Newsflash

Israel threatens to strike Iran within days; U.S. won’t participate – reports

Tensions between Israel and Iran are escalating, with Israel reportedly prepared to launch military strikes against Iran within days if Tehran does not accept a U.S.-backed proposal to curb its nuclear activities. A senior Israeli official indicated that military action could commence as early as Sunday if Iran fails to halt the production of weapons-grade fissile material. The U.S. has made it clear that it will not participate directly in any military action against Iran’s nuclear facilities, according to sources cited by Axios.

The situation has been exacerbated by recent developments, including a U.S. Defense Secretary's testimony that Iran is advancing toward nuclear weapons capability. Senator Tom Cotton has also expressed concerns about the imminent threat posed by Iran's actions. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) further escalated tensions by formally declaring Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations, citing Iran's failure to explain undeclared nuclear materials and its growing stockpile of enriched uranium. Iran has dismissed the resolution as politically motivated and has vowed to open a new enrichment facility.

Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with Oman’s foreign minister announcing that Iran and the U.S. will engage in a sixth round of indirect negotiations this Sunday to defuse the crisis. Despite these efforts, the potential for military conflict remains high, with Israel signaling its readiness to act unilaterally if necessary. The international community watches closely as the situation unfolds, hoping for a diplomatic resolution to avert a military confrontation. 🇮🇱🇮🇷💥

Saab and Helsing held showdown between AI and real pilot amid Russia’s threat

In a groundbreaking development, Swedish defense company Saab and German startup Helsing have successfully conducted combat trials of a Gripen E fighter jet piloted by artificial intelligence (AI). The AI agent, named Centaur, engaged in beyond-visual-range (BVR) air battles against a human pilot in a Gripen D fighter. Over several test flights, Centaur rapidly improved its decision-making skills in BVR combat, a critical aspect of modern air warfare. The AI system demonstrated its ability to execute complex maneuvers and provide firing cues for simulated air-to-air weapon launches, showcasing its potential to enhance aerial combat capabilities.

The trials, which began on May 28 and culminated in a BVR engagement on June 3, highlight the growing role of AI in military aviation. Marcus Wandt, Saab’s Chief Innovation Officer and a test pilot, noted that human pilots may not always have an advantage over AI-supported opponents. This achievement underscores Saab’s leadership in advanced technologies and will inform Sweden’s future fighter program, which aims to select next-generation air combat platforms by 2031. The successful integration of AI in aerial combat represents a significant step forward in military innovation, with potential implications for future defense strategies and technologies. 🛩️🤖

Russia recruits elderly in covert sabotage campaign across Ukraine and Europe

Russian operatives are increasingly targeting vulnerable individuals, particularly pensioners and minors, in Ukraine and across Europe through sophisticated deception tactics. In Ukraine, elderly citizens are often contacted via Viber, where they are falsely accused of collaborating with Russia due to purchases of medicines or dietary supplements allegedly produced in Russia. These victims are then coerced into completing sabotage missions or paying extortion fees to avoid fabricated criminal charges. The National Police and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) have reported a surge in such cases, emphasizing that legitimate security agencies never issue illegal or covert orders to citizens.

In Europe, Russian operatives use platforms like Telegram to recruit locals, often luring them with money or kompromat (compromising material). These individuals are seen as expendable and are discarded once they are no longer useful. The strategy aims to recruit unwitting pawns for a campaign of international sabotage, causing shock in the West and fueling propaganda within Russia. In Ukraine, minors are also targeted, initially tasked with photographing sensitive sites or tagging graffiti, which can escalate to acts of sabotage against critical infrastructure. The SBU has warned of these tactics, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. 📞💥

Ukrainian airstrike levels Russian military facility in Kursk Oblast (video)

Ukrainian Air Force jets executed a precision strike on a building in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, destroying a facility used by Russian soldiers and housing military equipment. The attack, confirmed by open-source intelligence and reports from WarArchive, involved four high-precision bombs that struck the structure in the village of Kulbaky. The bombs, likely American-made GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs, caused a massive explosion and total destruction of the building. A secondary explosion occurred when the blast wave reached a nearby ammunition depot, amplifying the damage. The strike underscores Ukraine's capability to target strategic Russian assets deep within enemy territory. Additionally, Ukrainian forces have employed French AASM Hammer bombs in other precision operations, further demonstrating their advanced military tactics and international support. 🇺🇦💥

Can Europe support Ukraine without Washington?

As Russia intensifies its assault on Ukraine, launching nearly 500 drones and missiles in a single week, Europe faces a critical juncture. The Trump administration's push for a swift peace deal or ceasefire, coupled with a desire to distance the U.S. from the conflict, has left Europe grappling with how to bolster its defense capabilities and sustain support for Ukraine. The escalating situation raises pressing questions about Europe's capacity to act independently of Washington.

