Newsflash

Several killed in Russian strike on Ukraine

In the early hours of Friday, Russia launched a devastating missile and drone assault on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. The intense barrage resulted in the deaths of at least five people, according to Ukrainian officials. Powerful explosions echoed across the city, underscoring the severity of the attack. The strike highlights the ongoing conflict and the persistent threat posed by Russian forces to Ukrainian civilians. 💥🏙️

Putin’s nuclear magic trick has no rabbit — Why Russia can’t actually use captured Ukrainian reactors

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), Europe's largest nuclear facility, is at the center of a complex geopolitical and technical crisis. Russia, which seized control of the plant in March 2022, has been pushing to restart it, despite significant challenges. The plant's six reactors were shut down in September 2022 due to military risks, and the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in June 2023 eliminated its primary cooling water source, forcing it to rely on limited groundwater. Russia's claims of an imminent restart are politically motivated and technically misleading, as the plant's systems are incompatible with Russian technology, and the necessary infrastructure is lacking.

The Kremlin is pressuring Rosatom, the state-owned corporation managing ZNPP, to show progress, but the technical team is hesitant due to the risks involved. The plant's original Ukrainian staff has been largely replaced by Russian personnel unfamiliar with the Westernized systems, making a safe restart technically unfeasible. Moreover, Russia's motivations for restarting the plant are geopolitical, aiming to use it as a tool for nuclear blackmail and to relieve pressure on its southern grid. However, the real threat lies in Rosatom's dual role as a nuclear weapons enterprise, with every contract signed helping to fund Russia's military-industrial complex.

A nuclear incident at ZNPP would have global repercussions, undermining Rosatom's international projects and potentially leading to devastating consequences. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) retains final authority on the plant's operational safety, and Russia cannot restart it without the agency's approval. However, Russia may attempt to stage a performance to make it appear operational, using it as a bargaining chip in potential geopolitical talks. The true danger lies in the narrative of activity, coercion, and the continued acceptance of Rosatom as a civilian actor, with the opportunity to act diminishing as the cost of delay rises. 💥💣

Russo-Ukrainian war, day 1199: Russia launches record 407 drones in overnight assault

In a strategic maneuver, Ukraine has capitalized on Russia's troop surge near Sumy, turning the anticipated offensive into a target-rich environment for U.S.-supplied HIMARS rocket systems. Meanwhile, Ukraine has resumed strikes on Russian fuel depots, airfields, and military factories, targeting strategic locations in Saratov, Ryazan, Tambov, and Moscow oblasts. These attacks underscore Ukraine's renewed offensive capabilities and its determination to disrupt Russian supply lines and military infrastructure.

Russia's military operations are facing significant challenges. Overloading its Tu-95 bombers with missiles for strikes on Ukraine has led to a potential fleet breakdown, with Tu-160 bombers grounded and mass strikes becoming less likely. Additionally, Russia has received 140 mm and 60 mm mortars from North Korea, further complicating the conflict's dynamics. The war monitoring organization ACLED has revealed that Russia's claims of Ukrainian army losses are often inflated by up to 97%, highlighting the propaganda efforts to mislead public opinion.

On the diplomatic front, former Polish president Lech Wałęsa has demanded an election recount following the victory of an anti-Ukraine candidate, Karol Nawrocki. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has engaged in diplomatic talks with the Pope, blaming Ukraine for the war while offering no concessions. The European Union is pushing for stronger sanctions against Russia, exposing a $1 trillion war windfall generated through a "shadow fleet" of aging vessels that evade oil sanctions. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has compared the Russia-Ukraine war to a playground fight, suggesting that the conflict may need to run its course before diplomacy can be effective.

The humanitarian impact of the war remains severe. Two years after Russia's flooding of Kherson Oblast, Ukraine is preparing to revive the destroyed Kakhovka Hydropower Plant, crucial for electricity, water supply, navigation, and the safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Russia's overnight assault launched 407 drones and 45 missiles against Ukraine, targeting energy and civilian sites in Kyiv, Ternopil, and Lutsk, resulting in civilian casualties and injuries. The Kremlin has explicitly stated that the war on Ukraine is about elimination, not just territorial gains, indicating a genocidal intent. 💥🏙️💥

