Newsflash

Shipping minister warns of global economic impact if Strait of Hormuz closes

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime chokepoint, could have severe global economic repercussions, according to Shipping and Island Policy Minister Vassilis Kikilias. Speaking to SKAI TV, Kikilias warned that blocking the strait would disrupt global trade, as approximately 90% of international commerce relies on maritime routes. Rerouting ships around Africa to reach Europe and the U.S. would significantly strain global supply chains. The current geopolitical climate is described as "very volatile," with oil prices already rising by 7–10% due to growing uncertainty.

The heightened tensions are driven by Iranian threats to close the strait in response to Israeli military actions and Western pressure. While Iran has pledged to keep the Gulf open as long as its national interests are safeguarded, it has cautioned that direct U.S. military support for Israel could lead to restrictions on oil exports to Western markets. The potential disruption of oil flows from the region could push crude prices above $80 per barrel, with historical data showing that such disruptions have led to global inflation spikes and economic contractions of 0.2% to 1%.

Greece, with a significant presence of Greek-owned and Greek-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf, is prioritizing the safety of seafarers in the region. On average, 170 to 180 Greek-owned vessels operate in the wider Persian Gulf area, with 15 to 20 Greek-flagged ships transiting the strait every six to eight hours. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, as the stability of oil exports from the region is crucial for global economic health. 🛢️🌍

European countries announce joint action against Russia's 'shadow fleet'

Several European nations have agreed to bolster their cooperation to counter Russia's "shadow fleet" of vessels, which are evading Western sanctions on oil exports due to the war in Ukraine. This joint effort aims to establish a coordinated approach among national authorities to promote responsible maritime behavior, enforce international law, and enhance transparency in maritime operations. The initiative includes the development of a common set of guidelines aligned with international law.

Russia's shadow fleet, comprising hundreds of vessels, poses a significant challenge to Western nations. Additionally, recent damage to several undersea Baltic cables has raised concerns about potential hybrid warfare tactics employed by Russia. In response, the participating countries have pledged to take appropriate action against vessels operating without a valid flag in the Baltic and North Seas, emphasizing that stateless vessels do not enjoy the same rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

To address these maritime threats, NATO has deployed ships, aircraft, and drones in the Baltic Sea as part of its operation "Task Force X." This operation aims to strengthen the alliance's fleet of unmanned surveillance ships in the region, requiring substantial human and material resources. The enhanced cooperation and surveillance efforts underscore the commitment of European nations and NATO to safeguard maritime security and counter Russian activities in the Baltic Sea. 🌊🛳️

Today in Denmark: A roundup of the news on Friday

Fourteen Northern European countries have agreed to bolster their joint efforts to counter Russia's "shadow fleet," a network of vessels allegedly used to evade Western sanctions on Russian oil exports. The initiative, announced by Denmark's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, involves Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. These nations aim to coordinate their national authorities to address the issue effectively.

Russia is accused of operating a large "shadow fleet" to circumvent sanctions imposed due to its ongoing war in Ukraine. This fleet, comprising hundreds of vessels, poses a significant challenge to the enforcement of international sanctions. The coordinated approach by these Northern European countries is a crucial step in tightening the enforcement of these sanctions and limiting Russia's ability to profit from its oil exports despite the restrictions.

The move underscores the growing international cooperation in response to Russia's actions and highlights the determination of these countries to uphold the integrity of the sanctions regime. This joint effort is expected to enhance the effectiveness of the sanctions and send a strong message to Russia about the consequences of its actions. 🛳️🌍

European countries announce joint action against Russia's 'shadow fleet'

Several European nations have agreed to bolster their cooperation to counter Russia's "shadow fleet" of vessels, which are evading Western sanctions on oil exports due to the war in Ukraine. This joint effort aims to establish a coordinated approach among national authorities to promote responsible maritime behavior, enforce international law, and enhance transparency in maritime operations. The initiative includes the development of a common set of guidelines aligned with international law.

