Newsflash

Russian strikes kill 19 in Ukraine region as Zelenskyy seeks more Western help

Russian missiles struck central Ukraine on Tuesday, targeting schools, hospitals, and kindergartens, resulting in the deaths of at least 19 people and injuring nearly 300 others. The attacks occurred as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was in the Netherlands, engaging with allies on the margins of the NATO defense summit. The strikes underscore the escalating pressure on Ukraine, as the country continues to face relentless Russian aggression. Zelenskyy's visit to the Netherlands aims to bolster support from Western allies, seeking additional aid and solidarity in the face of ongoing hostilities. The assaults highlight the urgent need for international intervention to protect civilian infrastructure and lives in the conflict zone. 🇺🇦💥

Georgia jails top opposition figures as authorities ramp up crackdown

Georgia has intensified its crackdown on political dissent, jailing four prominent opposition figures in recent days. This wave of arrests follows a contentious election in October and the ruling Georgian Dream party's decision to suspend Georgia's European Union accession bid. Nearly all leaders of the pro-Western opposition are now incarcerated, fueling ongoing protests against the government. The arrests have drawn international scrutiny and raised concerns about democratic backsliding in the country. 🇬🇪🔒

Sweden buys German air defence systems in multibillion kronor deal

Sweden is significantly bolstering its air defense capabilities with the acquisition of the IRIS-T SLM, a medium-range air defense missile system manufactured by Germany's Diehl. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson highlighted the importance of this purchase, stating that it is the first major air defense system acquired since the Patriot system in the 1990s. The move comes as Sweden recognizes the critical need for robust air defense, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Defense Minister Pål Jonsson emphasized that the conflict in Ukraine has underscored the necessity of a strong air defense. This acquisition is part of Sweden's broader strategy to rapidly rearm and enhance its military capabilities. The country, which had significantly reduced defense spending after the Cold War, reversed this trend following Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea. In March, Sweden announced plans to increase defense spending by 300 billion kronor over the next decade, aiming to reach 3.5% of GDP by 2030, up from the current 2.4%.

Sweden's decision to join NATO, abandoning two centuries of military non-alignment, was driven by Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The country became NATO's 32nd member in March of the previous year. This strategic shift aligns with broader NATO goals, as the alliance seeks to strengthen its collective defense. U.S. President Donald Trump has called for NATO allies to commit to spending 5% of GDP on defense, while NATO chief Mark Rutte has proposed a target of 3.5% on direct military spending by 2032, with an additional 1.5% on broader security-related expenditures. Sweden's investments in air defense and overall military capabilities are crucial steps in meeting these targets and ensuring the country's security in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape. 🛡️🇸🇪

Merz says NATO spending boost is to counter Russia - not please Trump

Germany is significantly bolstering its defense capabilities, driven by a growing concern over Russia's aggressive actions and the shifting geopolitical landscape. The country is set to increase its defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2029, six years ahead of the new NATO target. This historic shift in policy is part of a broader effort to prioritize external security and defense, as stated by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. Germany's actions are not merely a response to U.S. pressure but are based on its own assessments and convictions about the threats posed by Russia.

The upcoming NATO summit in The Hague is expected to focus on reinforcing the alliance's commitment to defense, with Germany playing a pivotal role. The country is working to build up its military personnel, aiming to recruit 11,000 new soldiers this year and considering the reintroduction of conscription if voluntary enlistment falls short. Additionally, Germany is establishing a permanent military brigade in Lithuania, its first overseas deployment since World War II, to strengthen NATO's eastern defenses against potential Russian aggression. This move underscores Germany's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities and contributing to European security. 🇩🇪🛡️

Europe is finally ready to spend more on defense. The hard part is how

Europe is grappling with the urgent need to bolster its defense capabilities amidst a shifting global landscape and escalating tensions, particularly with Russia. As NATO prepares for its annual summit, the alliance is considering raising its defense spending target to 5% of GDP, a significant increase from the current 2%. This shift is driven by the recognition that Europe must be able to defend itself without relying on the United States, which is reducing its financial and troop commitments.

However, increasing defense spending is just the first step. Europe faces substantial political, strategic, and regulatory challenges in transforming its military capabilities. Public support for common military spending and joint weapons procurement is crucial, but right-wing nationalist sentiments and varying perceptions of the Russian threat across member states complicate this effort. Countries closer to Russia, like Poland, are already spending nearly 5% of their GDP on defense, while others, such as Spain, allocate much less.