The ongoing war in Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the continent's vulnerability and the urgent need for a robust, unified defense strategy. Europe must now consider how to enhance its military prowess and provide meaningful assistance to Ukraine, even as the U.S. adopts a more transactional and detached approach to foreign policy. This shift necessitates a reevaluation of Europe's security architecture and its ability to project power and maintain stability in the face of Russian aggression. The path forward will require not only increased defense spending but also greater coordination and cooperation among European nations. The lessons from the Ukraine conflict underscore the importance of European self-reliance and the need for a more assertive stance in safeguarding the continent's security and democratic values. 🇪🇺🇺🇦💪

UN: Ukrainian civilian casualties from Russian attacks in 2025 up 50% compared to last year

The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has reported a nearly 50% increase in civilian casualties in the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. In May alone, at least 183 civilians were killed and 836 were injured across the country. The data indicates that long-range missile strikes and loitering munitions have caused the most widespread harm, while short-range drones equipped with high-resolution cameras have resulted in the highest civilian casualty rates near frontline areas.

Danielle Bell, the Head of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, described the situation as devastating, with intensified long-range attacks and frequent short-range drone strikes creating a deadly environment for civilians. Cities across Ukraine, including Kharkiv, Kyiv, and Odesa, have been significantly affected, even those far from active frontlines. The sustained nature of these attacks has led to widespread fear and loss of life, with families spending nights in bomb shelters amid the sounds of drones and explosions. Bell warned that, at the current pace and scale, further civilian casualties are inevitable. 💥😞

Russia loses one million soldiers: Moscow’s casualties reach seven figures, Ukraine says

On June 12, 2025, Ukraine's General Staff announced that Russian military personnel losses since the start of the full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, had surpassed one million, reaching 1,000,340. This milestone was achieved on Russia's national holiday, known as Russia Day. The announcement, made via the General Staff's official Facebook page, specified that the figure represents Russian soldiers killed in action, not the combined total of killed and wounded as often reported by foreign sources. The day prior, Ukraine's Defense Forces eliminated 1,140 Russian soldiers, pushing the total past the symbolic seven-digit mark.

The General Staff also provided a detailed breakdown of Russian equipment and weapon losses as of June 12, 2025, including 10,933 tanks, 22,786 armored vehicles, 29,063 artillery systems, and 40,435 drones, among other military assets. The pace of Russian losses has been accelerating, with over 628,000 deaths occurring in the last 18 months alone. Notably, the deadliest days of the war saw Russian casualties exceeding 2,000 in a single day.

On June 11, 2025, there were 220 combat clashes, with Russian forces launching two missile attacks, 86 airstrikes, and using 3,744 kamikaze drones. In response, Ukraine's Defense Forces conducted strikes on various Russian targets, including troop locations, command posts, artillery systems, and ammunition depots. The ongoing conflict continues to exact a heavy toll on Russian forces, with significant losses reported daily. 🇺🇦💥

How joining the EU 40 years ago catapulted Spain into modernity

Forty years ago, on June 12, 1985, Spain signed the Treaty of Accession to the European Economic Community (EEC), now the European Union, marking a pivotal moment in its history. This event signaled Spain's transition from isolationism and dictatorship to democracy and modernity, integrating the country into the global community. During the Franco dictatorship, Spain had made some international inroads, such as hosting U.S. military bases, but full EEC membership was contingent on democratic governance. The EEC's insistence on democracy as a prerequisite for membership spurred Spain's democratic transition after Franco's death in 1975. The new democratic government, led by Adolfo Suárez, prioritized EEC membership, but political and economic instability initially hindered the process. The election of Felipe González's PSOE in 1982 and supportive leadership in France and Germany finally paved the way for Spain's accession. The Treaty of Accession was signed in Lisbon and Madrid, with Spain and Portugal officially joining the EEC on January 1, 1986.

Spain's entry into the EEC was a transformative event, opening the country to Europe and the world after decades of isolation. It facilitated modernization, infrastructure development, and economic growth. The 1990s saw significant European funding for Spain, symbolized by the Barcelona Olympics and the Seville Expo in 1992. Today, Spain is the fourth-largest economy in the Eurozone, a major agricultural producer, and a popular tourist destination. Since joining the EU, Spain has transitioned from a net recipient to a net contributor of European funds, reflecting its economic growth and modernization. The EU membership has been instrumental in Spain's political and economic development, making it a key player in Europe. 🇪🇸🇪🇺

Austria school shooting: Shooter declared unfit for military but licensed for firearms

A tragic school shooting in Graz, Austria, has left the nation in mourning and sparked a heated debate over gun laws and public safety. On Tuesday, a 21-year-old gunman, who had been deemed unfit for military service due to psychological issues, carried out a meticulously planned attack at the BORG Dreierschützengasse secondary school. Armed with two legally purchased weapons—a Glock 19 pistol and a sawn-off double-barrel shotgun—the shooter entered the school and opened fire, killing nine students and one teacher, and injuring eleven others. The rampage lasted just seven minutes, ending when the gunman took his own life as police arrived.

