Newsflash

'Ukraine is at the wrong end right now: War's center of gravity is manpower, casualties, attrition'

Ukraine is currently facing a critical juncture in its defense against Russian aggression, as the United States has temporarily halted shipments of key weapons. This decision has raised alarms in Kyiv, with Ukrainian officials warning that a pause in aid could embolden Russia and weaken Ukraine's ability to defend itself against escalating attacks. The Pentagon cited concerns over depleting U.S. stockpiles as the reason for the pause. The situation underscores the ongoing struggle for Ukraine to maintain its defenses amidst a complex geopolitical landscape.

The conflict's dynamics are shifting, with the center of gravity now focused on manpower, casualties, and attrition. As peace efforts stall, the need for sustained international support becomes ever more crucial. Experts, including former UK military intelligence officer and Senior Lecturer in Strategy at Portsmouth University Frank Ledwidge, emphasize the importance of continued aid to prevent a potential Russian advantage. The situation highlights the delicate balance between strategic interests and the urgent need to support Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

German defence contractors report overflowing orders as wars rage

The ongoing conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine, have significantly boosted the demand for defense equipment, leading to a surge in orders for German defense contractors. Companies are expanding their workforce and investing heavily in new facilities to meet the increased demand.

Rheinmetall, Germany's largest defense contractor and a key supplier to Ukraine, has invested around €100 million in a new factory for F-35 stealth bomber components and €300 million in a munitions factory. The company's backlog of orders has more than doubled since the start of the Ukraine war, with revenue and profits soaring. Rheinmetall's workforce is expected to grow by 25% to 40,000 employees within two years, although its automotive supply sector is struggling.

Hensoldt, a sensor and radar systems provider, has seen its revenue increase by about 50% since the war began. The company aims to generate at least €2.5 billion this year and reach €6 billion by 2030. Hensoldt's radars are used by Ukraine to protect civilians from airstrikes and are installed in the Eurofighter combat jet. The German government holds a blocking minority in the company, which has invested €1 billion in recent years.

Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), a leading non-nuclear submarine manufacturer, is fully booked until the early 2040s. The company recently secured contracts for additional submarines and modernization projects, with €18 billion on its order books. TKMS is also bidding to build submarines for Canada and operates shipyards in Kiel and Wismar.

Dynamit Nobel Defence (DND), part of the Israeli defense group Rafael, has provided Ukraine with thousands of anti-tank weapons funded by the German government. The company's revenue more than doubled in 2022, and it employs over 300 people.

Heckler & Koch, a firearms manufacturer, has seen significant growth since the start of the Ukraine war, with a 20% increase in its workforce to around 1,300 employees. The company supplies the German armed forces and neighboring countries.

MBDA Germany, a missile manufacturer, has grown its workforce by about 300 since the war began and plans to exceed 1,700 employees by the end of the year. The company is investing in new production facilities and has secured major contracts for missiles used in the Eurofighter and Patriot air defense system.

Drone manufacturers, such as Helsing and Quantum-Systems, are also experiencing high demand. Helsing recently raised €600 million from investors and produces drones used by Ukraine and tested by the German armed forces. Quantum-Systems manufactures surveillance drones. 🚀💥

Ukraine appeals for clarity as US says it is halting some weapons shipments

Ukraine is urgently seeking clarification from the United States following a sudden announcement that Washington is halting some critical weapons shipments, including potentially vital Patriot air defense systems. This decision has raised alarm in Kyiv, as it heavily relies on U.S. military aid to counter intensifying Russian air strikes and battlefield advances. The Ukrainian defense ministry was caught off guard by the news, having received no prior notification. The move has sparked fears among Kyiv residents and experts, who warn that Ukrainian cities will become more vulnerable to Russian attacks without these defensive systems.

The halt in aid comes amid growing concerns in Ukraine about the potential reduction of U.S. support under the administration of President Donald Trump, who has previously criticized the extensive aid provided by his predecessor, Joe Biden. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of continued American support, stating that it is in the mutual interest of both nations. The uncertainty has led to a rare diplomatic move, with the Ukrainian foreign ministry summoning a senior U.S. diplomat to discuss the implications of the aid cuts.