The nature of modern warfare is also evolving rapidly, with a greater emphasis on drones, cyber technologies, and intelligence. Europe must adapt its military strategies to defend its territory effectively, moving away from the Cold War-era focus on heavy armor and mechanized infantry. The EU has taken steps to revise its strategy, including a blueprint for combat readiness by 2030 and a €150 billion program for joint investments in security. However, fragmented defenses, red tape, and lack of coordination hinder efforts to create a unified and efficient fighting force.

Europe is also looking to reduce its dependence on American weaponry and strengthen its own defense industry. This requires standardization, mass production, and joint procurement to achieve economies of scale. Industry leaders, however, complain about slow decision-making and lack of direction from government officials, which impede their ability to invest in expanded production and research.

As economies slow across Europe, budget battles are expected to continue. While some countries may struggle to reach the 5% target, European leaders and military experts agree that the continent has the financial resources to mobilize the necessary funding. The focus now is on translating increased spending into actual military capabilities, ensuring that Europe can effectively deter and defend against potential threats. 🇪🇺💥

17 killed, nearly 300 injured in Russian missile strikes on Ukraine’s Dnipro region

In a devastating series of missile strikes, Russia targeted Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk region, resulting in the deaths of at least 17 people and injuring nearly 300 others, including 29 children. The attacks, which primarily hit the regional capital of Dnipro, damaged critical infrastructure, educational and medical facilities, and residential buildings. Among the targets was a passenger train, which sustained damage and injured several passengers due to broken glass. Nearly 100 individuals remain hospitalized, with some in critical condition.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, calling for strengthened sanctions against Russia. He emphasized that Russia’s ability to produce ballistic missiles and other weapons relies on external support, and he vowed to protect Ukrainian lives against Russia’s disregard for human life and attempts to depopulate Ukrainian territory. The strikes underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international intervention to halt Russia’s aggressive actions. 🇺🇦💥

France's Macron holds Norway talks on eve of Nato summit

French President Emmanuel Macron recently visited Greenland and Norway, emphasizing France's commitment to the Nordic and Arctic regions, particularly in terms of security. This visit comes amid escalating tensions, as U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to annex Greenland, citing security concerns and even refusing to rule out the use of force. This stance has complicated diplomatic relations, especially as NATO members prepare to gather in The Hague for a crucial summit.

The summit is expected to feature a contentious proposal from Trump, pushing all NATO members to increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP. While most NATO members view Russia as their primary threat, Trump's friendly stance towards Russian President Vladimir Putin and the recent U.S. strikes on Iran in support of Israel have further divided the alliance. Germany has backed the U.S. move, but countries like Norway have criticized it as a violation of international law.

During his visit to Norway, Macron met with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, and the two countries signed a strategic partnership deal focusing on defense and energy. Additionally, they agreed on a carbon capture initiative, allowing France to export carbon dioxide for storage abroad. This partnership underscores the growing importance of the Arctic region, where Nordic nations, along with China, Russia, the U.S., Canada, and other northern European countries, are competing for resources and territorial influence. The Arctic's strategic significance is becoming increasingly apparent as global powers vie for control in this rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. 🌍🇫🇷🇳🇴

Two Supreme Court judges removed from ruling on Polish presidential election result

In Poland, two judges from the Supreme Court's chamber of extraordinary oversight and public affairs have been removed from duty after questioning the chamber's legal status. This chamber, created under the former Law and Justice (PiS) administration, is not recognized by the current government or European courts due to its lack of independence and impartiality. The judges, Leszek Bosek and Grzegorz Żmij, had been refusing to carry out their duties, citing a 2023 ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) that deemed the chamber illegitimate. The controversy adds to the ongoing rule-of-law crisis in Poland, with concerns about the validity of the recent presidential election results.

The Supreme Court is tasked with validating the election results, but the disputed status of the chamber has cast doubt on its ability to do so effectively. The chamber previously validated the 2023 parliamentary elections and the 2024 European and local elections, both of which were won by the current ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk. However, President Andrzej Duda, an ally of the opposition PiS party, vetoed a bill that would have changed the validation process, raising further legal questions.