Germany has three years to overhaul military: official

Defense spending has surged to the forefront of political discussions in Germany, driven by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and pressure from the United States for NATO members to bolster their commitments. The urgency is underscored by warnings from German military leaders about potential Russian aggression. Annette Lehnigk-Emden, head of the Federal Office for Military Procurement, emphasized the need to acquire all necessary defenses by 2028. Chief of Defense General Carsten Breuer cautioned that Russia could launch a large-scale attack on NATO territory, particularly targeting Baltic members, as early as 2029.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government is prioritizing rearmament, allocating hundreds of billions of euros to upgrade the military. The focus will be on acquiring heavy equipment, such as Skyranger anti-aircraft tanks, to enhance Germany's defense capabilities. This push for rearmament began under the previous government of Olaf Scholz in response to Russia's actions in Ukraine. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified the call for NATO members to increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP, up from the current 2%.

To meet these heightened defense needs, Germany plans to recruit between 50,000 and 60,000 new soldiers in the coming years. The army, which had over 180,000 soldiers last year, aims to reach a strength of more than 203,000 by 2031. This significant increase in personnel and resources reflects Germany's commitment to becoming "the most powerful conventional army in Europe." 🇩🇪💥

CIA forged Ukraine’s broken spy service into Mossad for Putin — now it can’t make them stop

In just three years, Ukraine has transformed into a formidable force in global espionage, challenging Russia's military and political dominance. Ukraine's intelligence services, particularly the Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), have conducted daring operations that have reshaped the landscape of modern warfare. These operations include the assassination of high-ranking Russian officials, sabotage of strategic assets, and covert actions across multiple continents, all while maintaining a low profile and avoiding direct confrontation with Western powers.

Ukraine's shadow war against Russia has been marked by innovative tactics and a willingness to cross traditional red lines. The SBU's "Spider Web" operation, which targeted Russia's nuclear-capable long-range bombers, is a prime example of Ukraine's audacious and effective intelligence operations. This operation not only dealt a significant blow to Russia's military capabilities but also demonstrated Ukraine's ability to strike deep within Russian territory.

HUR's global reach extends far beyond Ukraine's borders, reflecting a doctrine forged through years of conflict with Russia and close cooperation with Western intelligence agencies like the CIA and MI6. The agency has conducted operations in Africa, Syria, and even within Russia itself, targeting Russian war criminals and collaborators. These actions have not only disrupted Russia's military and political operations but have also sent a clear message to the Kremlin about Ukraine's resolve and capabilities.

Ukraine's rise as an intelligence powerhouse has been facilitated by significant support from Western allies, particularly the United States. The CIA has played a crucial role in training and equipping Ukraine's intelligence services, transforming them into a modern, proactive force capable of striking deep behind enemy lines. This partnership has allowed Ukraine to build a network of secret forward bases near the Russian border, from which it can launch sabotage, electronic warfare, and deep-penetration missions.

The impact of Ukraine's intelligence operations has been profound, both militarily and psychologically. By targeting Russian generals and high-ranking officials, Ukraine has exposed the vulnerabilities in Russia's security and political system, shaking confidence in its military leadership. These operations have also demonstrated to the West that Ukraine is capable of more than just defending its territory; it can also project power and influence on a global scale.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the role of its intelligence services will likely become even more critical. With Western support, Ukraine's shadow war against Russia could erode Moscow's influence in Africa, disrupt Wagner's operations, and strengthen local resistance to authoritarian entrenchment. The lessons learned from Ukraine's intelligence operations could also shape the future of global espionage, as other nations look to emulate its success in the face of adversity. 🌍🕵️‍♂️

Zelenskyy rejects Trump’s comparison of war to “two little kids fighting.” He says Putin is murderer who kills these kids

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy vehemently rejected Donald Trump's recent comparison of the Russia-Ukraine war to "two kids fighting in a park." Zelenskyy asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is a murderer who has targeted and killed innocent Ukrainians, including 631 children since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. He emphasized that Trump, and anyone distant from the conflict, cannot truly grasp the profound suffering endured by Ukrainians.

