Newsflash

German military sees Russia as 'existential risk' to Germany and Europe: report

Russia is actively preparing for a potential large-scale conflict with NATO by the end of the decade, according to a recent strategy paper developed by German military personnel and experts. The Kremlin is aligning its industry and leadership structures to support this goal, with a significant buildup of forces along NATO borders in western Russia. By 2026, Russia could have approximately 1.5 million soldiers on active duty, posing a substantial threat to European security.

In response, Germany must consistently enhance its military and societal capabilities to counter this growing danger. This effort is already underway, as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz recently announced plans to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, far exceeding NATO's 2% target. This substantial boost in spending is made possible by the coalition government's securing of major financial resources, including an easing of debt rules and approval for hundreds of billions in extra funding for defense and infrastructure. This strategic shift underscores Germany's commitment to bolstering its defenses in the face of escalating geopolitical tensions. 🇷🇺🇩🇪💥

Armenian PM discusses reconciliation with Erdogan in landmark Turkey visit

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held crucial talks in Istanbul to discuss the normalization of relations between their countries, which have been strained due to historic grievances and Turkey's alliance with Azerbaijan. This meeting, the first "working visit" by an Armenian leader to Turkey, signifies a major step towards reconciliation. The leaders also addressed recent peace efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.

The closure of the Turkish-Armenian border in 1993, in support of Azerbaijan during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, has been a significant point of contention. Turkey's backing of Azerbaijan in the 2020 conflict further exacerbated tensions. Additionally, the longstanding dispute over the 1915 massacres of Armenians in Ottoman Turkey, which many historians recognize as genocide, remains a contentious issue, with Turkey rejecting the genocide label.

Pashinyan's visit follows a 2021 agreement to normalize ties and appoint special representatives for talks. Previous attempts at reconciliation, including a 2009 agreement to establish formal relations and open the border, failed due to Azerbaijan's opposition. This latest effort aims to overcome these challenges and potentially reopen the border, which would help alleviate Armenia's isolation. The leaders have previously met on various occasions, including Pashinyan's attendance at Erdogan's presidential inauguration in 2023. 🇦🇲🇹🇷🤝

France's Macron says Europeans to 'accelerate negotiations' with Iran

In the wake of Israel's recent bombardment, top diplomats from Britain, France, Germany, and the EU convened in Geneva with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss the escalating tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear program. The European officials urged Iran to re-engage in diplomatic efforts with the United States to de-escalate the situation, but Tehran insisted that it could only consider diplomacy once Israel ceased its military actions. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that accelerated negotiations led by France and its European partners are crucial to prevent further conflict and ensure regional stability. Macron reiterated the international community's stance that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons and must provide full assurances of its peaceful intentions. Additionally, he demanded the release of two French nationals, Cecile Kohler and Jacques Paris, who have been detained in Iran since May 2022 on espionage charges that their families deny. Macron condemned their "inhumane detention" and called for their immediate return to France. 🇮🇷🇮🇱🇫🇷🇪🇺

Next US ambassador: Estonia has been called ‘megaphone for American requests’

Roman Pipko, President Donald Trump’s nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Estonia, recently emphasized Estonia’s leadership in defense spending during his Senate confirmation hearing. He highlighted Estonia’s role as a "megaphone" for American calls to increase NATO members' defense budgets, noting the country's commitment to both its own defense and advocating for others to do the same. Pipko acknowledged the growing threat posed by Russia, which he believes is challenging NATO's very mission. He expressed confidence that these issues will be a key focus at the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague. Pipko's background, including visits to Estonia and Ukraine, underscores his firsthand understanding of the regional security dynamics. His nomination signals a continued U.S. emphasis on bolstering European defense capabilities in the face of Russian aggression. 🇪🇪🇺🇸🛡️

Fidan says rights of ‘Turkish minorities’ in Greece are violated

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has accused Greece of violating the rights of the "Turkish minority" in Western Thrace and the Dodecanese Islands. Speaking at the 51st Council of Foreign Ministers meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, Fidan asserted that these communities face severe restrictions that deny them even basic rights and freedoms. He also addressed the situation in Cyprus, emphasizing the existence of "two peoples and two states" and calling for support for the Turkish Cypriots, who he claims have endured decades of unjust isolation. Fidan urged OIC members to engage directly with the Turkish-occupied northern part of Cyprus, which is represented as an observer in the organization. 🇹🇷🇬🇷🇨🇾

