Newsflash

Zelenskyy says US has not answered Ukraine’s request to buy air defense

Ukraine is urgently seeking air defense systems from the United States, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized in his address on June 7. This call comes amid a significant escalation in Russian air assaults, with Kharkiv city recently targeted by 67 explosive drones, nine aerial bombs, and a missile. Zelenskyy stressed the need for concrete actions from the U.S., not just words, to bolster Ukraine’s air defenses. He also highlighted the importance of joint production efforts with European nations to enhance air defense capabilities across the continent.

The Ukrainian president's remarks followed a visit by a Ukrainian delegation to Washington, where they expressed readiness to purchase weapons from the U.S. However, some members of Congress suggested that direct arms supplies from the U.S. could continue. The urgency of Ukraine's request is underscored by recent Russian attacks on Kyiv, Lutsk, and Ternopil, which resulted in heavy civilian casualties. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has been criticized for appearing to defend Russia's actions, attributing them to Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb. The situation underscores the critical need for enhanced air defense capabilities to protect Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure from ongoing Russian aggression. 🇺🇸🇷🇺💥

Ukraine targets Russian explosives-making Azot plant. Fuel site strikes continue with fire at bitumen plant (video)

Ukrainian forces conducted strategic drone strikes on key Russian industrial facilities overnight, marking a significant escalation in their long-range drone operations. On June 8, Ukrainian drones targeted the Azot chemical plant in Novomoskovsk, Tula Oblast, for the second time in two weeks. The plant, crucial for producing substances used in artillery shell explosives, was hit by drones around 400 kilometers from Ukraine, causing explosions and a fire. Governor Dmitry Milyaev confirmed the strike, reporting that the fire was extinguished and two people were injured but not critically. The attack likely hit a main pipeline access area, specifically a propane line.

In a separate incident on June 7, Ukrainian drones struck the JSC Bitumnoye Proizvodstvo bitumen plant near the Lukoil refinery in Kstovo, Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, approximately 800 kilometers from Ukraine. The attack resulted in a major fire at the bitumen production units, with over 70 specialists and 26 pieces of equipment deployed to extinguish the blaze. The intended target remains unclear, but the strike underscores Ukraine's renewed focus on disrupting Russia's fuel and industrial infrastructure.

These attacks follow a pause in Ukrainian strikes on Russian fuel facilities, with the previous significant strike occurring on March 18. The recent strikes suggest a strategic shift, aiming to degrade Russia's long-range capabilities and disrupt its oil industry. The Azot plant had previously been targeted on May 24, causing significant damage to a low-pressure gas pipeline and nitric acid tanks. The resumption of these attacks indicates Ukraine's determination to weaken Russia's military and industrial capacities, despite the challenges posed by long-range operations. 💥🏭

Surprise! Rosatom, that Russian “energy” giant, is actually building nukes for Putin

Rosatom, Russia’s state-owned nuclear agency, is a critical component of Putin’s military apparatus, supporting both the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine and the Kremlin’s nuclear weapons program. Despite its central role in Russia’s strategic ambitions, Rosatom has largely evaded significant sanctions, controlling 40% of the global nuclear fuel market and operating in numerous countries. This extensive reach allows Rosatom to foster long-term dependencies through cheap fuel, financing, and technology transfers, all while funding Russia’s military buildup.

Rosatom’s influence extends across Europe and beyond, with countries like Hungary, Slovakia, and France maintaining ties despite EU pressure. Even the United States has historically relied on Russian nuclear fuel, though recent legislation aims to phase out these imports. The agency’s control over uranium extraction in Kazakhstan further solidifies its global leverage, making it a pivotal player in nuclear supply chains.

The Zaporizhzhia plant, seized by Russia in 2022, remains a contentious issue. While Rosatom pushes for a symbolic restart, technical and safety barriers make a genuine reactivation nearly impossible. The plant’s occupation serves as a geopolitical tool for Russia, asserting control over Europe’s largest nuclear facility. However, the risks of a potential incident or meltdown loom large, with Rosatom’s chief reportedly anxious about the political fallout.