The Supreme Court has received over 50,000 protests related to the presidential election, with many being duplicates based on a template shared by a ruling coalition MP. While some vote-counting errors have been confirmed, they are not sufficient to overturn the election results. The court must validate the results by July 2, but the ongoing controversy and legal doubts threaten to undermine the process. The situation highlights the deep-seated political and judicial tensions in Poland, with the rule-of-law crisis persisting despite the change in government. 🇵🇱⚖️

President briefed by Greek diplomats in Middle East on Israel-Iran war

President Konstantinos Tasoulas held a crucial meeting with the heads of Greece’s diplomatic missions in Tel Aviv, Tehran, and Jerusalem to discuss the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. The president was briefed on the ongoing hostilities and their broader regional implications. Tasoulas emphasized the urgent need for a swift normalization of the situation and the restoration of peace in the Middle East. He commended the diplomats and their teams for their exceptional service under challenging conditions, particularly their efforts to ensure the safe evacuation of Greek citizens from the war-torn areas. The meeting underscored Greece’s commitment to regional stability and the safety of its citizens amidst the turmoil. 🇬🇷🇮🇱🇮🇷

EU help in healing Cyprus’ ethnic split could bring benefits to all, officials say

The European Union is poised to play a pivotal role in resolving Cyprus' longstanding ethnic division, with officials emphasizing that a peace accord would bring significant benefits and improved relations with the EU. EU envoy for Cyprus, Johannes Hahn, met with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides to discuss strategies for reviving stalled negotiations led by the United Nations. The island has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded following a coup aimed at unifying Cyprus with Greece. Only Turkey recognizes the Turkish Cypriot declaration of independence in the island's northern third, where it maintains over 35,000 troops.

Hahn plans to engage with all stakeholders, including Turkey, to build confidence and support for the peace process. He aims to leverage the EU's influence by highlighting the benefits of a peace accord for all parties involved. Although Cyprus joined the EU in 2004, only the southern Greek Cypriot part enjoys full membership benefits. Turkey, which began EU membership talks in 2005, seeks visa liberalization but faces obstacles due to its refusal to recognize the Cypriot government as the island's sole legal authority. Cyprus supports closer EU-Turkey ties contingent on progress in the Cyprus peace talks.

The primary hurdle to restarting peace talks is the Turkish and Turkish Cypriot insistence on a two-state solution, which contradicts the UN Security Council's blueprint for a federated Cyprus. Greek Cypriots oppose any agreement that formalizes partition, fearing Turkish control over the entire island. Turkey also demands a permanent troop presence and military intervention rights, along with veto powers for Turkish Cypriots in federal government decisions. The EU's involvement could help bridge these divides and foster a mutually beneficial peace accord. 🇪🇺🇨🇾

Spain delays BBVA merger with Sabadell bank for three years

The Spanish government has approved the takeover of Sabadell by BBVA, Spain's second-largest bank, with stringent conditions to ensure the protection of public interests. The deal mandates that both banks maintain separate legal entities, assets, and management independence for at least three years, with the possibility of extending this period by an additional two years. This autonomy extends to financing, credit, human resources, and branch networks. The government aims to safeguard small and medium-sized businesses, preserve jobs, maintain territorial cohesion, support social policies, and foster research and technological development.

The Socialist-led coalition government had initially raised competition concerns, fearing the creation of a financial giant that could challenge European rivals like HSBC and BNP Paribas. While unable to block the takeover, the government imposed conditions that could potentially deter BBVA. The European Central Bank and Spain's competition authority had previously given their approvals, subject to certain conditions. Sabadell's leadership and regional stakeholders, including small businesses and consumer associations, had expressed fears about potential job losses and branch closures, particularly in the northeastern Catalonia region. The approved conditions aim to address these concerns and ensure a balanced integration that benefits both the banks and the broader public. 🏦📜

Civil servant files complaint against French presidential hopeful

A former senior official in Le Havre has filed a complaint against Édouard Philippe, a prominent centrist figure and potential presidential candidate for 2027, along with two other individuals. The accusations include bullying, favoritism, and illegal conflicts of interest. The plaintiff, who was granted whistleblower status by France's rights ombudswoman, initially filed a complaint in September 2023 related to the establishment of a digital innovation hub. This led to a preliminary investigation by financial prosecutors, who are examining allegations of influence peddling, favoritism, embezzlement, and bullying. The investigation is ongoing, with French police having searched Le Havre's city hall in April 2024.