France arrests five over cryptocurrency kidnapping

In recent months, France has witnessed a surge in kidnappings and attempted abductions targeting cryptocurrency entrepreneurs and their families, prompting intense pressure on authorities to intervene. On December 31, 2024, a violent home invasion in Saint-Genis-Pouilly near the Swiss border resulted in the abduction of a man and the assault of his wife. The attackers, demanding a ransom from the couple's son, an influencer based in Dubai, eventually kidnapped the father, who was later found severely injured in a car trunk hundreds of miles away. His wife was discovered tied up at their residence. Five individuals, including four adults and a minor, were arrested and charged with kidnapping, armed robbery, and aggravated assault. Three of the adults have extensive criminal histories involving violence, theft, and drug trafficking.

This incident is part of a broader trend of cryptocurrency-related abductions in France. In May, 25 individuals, including six minors, were charged in connection with multiple kidnappings and attempted abductions of crypto entrepreneurs and their family members. One notable case involved an attempted kidnapping of the daughter and grandson of Pierre Noizat, CEO of the crypto firm Paymium, which occurred in broad daylight in Paris. Additionally, in June, five men were arrested in northern France for allegedly planning to kidnap a young man and his mother, intending to mutilate the woman to secure a ransom from her cryptocurrency-owning son. Authorities have not yet established any links between this week's arrests and the other kidnapping cases, but the pattern of violence and extortion targeting the crypto community remains a significant concern. 💰💥

Survey shows majority of Germans in favour of return to conscription

A recent poll conducted by YouGov for the German Press Agency (DPA) reveals a significant shift in public opinion regarding compulsory military service in Germany. A total of 54% of respondents support reinstating conscription, with 36% advocating for both men and women to be subject to mandatory service, and 18% favoring conscription for men only. In contrast, 40% believe military service should remain voluntary, and 6% did not provide an answer.

The debate over compulsory military service has resurfaced due to the escalating threat from Russia. Although conscription for men is still legally possible under Germany's Basic Law, extending it to women would require a two-thirds majority in parliament, a challenge given the Left Party's opposition to conscription. The CDU-SPD coalition, which currently governs, has agreed to maintain voluntary military service but faces pressure to expand the Bundeswehr by 50,000 to 60,000 soldiers to counter the Russian threat.

Support for conscription varies significantly across political lines and age groups. Among CDU/CSU voters, 68% favor reinstating conscription, followed by 64% of SPD voters, 55% of AfD supporters, and 51% of Green Party voters. However, a majority of Left Party voters (69%) oppose compulsory military service. Age also plays a role, with only 35% of 18-29-year-olds supporting conscription, compared to 66% of those over 70. The CDU/CSU is urging the SPD to decide swiftly whether voluntary service alone can meet the Bundeswehr's expansion goals, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. 🇩🇪💥

Merz and Erdoğan coordinate ahead of European talks with Iran

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz engaged in crucial diplomatic discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan regarding the escalating Israel-Iran conflict. The leaders exchanged information about their respective mediation efforts and committed to maintaining close coordination. Erdoğan emphasized the necessity of negotiations to resolve the crisis, while also warning about potential refugee flows from Iran due to the conflict. The conversation occurred just before European foreign ministers were set to meet with their Iranian counterparts in Geneva.

The meeting in Geneva involved foreign policy chiefs from Germany, France, and the UK, along with EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas. Their goal was to assess Iran's willingness to make concessions on its nuclear program. Chancellor Merz had also been actively involved in diplomatic efforts, having spoken with the Emir of Qatar and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the previous day. The discussions underscored the urgent need for international cooperation to mitigate the conflict's regional and global repercussions, including potential migration issues and nuclear safety concerns. 🇩🇪🇹🇷🇮🇷🇮🇱

Parliament panel approves NH-90, Apache support, MEKO modernization

The Greek Parliament’s Special Standing Committee on Armament Programs and Contracts has approved three significant military programs. The committee, tasked with overseeing Greece’s armament initiatives, greenlit the modernization of four MEKO Navy frigates at a reduced cost of €290 million, down from the initial €900 million estimate. The upgrades, focusing on electronics and combat systems, will enhance the frigates’ firepower and extend their operational lifespan. Key improvements include the installation of the Kentaurus armored infantry fighting vehicle, the TACTICOS combat system by Thales, and a new active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. The Hellenic Navy will undertake the modernization at the Salamis Naval Base.