Rosatom’s true mission goes beyond energy production; it is a key enabler of Russia’s nuclear weapons development. The agency uses its civilian contracts to import dual-use goods and circumvent export controls, allowing it to operate freely in Western and Asian markets. Recognizing Rosatom as a nuclear weapons company disguised as an energy giant is crucial for Western governments to effectively counter Russia’s strategic ambitions. Failure to do so means continuing to fund both Russia’s military operations and its nuclear arsenal.

Errol Musk attends Kremlin-backed event in Moscow, praises Putin and spreads Russian propaganda

Errol Musk, the South African billionaire and father of Elon Musk, recently traveled to Moscow to participate in the Kremlin-aligned ideological forum "Future-2050," organized by Alexandr Dugin, a prominent figure in Russia’s nationalist movement. During his visit, Musk Sr. expressed support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and echoed several Kremlin propaganda narratives about Ukraine. These include false claims about "biolaboratories" in Ukraine and the supposed need to protect Russian-speaking populations, which are central to Russia's justification for its aggression in Ukraine.

The forum, backed by Konstantin Malofeev, a Russian Orthodox businessman known for promoting radical anti-Western ideologies, focuses on Russia’s ideological and military aspirations. Topics discussed include the ideology of a "sovereign Russia," digital sovereignty, patriotic education, and the future of warfare. Notable speakers at the event include Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and prominent Russian propagandists.

Musk Sr.'s participation in the forum and his public statements align with his previously expressed admiration for Putin, which he shared with the Russian-language BBC service in April 2025. His involvement in the forum underscores the ongoing influence of Kremlin-aligned ideologies and the potential for high-profile figures to amplify these narratives on the global stage. 🌍💥

Reuters: US expects another multi-pronged Russian strike after Ukraine’s Spiderweb drone attack

The United States anticipates a significant and multi-faceted retaliatory strike from Russia in response to Ukraine's recent drone assault on Russia's strategic bomber fleet. According to unnamed U.S. officials, the massive missile and drone barrage launched by Russia on June 6 was just the initial phase of a broader retaliatory plan. The upcoming attack is expected to be "asymmetrical," employing various air capabilities, including missiles and drones, and may target symbolic Ukrainian sites such as government buildings to convey a strong message.

The timing of the full Russian response remains uncertain, but it could occur within days. Western diplomats describe the expected attack as "huge, vicious, and unrelenting," acknowledging the bravery of Ukrainian forces. Potential targets may include Ukraine's domestic security agency, regional intelligence buildings, and defense manufacturing sites. Analysts suggest that Russia could use intermediate-range ballistic missiles to deliver a powerful message. The situation remains tense, with no immediate statements from the Russian, Ukrainian, or U.S. governments. 🚨🛬️

Russia claims its forces have reached Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region for the first time

Russia has announced that its forces have reached the border of Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region for the first time, marking a significant escalation in its ongoing offensive. This advance represents both a symbolic and strategic blow to Ukraine, as Dnipropetrovsk is a crucial industrial and mining hub. The region, which had an estimated population of around three million before the conflict, is now facing potential deepening Russian incursions that could severely impact Ukraine's military and economic stability.

The Russian Defense Ministry reported that tank units have crossed into the region, continuing their offensive from the western border of the Donetsk People's Republic. This development comes amid stalled peace talks, with Russia refusing calls for a ceasefire and demanding that Ukraine withdraw troops, end Western arms support, and abandon its NATO aspirations. The advance into Dnipropetrovsk, which is not among the five regions Russia has formally claimed, underscores the Kremlin's aggressive strategy and the severe challenges facing Ukraine. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Russia says pushing offensive into Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk

