Newsflash

US transforms Souda base into fortress

The Souda Bay naval base in Greece has undergone a significant transformation, becoming a heavily fortified military stronghold. The U.S. has deployed advanced military hardware to protect critical assets stationed at this strategic Mediterranean facility. The base now hosts American M-LIDS counter-unmanned aircraft systems, short-range air defense platforms, and Patriot missiles. These upgrades are designed to safeguard sensitive military assets, including Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, submarines, and transport aircraft.

The defense enhancements were deemed necessary due to the strategic importance of the assets stationed at Souda Bay, despite the relatively low probability of regional attacks. The M-LIDS system, featuring electronic warfare capabilities and a 30-millimeter cannon, and the AN/TWQ-1 Avenger short-range air defense systems, which can intercept various aerial threats, were transported from the U.S. and Europe. These systems can be rapidly deployed globally within 48-72 hours, underscoring their strategic flexibility. The recent crisis highlighted Souda Bay’s critical role, with high-ranking military officials visiting the base and the USS Thomas Hudner, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, docked at the port to support Israeli defense operations against Iranian strikes. 🛳️💥

Trump agrees to strengthen Ukraine's air defence, Zelensky says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that U.S. President Donald Trump has agreed to enhance Ukraine's air defenses. This decision comes amidst heightened Russian attacks on Ukraine, with Kyiv recently experiencing its most significant aerial assault since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022. The reinforcement of Ukraine's air defenses is crucial as Russia continues to escalate its military operations, posing a grave threat to the country's security and sovereignty. 🛡️🇺🇦

'Dire': Kyiv badly hit by relentless Russian attacks after abrupt US halt to Patriot defence support

In the early hours of the morning, Kyiv endured one of the most intense aerial assaults since the start of Russia's invasion over three years ago. Waves of drones and missiles struck the city, resulting in the death of one person and injuring at least 26 others, including a child. This escalation comes amidst Russia's renewed efforts to seize more Ukrainian territory. Following the barrage, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported having a "very important and productive" conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, just hours after the U.S. abruptly halted its Patriot defence support to Ukraine. The sudden withdrawal of this crucial air defence system has left Kyiv vulnerable to relentless Russian attacks, raising concerns about the future of Ukraine's defence capabilities and the broader implications for regional security. 🌃💥

Official data show scale of German migrant returns to Poland

Germany has been returning hundreds of migrants to Poland each month, a practice that has become a contentious political issue in Poland. While the number of returns has decreased compared to previous years, there has been a recent uptick due to new German regulations allowing asylum seekers to be turned away at the border. In response, Poland will reintroduce border controls with Germany and Lithuania to curb the "uncontrolled flow of migrants."

The returns from Germany to Poland occur through three main channels: the EU’s Dublin Regulation, a bilateral "readmission" agreement, and Germany's border controls. The first two methods have seen fewer returns under the current Polish government compared to the previous administration. However, the third method, implemented by Germany in October 2023, has resulted in a significant number of returns, with Ukrainians and Afghans being the most affected groups.

Poland's decision to reinstate border controls is driven by the recent increase in returns and the inclusion of asylum seekers among those being sent back. Prime Minister Donald Tusk cited the changing operational practices at the Polish-German border as the reason for this move. Additionally, Poland aims to address the growing route for irregular migrants entering through Lithuania, with many attempting to reach Germany via Poland. This situation has been exacerbated by the Belarusian authorities encouraging migrants to cross into the EU through Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. 🇵🇱🇩🇪🚨

Addicted to subsidies

Greece stands at a critical juncture, grappling with a deep-seated issue that has hindered its progress for decades: an over-reliance on subsidies. The country has long benefited from billions in EU subsidies and aid, particularly through the Mediterranean programs, which have perpetuated a state-supported, clientelistic model. This approach has fostered a dangerous dependency on subsidies, with little impact on Greece's production model or economic growth. The recent scandal involving fake farming activities is just one example of the systemic issues plaguing the nation.