The potential reduction in weapons shipments, which may include missiles for Patriot systems, precision artillery, and Hellfire missiles, has raised questions about Ukraine's ability to sustain its defense efforts. While Europe is stepping up its support, Kyiv remains heavily dependent on U.S. arms and ammunition. Moscow, meanwhile, has welcomed the decision, suggesting it could expedite the end of the conflict. However, Ukrainian officials and residents express hope that the U.S. will reconsider, remembering its commitment to democratic values and support for Ukraine. 🇺🇸🇺🇦⚔️

Switzerland warns of foreign spying threat from Russia and China

Switzerland's security landscape is rapidly deteriorating, according to the Federal Intelligence Service (FIS). The country, known for its neutrality, is increasingly caught in the crosshairs of a global confrontation between the U.S. and the China-Russia alliance. This geopolitical tension has made Switzerland a prime target for foreign intelligence services, with undercover operatives posing as diplomats, businesspeople, journalists, or tourists. Russia and China, in particular, maintain a strong presence, targeting federal authorities, companies, international organizations, and research institutions.

The security environment has worsened significantly since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with Moscow and Beijing conducting intelligence operations and preparing for hybrid warfare. Switzerland faces growing risks of being exploited for illicit activities such as abductions, sabotage, and assassinations. Additionally, the country's role as a haven for exiled opposition figures and journalists makes it a hotspot for illegal intelligence activities, particularly in Geneva. The FIS is tracking 15 international crisis hotspots and is concerned about the increasing interest in Switzerland's technological innovation sector.

The intensifying competition among major powers has also made Switzerland a target for sanctions evasion and proliferation attempts, with Russia, Iran, and North Korea seeking to acquire dual-use goods and technologies. Moreover, the terror threat remains elevated, driven by individuals inspired by jihadist ideology. The FIS emphasizes the urgent need for early detection of online radicalization among youth. In this volatile climate, Switzerland is not just an observer but a direct target, facing an unprecedented density of threats. 🌍🔍

US weapons: 'Ukraine is turning towards its other allies'

The Pentagon has temporarily paused shipments of certain air defense missiles and precision munitions to Ukraine due to dwindling U.S. stockpiles. This decision could significantly impact Ukraine's ability to defend against Russian strikes, potentially leading to increased civilian casualties. As a result, Ukraine is now seeking alternative sources of military aid from other allies. The situation underscores the urgent need for international support to bolster Ukraine's defenses and mitigate the humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict. 🇺🇸🇺🇦💥

Children ‘subjected to monstrosities’: Report exposes decades of abuse in French schools

A comprehensive report published in France has exposed decades of systemic abuse in both public and private schools, highlighting the state's failure to protect children and implement effective safeguards. The 330-page inquiry, led by lawmakers from across the political spectrum, detailed widespread violence and silence, with Catholic institutions particularly affected due to their strict educational models and culture of obedience.

The report focused extensively on the Bétharram Catholic boarding school, where priests, teachers, and staff allegedly abused students from 1957 to 2004. Despite numerous complaints, the state failed to prevent or monitor the abuse, allowing it to continue for years. The report criticized former Education Minister François Bayrou for inaction during his tenure in the 1990s, despite being informed about the ongoing abuse.

The investigation revealed structural dysfunctions in handling child abuse, including inadequate background checks, lack of national data, and a culture of cover-ups. The committee recommended urgent measures, such as tighter background checks, a national reporting platform, annual inspections of boarding schools, and a national compensation fund for victims. The report underscored the need for robust oversight and independent monitoring to prevent future abuses and ensure the safety of students. The government now faces pressure to act on these recommendations and address the systemic failures highlighted in the report. 🏫🚨

KYSEA underlines need to cooperate with Libya to stem migration

Greece's Government Council on Foreign and Defense Affairs (KYSEA) has stressed the urgent need for cooperation with Libyan authorities to prevent a new migration route from eastern Libya to Crete. This call for collaboration comes as over 7,300 migrants have already reached Crete this year, prompting Greece to deploy at least two naval frigates to international waters off Libya to curb the influx. The council also highlighted the broader European implications of migration from Libya, ahead of upcoming visits by Greece's Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis and European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner. The discussions also covered armament procurements, underscoring Greece's commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities amidst the ongoing migration crisis. 🇬🇷🛳️