Russia's shadow fleet, comprising hundreds of vessels, poses a significant challenge to Western nations. Additionally, recent damage to several undersea Baltic cables has raised concerns about potential hybrid warfare tactics employed by Russia. In response, the participating countries have pledged to take appropriate action against vessels operating without a valid flag in the Baltic and North Seas, emphasizing that stateless vessels do not enjoy the same rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

NATO has already deployed ships, aircraft, and drones in the Baltic Sea as part of its response to the cable damage. However, these operations require substantial human and material resources. To address these threats more effectively, NATO plans to augment its fleet of unmanned surveillance ships in the Baltic Sea through Operation "Task Force X." This initiative underscores the transatlantic organization's commitment to maintaining maritime security and countering hybrid threats in the region. 🌊🛳️

President or tribal chieftain?

The global order is rapidly deteriorating, with long-established international principles and diplomatic norms being eroded. At the forefront of this regression is Donald Trump, whose rhetoric and actions echo primitive, tribal behaviors rather than those of a leader of a major democracy. His recent social media posts, threatening Iran's Supreme Leader and demanding "unconditional surrender," exemplify this shift. Such language, reminiscent of a "cartoon mob boss," is alarming when coming from the leader of the world's most powerful nation, especially when it appears to declare war without congressional consultation or regard for international laws of war.

The current Middle Eastern conflict, marked by Hamas' raid into Israel and subsequent bloodshed, has been exacerbated by Iran's belligerent rhetoric and Israel's strategic maneuvers. Israel, under Benjamin Netanyahu, has sought to draw the U.S. and its European allies into its war against the Palestinians, aiming to ensure their support despite Israel's ruthless tactics. Meanwhile, Trump's disregard for U.S. institutions and international norms, driven by his belief in his own infallibility, is causing significant damage to both America and the world. This erosion of democratic principles and global stability is a grave concern, as it threatens the foundations of international order and cooperation. 🌍💥

European countries announce joint action against Russia's 'shadow fleet'

Several countries have agreed to bolster their cooperation to counter Russia's "shadow fleet," a network of hundreds of vessels attempting to evade Western sanctions on Russian oil exports due to the war in Ukraine. This joint effort aims to establish a common set of guidelines aligned with international law to promote responsible maritime behavior, enhance compliance with international law, and increase transparency in maritime operations. The initiative comes in response to concerns about Russia's use of stateless vessels and false flagging to circumvent sanctions and engage in potentially hostile activities.

The shadow fleet poses significant security challenges, as evidenced by the damage to several undersea Baltic cables last year, which many experts attribute to Russia's hybrid warfare tactics. To address these threats, the participating countries have committed to taking appropriate action against vessels that fail to fly a valid flag in the Baltic and North Seas, in accordance with international law. This includes targeting stateless vessels that falsely claim to fly a flag, as they lack a responsible flag state and the rights entitled to them under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

In January, NATO responded to the cable damage by deploying ships, aircraft, and drones in a Baltic Sea operation. However, this operation requires substantial human and material resources. To mitigate these demands, NATO plans to enhance its fleet of unmanned surveillance ships in the Baltic Sea as part of its "Task Force X" operation. This strategic move aims to bolster the alliance's ability to monitor and respond to maritime threats in the region, ensuring the security and stability of the Baltic Sea. 🌊🛳️

Ukraine slams Putin's 'disdain' for peace process after he says 'whole of Ukraine' belongs to Russia

Ukraine has strongly condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent remarks, which it views as a blatant disregard for ongoing peace efforts. Putin's assertion that the "whole of Ukraine" belongs to Russia and his suggestion that Russian forces could seize more Ukrainian territory, including the city of Sumy, have been met with outrage. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga described Putin's statements as "cynical" and indicative of a complete lack of respect for peace initiatives, particularly those led by the United States. Sybiga emphasized that the only way to compel Russia to engage in meaningful peace talks is to challenge its sense of impunity.