This subsidy culture is deeply entrenched and serves the interests of many, making it challenging to reform. However, failing to address this addiction will leave Greece lagging behind the rest of Europe and far from realizing its true potential. The path forward requires a fundamental shift away from dependency and towards a more sustainable, self-reliant economic model. This transformation will not be easy, but it is essential for Greece to break free from its subsidy addiction and achieve lasting prosperity. 🇬🇷💸

Omerta leads to vendettas

In Greece, the recent revelations of a massive EU farm subsidy scandal have exposed deep-seated issues of corruption and clientelism within the state apparatus. The wiretapped conversations between state officials and suspects highlight a long-standing network of bribes and pressure tactics used to distribute subsidies to favored individuals while evading inspections. This system, though often hidden, is not surprising to those familiar with Greece's political landscape. The scandal has particularly impacted Crete, where farmers have long benefited from substantial subsidies, leading to sudden wealth and conspicuous consumption.

As the investigation unfolds, tensions are rising on the island, with reports of "civil wars" and vendettas brewing as the omerta—an unspoken code of silence—begins to crumble. The scandal has also sparked online vitriol, with some Greeks expressing harsh sentiments towards Cretans. The situation raises critical questions about the role of politicians in fostering this culture of corruption and the long-term social and criminal impacts of such practices.

The government's promises to recover the stolen subsidies may prove to be mere public relations efforts, as the root causes of the problem remain unaddressed. The scandal serves as a stark reminder of the deep-seated issues plaguing Greece's political and social fabric, and the need for genuine reform to prevent future occurrences. The coming months and years will likely see further fallout from this scandal, with the true extent of the damage yet to be fully revealed. 🇬🇷💸💥

‘This attack was not only against Christians, but against all Syrians’

In the wake of a devastating bombing at the Greek Orthodox Church of Prophet Elias in Damascus, Hind Kabawat, Syria's sole Christian minister, addressed the nation's grief and the path forward for a fractured Syria. The attack, which targeted Christians but was seen as an assault on all Syrians, underscored the deep-seated divisions and ongoing challenges facing the country. Kabawat emphasized that the Christian community is integral to Syria's social and cultural fabric, and that the attack aimed to destabilize the nation and deepen its divisions.

The Syrian government, of which Kabawat is a part, has vowed to protect all citizens, regardless of faith, and to work towards reconciliation and unity. The attack has sparked widespread solidarity among Syrians of all religious and ethnic backgrounds, highlighting the shared suffering and the collective will to rebuild. Kabawat also addressed criticisms from religious leaders, acknowledging the pain and shock felt by the community but stressing the importance of unity and collective effort in shaping Syria's future.

The current transitional government is focused on drafting a new constitution that guarantees equal citizenship and rights for all Syrians. This process must be inclusive, involving all segments of society, both within Syria and among the diaspora. The ultimate goal is to create a constitution that reflects the collective will of the people and ensures justice, inclusion, and equality for all. 🇸🇾🙏

An unlivable city

Athens is grappling with a series of disruptive events that have brought the city to a standstill, exacerbating the challenges of daily life for its residents. Recent protests, concerts, and rallies have led to significant traffic congestion, closed streets, and disrupted public transportation, all occurring during a heatwave. These events have turned crucial parts of the city into venues for political expression and entertainment, often at the expense of ordinary citizens who rely on the city's functionality for their daily routines.

The city's residents, who are not participants in these events, find themselves inconvenienced by the closures and disruptions. While consumers of these events may view the inconveniences as a necessary part of the experience, residents and workers in the city center have simpler demands: they want a functional city that does not impede their daily lives. The argument that such disruptions are a normal part of city life is refuted by the practices of modern metropolises, which prioritize functionality and the basic needs of residents. When one road is closed, an alternative should be opened; when public transportation is disrupted, alternatives should be provided.

The city's current state of anarchy, where both the state and private individuals act in shortsighted and opportunistic ways, is unsustainable. The solution is not a lifeless city but one that operates by clear rules and respects the rights of its residents to peace and functionality. Those who dismiss the importance of peace of mind in a city likely have not experienced its value. The city's challenges, including the decline of Athens, gentrification, and the housing crisis, cannot be addressed if the actions that make life unbearable for residents are not acknowledged and mitigated. A functional city that respects the needs of all its inhabitants is the antidote to the current chaos. 🏙️🚗🚇

Inside Denmark: Danish embassy staff asked to hand over private messages

The U.S. State Department has issued an unusual and sweeping demand for documents and private communications from staff at the U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen and the consulate in Nuuk, Greenland. The request, made in response to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) inquiry, seeks all material related to President Donald Trump’s interest in purchasing Greenland, including private WhatsApp messages, social media posts, and emails written in Danish, Greenlandic, and English. This order affects approximately 30 employees and has raised eyebrows due to its extensive scope and the short deadline for compliance.