The victims included students from various nationalities, highlighting the diverse student body. The teacher killed was known to the attacker, having previously taught him. The shooter had left the school three years prior after repeating a grade multiple times. Despite his psychological disqualification from military service, the gunman obtained a firearms license and purchased his weapons legally. This discrepancy has raised questions about the sharing of psychological fitness information between military and civilian authorities.

The attack has triggered a national conversation about gun control and the need for stricter oversight in firearms licensing. The Austrian government has declared three days of mourning, with flags at half-mast and public events canceled. Additionally, a media backlash ensued after a young man was falsely identified as the shooter, leading to death threats and potential legal action. The Austrian Press Council has called for restraint in reporting, urging outlets to avoid glorifying or over-exposing the perpetrator. The nation now grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event, seeking ways to prevent future tragedies. 😢🏫🔒

Greek citizens seeking to join Gaza March enter Egypt, sources say

A group of 42 Greek citizens, aiming to participate in the Gaza March, have been cleared to enter Egypt after being briefly detained upon their arrival at Cairo Airport. The Greek consul general in Cairo has been actively supporting the group, ensuring they follow local authorities' instructions. Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emphasized the need for a special permit to access areas near the Gaza Strip, including the city of Arish and the Rafah border crossing. This requirement has led to the deportation of over three dozen activists, mostly European, who arrived without the necessary authorizations.

The Gaza March, scheduled for Sunday, is a 30-mile trek across the Sinai Peninsula to Egypt’s border with Gaza. Organizers hope to draw international attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by the Israeli aid blockade. The march aims to pressure authorities to open the Rafah crossing and lift the blockade. Greece is expected to have one of the largest contingents in the march, with hundreds of activists planning to participate. The event underscores the growing international concern over the situation in Gaza and the efforts to mobilize global support for its people. 🇬🇷🇪🇬🇵🇸

Could foreign medical students in Germany be charged tuition fees?

Germany's public university system offers free tuition at top-tier medical schools to both German citizens and international students. However, a prominent member of the CDU, Sepp Müller, has proposed reconsidering this policy amid a severe shortage of doctors, particularly in rural areas. Müller suggests that students who do not commit to practicing in underserved regions for at least five years should repay the costs of their education. This proposal comes as the Federal Ministry of Health reports over 5,000 vacant general practitioner positions across the country.

The CDU's plan, while not yet fully detailed, implies that international medical students who leave Germany within five years of graduating may face tuition repayment costs, similar to those charged by private universities, which range from €63,000 to €125,000. However, the effectiveness of this plan in addressing the doctor shortage remains uncertain. In 2018, foreign students constituted about 8% of Germany's medical student population, a figure that has likely increased slightly since then. The CDU's proposal, if implemented, could significantly impact international students' decisions to study and practice medicine in Germany. 🏥🇩🇪

Opposition president-elect outlines areas in which he is willing to “help” Polish government

President-elect Karol Nawrocki, aligned with Poland's right-wing opposition, has outlined areas where he is willing to cooperate with Prime Minister Donald Tusk's government, despite their political differences. Nawrocki, who won the presidential runoff on June 1, has expressed support for raising the tax-free income threshold to 60,000 zloty annually, a promise made by Tusk but not yet fulfilled due to budget constraints. He has also indicated a willingness to work on national security and foreign policy issues, such as ending a deadlock over ambassadorial appointments.

However, Nawrocki has been critical of Tusk, accusing him of spreading disinformation during the election campaign and calling him a "liar." He has made it clear that he will not compromise on judicial reform and remains firmly pro-life on the issue of abortion, refusing to sign any legislation that would soften Poland's near-total abortion ban. Nawrocki has also stated that he will maintain a tough stance on rule-of-law issues, similar to his predecessor, Andrzej Duda, and is working on proposals to break the deadlock over judicial appointments.