Russia has announced a significant escalation in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, stating that it is advancing into the eastern industrial region of Dnipropetrovsk. This marks the first time Russian forces have pushed into this area since the start of the three-year offensive, signaling a notable shift in the war's dynamics. The move comes amidst stalled peace negotiations, raising concerns about the potential for further intensification of the conflict. The region is strategically important due to its industrial infrastructure, and its capture could provide Russia with a crucial foothold in eastern Ukraine. The development underscores the ongoing volatility and the high stakes involved in the protracted war. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Our slumber has lasted too long

The landscape of modern warfare is undergoing a profound transformation, with non-state actors like the Houthis posing significant challenges to even the most advanced military forces, such as the U.S. Navy. This shift highlights the growing power of technology to level the playing field, enabling less conventional forces to disrupt established military operations. The recent mass drone attacks in Ukraine further illustrate this trend, forcing major powers to reassess their strategies and adapt to new threats.

Greece, too, is grappling with these changes, facing both obstacles and opportunities. Historically, the country's defense sector has been mired in stagnation and corruption, with innovation and practical defense research discouraged. However, recent efforts to modernize the Armed Forces and prioritize defense technologies signal a positive shift. Initiatives such as establishing an innovation center, collaborating with Israel, and bolstering the defense industry are steps in the right direction. The involvement of the prime minister underscores the urgency of these reforms, but continued progress requires addressing corruption and attracting top talent with competitive salaries.

The stakes are high, as the global military landscape evolves rapidly. Greece must overcome its past inertia and embrace change to ensure its security and relevance in an increasingly complex and technologically driven world. The choice is clear: adapt or risk being left behind in an era where military prowess is increasingly defined by innovation and technological prowess. 🌐💥

Italians vote in referendums to ease citizenship requirements, increase job protections

On May 28, Italians began voting in crucial referendums that could significantly alter the country's citizenship and labor laws. The two-day voting process, starting on a Sunday, aims to address two key issues: easing citizenship requirements for children born in Italy to foreign parents and enhancing job protections for workers. However, the success of these referendums hinges on public awareness and turnout, as low participation could invalidate the results. The outcome of these votes could mark a significant shift in Italy's approach to immigration and labor rights, reflecting the evolving social and political landscape of the country. 🗳️🇮🇹

Stubb visits Japan with a focus on security issues

President Alexander Stubb of Finland is embarking on a four-day visit to Japan, accompanied by his wife, Suzanne Innes-Stubb, and a delegation including Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio, three MPs, and representatives from Finland’s defense and tech industries. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and focuses on security and defense cooperation.

Stubb’s itinerary includes meetings with key Japanese leaders, such as Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Emperor Naruhito. Ishiba, who has led a fragile minority government since October, faces upcoming upper house elections in July. The Finnish president’s schedule features visits to Hakui and Nakanoto, speeches at the University of Tokyo and the Japan Business Federation, and a reception at the Finnish Embassy to mark Defence Forces Day. Additionally, Stubb will participate in an EU-hosted roundtable discussion on the security situation in the Indo-Pacific region and meet with the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

The visit concludes with a trip to EXPO 2025 in Osaka, where Finland is part of a joint Nordic pavilion highlighting shared values of trust and collaboration. This visit follows Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s meeting with Ishiba in December, where they discussed supporting Ukraine and concerns over increased military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. The trip underscores Finland’s commitment to international cooperation and security in the face of global challenges. 🇫🇮🇯🇵🤝

Latvia’s municipal elections: preliminary results show diverse local landscapes and increased voter turnout

Latvia's recent municipal elections, held on June 7, showcased a diverse range of outcomes across the country, with voter turnout significantly increasing to 47% from 34% in 2021. This uptick indicates a growing engagement in local governance. In the capital, Rīga, the populist Latvia First party and the progressive Progressives emerged as the top contenders, setting the stage for intricate coalition negotiations, as neither party secured a majority. This scenario is typical of Rīga's political landscape, where no single party can govern alone.