Putin's comments, made during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, reiterated his belief that Russians and Ukrainians are one people, a notion repeatedly rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Putin also stated that while he does not seek Ukraine's capitulation, he insists that Ukraine must accept its current territorial realities, which include significant portions of Ukrainian land under Russian control. This stance has been met with international criticism, as Kyiv and its Western allies maintain that Russia's claims to Ukrainian regions, including Crimea, are illegal. The ongoing conflict, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, has resulted in Russia controlling approximately a fifth of Ukraine, encompassing key regions and strategic areas. The situation remains tense, with both sides entrenched in their positions and peace talks seemingly stalled. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

'We have to act fast': Austria feels the heat from global warming

Austria is experiencing rapid warming, with temperatures rising by 3.1°C since 1900, and projections indicate a further increase to 4°C in the coming decades. This alarming trend, detailed in the Second Austrian Assessment Report on Climate Change, has prompted urgent calls for action from scientists and policymakers. The report, compiled by over 200 experts, warns of severe consequences, including frequent mega-droughts, heat-related deaths, economic losses, and the disappearance of glaciers, particularly in alpine regions.

To mitigate these impacts, Austria needs to invest between €6.4 and €11.2 billion annually. The government is working on a new climate protection law, focusing on CO2 reduction, decarbonization, and adaptation measures. However, the report highlights significant challenges, including political coordination issues and the disproportionate impact of climate change on low-income groups. The richest 10% of Austrians emit more than four times the carbon of the poorest 10%, underscoring the need for a fair and inclusive climate strategy.

Austria's Alpine regions are particularly vulnerable, facing increased rockfalls, disappearing glaciers, and higher infrastructure maintenance costs. Environmental groups emphasize the importance of protecting natural ecosystems, such as moors and forests, which absorb CO2 and mitigate flood risks. Critics argue that the government's draft budget cuts funding from crucial climate sectors, potentially leading to missed EU climate targets and substantial financial penalties.

Despite the clear scientific evidence and known solutions, the report underscores a lack of political will to act decisively. Environmental activists and researchers call for clear responsibilities, enforcement mechanisms, and an end to climate-damaging subsidies. The urgency is clear: Austria must accelerate its climate efforts to prevent irreversible damage and ensure a sustainable future. 🌡️🏔️

10 years after Europe’s migration crisis, the fallout reverberates in Greece and beyond

A decade after the European migration crisis of 2015, the repercussions are still deeply felt, particularly in Greece. The influx of over a million migrants and refugees, many arriving on the shores of Lesvos, sparked a humanitarian and political upheaval that continues to shape the continent. For some, like Amena Namjoyan, Greece became a place of refuge and eventual integration, despite initial hardships. However, the crisis also fueled political tensions, leading to a shift towards stricter migration policies and the rise of populist, anti-immigration sentiments across Europe.

Today, illegal migration has significantly decreased, but the focus on border security and surveillance remains intense. The European Union has established new migration and asylum policies, including controversial "return" hubs and increased border patrols. Critics argue that these measures violate fundamental EU rights and values, while human rights organizations condemn the externalization of border management, which often results in the mistreatment of migrants in partner countries.

In Lesvos, the legacy of the crisis is complex. While some locals remember the outpouring of support and solidarity, others express anger and frustration at the ongoing struggles and the loss of life. The island's residents grapple with the aftermath, hoping that their tradition of helping those in need will endure despite the changing political landscape. The future of migration in Europe remains uncertain, as the continent continues to navigate the fallout from the 2015 crisis and the evolving political climate. 🇪🇺🌊

Putin can’t have a veto on Ukraine’s EU membership: Parliament speaker Stefanchuk

Ukrainian Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk, a close ally of President Volodymyr Zelensky, recently visited France to express gratitude for the country's support and to discuss Ukraine's critical needs. Stefanchuk emphasized the urgent requirement for advanced air defense systems to protect Ukraine from ongoing Russian attacks, which have resulted in significant loss of life and infrastructure damage. He also highlighted the importance of continued financial and military support from Western partners, especially in light of potential reductions in U.S. aid.