The FOIA request covers a three-month period leading up to a visit by Donald Trump Jr. to Nuuk and includes communications mentioning Trump or his interest in Greenland. Experts have noted the unusual nature of the request, suggesting it may be part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to identify perceived disloyalty among officials. The demand comes amid low morale at the embassy and consulate, with staff reportedly concerned about potential retribution from the Trump administration.

Legal experts have questioned the legitimacy of the request, particularly regarding the demand for private communications. Asha Rangappa, a former FBI agent, suggested that the FOIA may not permit the collection of purely private communications. Frank Jensen, a former Danish intelligence official, speculated that the request could be an attempt by Trump or his allies to identify individuals deemed disloyal following Trump Jr.'s visit to Greenland. The deadline for handing over the information was June 20th, after which it will be processed and redacted before being forwarded to the applicant. 📜🇺🇸🇩🇰🇬🇱

Union dues are tax-deductible – but probably not for long

The Finnish government, led by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, has proposed a controversial bill to abolish the tax deductibility of union membership dues and unemployment fund fees. This move has been met with strong opposition from labor leaders and politicians, who argue that it aims to weaken the labor movement by discouraging union membership. The bill is likely to pass due to the government's majority in Parliament, although some members of the Finns Party have expressed reservations, suggesting it primarily benefits big business and high earners.

A recent survey indicates that the proposal lacks public support, with only 20% of working people in favor and two-thirds opposed. The strongest support comes from entrepreneurs, while employees, particularly younger workers, are more likely to oppose it. The survey also reveals a concerning trend of declining union and unemployment fund membership, especially among young adults. This decline is viewed as worrisome, as it undermines the security and benefits provided by these organizations in a changing labor market. The Federation of Finnish Enterprises has highlighted the importance of maintaining membership in unemployment funds for earnings-related security during unemployment. The survey, conducted by Verian Finland, polled over 1,100 working people, with a margin of error of three percentage points. 📉💼

How can Finland's forests soak up more emissions? The forestry ministry has a plan

Finland's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has introduced a comprehensive plan to enhance forest growth and carbon absorption, aligning with the country's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035. Led by Minister Sari Essayah, the initiative includes legislative amendments, financial incentives, and educational efforts to support forest owners and the broader forestry sector. The measures aim to increase carbon sequestration through forest fertilization and expansion, restore drained peatlands, and promote sustainable forest management practices. The government has allocated additional funds to support these efforts, with a focus on increasing woodland areas and preparing for climate-related forest damage. Despite internal political disagreements, particularly from the Finns Party, the government remains committed to backing the EU's emissions targets and implementing these climate measures. The ministry will provide more details on the project in August, emphasizing the importance of proactive climate risk management and sustainable forestry practices. 🌳🍃

Inside France: Air conditioning wars, football focus and balloons

France is grappling with a contentious debate over air conditioning as the country experiences increasingly hot summers and prolonged heatwaves. Marine Le Pen's far-right Rassemblement National (RN) party has proposed widespread air conditioning as a solution, capitalizing on the immediate appeal of this approach. However, left and center parties argue that while air conditioning may provide temporary relief, it exacerbates climate change and is not a sustainable solution. They advocate for addressing the root causes of global warming and exploring alternative cooling methods.

The RN's simplistic "more air conditioning" stance has proven more appealing to the public, especially during extreme heat, but it overlooks the environmental consequences. Air conditioning units contribute to higher overall temperatures and increased energy consumption, further fueling climate change. The French government's environment agency, Ademe, reports that sustained use of air conditioning can raise a city's temperature by up to 2.4°C over just 10 days.