Additionally, the committee approved two Forward Operating Agreements (FOS): one for the Hellenic Air Force’s NH-90 helicopters and another for spare parts for Apache attack helicopters from the United Arab Emirates. Despite delays in the NH-90 order since 2003, the Defense Ministry is proceeding with the FOS contract to ensure support for the 18 delivered helicopters, with the final two expected this summer. These helicopters, along with Blackhawks, will handle army transport and special operations missions. The agreement with the UAE will facilitate the supply of spare parts for the aging Apache helicopters, extending their service life beyond the manufacturer’s support cutoff in 2011. 🛩️🚢

Crete, Gavdos hit by wave of migrant arrivals

In a span of just 24 hours, a significant influx of migrants arrived on the Greek islands of Crete and Gavdos, totaling 731 individuals, many of whom were families and children. This sudden surge has overwhelmed local resources, with shelters quickly filling up. The majority of migrants hailed from Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, and Pakistan, embarking from Tobruk, Libya. Diplomatic tensions with Libya have further complicated efforts to manage the migration crisis.

The recent arrivals contrast with the decreased number of migrants coming from Turkey to the Aegean islands. However, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned that the escalating violence in the region, particularly Israeli attacks, could lead to increased migration pressures on Europe. This warning underscores the broader geopolitical tensions affecting migration patterns.

On Thursday night, 34 migrants were discovered on Trypiti beach, and by Friday, an additional 352 were rescued by Frontex, with 73 more awaiting transfer from Gavdos. Earlier, a vessel carrying 278 migrants was intercepted off Kaloi Limenes. Local mayors have expressed opposition to establishing temporary shelters, citing the challenges posed by the busy tourist season. The situation highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts to manage the influx of migrants and address the underlying causes of displacement. 🌊🏝️

NATO scrambles to overcome Spain block on summit spending deal

Tensions have escalated within NATO as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez threw a wrench into preparations for the upcoming summit in The Hague. In a strongly worded letter to NATO chief Mark Rutte, Sánchez opposed the proposed agreement to commit to spending five percent of GDP on defense, deeming it "unreasonable" and "counterproductive." This unexpected move has sparked anger among other NATO members, who fear it could disrupt the carefully negotiated compromise aimed at appeasing U.S. President Donald Trump.

The proposed deal, brokered by Rutte, suggested a split of 3.5 percent on core military needs and 1.5 percent on defense-related expenditures like infrastructure and cybersecurity. With several European countries aligning with this plan, a breakthrough seemed imminent. However, Sánchez's opposition has thrown the negotiations into disarray, with ambassadors failing to reach a deal during a round of talks in Brussels. The impasse could extend through the weekend, as diplomats scramble to find a resolution before the summit begins on Tuesday.

Sánchez's stance is complicated by his need to balance NATO alignment with the demands of his junior coalition partner, the far-left Sumar, which opposes increased military spending. Spain has historically been one of the lowest defense spenders in NATO, only recently reaching the alliance's two percent target due to a significant budget injection. The uncertainty surrounding Spain's position has raised concerns among allies, who worry that Trump's insistence on higher defense spending could further strain NATO cohesion. 🇪🇸💥

FM Gerapetritis, Konstantopoulou clash over country’s Gaza stance

In a heated parliamentary debate, Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis and Course of Freedom leader Zoe Konstantopoulou clashed over the country's stance on Gaza. Gerapetritis defended Greece's position, emphasizing a "principled stance" on Palestinian issues and highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a peace plan. He stressed that the success of the plan hinges on Hamas' cooperation.

Konstantopoulou, however, criticized the government for allegedly turning a blind eye to what she described as Israeli "international crimes." She condemned Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis for engaging with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite an international arrest warrant against him, likening the contact to "communicating with Hitler." This comparison drew a strong rebuke from Gerapetritis, who requested its withdrawal out of respect for Holocaust survivors. The exchange underscored the deep divisions within Greek politics regarding the country's Middle East policy and its approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 🇬🇷🇮🇱🇵🇸