Stefanchuk addressed the contentious issue of frozen Russian assets, arguing that failing to use these assets to hold Russia accountable would set a dangerous precedent. He stressed the need for legal mechanisms to ensure that aggressors face consequences for their actions. Additionally, he discussed Ukraine's progress in meeting EU accession criteria, despite facing obstacles from Hungary, which he accused of acting as a "veto" for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Stefanchuk asserted that Ukraine is committed to anti-corruption reforms and has made significant strides in holding officials accountable, despite recent setbacks in corruption perception rankings.

The speaker also touched on the broader geopolitical context, noting that the weakening of adversaries like Iran and North Korea would benefit Ukraine and the global community. He underscored the importance of international cooperation in achieving a common victory and ensuring the security of peaceful citizens. Stefanchuk's visit to France underscored Ukraine's determination to forge ahead with its EU accession process and to secure the necessary support to defend against Russian aggression. 🇺🇦🇫🇷

Why summers in the Alps will see far more intense rainfall in future

A recent study conducted by Swiss and Italian researchers warns of a significant increase in intense summer rainfall events in the Alps and surrounding regions if global temperatures rise by 2°C (3.6°F). The research, based on data from nearly 300 meteorological stations across the European Alps, indicates that such warming could double the frequency of extreme rainfall episodes. This means that storms currently expected once every 50 years could occur every 25 years in the future. The study highlights that warmer air holds more moisture, intensifying storm activity, and the Alpine region is particularly vulnerable due to its faster warming rate compared to the global average.

The researchers emphasize the potential dangers of sudden, heavy rainfall, which can overwhelm soil absorption capacity and trigger flash floods and debris flows, damaging infrastructure. They urge the preparation of urban water management systems and other infrastructures to handle increased rainfall volumes. Updating engineering and urban planning standards promptly is crucial to mitigate risks. The study also underscores the importance of limiting global warming to 1.5°C or less to reduce these potential hazards. With a 50% chance of global temperatures reaching 1.5°C above current levels by 2030-2035, the trend towards intensified summer storms is already evident and expected to worsen. 🌧️🏔️

PM: Rise of AI is an ‘unprecedented challenge’

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) presents an unprecedented challenge to societies, particularly concerning the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis highlighted this issue during a forum on "The Lyceum Project 2025: Children in the Age of AI," emphasizing that AI is not just another technological tool but a force that challenges fundamental aspects of human existence and consciousness.

Mitsotakis warned that the digital world treats children as adults, despite their greater vulnerability. He criticized the design of digital content, which is engineered to maximize engagement and addiction, likening it to the tobacco industry's past practices. He stressed the need for responsible leadership to address these issues, mentioning initiatives like the government’s Kid’s Wallet and the necessity for European regulation.

The prime minister also discussed the significant challenges and opportunities AI brings to education. He acknowledged the temptation AI poses for children and the difficulty in resisting it, emphasizing that parents should not bear the burden alone. He advocated for regulations, filters, and usage time limits as effective tools to combat digital addiction. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of sports and physical activity as a shield against excessive screen time, urging that platforms should not operate without responsibility for the content they host. 🏃‍♂️📵

BoG: Tax system must become more fair and help growth

Bank of Greece Governor Yannis Stournaras has emphasized the need for a more equitable and growth-oriented tax system to bolster Greece's economic development. Despite recent successes, the Greek economy faces significant challenges, including a burdensome regulatory framework, an ineffective legal system, and obstacles to competition and investment. To address these issues, Stournaras proposed several key reforms.

Firstly, ensuring debt sustainability remains a priority, with a focus on the early repayment of bilateral loans from the first memorandum. Fiscal policy should be made more growth-friendly, with reforms aimed at enhancing the efficiency and social justice of the tax system. This includes increasing the progressivity of the tax system to neutralize fiscal drag, improving tax collection, and providing targeted tax incentives for startups and research and development. The report also highlights the importance of timely absorption of Recovery Fund resources, which have been delayed in reaching final beneficiaries.