The plaintiff expressed frustration with the pace of the investigation and hopes that the new complaint will lead to the appointment of an independent investigating magistrate. Philippe, who served as prime minister from 2017 to 2020, has denied all allegations, dismissing the complaint as a personal vendetta by a disgruntled former employee. He leads the centrist movement Horizons, which is allied with but not part of President Emmanuel Macron's faction, and is considered a strong contender for the 2027 presidential election. 🇫🇷🏛️

Macron and Støre denounce 'illegal' US strikes on Iran, call for 'diplomatic solution'

French President Emmanuel Macron and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre have strongly criticized recent U.S. strikes on Iran, asserting that the actions were not legally justified. They emphasized the need for a diplomatic resolution to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities. The leaders' statements underscore a growing European concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the potential for further regional instability. Macron and Støre advocate for a diplomatic approach to address Iran's nuclear ambitions, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and adherence to legal frameworks in resolving such conflicts. Their call for diplomacy reflects a broader European effort to mitigate the risks of military escalation and promote stability in the region. 🇫🇷🇳🇴🇮🇷💥

Spain says NATO 5% spending target is 'unreasonable'

Spain has expressed strong reservations about NATO's proposed 5% GDP spending target for member countries, deeming it "unreasonable." This target, aimed at bolstering the alliance's defense capabilities against external threats, is expected to be endorsed by NATO leaders. However, Spain argues that meeting such a high spending threshold is impractical for its economy. The debate highlights the challenges faced by some European nations in balancing defense commitments with economic realities. The discussion comes as NATO seeks to strengthen its collective security posture in response to evolving geopolitical tensions. 🇪🇸💸

French defense tech startup Alta Ares lands in Greece to expand European presence

French defense technology startup Alta Ares is expanding its European presence by establishing a foothold in Greece, aiming to access the Balkan market and forge deeper partnerships in Southeastern Europe. The company specializes in AI-powered video analysis software for drones and surveillance systems, enabling real-time detection of military objects and threats without relying on cloud or network connectivity. This strategic move follows Alta Ares' successful operations in Ukraine and collaborations with NATO, including a live project with the French army.

The startup's expansion is supported by a €2 million investment from French defense investors and Greek fund Apeiron Ventures. Alta Ares plans to open offices in Athens this September, focusing on collaborations with local defense tech firms. The company's technology has already proven its worth in Ukraine and has been recognized by NATO, winning the NATO Innovation Challenge 2025 for its glide bomb detection system. Alta Ares' goal is to enhance existing defense systems through advanced AI and real-time data analysis, rather than replacing them. 🇫🇷🇬🇷🛸

Expert: €2 petrol could be on the way

Tensions in the Middle East, exacerbated by recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran, are driving up global oil prices, which could soon translate to higher fuel costs at Finnish gas stations. Experts predict that petrol prices in Finland could increase by 15–25 cents per litre, potentially pushing prices above €2 per litre. While Finland imports a small portion of its crude oil directly from the Middle East, the global market's volatility could still significantly impact local prices.

Kari Liuhto, a professor at the Turku School of Economics, anticipates that Finnish pump prices will rise due to the escalating geopolitical situation. Jukka Leskelä, Managing Director of Finnish Energy, notes that while predicting oil price trends is challenging, any supply disruptions could lead to increased transport fuel prices. However, Finland's reliance on gas for electricity production is minimal, which may mitigate some of the impacts seen in Central Europe.

The ongoing situation underscores the need for Europe to reduce its dependence on oil, as geopolitical tensions can disrupt global markets and fuel economic instability. Veli-Pekka Tynkkynen, a professor at the University of Helsinki, emphasizes that the link between hydrocarbons and violence is evident, and moving away from oil is crucial for long-term stability. Minna Kuusisto, Chief Analyst at Danske Bank, highlights that the uncertainty caused by these events can slow economic recovery and increase the prices of other goods if energy prices remain elevated. 💸🛢️

NATO summit opens amid discord over defence spending and Ukraine

The NATO summit in The Hague is set to address critical issues, including a proposed 5% GDP defense spending target and Ukraine's role in the alliance. The summit, which includes an informal dinner and a working session, aims to avoid contentious debates and produce a concise statement. The alliance, founded in 1949 to counter Soviet threats, now faces internal divisions and external pressures, particularly from Russia.