As France braces for another hot summer, the debate highlights the challenges of countering far-right rhetoric with nuanced, long-term solutions. The country is also gearing up for the Women's Euro 2025 football tournament, with France facing England in a highly anticipated match. Additionally, Paris offers a serene evening spectacle with the ascent of La Vasque, a hot air balloon that gently floats above the Tuileries at sunset, providing a calming end to summer days. 🌞🎈

Inside Spain: Kicking Franco's head and a ban on splitting the bill

In a provocative and symbolic display, an experimental art festival in Spain featured a football match using an unusual ball: a hyper-realistic reproduction of former dictator Francisco Franco's head. The event, titled "La Copa del Generalísimo," took place in Moia, near Barcelona, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Franco's death. The match was staged as an "anti-fascist fixture," with the pitch chosen for its proximity to former trenches from the Spanish Civil War. The artist behind the controversial ball, Eugenio Merino, has a history of challenging Franco's legacy through his provocative artworks, including "Always Franco" and "Punching Franco." The game, limited to a small audience, was recorded for later broadcast, and the replica head is now on display in a local museum. This performance is part of a broader trend of political commentary by Merino and the Indecline group, who have previously used similar tactics to address political figures like Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro.

In other news, Spanish cafes, bars, and restaurants are increasingly refusing to split bills for customers. This trend, driven by the time-consuming nature of dividing payments and ensuring accuracy, is spreading across cities like Málaga, Barcelona, and Zaragoza. Spanish consumer watchdogs and legal experts confirm that establishments have the right to refuse split payments or charge an extra fee for the service, as long as they inform customers in advance. This practice, while not yet widespread, highlights the complexities of dining out in Spain, where splitting the bill can become a significant logistical challenge, especially when factoring in individual orders and potential tips.

Inside Austria: Heatwave impact on power supply and cheapest pools to cool off

Austria is experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures reaching 37°C in Vienna, raising concerns about the stability of the country's electricity grid. While experts assure that widespread blackouts are unlikely, heat does impact energy production and transmission. Photovoltaic systems become less efficient in extreme heat, and hydropower output may drop due to reduced water availability. Austria's integration into the European power market provides some resilience, but prolonged heat could lead to increased energy prices. Investing in storage technologies is crucial to ensure reliable power during peak demand periods. 🌡️🏊

For those seeking relief from the heat, Austria offers affordable outdoor pools across the country. In Salzburg, Strandbad Seekirchen provides free entry, while Styria's 3 Tannen Bad Vorau and Burgenland's Eisenstadt outdoor pool charge minimal fees. Other provinces also have budget-friendly options, ensuring that cooling off doesn't break the bank. 🏊‍♀️🏊‍♂️

Additionally, recent developments in Austria include research identifying Vienna, Lower Austria, and Burgenland as the hottest regions, a controversial deportation to Syria, and Braunau's decision to rename streets linked to Nazi figures. Vienna's weekend events range from games festivals to farmers' markets and open-air cinema, offering diverse entertainment options. 🎮🍎🎬

Several hurt after false fire alarm on Ryanair plane in Spain's Mallorca

A Ryanair flight bound for Manchester was disrupted on Friday evening due to a false fire alarm. Passengers were safely evacuated using inflatable slides and returned to the terminal. While the majority of passengers were unharmed, a few sustained minor injuries, such as ankle sprains, during the evacuation. Medical assistance was promptly provided, and six individuals were hospitalized for further treatment.

The airline swiftly arranged a replacement aircraft to minimize disruption, and the flight departed from Palma de Mallorca at 07:05 the following morning. Local media reported 18 minor injuries in total. The incident did not impact overall airport operations, and the Spanish airport managing company, Aena, confirmed that there was no actual fire. Ryanair is a popular choice among British tourists traveling to coastal destinations in Spain and southern Europe, including Mallorca. 🛬️🇪🇸

Paris's River Seine reopens to swimmers after century-long ban

After a century-long ban, the River Seine in Paris has reopened to swimmers, marking a significant milestone in the city's environmental and urban development efforts. On a Saturday morning, dozens of eager swimmers, ranging from children to adults, donned swim caps and goggles, ready to dive into the historic waterway. The reopening of the Seine for swimming is a key legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympics, during which the river was specially cleaned for open-water swimming and triathlon events. The city has established three designated swimming zones, each equipped with changing rooms, showers, and beach-style amenities, allowing up to 300 people to enjoy the water at a time.