Ukraine: Life in a partially destroyed building in Kyiv

In Kyiv, the escalating conflict has left many residents grappling with the harsh realities of war. This year has witnessed a surge in successful Russian strikes on the Ukrainian capital, resulting in an alarming increase in civilian casualties. The most recent attack claimed the lives of at least 28 people, primarily residents of a single apartment block where an entire staircase was obliterated. Despite the destruction and the ever-present danger, many inhabitants of the adjacent staircases continue to reside in their partially destroyed homes. They endure the constant fear and the stark reminders of the conflict, such as broken windows, as they navigate their daily lives amidst the ruins. The resilience of these individuals is a testament to their determination to maintain a sense of normalcy in the face of adversity. 🏢💥

Belarus pardons, frees opposition leader Tikhanovsky following visit from Trump envoy

Belarusian opposition leader Sergei Tikhanovsky has been released from prison following a pardon granted by President Alexander Lukashenko. The release came shortly after a meeting between Lukashenko and U.S. President Donald Trump's Ukraine envoy, Keith Kellogg, in Minsk. Tikhanovsky's wife, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who has led the opposition since his imprisonment, confirmed his release and shared a video of their emotional reunion. Tikhanovsky, along with 13 other political prisoners, was flown to Vilnius, Lithuania, following his release.

Tikhanovskaya expressed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump, envoy Keith Kellogg, and European allies for their role in securing her husband's freedom. Tikhanovsky, a popular blogger and activist, had been imprisoned for over five years after planning to run against Lukashenko in the 2020 presidential election. He was initially arrested and detained before the vote, and his wife took his place in the polls. Tikhanovsky was later sentenced to 18 years in prison for "organizing riots" and "inciting hatred," with an additional 18 months for "insubordination."

Belarus, under Lukashenko's rule since 1994, has outlawed all opposition movements and is the sole European country that retains the death penalty. According to human rights group Viasna, there are over 1,000 political prisoners currently detained in the country. Tikhanovsky's release is seen as a significant development in the ongoing political crisis in Belarus. 🇧🇾🔓

German air force evacuates 64 citizens from Israel

Germany has initiated a diplomatic operation to evacuate its citizens from the conflict zone between Iran and Israel. Two Airbus A400M aircraft were dispatched to Israel to bring back "families with children and other vulnerable people," as stated in a joint announcement by the country's foreign and defense ministries. This operation was conducted in close collaboration with Israeli authorities, ensuring it remained a diplomatic effort rather than a military one, which would have necessitated parliamentary approval.

The German foreign ministry has already facilitated the evacuation of 345 individuals through two chartered flights via Amman, Jordan. An additional flight is scheduled to depart from Amman on Saturday. Germany is among several nations organizing evacuations for their citizens, utilizing various routes including land, sea, and air, as the conflict between Iran and Israel intensifies. The ongoing hostilities have prompted a coordinated international response to ensure the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire. 🛬️🇩🇪🇮🇱🇮🇷

Inside Denmark: 'Cash for seats' drama and Danish incentive for African students

The Moderate Party in Denmark is facing significant backlash following allegations that it attempted to purchase parliamentary seats from two former members, Mike Fonseca and Jon Stephensen, who were expelled due to personal scandals. Fonseca was criticized for dating a 15-year-old, while Stephensen faced accusations of inappropriate behavior towards female colleagues. Reports suggest that the Moderates offered Stephensen 1 million kroner and Fonseca 370,000 kroner to resign and hand back their mandates. Audio recordings and statements from former party officials support these claims, potentially escalating into a major scandal. All eight opposition parties have called for an investigation, citing potential violations of the constitution. Meanwhile, Denmark has unveiled a new strategy to attract African students, aiming to enroll around 230 students annually over the next eight years. The initiative, part of the government's broader Africa Strategy, seeks to enhance Danish soft power by offering scholarships that cover education and living expenses, managed by the Danida Fellowship Centre. 🇩🇰🎓

French court upholds life sentence over 2016 police killings

In 2023, Mohamed Lamine Aberouz, a 31-year-old Franco-Moroccan, was convicted for his role in the brutal 2016 stabbing deaths of French police officer Jean-Baptiste Salvaing and his partner Jessica Schneider. The attack, carried out by Aberouz's friend Larossi Abballa, occurred at their home in Magnanville, outside Paris, and was livestreamed on social media, with Abballa claiming responsibility on behalf of the Islamic State group. Schneider, 36, was killed in front of her three-year-old son, and Salvaing, 42, was fatally stabbed outside their home. Abballa was subsequently killed by a police response unit.