Nawrocki has expressed a willingness to discuss a law on the status of the closest person, which would grant certain rights to unmarried partners, although he has opposed the government's plans for civil partnerships. He has also indicated that he is open to cooperation on foreign policy issues, including ending a deadlock over ambassadorial appointments. Despite these potential areas of cooperation, Nawrocki has made it clear that he will prioritize what he believes is best for Poland, regardless of Tusk's attitude towards him. 🇵🇱🏛️

Today in Germany: A roundup of the latest news on Thursday

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, a member of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), has called for increased military aid to Ukraine, condemning recent Russian air strikes as "extraordinarily violent and threatening." Pistorius's stance contrasts with some of his party colleagues who advocate for a détente with Russia and criticize Germany's recent armament push. This internal division raises questions about Germany's commitment to its military ambitions and its stance on Russia.

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen have agreed to strengthen EU immigration rules and curb immigration to maintain social cohesion. Merz praised Denmark's tough immigration policies, stating that Germany must not overburden its society's willingness to accept and integrate newcomers. Frederiksen committed to working with Merz to reduce migrant influx and enforce returns for those without the right to stay.

In related news, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that Poland may introduce border controls with Germany to prevent the pushback of undocumented migrants. This move comes amid disputes between the two countries over border management and accusations of unlawful migrant transfers.

Additionally, a defective signal box at Berlin's Friedrichstraße station disrupted morning S-Bahn traffic, affecting several lines and causing significant delays. Commuters faced limited service on the S3, S5, S7, S75, and S9 lines, with Deutsche Bahn unable to provide an estimated time for resolution.

In a separate development, German prosecutors charged seven far-left militants for a series of attacks on neo-Nazis and far-right activists, both in Germany and abroad. The group, led by jailed activist Lina E., rejected democratic principles and the state's monopoly on force, carrying out attacks between 2018 and 2023. The charges include an attack on a far-right rally in Hungary and an assault on a restaurant frequented by far-right activists in Eisenach. 🚉🚔

Climate change disrupting species’ habitats and altering both productivity and seasonality

Climate change is significantly disrupting the habitats of various species, leading to alterations in both productivity and seasonal patterns. This environmental shift poses substantial threats to marine life, particularly in the high seas, which are vast oceanic regions that do not fall under any single nation's jurisdiction. To address these challenges, a high seas treaty was adopted by UN member states in June 2023. The treaty, which has been ratified by 49 nations and the European Union, aims to protect marine life and regulate activities such as transport and fishing in these international waters. The treaty will come into force 120 days after its 60th ratification, marking a crucial step towards preserving the health of the world's oceans. 🌊🐠

Today in Norway: A roundup of the latest news on Thursday

The Norwegian government is making a significant investment in artificial intelligence, allocating 1 billion kroner over five years to establish six new national research centers. This initiative aims to deepen the understanding of AI, guide its development, and leverage its potential to enhance societal welfare and economic growth. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized the importance of maintaining control over AI technology to ensure it benefits society. The Research Council of Norway received 50 applications from over 600 participants, including research institutions, companies, and public agencies, both domestically and internationally.

In financial news, Norges Bank, Norway's central bank, has placed Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD Bank) under observation due to potential involvement in serious financial crimes. This decision, approved by the bank's Executive Board, follows a recommendation from the Ethics Council. The Government Pension Fund Global, known as the 'Oil Fund,' holds a 1.05% stake in TD Bank, valued at over 11 billion kroner. The observation status will subject TD Bank to heightened scrutiny for the next four years.

In legal developments, a 16-year-old boy from Stavanger, already charged with planning murders in Norway and England, is now linked to a murder plot in Sweden. The teen's lawyer confirmed his client's involvement with a criminal syndicate in Gävle, Sweden, although the boy has not admitted criminal guilt. This case is part of a broader international investigation involving authorities from multiple countries.

In legislative news, the Norwegian parliament has reached a consensus on a new Minerals Act, granting landowners greater control over mineral exploration on their property. The agreement, supported by a broad political majority, includes the Labour Party, Conservative Party, Socialist Left Party, Liberal Party, and several others. The new law requires landowner consent before any surveys of state-owned minerals can be conducted on private land, reinforcing property owner protections while maintaining coordinated exploration permits. This development marks a shift from the government's initial proposal, which aimed for a more expansive framework for mineral extraction. 🇳🇴💡

Austria to tighten gun laws after Graz school shooting, reports say

In response to the devastating school shooting in Graz, Austria, which resulted in the deaths of ten individuals, including the gunman, the Austrian government is swiftly moving to tighten gun laws. The three-party coalition, led by Chancellor Christian Stocker, has agreed on a legislative package that includes stricter access to firearms, enhanced victim protection, and increased school security. The proposals are expected to be formally presented and approved by the cabinet within the coming days.