Zelenskyy shared a poignant conversation with a Ukrainian father who lost his wife and three children in a Russian missile strike. The man described his daily struggle, searching for his family each morning, still hoping it was all a nightmare. This personal account underscored the stark contrast between the human tragedy and the often detached discussions of casualties and statistics. The president did not name the family, but the description matches the Bazylevych family tragedy in Lviv, where a Russian hypersonic missile killed Yevheniia Bazylevych and her three daughters on September 4, 2024. The family's father, Yaroslav Bazylevych, survived the attack but was injured. Zelenskyy's remarks highlighted the deep emotional and psychological toll of the war on Ukrainian families, emphasizing that the conflict is far from a mere playground scuffle. 😢🇺🇦

Kharkiv endures most extensive attack since full-scale invasion began. Three civilians killed, dozens injured

On the night of June 6-7, Russian forces launched a massive overnight assault on Ukraine, employing 215 weapons, with Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, bearing the brunt of the damage. The attack resulted in three civilian deaths and 21 injuries, including a 1.5-month-old infant and a 14-year-old girl. The coordinated assault involved 206 Shahed strike drones, decoy unmanned aircraft, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted most threats, destroying 87 drones and neutralizing 80 others through electronic warfare or locational suppression. All six guided missiles and one cruise missile were also shot down.

The assault on Kharkiv was particularly devastating, with Mayor Ihor Terekhov describing it as the most extensive attack since the full-scale war began. The 90-minute bombardment involved missiles, Shahed drones, and guided aerial bombs targeting multiple city districts, resulting in at least 40 explosions. In the Kyivskyi district, a drone struck a civilian enterprise, a private residence, and a higher education facility. The Osnovianskyi district saw a direct hit on a residential high-rise, causing fires and trapping residents under rubble. Emergency responders rescued one woman alive from the debris. The strikes damaged various buildings, including apartment complexes, private houses, enterprises, vehicles, an administrative building, and a children’s music school. The relentless assault underscores the ongoing intensity of the conflict and the significant civilian impact. 💥🏙️🚨

Russia pummels Ukraine's Kharkiv in 'most powerful attack' since start of war

In a significant escalation of its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, Russia launched a massive barrage of missiles, drones, and bombs early Saturday, resulting in at least seven deaths and numerous injuries. The assault, described as the most powerful since the war's inception, targeted multiple Ukrainian cities, with Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, bearing the brunt of the attack. The strikes destroyed homes and apartment buildings, killing at least three people and injuring 17, including two children. Additionally, a Russian missile strike on a high-rise building in the southern city of Kherson claimed the lives of two more individuals.

The intensified Russian bombardment follows a daring Ukrainian attack on Russian air bases last week, which damaged nuclear-capable military planes. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga urged Western allies to impose further pressure on Russia and bolster Ukraine's defenses in response to the escalating violence. The conflict, now in its third year, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, widespread destruction, and millions of displaced people.

The attacks occurred ahead of an anticipated prisoner exchange, the sole concrete agreement from recent peace talks. Despite Ukraine's push for an immediate 30-day truce, Russia has consistently rejected ceasefire calls, asserting that the war is an existential matter for the country. The Kremlin has presented sweeping demands for Ukraine, including troop withdrawals, an end to Western military support, and a ban on Ukraine's NATO membership. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed these demands as outdated ultimatums and called for a summit involving himself, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and U.S. President Donald Trump. The ongoing hostilities have dimmed hopes for a swift resolution to the conflict. 💥🇷🇺🇺🇦

Russian strikes on Ukraine's Kharkiv kill at least 3, injures several

A devastating Russian drone-and-missile assault on the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on Saturday resulted in the deaths of at least three people and injuries to 21 others, according to local officials. This attack, part of an ongoing pattern of near-daily large-scale strikes, featured aerial glide bombs, a weapon increasingly used in the intense three-year conflict. The barrage underscores the relentless nature of the Russian offensive, which continues to target civilian areas and infrastructure, causing significant loss of life and destruction. 💥🏙️

Kyiv and Moscow accuse each other of seeking to delay prisoner swap

Ukraine and Russia are locked in a heated exchange, each accusing the other of deliberately delaying a planned prisoner swap, the sole tangible outcome of recent peace negotiations. The swap, intended to occur this weekend, involves the release of wounded soldiers and those under 25, totaling over 1,000 individuals on each side, along with the return of 6,000 deceased Ukrainian soldiers. However, the process has stalled, with Moscow claiming Kyiv has not agreed on a date or collected the bodies of the deceased, while Ukraine alleges Russia is engaging in "dirty games" by not adhering to the agreed terms.

