional warfare, struggling to keep pace with the evolving threats posed by drones and cyberattacks.

The U.S. and its allies are increasingly aware of their vulnerabilities. A recent British defense review emphasized the need for heavy investment in air and land drones, including stockpiling one-way attack drones. Both Russia and Ukraine have significantly invested in their drone fleets, with Ukraine aiming to produce over 5 million drones this year. Russia, meanwhile, has overwhelmed Ukraine's air defenses with thousands of drones weekly, primarily using cost-effective Geran-series drones.

The escalating drone warfare coincides with ongoing ceasefire talks and Russia's efforts to gain territorial advantages before any settlement. This new front in warfare has left many in Europe unprepared to handle such threats effectively. As drone technology continues to evolve, the ability to quickly deploy new weapons will be crucial in determining the outcome of future conflicts. 🛸💥

French dock workers block shipment of military material for Israel

Dockworkers at the port of Fos-sur-Mer, near Marseille, have refused to load a shipment of metal links used to facilitate rapid fire from machine guns. The links, manufactured by the Marseille-based company Eurolinks, were destined for a cargo vessel bound for Israel. The dockworkers, represented by the CGT trade union, cited concerns that these components could be used against civilians in the Gaza Strip, aligning with accusations of genocide leveled against Israel by various rights groups.

The CGT union emphasized that once dockworkers refuse to load a shipment, no one else can do it for them. The union's action underscores its opposition to "participating in the ongoing genocide orchestrated by the Israeli government." The move has garnered support from left-wing and hard-left leaders in France, who echo the call for the French government to block all arms deliveries to Israel.

The cargo, consisting of 19 pallets of links, was set aside, and the rest of the ship's containers were loaded as planned. This incident follows two previous shipments from Fos-sur-Mer to the Israeli port of Haifa, raising further questions about France's role in arms exports to Israel. The conflict in Gaza, which began after Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023, has resulted in significant civilian casualties on both sides, with the United Nations warning of a potential famine affecting Gaza's entire population. The dockworkers' action highlights the growing tension between international law, human rights, and the global arms trade. 🚢🔒

Greece facing many diplomatic hurdles in our region

Greece is navigating a complex web of diplomatic challenges in its region, extending beyond its contentious bilateral relations with Turkey. The shifting U.S. stance towards Turkey and the ongoing war in Ukraine necessitate a fresh assessment and strategic management to maintain Greece's regional influence. Relations with North Macedonia have soured due to the election of nationalist leaders, making the full implementation of the Prespa Agreement crucial for bilateral cooperation and North Macedonia's European integration. Greece must also avoid entanglement in the political dispute between North Macedonia and Bulgaria.

In Albania, recent diplomatic efforts show promise, with the Albanian foreign minister's visit to Athens highlighting the potential benefits of shared linguistic and cultural ties. However, the Albanian prime minister holds significant influence, and the delimitation of the exclusive economic zone remains a pressing issue that must be resolved independently of third-party interventions. Albania's European aspirations are a key consideration in these discussions.

To the south, Libya presents a new diplomatic challenge, particularly with the shifting stance of General Khalifa Haftar's government in eastern Libya regarding the Turkish-Libyan memorandum. Greece must act swiftly to address this issue, both bilaterally and in coordination with neighboring countries, to regain lost ground.

Additionally, Greece faces a delicate situation with Egypt over the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Saint Catherine in Sinai. The Egyptian court ruling complicates matters, requiring Greece to leverage its good bilateral relations while navigating the religious and commercial dimensions of the dispute.

Amidst this unpredictable geopolitical landscape, Greek diplomacy must effectively manage these multiple trouble spots to safeguard the country's interests and maintain regional stability. 🌍🇬🇷

Greek startups abroad shine

Greek entrepreneurs are making significant strides in the global startup scene, securing nearly $1.5 billion in funding since the start of 2025. This surge in investment, primarily directed towards artificial intelligence companies, underscores the growing recognition of Greek innovation on the international stage. Notable investors such as Nvidia, General Atlantic, Andreessen Horowitz, and Sequoia Capital have backed Greek-founded startups, with recent investments including Rillet, an AI-driven accounting automation platform.

The data, provided by Greek investment fund Marathon Venture Capital, reveals a substantial increase in funding compared to the previous year, with startups raising $1.49 billion in 2025, up from $1.07 billion in 2024. AI companies are at the forefront of this investment boom, attracting the largest share of capital worldwide. One standout example is Endor Labs, a software firm founded by Dimitris Styliadis in 2021 and based in Palo Alto, California. The company recently secured $93 million from US venture capital firm DFJ Growth and other investors, highlighting the potential of Greek startups to compete and thrive in the global tech landscape. 💡🌍

Norway votes down plan to limit investment in Israeli companies

Norway's sovereign wealth fund, the largest in the world with nearly $1.65 trillion in global investments, has faced increasing pressure to leverage its financial influence to address Israeli policies in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. The fund, fueled by Norway's oil and gas revenues, has been scrutinized for its investments in companies allegedly supporting Israel's settlement activities, deemed illegal under international law.

Recently, Norwegian lawmakers voted 88 to 16 against a proposal to divest from companies contributing to Israel's alleged war crimes and illegal occupation. The government, led by the Labour Party, has been urged by about 50 non-governmental organizations and Norway's main union, LO, to align the fund's investments with the country's legal obligations. The UN special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories also called on Norway to divest from entities linked to Israel's unlawful presence in the region, citing significant investments in companies involved in violations of international law.