The U.S., under President Donald Trump, is pushing for increased defense spending from NATO members, criticizing countries like Spain and Canada for their low contributions. However, Spain has rejected the new 5% target, calling it "unreasonable." Trump's stance on NATO's collective defense pledge has also raised concerns, as he has previously questioned the U.S.'s commitment to the alliance. The U.S. remains NATO's most powerful member, providing strategic deterrence and driving the alliance's agenda, although Trump has stepped back from this role.

Ukraine's participation in the summit is uncertain, with President Volodymyr Zelensky invited but his role yet to be defined. NATO, as an organization, does not arm Ukraine but coordinates weapons deliveries and training from member countries. The alliance's new military plans involve deploying 300,000 personnel within 30 days to deter potential attacks, although experts question the feasibility of this goal. The U.S. bears the largest military burden within NATO, but other members are increasing their defense spending in response to Russian aggression. The summit's outcome will shape NATO's future and its ability to maintain collective security in the face of evolving threats. 🌍💥

OPEKEPE: The scandal that keeps on giving

The scandal surrounding OPEKEPE, the Greek agency responsible for distributing EU agricultural subsidies, continues to unravel, revealing extensive fraud and corruption. The latest revelations involve a €95 million funding application for organic bee farms, adding to the already significant scrutiny on the disgraced agency. The European Public Prosecutor’s Office has presented potentially incriminating evidence against two former agriculture ministers, Lefteris Avgenakis and Makis Voridis, both from the ruling New Democracy party. Greece faces substantial fines and further penalties from the European Commission due to the ongoing mismanagement and fraud.

The scandal involves a massive surge in applications for organic farming subsidies, particularly in Crete, where €95 million of the €170 million in total applications originated. This discrepancy is alarming, given that organic farmers, livestock farmers, and beekeepers account for just 5% of total applications nationwide. The fraudulent scheme includes the issuance of certifications for non-existent beehives and the manipulation of organic feed invoices, with some sellers claiming to cultivate entirely different products. The allocated budget for organic bee farming was €18.9 million, but applications amounted to €170 million, indicating a significant distortion in the system.

The fraudulent activities extend to certification firms, many of which appeared shortly before the ministry’s program was announced. Greece has an unusually high number of certification agencies compared to other European countries, further indicating systemic issues. The scandal has led to intensive inspections and delays in payments to legitimate beneficiaries, with the aim of completing inspections by October to resume scheduled payments. The National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives (ETHEAS) has called for shared accountability and immediate measures to prevent further fraud, highlighting that the bee farm scandal predates the 2024 program, with a 74% increase in declared hives between 2019 and 2023, despite a period of drought. 🐝💸🚨

Which flights could be affected by easyJet's strike in Spain?

EasyJet cabin crew members in Spain are set to strike on June 25th, 26th, and 27th, coinciding with the start of the high season. The walkout, organized by the Workers' Union USO, involves 657 crew members based in Barcelona, Alicante, Málaga, and Palma de Mallorca, potentially affecting hundreds of flights. The strike's impact will depend on whether the cabin crew on each flight are Spanish employees or from other countries not participating in the stoppage.

The strike is driven by demands for better working conditions and wages that align with those at European bases. Spanish easyJet employees reportedly earn significantly less than their counterparts in other countries, with discrepancies ranging from 30% to 200% less. The union also highlights that wages have not kept pace with the rising cost of living. EasyJet has stated that it will operate its full schedule until the strike is effective and will work to minimize disruptions. Passengers whose flights are canceled due to the strike may be entitled to compensation if the cancellation was announced less than 14 days before departure. 🛬️💥

How many people were granted Swedish citizenship in May?

In May 2025, Sweden approved just nine citizenship applications through naturalisation, a stark contrast to the over 4,200 cases approved monthly in the first quarter of the year. This dramatic drop is due to enhanced security checks implemented by the Migration Agency, which temporarily halted naturalisation processes. The new measures, mandated by the government and its far-right allies, include in-person identification and an extensive security questionnaire, affecting all applicants regardless of nationality. The agency has begun contacting applicants to schedule these checks, but the process is expected to cause significant delays. Despite initial predictions of 87,000 concluded cases annually, the agency now estimates only 64,000-65,000 cases will be processed in 2025 and 2026 due to these additional security measures. Meanwhile, other citizenship pathways, such as notification cases and citizenship declarations, saw 962 and 36 approvals respectively in May. The Migration Agency aims to reduce waiting times, but the new security protocols pose a substantial challenge to this goal. 🇸🇪📜