The dispute unfolded amidst a backdrop of intense military activity, as Russia launched a massive aerial assault on Ukraine, targeting Kharkiv and other regions. The attack resulted in at least eight fatalities and numerous injuries, underscoring the ongoing violence despite diplomatic efforts. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga called for increased pressure on Russia from Western allies to halt the invasion and strengthen Ukraine's position. The prisoner swap, initially agreed upon during talks in Istanbul, now hangs in the balance, reflecting the deep-seated mistrust and ongoing hostilities between the two nations. 🇺🇦🇷🇺💥

Inside Spain: Catalonia backs ban on foreign residents buying homes

In Spain, restrictions on foreign property ownership have become a contentious issue, with various political parties and regions advocating for limits on non-residents and foreigners buying homes. The ruling party, led by Pedro Sánchez, has proposed a 100% tax on property purchases by non-EU residents, effectively doubling the price. This proposal has sparked a national debate, with right-wing parties like Vox labeling it as xenophobic.

In Catalonia, the separatist party Republican Left (ERC) has pushed for even stricter measures, seeking to limit property purchases to foreigners with permanent residency, defined as those who have officially resided in Spain for five years. The Catalan Parliament approved a motion supporting this idea, with left-wing parties backing it and right-wing parties rejecting it. The motion also suggests introducing a supplementary tax on real estate transfers to non-EU residents and establishing a differentiated regime for EU entities acquiring properties for commercial use. Additionally, the Parliament approved restrictions on foreign investment in real estate development for commercial purposes.

However, the approved motion is merely a declaration of intent and does not immediately affect foreign property ownership in Catalonia. It calls on the Spanish Prime Minister and the Catalan leader to create a legal framework to implement these limits. The future of these proposals remains uncertain, as they may contravene EU legislation on the free movement of capital. Nonetheless, the debate on foreign property ownership in Spain continues to intensify, with new proposals emerging regularly, particularly in regions with large foreign populations and severe housing crises. The outcome of this political tug-of-war is yet to be seen, but it is clear that changes to foreign home ownership regulations could be on the horizon. 🏠🇪🇸💸

Property tracking system launched

Greece is launching a comprehensive digital property registry system to tackle widespread tax evasion in the real estate sector. The Unified Property Registry, led by Digital Governance Minister Dimitris Papastergiou, will serve as a unique "property social security number," consolidating all relevant data about Greek real estate. This initiative aims to end the fragmentation of property information across multiple agencies and databases, addressing a longstanding issue where properties are declared vacant for tax purposes while maintaining active utility connections.

The new system will integrate with the Hellenic Cadastre through the Gov.gr portal, combining legal, urban planning, administrative, forestry, tax, energy, and other property data nationwide. It will include detailed information such as surface area, location, power connection status, vacancy, and ownership percentages, as well as rental status, rent amounts, and tenant information. By cross-referencing with the Cadastre, the system will enable rapid identification of undeclared properties, false information, or unreported rental income.

The Tax authority AADE is also developing the Property Ownership and Management Registry (MIDA), which will interact with the new property database. This two-phase implementation will first cross-reference property codes, requiring taxpayer confirmation of details, and then eliminate redundant property management applications, centralizing all information in real-time. The integrated system will automatically complete tax returns, provide reliable real-time data for calculating benefits and subsidies, and simplify verification processes, leading to substantial revenue benefits from direct tax evasion prevention and eliminating fraudulent subsidy claims.

Beyond tax enforcement, the system will benefit professionals such as lawyers, notaries, and engineers by providing reliable property data, reducing administrative costs, and enhancing legal security in real estate transactions. This initiative marks Greece’s first comprehensive effort to systematically organize its property sector. 🏠💻

Middle East Eye: Haftar not ready to endorse Turkey-Libya maritime deal

The political landscape in the Eastern Mediterranean is rapidly evolving, with significant implications for regional dynamics and energy politics. The government in eastern Libya, supported by General Khalifa Haftar, is unlikely to endorse a maritime agreement with Turkey in the near future, according to recent reports. This deal, signed in 2019 by Libya’s internationally recognized government in Tripoli, has been contentious due to its disregard for Greece’s claims to exclusive economic zones, particularly around major islands like Crete and Rhodes.