Finland backs EU's 2040 emissions reduction target, says climate minister

Finland has expressed strong support for the European Commission's ambitious proposal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040, a crucial step towards achieving climate neutrality by 2050. Minister of the Environment and Climate Sari Multala emphasized that this target aligns with Finland's key priorities in climate diplomacy, fostering a stable environment for businesses to invest in clean technologies. Multala stressed the importance of a long-term, consistent climate policy for the EU's competitiveness and the need for a technology-neutral approach that considers uncertainties in the land use sector. The Finnish government will finalize its official position and communicate it to Parliament by early September, reaffirming its commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future. 🌍🌱

Paris museum sued for dropping Tibet references: legal documents

The Musée Guimet, a state-run museum specializing in Asian art, has renamed its Nepal-Tibet room to "Himalayan world," sparking controversy and accusations of political maneuvering. Pro-Tibetan groups argue that this change is an attempt to obscure Tibet's unique cultural identity and align with Chinese political interests. They claim the museum has also removed references to "Tibetan art," fueling an ongoing struggle over the region's Buddhist heritage.

Lawyers representing the plaintiffs suggest that the museum's actions indicate a deliberate effort to support Chinese lobbying, while the museum denies any intention to diminish Tibetan identity. Instead, the museum asserts that the new name aims to emphasize the cultural diversity and interactions within the Himalayan region. The dispute highlights the sensitivity surrounding Tibetan identity and China's sovereignty over the strategic Himalayan plateau, which borders India, Nepal, and Bhutan.

The controversy has legal implications, as French associations argue that the museum's changes lack historical or scientific basis and violate its mission to promote education, training, and research. This issue emerged amid the 60th anniversary of France-China diplomatic relations, with around 30 researchers accusing the Guimet Museum and the Quai Branly Museum of complying with Chinese demands to alter historical narratives. The debate underscores the complex interplay between cultural representation, political influence, and historical accuracy. 🏛️🇫🇷🇨🇳

How Greeks see Ukraine, Gaza, and the world

In the face of escalating global conflicts, Greeks increasingly favor a stance of neutrality and moderation, reflecting a desire to avoid entanglement in major international disputes. This preference for neutrality is evident in public opinion regarding the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, with a significant portion of Greeks advocating for their country to maintain a neutral position in both conflicts. This sentiment is driven by an awareness of Greece's limited size and the potential diplomatic repercussions of taking a more definitive stance.

Public opinion in Greece is divided on the responsibility for the war in Ukraine, with a third blaming all sides equally, a quarter attributing blame to Russia, and another quarter pointing to the US and the West. Regarding the conflict in Gaza, 35% of Greeks hold Israel primarily responsible, around a quarter blame all parties, and just 10% fault the US and the West. This nuanced view is reflected in surveys showing that nearly half of Greeks do not feel aligned with either side in the Ukraine conflict, while a third express sympathy for Ukraine and 22% feel closer to Russia. Similarly, in the Gaza conflict, 40% of respondents do not identify with either side, 36% express greater sympathy for the Palestinians, and 20% feel closer to Israel.

Greece exhibits a pro-Russian attitude and a less pro-Israeli profile compared to other European countries, although there is a consistent preference for neutrality. The strong pro-Russian sentiment of previous years has faded, but there is no widespread hostility either. Political affiliation plays a significant role in these views, with left-wing voters tending to favor neutrality or support for Ukraine, and right-wing voters showing more pro-Russian sentiments. The proportion of pro-Russian voters exceeds that of far-right party supporters, indicating that these views persist within the broader base of mainstream parties.