Norwegian Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg responded by emphasizing the need for an end to violence, the release of Israeli hostages, and the resumption of humanitarian aid. However, he maintained that the fund's investments do not breach Norway's international legal obligations. The fund, governed by strict ethical guidelines, has already divested from 11 companies due to their activities in the occupied West Bank, including a recent withdrawal from Paz Retail and Energy, which supplies fuel to Israeli settlements. Tensions between Norway and Israel have escalated since May 2024, when Norway, along with Spain and Ireland, recognized the state of Palestine. 🇳🇴🇮🇱

Saeima adopts bomb shelter regulation in Latvia

Latvia is taking significant steps to enhance its civil protection infrastructure by introducing regulations for the creation and use of shelters. The State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) has assessed over 4,710 structures nationwide, finding that 394 fully meet shelter requirements, while 1,200 partially do. This initiative is part of a broader effort to bolster the country's preparedness for disasters, military threats, or war, as outlined in the Civil Protection and Disaster Management Act.

The new regulations categorize shelters into three levels. First-category shelters will provide the highest protection against explosions, shock waves, chemical warfare agents, ionizing radiation, and radioactive dust. These will be mandatory in new critical infrastructure facilities with daily personnel presence. Second-category shelters, designed to protect against blast waves and flying debris, must be built in new multi-story residential buildings with more than five floors, public buildings, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and other high-occupancy structures by 2027. Third-category shelters, which adapt existing buildings to mitigate blast waves and debris, will be constructed in properties that do not meet the first two categories' requirements, following guidelines developed by the VUGD and the Ministry of the Interior.

Building owners will be responsible for maintaining these shelters, while local governments will oversee the availability and accessibility of shelter information within their jurisdictions. Additionally, local governments may provide assistance in setting up shelters as per their binding rules. The Cabinet of Ministers will establish procedures for recognizing adapted buildings as shelters, inspecting them, and determining the placement of civil protection signs. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure Latvia's readiness and resilience in the face of potential threats. 🏠🛡️

Who exactly would have to pay Spain's 100 percent property tax?

Spain's ruling Socialists have officially proposed a 100% property tax on overseas home buyers to tackle the country's housing crisis. The measure, initially suggested by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has been registered in the Spanish Congress and awaits parliamentary approval. The tax will be applied to the taxable base of the property, effectively doubling the purchase price for affected buyers.

The tax will target non-residents of the European Union, regardless of their citizenship. This means that EU residents, including Spanish nationals living outside the EU, will be subject to the tax. Conversely, non-EU nationals residing in the EU will be exempt. For instance, a German living in the UK would pay the tax, while a UK national residing in Germany would not. The proposal aims to curb foreign investment in Spain's housing market, with the goal of making homes more affordable for locals. 🏠💸

Baltic Foreign Affairs Committees meet in Lithuania

From June 5 to 7, the Chairman of the Seimas Foreign Affairs Committee, Remigijus Motuzas, will host delegations from Latvia and Estonia, led by Inara Mūrniece and Marko Mihkelson, respectively. This annual gathering, held in rotation among the Baltic states, aims to bolster parliamentary cooperation in foreign policy, security, and defense. The meeting will focus on addressing geopolitical challenges, sharing national experiences, and coordinating joint parliamentary diplomacy efforts.

Key topics include the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the importance of a united front among the Baltic states and Nordic countries, and the strengthening of European defense capabilities. The delegations will also discuss the situation of the defense industry within the European Union, with insights from Simonas Šatūnas, Head of the Cabinet of European Commissioner Andrius Kubilius. The meeting will conclude with a visit to the Grand Duchess Birutė Uhlan Battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Brigade Iron Wolf, accompanied by Lithuania's Minister of National Defence, Dovilė Šakalienė. This event underscores the commitment of the Baltic states to collective security and regional stability. 🇱🇹🇪🇪🇱🇻🇪🇺

French culture minister accepted money from energy group, report finds

Rachida Dati, a prominent French politician and ally of former President Nicolas Sarkozy, has vehemently denied recent allegations of wrongdoing. The accusations, reported by the investigative television show "Complement d'Enquete" and the Nouvel Observateur magazine, claim that Dati received €299,000 from GDF Suez through a now-defunct law firm, STC Partners. These payments allegedly coincided with her public and parliamentary advocacy for pro-gas positions. Dati's lawyers, Olivier Baratelli and Olivier Pardo, have refuted these claims, asserting that she has never acted as a lawyer for GDF Suez.

Dati, a former magistrate and lawyer, served in the European Parliament from 2009 to 2019, representing France's main right-wing party. She has long faced allegations of influence-peddling, with previous accusations of lobbying for GDF Suez surfacing in 2013. In 2021, she was charged with "passive corruption" related to her dealings with former Renault chief Carlos Ghosn, during her time in the European Parliament. Dati denies any wrongdoing in both cases.

Despite these controversies, Dati was reappointed to the French government by President Emmanuel Macron in January 2024, a move seen as shifting the cabinet further to the right. Born to working-class North African immigrants, Dati's political career has been marked by both success and scandal. 🇫🇷🏛️

Polish parliament approves bill mandating salary disclosure in job adverts

Poland's parliament has approved significant amendments to the labor code, aiming to enhance pay transparency and align with upcoming EU regulations on pay equity. The new law, championed by Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s centrist Civic Coalition, mandates that employers disclose salary details and benefits in job advertisements or before job interviews. This measure is designed to empower job seekers, particularly women, to negotiate better employment conditions and address gender-based pay disparities. Additionally, the law requires gender-neutral language in job postings and non-discriminatory recruitment processes, while eliminating the need for candidates to disclose their previous salaries. The bill, initially passed by the Sejm and later approved by the Senate, now awaits President Andrzej Duda's signature. This legislative change reflects growing public support for salary transparency and comes amidst Poland's robust labor market, characterized by low unemployment and high demand for workers. The move is part of a broader effort to comply with EU directives on pay transparency by June 2026. 🇵🇱💼