Despite Haftar’s interest in strengthening ties with Turkey, he is expected to keep the maritime agreement in limbo rather than approving or rejecting it outright. This hesitation reflects the complex and shifting alliances in the region, where the potential for lucrative natural gas deposits is a significant factor. Just a few years ago, the idea of Haftar-controlled eastern Libya aligning with Turkey would have been inconceivable, highlighting the rapid changes in regional politics. The outcome of this situation could significantly impact the Eastern Mediterranean’s geopolitical balance and energy prospects. 🌊🏛️

Germany faces two more years of recession if US trade war escalates: central bank

The German economy faces significant challenges due to potential U.S. tariffs and ongoing trade tensions. If President Donald Trump's tariffs are fully implemented starting in July, and the EU retaliates, Germany's economic output could decline by 0.5% this year and 0.2% in 2026. This downturn would be driven by a sharp decrease in exports and heightened investment uncertainty. However, a rebound of 1% is expected in 2027. The eurozone's economic recovery, already hampered by a manufacturing slump and soaring energy prices following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, could be further jeopardized by these trade disputes.

Trump's proposed "Liberation Day" tariffs, initially set at 20% and later increased to 50%, target the EU's trade surplus with the U.S. Despite delays and negotiations, the bloc currently faces a baseline 10% tariff on all exports to the U.S., with higher levies on specific sectors. Germany, as Europe's leading exporter, is particularly vulnerable. The U.S. was Germany's top trading partner in 2024, importing large volumes of German cars, pharmaceuticals, and machinery. The Bundesbank's baseline scenario, which assumes a more moderate impact from U.S. trade policy, predicts economic stagnation this year, followed by growth of 0.7% in 2026 and 1.2% in 2027, supported by increased government spending on infrastructure and defense. The unpredictable trade environment has already led many institutions to revise their growth forecasts downward, highlighting the urgent need for stable trade policies. 📉🇩🇪🇺🇸

Greek economy grew 2.2% in Q1, investments fell 3.2%

The Greek economy experienced a 2.2% growth in the first quarter of the year, according to provisional data from the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT). This growth rate outpaced the eurozone's 1.5% and the EU's 1.6% but showed near-stagnation on a quarterly basis with a mere 0.04% increase. The National Bank revised its annual growth forecast downward to 2%, while the government and the Bank of Greece maintain a 2.3% projection.

Consumer spending remained the primary driver of economic growth, with total consumption rising by 1.9% year-over-year. Household spending increased by 1.6%, and government consumption saw a 0.7% rise. However, investments declined by 3.2%, raising concerns about achieving the budgeted 8.4% annual increase. This drop in investments, particularly in housing (-18.7%), mechanical equipment (-8.1%), and other construction (-8.5%), suggests a weak development in private investments despite contributions from the Recovery and Resilience Fund.

The construction and real estate management sectors faced challenges, with a 0.4% decrease in real gross value added on a quarterly basis. This decline is partly attributed to the uncertainty caused by the Council of State's cancellation of the New Building Regulation. Overall, while the Greek economy showed resilience in consumption, the decline in investments and production challenges in key sectors pose significant hurdles for sustained growth. 📉🏗️

Israel ready for peace if Hamas lays down arms, returns hostages, deputy FM tells Kathimerini

Israel is resolute in its stance against Hamas, with the Israeli Armed Forces intensifying operations in the Gaza Strip and over 450,000 reservists mobilized. The country's primary objectives are the return of 58 hostages held by Hamas and the complete disarmament of the militant group. Israel's deputy foreign minister, Sharen Haskell, emphasized that Israel seeks stability and coexistence for both Israelis and Palestinians, free from Hamas's influence.

Haskell criticized Hamas for using civilians as human shields and hoarding humanitarian aid, exacerbating the crisis in Gaza. She accused international leaders, particularly in Europe, of inadvertently aiding Hamas by not holding the group accountable and instead pressuring Israel. Regarding the Trump administration's proposals for Gaza, Haskell noted that they are sparking discussions about potential futures for the region.