In the Middle East conflict, a majority of Greeks express opposition to Israel and sympathetic views toward the Palestinians. This sentiment is influenced by Greece's historical narrative of victimhood and a reluctance to align with perceived oppressors. The shift among far-right voters, from antisemitism to philosemitism, reflects a desire to align with power, a dynamic observed in other European countries. Overall, Greeks prioritize regional stability and avoiding unrest, with global events often deepening polarization but rarely leading to changes in core political beliefs. 🇬🇷🌍

Geneva to close branch of US-backed Gaza aid group GHF

The Gaza Humanitarian Fund (GHF), an American-based organization with a Swiss subsidiary, has been operating in Gaza since May 26, following Israel's halt on supplies that sparked severe famine warnings. Despite delivering over 950,000 food boxes, GHF's operations have been plagued by chaos and reports of Israeli forces firing on civilians awaiting aid. The United Nations and major aid groups have refused to cooperate with GHF, citing concerns that it aligns with Israeli military objectives.

The Swiss Federal Supervisory Authority for Foundations (ESA) has initiated the liquidation of GHF's Geneva-based subsidiary due to several legal non-compliances, including the lack of a valid address, board members, and an auditing body. The ESA has given GHF until the end of June to address these issues. Meanwhile, the UN and aid organizations have reported numerous fatalities and injuries at GHF's distribution sites, with the Israeli military accused of targeting civilians. GHF has denied any fatalities at its sites but has called for an Israeli investigation into the allegations. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with humanitarian efforts hampered by violence and political tensions. 🇵🇸🍞💥

French politicians embroiled in fiery debate over air conditioning

France is currently grappling with an intense heatwave, with red-level alerts issued for northern and central regions, including Paris. The extreme temperatures have already claimed at least two lives and led to over 300 emergency treatments. This crisis has sparked a heated political debate over the use of air conditioning, with Marine Le Pen's far-right Rassemblement National party advocating for a "grand plan for air conditioning," particularly in public spaces like schools, hospitals, and retirement homes. Le Pen and her allies argue that air conditioning is essential for public services and workers to function safely in the face of rising temperatures.

However, left-wing and centrist parties, including those aligned with President Macron, are more cautious. They acknowledge the need for air conditioning in vulnerable settings but emphasize the importance of addressing the root cause of global warming. They propose alternative measures such as increased vegetation, thermal insulation, and better building design to combat heat. Environment Minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher and Prime Minister François Bayrou have stressed that while air conditioning is necessary for high-risk groups, it should not be universally implemented due to its environmental impact. They advocate for better-insulated buildings and other cooling solutions to mitigate the effects of heatwaves.

The left-wing parties, including the Socialists and the hard-left La France Insoumise, also support targeted air conditioning for critical public spaces but insist on a broader approach to climate change. They call for greening cities, improving thermal insulation, and implementing other heat-mitigation strategies. The Green Party, while acknowledging the need for air conditioning in specific buildings, emphasizes the importance of addressing global warming through comprehensive environmental policies. The debate highlights the tension between immediate health concerns and long-term ecological sustainability in the face of climate change. 🌡️🏠🌳

An awakening call for Europe

In the face of a rapidly changing global landscape, Europe finds itself at a crossroads, with many nations seemingly content to watch from the sidelines. However, Mario Draghi, the former president of the European Central Bank, has emerged as a prominent voice advocating for a bold vision of Europe's future. Draghi argues that the European Union must prioritize its geopolitical ambitions to avoid becoming irrelevant on the world stage. To achieve this, Europeans must unite and forge ahead, even if it means parting ways with those reluctant to embrace this transformative journey. Draghi's call to action serves as a wake-up call for the continent, urging it to seize the initiative and shape its own destiny. 🌍🇪🇺

Inflation jumps to highest level in 18 months

Inflation in Greece has surged to its highest level in 18 months, reaching 3.6% according to Eurostat. This increase is largely attributed to the recent escalation in Iran-Israel hostilities, which has driven up liquid fuel and electricity prices due to a spike in natural gas costs in mid-June. The EU-harmonized consumer price index reflects this upward trend, mirroring the 3.7% inflation rate recorded in December 2023. Additionally, the usual seasonal increases in accommodation and food services, coupled with the ongoing rise in rents, have further contributed to the inflationary pressure. This development underscores the vulnerability of the Greek economy to external geopolitical factors and domestic cost drivers. 📈💸

Oulu man found to have been mentally unfit at time of suspected racist stabbing

In Oulu, Finland, a man suspected of a racist stabbing last year has been deemed not criminally responsible for his actions due to a psychiatric assessment. The suspect, born in 2001, admitted to stabbing an Upper Secondary school student of foreign background four times in the neck and upper body near Oulu's University Hospital on September 9. The victim survived thanks to prompt medical treatment. The court ordered a psychiatric evaluation in December, and the results, released this week, concluded that the man did not understand his actions or their consequences at the time of the attack.