Across the rest of Latvia, election results varied widely, reflecting local dynamics and regional issues. This fragmentation is characteristic of municipal elections, where local personalities and concerns often drive voter decisions. However, the election process faced notable challenges. For the first time, Latvia used automatic vote-counting machines, but severe technical issues led to a switch back to manual counting. The Central Election Commission (CVK) chair, Kristīne Saulīte, acknowledged the failures and promised a comprehensive investigation. She expressed regret for the disruptions and assured the public of transparency in resolving the issues.

Additionally, the State Police initiated six criminal proceedings under Article 90 of the Criminal Law, addressing deliberate interference with citizens' voting rights. Despite the technical setbacks, the CVK assured voters that the counting process would be completed promptly, and local election results can be accessed through the CVK website. 🗳️🏛️

Inquiry to be launched into Latvian election system's errors

In the aftermath of a chaotic election night, Latvia is grappling with significant issues related to its voting system. The State Chancellery, led by Raivis Kronbergs, has initiated an official investigation to determine the cause of the failures in the ballot scanning system, which led to manual vote counting and delayed results. The Central Election Commission (CVK), headed by Kristīne Saulīte, has also called for an inquiry, acknowledging that the system's shortcomings were not anticipated until the last moment.

The problems stemmed from the State Digital Development Agency (VDAA), which provided the faulty scanning system. Despite extensive preparations and a budget of 1.8 million euros, the system was only approved for use a day before the elections. The VDAA's director, Jorens Liopa, defended his team's work, attributing the issues to infrastructure problems rather than his leadership. Meanwhile, Saulīte, while expressing her willingness to take responsibility if necessary, believes the CVK was misled about the system's capabilities.

A working group, comprising representatives from relevant services and organizations, has been established to address the election-related issues. The group has already discussed and resolved some technical problems that arose during early voting. However, the investigation will focus on identifying the precise point of failure in the vote-counting process and determining if any arbitrary decisions were made. The Prime Minister has also expressed interest in forming an inter-institutional investigation team to assess the overall breakdown in the election night procedures. The situation highlights the urgent need for a thorough evaluation of each institution's competence and the potential for improved coordination and oversight in future elections. 🗳️💻

On the agenda: What’s happening in Italy this week

Key Events in Italy Next Week

Monday, June 9th: The second and final day of voting in five national referendums, including a crucial citizenship vote, will take place. Italians will decide on a proposal to reduce the residency requirement for non-EU nationals seeking citizenship from 10 to 5 years. Additionally, voters will weigh in on labor law provisions and workplace safety measures. Results may be announced by Monday evening. 🗳️

Wednesday, June 11th: Air Transat will resume direct flights between Toronto and Lamezia Terme, Calabria, with a once-weekly frequency. The airline will also increase flights to Rome, with daily services from Toronto starting June 9th and from Montreal beginning June 15th. 🛬️

Thursday, June 12th: New regulations on speed cameras will come into effect, restricting their installation to high-accident or dangerous roads and mandating clear signage and annual recalibration. Additionally, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will host NATO Secretary Mark Rutte in Rome to discuss defense spending and other strategic matters. 🚗🇮🇹🇳🇦

Friday, June 13th: A planned national airport ground staff strike has been called off, ensuring normal flight operations. The prestigious Verona Arena Festival will commence, featuring performances of classic operas and musical works in the historic Verona Arena. 🎭🎵

The European defense vacuum and Turkey

The shifting global landscape, marked by the U.S. under Donald Trump's leadership, has created a vacuum in European defense and security. As trust in American leadership wanes, European countries are compelled to strengthen their own defense capabilities and forge new partnerships. The U.S.'s apparent reluctance to fully commit to NATO's collective defense and budget contributions has underscored the need for a more autonomous European defense pillar within NATO, and potentially beyond.

Developing this European defense mechanism will require significant time, resources, and a cultural shift. While many European citizens currently support this move, future support may waver if it comes at the expense of social welfare. The perceived threat level and the evolution of conflicts, such as the situation in Ukraine, will also influence the trajectory of this defense project. However, several European countries are already committed to enhancing their self-reliance in defense matters.