The shooting, carried out by a 21-year-old former student armed with a Glock pistol and a shotgun, has highlighted the need for more stringent regulations despite Austria's existing gun laws, which require licensing and background checks. The attacker, who had been deemed mentally unfit for military service, legally acquired his weapons and had no criminal record. This tragic event, the deadliest mass shooting in modern Austrian history, has prompted a national mourning period and a push for immediate legislative action to prevent future tragedies. The proposed changes aim to address the ease of access to firearms and bolster safety measures in educational institutions. 🇦🇹📚

Air India flight crashes after takeoff in Ahmedabad, killing 265 people

A tragic aviation disaster unfolded in Ahmedabad, India, when an Air India flight carrying 242 people crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in the deaths of 265 individuals, including passengers, crew, and people on the ground. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route to London Gatwick, struck a hostel for resident doctors at the B.J. Medical College complex, causing extensive damage and loss of life. Only one passenger, Viswashkumar Ramesh, survived the crash and is receiving treatment. The aircraft was carrying a diverse group of passengers, including 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian.

The crash ranks as one of the deadliest aviation disasters in history, tying with the 2001 crash of American Airlines Flight 587 in Queens, New York. It is also the most fatal aviation accident since the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014. This incident marks the first fatal crash involving the Boeing 787 Dreamliner since it entered commercial service in 2011. Leaders from both India and the UK expressed their condolences, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing the event as "heartbreaking beyond words." Air India has established a dedicated hotline for families affected by the tragedy and is collaborating with local authorities to manage the aftermath. 🛬️💔

NIB opens public consultation on defence financing

The Nordic Investment Bank (NIB) is considering a significant shift in its financing policies, driven by geopolitical developments and the increasing demand for defense investments in the Nordic-Baltic region. In response to a March 2024 request from the Nordic and Baltic owner governments, NIB has been exploring ways to support security and resilience alongside its core missions of promoting climate action, productivity, and innovation. This led to an update of its Sustainability Policy and Exclusion List in July 2024, allowing for the financing of defense-related projects, excluding weapons and ammunition manufacturers.

Now, NIB is taking a further step by proposing to finance conventional weapons and ammunition, while excluding producers of "controversial weapons." The bank's President and CEO, André Küüsvek, emphasized that this decision aligns with NIB's mission to provide long-term sustainable finance for the benefit of the Nordic-Baltic region. The bank is inviting stakeholders to review and comment on the revised Sustainability Policy Exclusion List, with submissions accepted until July 12, 2025. NIB will consider these contributions and may draft an amended Exclusion List for approval by its Board of Directors. This consultation marks a pivotal moment in NIB's evolution, as it seeks to balance its traditional focus on sustainable development with the growing need for regional security and resilience. 🌍💰

Foreign universities await critical ruling and evaluation

Foreign universities are poised to significantly expand their presence in Greece, with 13 institutions—11 British, one French, and one Cypriot—seeking approval to establish branches in the country. These universities aim to enroll 6,280 Greek students across 39 schools at Greece’s first 12 non-state universities, starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. The proposed programs, totaling 162, primarily focus on business, law, health, and social sciences.

However, the approval process faces two critical hurdles. First, the Council of State must rule on the constitutionality of Law 5094/2024, which is expected to be discussed soon. Second, the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education (HAHE) is conducting evaluations to ensure the foreign institutions meet Greek educational standards. HAHE is advocating for most three-year British programs to align with Greece’s four-year degree structure, a change that some British universities may resist. The outcome of these evaluations and the Council of State’s ruling will determine whether these foreign institutions can proceed with their plans to establish branches in Greece. 🎓🇬🇷

PM reiterates unwavering support for Ukraine at Odessa summit

At the 4th Ukraine-Southeast Europe Summit in Odessa, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reaffirmed Greece’s steadfast support for Ukraine, condemning Russia’s ongoing missile and drone attacks as grave violations of international humanitarian law. He emphasized Ukraine’s right to self-defense and pledged continued diplomatic, political, economic, military, and humanitarian aid. Mitsotakis called for an immediate, unconditional ceasefire and proposed an ambitious connectivity project linking key ports and infrastructure from Alexandroupoli to Odessa.

The prime minister also addressed Europe’s military vulnerabilities, exacerbated by Russia’s invasion, and highlighted the EU’s ReArm initiative and SAFE mechanism for bolstering defense investments. In a pointed message to Turkey, Mitsotakis stressed that access to European funding would depend on alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, aiming to safeguard the entire continent. The summit culminated in a private meeting between Mitsotakis and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscoring the strong bilateral ties and shared commitment to regional security and stability. 🇬🇷🇺🇦🤝