Israel has accepted several peace initiatives, but Hamas has consistently rejected them, according to Haskell. She stressed that Israel is willing to end the war immediately if Hamas lays down its arms and returns the hostages. However, until then, Israel remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is attributed solely to Hamas's actions, with reports of the group stockpiling aid and preventing its distribution to civilians. 🇮🇱🇵🇸💥

Inside Denmark: Why burqa ban is back after six years

Denmark's controversial "burqa ban," introduced in 2018, is poised for expansion, sparking renewed public debate. The original law, which imposed fines for wearing full-face veils in public, was primarily targeted at Islamic veils like the niqab and burqa, although these garments are rarely worn in Denmark. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has proposed extending the ban to schools and universities, and eliminating prayer rooms in educational institutions, arguing that democracy should take precedence over religious practices. Critics, including human rights campaigners and religious groups, condemn the ban as discriminatory and a violation of religious freedom and personal choice. Supporters, however, contend that it promotes integration and prevents social control of women.

Meanwhile, Denmark's far-left Red Green Alliance party has called for an end to a longstanding information-sharing agreement with the U.S., citing concerns over potential misuse of data, especially under the current U.S. administration. The agreement, which allows the NSA to tap information from Danish cables, has been a source of controversy, particularly after revelations that the NSA spied on European politicians.

In another development, former Danish immigration minister Inger Støjberg, now leading the national conservative Denmark Democrats, has proposed a ten-year probationary period for naturalized citizens. Under her plan, citizenship could be revoked if the individual commits a serious crime during this period. While the proposal has some political support, it faces legal and ethical challenges, and critics point out the irony of Støjberg's past criminal conviction and expulsion from parliament. The debate highlights ongoing tensions in Denmark over immigration, integration, and national security. 🇩🇰📜

The looming water crisis facing Greece

Greece is on the brink of a severe water crisis, with Athens and the Attica region particularly vulnerable. Climate change and increasing demand are straining the country's water resources, raising urgent questions about preservation and management. This challenge is not unique to Greece; Europe as a whole is grappling with water scarcity issues, prompting the EU to develop a new water resilience strategy.

The situation in Greece is dire, with reports warning of an impending water crisis in the coming years. The country's water infrastructure is aging, and droughts are becoming more frequent and severe. The agricultural sector, which accounts for a significant portion of water use, is particularly at risk. Additionally, tourism, a crucial economic driver, is also threatened by water shortages. The government has been slow to address these issues, and public awareness of the problem remains low.

To tackle this crisis, Greece must invest in modernizing its water infrastructure, promoting water-saving technologies, and implementing stricter water management policies. The EU's new water resilience strategy could provide a framework for these efforts, but Greece will need to take decisive action to secure its water future. The stakes are high, and the time to act is now. 💦🌍

Norway steps closer to defining rape as lack of consent

Norway is poised to strengthen its legal framework against sexual assault by adopting a "only yes means yes" consent law, modeled after Sweden's legislation. This amendment, supported by a majority in the Norwegian parliament, aims to clarify and reinforce the definition of consent in sexual encounters. Once approved in a second parliamentary vote, the new law will be integrated into the existing criminal statute, imposing a maximum prison sentence of six years for violations where consent is not explicitly given.

Under the proposed change, consent must be clearly expressed verbally or through a gesture. This shift addresses the current legal gap, which only recognizes rape in cases involving violence, threats, or exploitation of a victim's vulnerability. The amendment will consider various scenarios where a person might be unable to refuse sexual advances, such as being motionless, intoxicated, or paralyzed by fear. This update aligns Norway with countries like Denmark, Greece, and Spain, which already treat non-consensual sexual acts as rape. The legislation is a significant step towards enhancing protections for victims of sexual assault and promoting a clearer understanding of consent in Norwegian society. 🇳🇴👍

French mayor to stand trial over sex tape blackmail plot

Gael Perdriau, the mayor of Saint-Etienne in central France, faces serious allegations of orchestrating a plot in 2015 involving a compromising video of his deputy, Gilles Artigues. The video, recorded in a Paris hotel, shows Artigues receiving a massage from a male escort. Perdriau is accused of using this footage to extort political loyalty and electoral concessions from Artigues, who was then the deputy mayor. The case, which came to light in 2022 thanks to a whistleblower, has led to Perdriau being charged with blackmail, theft, embezzlement of public funds, and participation in a criminal association.

Despite being expelled from the conservative Republicans party and facing significant pressure to resign, Perdriau has denied any wrongdoing and continues to serve as mayor, even hinting at a potential re-election bid in 2026. The trial is scheduled to take place from September 22 to 26, barring any appeals. Perdriau and his legal team have not publicly commented on the allegations. 🏛️📽️