The prosecutor had sought jail time for attempted manslaughter, but the psychiatric assessment means the man cannot be punished for the crime. He is currently held in a psychiatric unit. The court is set to deliver a verdict next week, which will address the motive and criminal offenses committed. Prosecutors and police argue that the attack was racially motivated, but the defense contends that the man acted out of rage due to a perceived staring incident, not because of the victim's background. The defense also notes that the suspect's critical views on immigration do not prove a racist motive.

This incident is part of a series of suspected racist attacks in Oulu. Previously, a known Nazi stabbed two children in a shopping center and was ordered to undergo involuntary psychiatric treatment. A week later, a 15-year-old stabbed a man of foreign background in the same shopping center and was also found not criminally responsible, receiving involuntary psychiatric treatment. 🇫🇮🔪

‘Dramatic’ refugee situation in 2016 necessitated deal with Turkey, Merkel says

In a recent discussion at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel defended her 2016 deal with Turkey, stating that the refugee crisis had reached a "dramatic" level in Greece and the European Union, necessitating urgent action. Merkel emphasized the need for realism in politics, acknowledging the challenges of negotiating with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. She highlighted the importance of the agreement, which involved returning illegal immigrants to Turkey in exchange for financial aid, to stabilize the situation in Greece.

Merkel also addressed the necessity of deporting unsuccessful asylum applicants and those involved in criminal or terrorist activities. However, she acknowledged the success stories of many immigrants who have integrated into European societies. The event, attended by Kathimerini subscribers, marked the publication of the Greek translation of Merkel's book "Freedom" and coincided with the tenth anniversary of the 2015 Greek bailout referendum. Merkel's visit underscored the ongoing significance of the refugee crisis and the complexities of European migration policies. 🇪🇺🇹🇷

Poland launches first signals intelligence spy ship

Poland has significantly bolstered its naval intelligence capabilities with the launch of its first signals intelligence (SIGINT) ship, named ORP Jerzy Różycki, in honor of a Polish mathematician and cryptologist who played a crucial role in breaking the German Enigma code during World War II. The vessel, constructed in Gdańsk in collaboration with Swedish defense firm Saab, will enhance Poland's ability to intercept and analyze electronic signals, thereby strengthening security in the Baltic Sea. The ship's launch was attended by Swedish deputy defense minister Peter Sandwall, underscoring the strategic partnership between Poland and Sweden, which aims to enhance defense cooperation and address shared security concerns in the region.

The Baltic Sea has become a critical area of strategic importance, particularly due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Poland has previously intervened to deter suspicious activities by Russian ships near undersea infrastructure, such as electricity cables. In response to these threats, NATO launched a new military mission to protect critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, an initiative proposed by Poland. The ORP Jerzy Różycki, along with its sister ship ORP Henryk Zygalski, expected to be completed by June 2027, will play a vital role in monitoring and securing the Baltic Sea, acting as the "ears and eyes" of the Polish Navy. This development is part of a broader effort to enhance European defense capabilities and ensure the safety of citizens in the face of evolving threats. 🇵🇱🛳️🌊

Justice chancellor: State agencies can access banking secrets without rules

The Office of the Chancellor of Justice in Estonia has uncovered significant concerns regarding government agencies' access to citizens' banking information. The investigation revealed that various state institutions have been using the Enforcement Register to access detailed banking data, including full transaction histories, without a proper legal basis, the account holders' knowledge, or consent. This practice has been ongoing for over a year, with tens of thousands of inquiries made to banks.