Additionally, efforts are needed to improve the business environment and transition to a medium- and high-technology-intensive economy. This includes productivity-enhancing reforms, a well-functioning labor market, and a better-educated workforce. The report also stresses the need for an effective financial intermediation system to increase investment and diversify funding, as well as the importance of attracting foreign direct investment to cover required investments. The Bank of Greece forecasts a growth rate of 2.3% for the current year, declining to 2% in 2026 and 2.1% in 2027, with inflation expected to fall from 2.5% to 2.2% by 2027. 📈💸

EU rule of law report shows worrying trends: How should the bloc defend its core principles?

The European Union faces mounting challenges to its core principles of the rule of law and democratic values, as highlighted in the latest annual rule of law report. The European Parliament's assessment, adopted by the Committee on Civil Liberties and later approved in a plenary session, reveals troubling trends, including restrictions on the right to assembly and a shrinking civic space. Concerns are growing over the protection of vulnerable groups from discrimination, as tensions escalate in member states like Hungary and Poland.

In Hungary, the government's ban on the Pride March has sparked controversy, while in Poland, the election of arch-conservative Karol Nawrocki has raised alarms about women's rights and abortion access. These developments underscore the need for the EU to strengthen its defenses against threats to democratic values and the rule of law. As member states grapple with internal pressures, the bloc must prioritize the protection of fundamental rights and ensure that its core principles remain steadfast. The EU's ability to address these challenges will be crucial in maintaining its integrity and upholding the values it stands for. 🇪🇺🏛️

Nordics, Baltics and partners to 'compile guidelines' on Russia's shadow fleet

The Baltic and Nordic countries, along with France, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, and the United Kingdom, have united under the NB8++ format to address the threat posed by Russia's shadow fleet. This coalition, comprising Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, has committed to strengthening maritime security and upholding international law in response to Russia's destabilizing actions.

The group's joint statement emphasizes the need to protect maritime security, safety, and the marine environment, particularly concerning stateless and falsely flagged vessels. These vessels, which do not have a responsible flag state, pose significant risks to maritime safety, the environment, and international trade. The NB8++ countries have agreed to enhance cooperation and develop a common set of guidelines to promote responsible behavior at sea and ensure compliance with international maritime regulations.

The shadow fleet's activities extend beyond the Baltic and North Seas, posing potential global risks. The coalition calls on other nations to join their efforts in countering this threat and maintaining the integrity of international maritime law. The group's commitment to joint and coordinated action underscores the shared resolve to address Russia's attempts to circumvent international sanctions and protect the seas from unlawful activities. 🌊🚢

European countries announce joint action against Russia's 'shadow fleet'

Several Western nations have agreed to bolster their cooperation to counter Russia's "shadow fleet" of vessels, which are evading sanctions imposed on Russian oil exports due to the war in Ukraine. This joint effort aims to promote responsible maritime behavior, enhance compliance with international law, and increase transparency in maritime operations. The countries involved have committed to developing a common set of guidelines aligned with international law to address these issues.

Russia's shadow fleet, comprising hundreds of vessels, operates in the Baltic and North Seas, often without valid flags or responsible flag states. This practice allows these vessels to circumvent international regulations and sanctions. The coordinated approach by the participating nations includes taking appropriate action against vessels that fail to comply with flag regulations in these waters. The statement emphasizes that stateless vessels, including those falsely claiming to fly a flag, do not enjoy the same rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

In response to recent damage to several undersea Baltic cables, which many experts attribute to Russia's hybrid warfare tactics, NATO has deployed ships, aircraft, and drones in the region. However, this operation demands significant human and material resources. To mitigate these challenges, NATO plans to enhance its fleet of unmanned surveillance ships in the Baltic Sea as part of Operation "Task Force X." This initiative underscores the transatlantic organization's commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure and maintaining maritime security in the face of evolving threats. 🌊🛳️

Why summers in the Alps will see far more intense rainfall in future

A recent study conducted by Swiss and Italian researchers warns of a significant increase in intense summer rainfall events in the Alps and surrounding regions if global temperatures rise by 2°C (3.6°F). The research, based on data from nearly 300 meteorological stations across the European Alps, indicates that such warming could double the frequency of extreme rainfall episodes. This increase is due to hot air holding more moisture, which intensifies storm activity. The Alpine region is particularly vulnerable, as it warms faster than the global average.