Turkey, with its robust defense industry and strategic location, is seen as a crucial partner in this endeavor. Its willingness to engage in defense cooperation and potential to cover gaps left by other European nations makes it an attractive ally. However, Turkey's participation in European defense efforts is contingent upon meeting specific conditions, providing Greece with an opportunity to assert its own terms, such as the lifting of the casus belli. As Europe navigates this complex landscape, the need for a strong, unified defense strategy becomes increasingly apparent. 🇪🇺🇹🇷🛡️

IN PICTURES: Tens of thousands join anti-government protest in Madrid

In Madrid, thousands of protesters gathered in the Plaza de España, waving Spanish flags and demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The rally, organized by the Popular Party (PP), was sparked by leaked audio recordings allegedly implicating a Socialist Party member in a smear campaign against a police unit investigating corruption allegations involving Sánchez's family and associates. The PP leader, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, accused the government of "mafia practices" and called for early elections, estimating the turnout at over 100,000 people. However, the government's representative in Madrid put the number between 45,000 and 50,000.

Protesters expressed frustration with the government, with one demonstrator stating, "The expiry date on this government passed a long time ago." Sánchez, who came to power in 2018, has dismissed the allegations as a right-wing smear campaign. The PP, currently leading in polls but with a slim margin, is preparing for an extraordinary party congress in July, as it seeks to consolidate its position ahead of potential early elections. The rally marked the sixth protest organized by the PP against Sánchez's government since Feijóo took leadership in 2022. Despite the protests, Sánchez remains the most highly rated party leader among voters, with one in four voters favoring him to lead the country. The next general election is scheduled for 2027. 🇪🇸🗳️

‘Golden Visa’ drops a gear

The "Golden Visa" program, which grants residence permits to foreign investors, has seen a notable decline in applications, signaling a potential slowdown. In April, the number of new applications dropped by 28.5% compared to the same month in 2024, with 564 applications submitted this year versus 790 last year. This marks the first decrease since September 2022, when the minimum investment threshold was raised, initially sparking a surge in applications as investors rushed to meet the new requirements.

The program, which has been subject to various changes and interventions aimed at discouraging foreign investors and limiting housing purchases, has led to significant market distortions. Between 2022 and 2024, 17,888 properties were acquired, totaling €4.47 billion in investments. This two-year period saw more properties purchased than in the previous decade. However, the rush to invest has resulted in a backlog of 16,024 applications awaiting approval, further complicating the process.

Despite the April drop, the first four months of 2025 still saw a 25% increase in applications compared to the same period last year, with 3,477 applications submitted. This increase can be attributed to investors rushing to complete purchases under the old program terms before the new €800,000 investment limit took effect in key regions. The future of the "Golden Visa" program remains uncertain as authorities grapple with the consequences of rapid market changes and the need for more sustainable investment policies. 🏠📉

Italy holds referendums on citizenship and workers' rights

Italy is currently engaged in a significant referendum process, with citizens voting over two days on crucial issues of citizenship and workers' rights. The referendum aims to ease citizenship rules and strengthen labor laws, both of which are opposed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government. The government has actively encouraged voters to abstain from participating in the referendum, highlighting the contentious nature of the proposed changes.

The referendum on citizenship seeks to simplify the process for obtaining Italian citizenship, potentially benefiting immigrants and their families who have long resided in the country. Meanwhile, the labor referendum aims to enhance workers' rights, addressing issues such as job security, wages, and working conditions. The outcome of these referendums could significantly impact Italy's social and economic landscape, shaping the future of immigration policies and labor regulations in the country. The government's stance against the referendums underscores the political divide on these critical issues. 🗳️🏛️