The Enforcement Register, which replaced the previous e-arest system, provides several agencies with broad access to banking information. The Chancellor of Justice, Ülle Madise, initiated the probe after receiving reports of unauthorized data access. The investigation involved requests for information from the Center of Registers and Information Systems (RIK) and the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs. Officials confirmed that the new register automatically granted access to all previously authorized agencies, raising serious privacy and legal concerns. The findings highlight the need for stricter regulations and oversight to protect citizens' financial data from unwarranted government intrusion. 💳🔒

42% of Spain's holiday lets not registered with government before deadline

As of July 1, 2025, Spain has implemented a mandatory registration system for landlords offering tourist or seasonal rentals. Properties not registered on the Single Rental Registry must be removed from platforms like Airbnb, Idealista, or Booking.com. However, out of the estimated 368,295 short-term or temporary lets identified by Spain’s National Statistics Institute, only 215,438 applications were received by the deadline. This leaves approximately 152,857 properties technically unable to be legally rented out for tourist or temporary purposes.

Of the applications received, 94,209 have been approved, 15,275 denied, and 102,732 are provisionally activated and pending approval. Currently, only 25.6% of the tourist and temporary accommodation market in Spain has authorization to operate legally, with 74.4% lacking the necessary approval. The registry aims to combat fraud and regulate the sector, ensuring that all accommodations comply with European regulations requiring an identification number.

The majority of active applications are concentrated in five regions: Andalusia, the Canary Islands, Catalonia, the Valencia region, and Madrid. Andalusia leads with 49,397 registrations, primarily in Málaga. The Canary Islands follow with significant registrations in Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Catalonia has 27,818 registrations, with high concentrations in Barcelona, Tarragona, and Girona. The Valencia region has 21,930 applications, spread across Valencia city, Alicante, and Castellón. Madrid has the fewest registrations, with only 1 in 10 short-term and temporary lets registered.

Industry associations have raised concerns about the impact of the new regulations. The Spanish Federation of Tourist Housing and Apartment Associations (Fevitur) predicts significant economic losses, estimating around €13 billion between July and December due to the reduced supply. The Federation of Associations of Owners of Vacation and Temporary Rentals (Favapa) criticizes the new system, arguing that it will disproportionately affect small landlords while benefiting investment funds. Landlords have 15 business days to assign a registry code to their properties or remove advertisements, ensuring compliance with the new regulations. 🏠📜

Why house prices in Germany are rising

Residential property prices in Germany have rebounded, rising by 3.8% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This marks the second consecutive quarterly increase, signaling an end to the downturn that began in late 2022. The National Association of German Cooperative Banks (BVR) predicts further growth, with prices expected to increase by 3.2% in 2025 and 3.1% in 2026. This upward trend is driven by persistent housing shortages, robust demand—particularly in major cities—and the stabilization of mortgage rates.

In Germany’s seven largest cities, apartment prices have climbed by 3.8% year-on-year and 2.4% compared to the previous quarter. Large independent cities outside these metropolitan hubs saw even stronger growth, with apartment prices up 6.1% year-on-year. Densely populated rural districts also experienced increases, while sparsely populated rural areas reported slight declines. The chronic housing shortage, fueled by slowed new housing construction and high demand, is a significant driver of these price increases. Government initiatives, such as the "construction turbo" program, aim to accelerate planning and approval procedures, but the BVR warns that only 64% of housing demand will be met in 2025, with the figure expected to fall to 58% in 2026. Rising rents and falling interest rates, which make mortgages more affordable, are also contributing to the demand for homeownership.

The recent history of Germany’s property market illustrates the impact of interest rates on real estate prices. Following the financial crisis in 2008, ultra-low interest rates fueled a property boom, which ended when the European Central Bank (ECB) raised rates in 2022–2023 to combat inflation. As the ECB reversed course and began cutting rates in mid-2024, mortgage rates dropped, and buyers and investors returned to the market. Looking ahead, while rent controls and government incentives may moderate growth in some areas, the underlying supply-demand imbalance remains unresolved. For those who can afford to enter the property market, the value of their homes is likely to continue rising, but for many, the dream of homeownership remains out of reach. 🏠📈