The study focused on record-breaking rainfall events lasting between 10 minutes and an hour, occurring from 1991 to 2020. The sudden influx of large water volumes can overwhelm soil absorption capacity, leading to flash floods and debris flows that damage infrastructure. Researchers emphasize the urgent need to prepare urban water management systems and update engineering and urban planning standards to mitigate these risks. Limiting global warming to 1.5°C or less is crucial to reduce the frequency and intensity of these events. With a 50% chance of global temperatures reaching 1.5°C above current levels by 2030-2035, the trend towards intensified summer storms is already evident and expected to worsen. 🌧️🏔️

Big-name porn sites back online in France after age check row

France has been implementing measures to prevent minors from accessing pornographic content by requiring adult websites to verify users' ages using credit cards or ID documents. However, the Paris administrative tribunal recently suspended a key government decree pending an investigation into its compatibility with EU legislation. The French government plans to appeal this decision to the Council of State, the country's highest administrative court.

The suspension has been welcomed by Aylo, the owner of three major adult platforms, which had previously made its websites unavailable in France in protest. Aylo argues that the decree's age verification methods are ineffective and pose significant security risks, as they require users to repeatedly share sensitive personal information. The company advocates for a more secure and privacy-preserving approach, suggesting that operating system makers like Apple, Microsoft, and Google should handle age verification at the device level.

The French government's decree also included a "double-blind" option to protect user privacy, preventing platforms from accessing users' identifying information. Despite this, Aylo contends that the law drives users to unregulated sites and fails to address issues like performer age and consent. With approximately 40% of French children accessing porn sites monthly, according to a 2024 study, the debate surrounding effective and secure age verification methods continues. Other European countries, such as the United Kingdom and Germany, also enforce age-related access restrictions to adult websites, highlighting the broader challenge of balancing online safety and privacy. 🔞🔒

EU slams Spain for taxing non-residents on theoretical property earnings

The European Commission has criticized Spain's non-resident tax on the value of Spanish homes, deeming it discriminatory and a violation of EU principles. The tax, which applies to non-residents and some residents with second homes, charges up to 2% of the cadastral value of the property, even if no rental income is generated. This rule is seen as unfair and potentially discouraging investment and movement within the EU and EEA.

The Commission argues that this tax contravenes the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and the EEA Agreement, specifically the free movement of workers and capital. Spain has been given two months to address the issue, with potential legal action at the European Court of Justice if no satisfactory resolution is found. This development also casts doubt on Spain's proposed 100% property tax on non-EU residents, which could face similar legal challenges. The tax, if implemented, would effectively double the property price for affected buyers, including EU citizens residing outside the bloc. The future of this controversial tax remains uncertain, as it requires parliamentary approval and may face opposition from Brussels. 🏠💸

Estlink 2 electricity cable back online after months-long outage

The Estlink 2 electricity link between Finland and Estonia has resumed operations after nearly six months of repairs. The subsea cable, which was damaged on Christmas Day, was suspected to have been struck by the Russian oil tanker Eagle S, part of Russia's shadow fleet. The incident temporarily reduced the transmission capacity between the two countries by 650 megawatts, although it did not compromise Finland's electricity system stability. The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation has implicated three officers of the Eagle S in the cable damage, alleging that the vessel's anchor chain dragged across the electrical and data cables. The repair work, conducted at sea since May, has now been completed, restoring full functionality to the crucial energy link. 🇫🇮🇪🇪💡