France's Macron to visit Greenland

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to visit Greenland on June 15, at the invitation of Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. The visit aims to bolster European sovereignty and strengthen cooperation with Greenland, focusing on key issues such as North Atlantic and Arctic security, climate change, energy transition, and the supply of critical minerals. The trip underscores European unity and support for Greenland's autonomy, as the territory navigates complex geopolitical challenges and expresses its long-term aspirations for independence. Following his visit to Greenland, Macron will proceed to Canada to participate in the G7 summit. The visit is seen as a significant gesture of international support for Greenland and the broader Kingdom of Denmark, amidst recent geopolitical tensions. 🇫🇷🇬🇱🇩🇰🌍

Thousands march in Rome to protest 'complicity' on Gaza war

In Rome, a massive peaceful protest drew an estimated 300,000 people, with organizers and police largely confirming the turnout. The demonstration, marked by a sea of Palestinian flags, peace flags, and "Free Palestine" signs, began at Piazza Vittorio and culminated at San Giovanni, where speakers called for an end to violence and criticized the "silence" of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government. The event was organized by Italy's centre-left Democratic Party, the Five Star Movement, and the Greens–Left Alliance, aiming to condemn the "massacre of Palestinians" and the actions of Israel's far-right government under Benjamin Netanyahu.

Protesters demanded an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, humanitarian aid, and recognition of the state of Palestine. They also sought to present an "another Italy," one committed to peace and justice. The demonstration came amid growing international criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, where the United Nations has warned of a dire humanitarian situation and the risk of famine. While Meloni has acknowledged the "dramatic and unjustifiable" conditions in Gaza, her criticism of Netanyahu has been muted, noting that Israel did not initiate the hostilities. Participants, including Gabriella Branca, a lawyer from Genoa, expressed outrage over the loss of life and hoped the protest would send a strong signal for peace and justice. 🇮🇹🕊️

Estonia’s maritime sector gaining momentum – country aiming to attract large-scale shipbuilding projects

Estonia is aggressively pursuing a strategy to bolster its maritime industry, aiming to capture a share of the global ship conversion market, enhance maritime research and development, and boost the international competitiveness of its maritime companies. The maritime sector, comprising around 1,700 companies, already contributes significantly to Estonia's economy, accounting for 5% of its GDP in 2024. This push is supported by both public and private sector initiatives, including the establishment of the Estonian Maritime Innovation Centre (EMI) in 2022 and the Estonian Maritime Cluster in 2023.

The EMI focuses on uniting domestic firms to support their entry into global markets, while the Maritime Cluster aims to strengthen the competitiveness of Estonian maritime businesses, promote innovation, and support reputation-building efforts. Key areas of innovation include digital solutions, autonomous vessels, pollution monitoring, advanced navigation systems, energy projects, and aquaculture. The Ministry of Climate is also exploring suitable areas in the Baltic Sea for testing these innovations.

Argo Sildvee, a veteran of the shipbuilding industry and a driving force behind EMI, highlights the need to present Estonian companies collectively to international clients, who often struggle to find local producers. The EMI has grown to include 22 companies, primarily involved in ship interior manufacturing and marine engineering. Cruise ship conversions, driven by climate targets and sustainability criteria, present a significant opportunity for Estonian companies, particularly in interior refits.

Ragmar Saksing, CEO of the Maritime Cluster, emphasizes the cluster's role in amplifying the voice of private-sector organizations and ensuring their concerns reach policymakers. The cluster has already secured €25 million in government funding to support the launch of the Estonian Marine Greentech & Retrofit Hub, which aims to boost the competitiveness of the ship conversion sector. The cluster is also involved in various initiatives, including the Sea Wolf project, which focuses on monitoring maritime space and safeguarding underwater infrastructure.

The Maritime Cluster's active agenda includes research and development, collaboration with universities, and proposals for policy reforms, such as unified taxation for ship crews and reforms to the shipowners’ registry. The cluster also aims to raise public awareness about the maritime economy and improve Estonia's reputation as a maritime nation. Additionally, a study is underway to identify suitable maritime test zones in Estonian waters, covering areas such as energy solutions, autonomous vessels, and aquaculture. The goal is to enable testing of new technologies tailored to Estonia's specific conditions and needs. 🌊🚢