Paris officials have implemented stringent safety measures, including daily water quality testing, lifeguard supervision, and a swim test for bathers. Despite the Seine's improved water quality, officials caution about potential dangers such as strong currents and boat traffic. To mitigate risks, lifeguards will assess visitors' swimming abilities, and fines will be issued for swimming outside designated areas. The reopening of the Seine for swimming is part of a broader effort to adapt the city to climate change and enhance the quality of life for its residents, providing a refreshing escape from the urban hustle and the increasingly frequent heatwaves. The swimming spots will be open to the public for free until August 31, offering Parisians and visitors alike a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's iconic river. 🏊‍♂️🌊

La Bella Vita: Italy’s best free beaches and how to drink coffee like an Italian

Italy, a beloved summer destination, boasts pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters that attract millions annually. However, the increasing privatization of its 8,000-kilometer coastline and rising beach club rates can make a day at the beach costly. Fortunately, many of Italy's most beautiful beaches remain free to access, offering basic amenities and an authentic seaside experience for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a more genuine encounter.

For those who prefer to avoid the summer heat, Italy's diverse landscape provides plenty of cool-weather havens. From mountain meadows at high altitudes to historic hilltop villages, there are numerous stunning destinations to escape the scorching temperatures. Whether you're looking to cool off in a serene alpine setting or explore the rich history and culinary traditions of a charming village, Italy has something to offer everyone seeking respite from the summer heat.

Italy's coffee culture is renowned worldwide, but navigating its centuries-old traditions can be challenging for visitors. To blend in with the locals, it's essential to understand the rules and norms surrounding coffee consumption. From the best times to enjoy a caffè to the ideal settings for savoring different types of coffee, mastering the art of Italian coffee drinking is a must for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local way of life. 🏝️☕

Grim Saturday in eastern Finland: Three traffic deaths, two suspected drownings

In Lappeenranta, eastern Finland, a tragic weekend saw at least three fatalities in separate incidents. Early Saturday afternoon, two individuals lost their lives when their car overturned on the Vaalimaa road near the eastern border. Around 2 AM, a 17-year-old boy died after his motorcycle collided with a light pole on Lentokentäntie. Further north in Nurmes, two middle-aged men are presumed dead after a boating accident on Lake Haapajärvi. Five adults, all under the influence of alcohol and without life vests, were in an overloaded rowboat in windy conditions. Three managed to reach the shore, but one drowned, and another is missing.

The Finnish Swimming Teaching and Lifesaving Federation (FSL) notes that this incident fits a typical pattern of drownings involving unstable vessels, elderly individuals, lack of life jackets, and alcohol consumption. Despite the recent tragedies, June has seen fewer drownings than usual, with only eight reported, the lowest in over two decades. Experts attribute this to cooler waters and rainier weather, which have likely reduced water-related activities. However, the first four months of the year saw a significant increase in drownings compared to the same period in 2024, highlighting ongoing concerns for water safety. 🌊😢

IN PICTURES: Seine reopens to first Paris swimmers after century-long ban

The iconic River Seine in Paris reopened to swimmers on a Saturday morning, marking the first time since 1923 that locals and tourists could enjoy a refreshing dip in its waters. The reopening, a significant legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympics, was met with enthusiasm as a few dozen eager swimmers arrived before dawn to dive into the specially cleaned waters. The designated swimming zones are equipped with changing rooms, showers, and beach-style amenities, accommodating up to 300 people seeking respite from the city's heat and bustle.

Paris officials have implemented stringent safety measures, including daily water pollution testing and mandatory swim assessments for bathers. Despite these precautions, the Seine remains a potentially hazardous environment due to strong currents, boat traffic, and an average depth of 3.5 meters. Lifeguards will monitor visitors' swimming abilities, and fines will be issued for those swimming outside designated areas. The reopening of the Seine for swimming was first proposed in 1988 by then-mayor Jacques Chirac and has been eagerly anticipated ever since. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo expressed her delight at seeing the long-held dream of swimming in the Seine finally realized, as swimmers and onlookers alike celebrated the historic moment. 🏊‍♂️🏙️