The Paris Special Criminal Court found Aberouz guilty of complicity in the murders and participation in a terrorist criminal conspiracy. Prosecutors argued that Aberouz's DNA found on the victims' computer and the complexity of the attack suggested a second assailant. However, Aberouz's lawyers maintained his innocence, claiming he was at prayers during the attack and that his DNA could have been transferred from Abballa's car. Despite Aberouz's denials and his lawyers' arguments for acquittal due to reasonable doubt, the court found him guilty on all counts. Aberouz expressed remorse and regret for knowing Abballa, stating that he had no responsibility for the tragedy. His legal team has announced plans to appeal the verdict. 🚔🔪😢

Inside Austria: Where the locals holiday and Vienna's summer cinemas return

Austrians are gearing up for their summer holidays, with Italy and Croatia topping the list of preferred destinations. Italy remains the favorite, but travelers should be aware of electronic toll systems, low-traffic zones, and restrictions on taking sand or shells as souvenirs. Croatia, the second most popular choice, has strict rules on toll roads, parking, and protected items like truffles and seashells. Both countries require careful planning, and the ÖAMTC recommends using their online route planner to estimate costs.

Vienna's summer cinema season is in full swing, offering a variety of open-air screenings from July onwards. The Rathausplatz Film Festival and VOLXkino are among the highlights, providing free entertainment with a mix of opera, concerts, and classic films. Audiences are encouraged to bring blankets and warm clothing for the cool summer nights.

In other news, Austria faces a significant climate challenge, with temperatures rising faster than the global average. A recent report warns of increased deaths and economic losses without substantial investment in adaptation and emissions reduction. Meanwhile, Vienna's Donauinselfest returns with a diverse lineup of performances and a new "Democracy Island" for political engagement. The city also mourns the loss of legendary pianist Alfred Brendel, who passed away at 94. Additionally, Vienna has slipped to the second spot in liveability rankings due to recent terror threats, and Austria is implementing stricter gun laws following a tragic school shooting in Graz. 🌞🎬🌍

More Latvians to leave Israel this weekend

Latvian nationals in Israel are being assisted in their evacuation efforts amid the ongoing crisis. A planned evacuation flight on June 22 will transport individuals from Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, to Chișinău, Moldova, organized by the Ukrainian embassies in Israel and Egypt. To date, 28 Latvian citizens have been evacuated through flights organized by Lithuania and Slovakia via Jordan, while 13 have departed independently. Currently, 57 Latvian nationals are registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with 11 being short-term travelers. Priority is given to those in Israel temporarily, such as tourists or visitors.

Due to the closure of Israeli airspace, evacuation flights are being operated from neighboring countries, Jordan and Egypt. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is collaborating with the EU and partner countries to facilitate these evacuations. Departure routes include land crossings to Jordan and Egypt, with specific border crossings and operating hours detailed for travelers. The state of emergency in Israel has led to the closure of official institutions, including the Latvian Embassy, but diplomats continue their duties.

Travelers in the affected region are advised to contact family members to confirm their safety and to reach out to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ emergency helpline or email for assistance. Updates and travel alerts are available on the Ministry’s website and Facebook page. Additionally, the Israeli Ministry of Tourism is providing support to foreign tourists wishing to leave the country, with registration and information available on their official website. There are 6,062 Latvian residents in Israel and 3 in Iran, according to official data. 🛬️🇮🇱🇱🇻

Violence, drink-driving and disorder keep police busy on Midsummer Eve

Midsummer Eve celebrations across Finland were marred by a surge in disorderly conduct, with police departments reporting numerous incidents of drink-driving, boating under the influence, assaults, and other disturbances. The most severe cases included two suspected attempted homicides, one involving gunfire in Salo and another a stabbing in Oulu. In Paimio, a passenger attacked a taxi driver on a motorway, causing a crash and serious injuries.

The Southwest Finland Police noted a significant increase in incidents compared to the previous year, particularly in the archipelago, which was described as "unsettled." Authorities responded to multiple disturbances and fights in areas like Mathildedahl in Salo and Nauvo in Parainen. Meanwhile, in Ostrobothnia, police dealt with a house fire in Korsnäs and a search for missing paddleboarders in Alajärvi, who were later found safe. The heightened activity kept law enforcement busy throughout the night, highlighting the challenges of maintaining public safety during major holidays. 🚔💥