Newsflash

Polish far-right leader declares Auschwitz gas chambers to be “fake”

Polish prosecutors have initiated an investigation into far-right leader Grzegorz Braun after he made inflammatory remarks denying the existence of gas chambers at Auschwitz and claiming that Jews commit ritual murders of Christians. Braun, who finished fourth in the recent presidential elections with 6.3% of the vote, made these statements during an interview with radio station WNET. His comments, which echo longstanding antisemitic tropes, prompted immediate backlash and legal action.

The interview was abruptly ended by the host, who cited the limits of political cynicism and sensationalism when discussing the memory of millions of victims. Anna-Maria Żukowska, head of the parliamentary caucus of The Left, filed a complaint with prosecutors, accusing Braun of violating Polish law, which criminalizes the denial of Nazi and communist crimes. The district prosecutor’s office in Warsaw confirmed the initiation of an investigation into Braun’s remarks.

Piotr Cywiński, director of the Auschwitz Museum, condemned Braun’s statements as a "conscious lie" and an act of ideological, antisemitic hatred. He emphasized that the museum would also file a notification with prosecutors and urged Polish media to stop providing a platform for Braun, who has a history of hate speech and racism. Braun faces multiple legal challenges, including seven sets of charges related to various incidents, such as vandalizing an LGBT+ exhibition and making antisemitic remarks during a televised debate. The Auschwitz Museum, a Polish state institution, plays a crucial role in preserving the memory of the Holocaust and honoring the victims of the camp, including Jews, ethnic Poles, Soviet prisoners of war, and Roma. 🇵🇱🏛️

As Marseille reels from early summer wildfire, France rolls back environmental protections

As Marseille grapples with the aftermath of an early summer wildfire, the French government has been quietly dismantling key environmental protections. The blaze, fueled by intense summer winds, rapidly approached the historic Mediterranean port city, injuring 110 people and disrupting transportation, with all flights and trains halted. Despite the fire being largely contained, it remains active, highlighting the urgent need for robust environmental policies. However, France has been rolling back several significant environmental measures in 2025, both domestically and within the European Union. This retreat from environmental commitments comes at a critical time, as the country faces increasingly severe weather events exacerbated by climate change. The wildfire serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of weakened environmental protections. 🔥🌳

European leaders unveil new fund, urge public-private partnerships to aid Ukraine

In Rome, European leaders launched the 2025 Ukraine Recovery Conference, unveiling a new equity fund and public-private partnerships to support Ukraine amid ongoing Russian military aggression. The European Union announced a €2.3 billion package, aiming to unlock up to €10 billion in investments to rebuild Ukraine's infrastructure, including homes, hospitals, businesses, and energy systems. This package includes €1.8 billion in loan guarantees and €580 million in grants. Additionally, a new "European flagship fund for the reconstruction of Ukraine" with an initial capital of €220 million was introduced, targeting investments in energy, transport, critical raw materials, and dual-use industries.

European leaders, including EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, urged private businesses to invest in Ukraine's reconstruction, emphasizing the nation's resilience and the strategic importance of supporting its defense industry. Zelensky highlighted Ukraine's advanced drone technologies and the need for international investment in its domestic defense sector, stressing that rebuilding Ukraine is crucial for European security.

The conference, attended by over 100 official delegations, 40 international organizations, and around 2,000 businesses, served as a platform for public-private partnerships. The World Bank Group, European Commission, and the United Nations estimate that Ukraine's recovery will cost €506 billion over the next decade. Meanwhile, discussions between French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer focused on a peacekeeping force plan to support Ukraine post-conflict, emphasizing the need for coordinated pressure on Russia. The conference underscored the urgent need for international support and investment to aid Ukraine's recovery and long-term security. 🇺🇦🏛️

Deterrance made in Europe? France, UK offer nuclear shield to Ukraine allies

In the face of growing threats from Russia and uncertainty surrounding U.S. support, France and the UK have stepped forward to offer a nuclear deterrence shield to Ukraine and its allies. This joint initiative, announced from Northwood military base in England, aims to bolster European security amidst the shifting geopolitical landscape. The move comes as Ukraine continues to endure deadly bombardments and faces inconsistent support from the United States, particularly in the form of air defense supplies.

The announcement was made during a summit in Rome, dubbed the "coalition of the willing," where European leaders gathered to discuss strategies for supporting Ukraine. The initiative underscores the urgency of European self-reliance in defense matters, given the potential volatility of U.S. foreign policy under the current administration. The summit also addressed the recent internal turmoil within the Russian government, including the mysterious deaths and purges of high-ranking officials, which may signal further instability and aggression from the Kremlin.

As Europe navigates these challenges, the alliance between France and the UK represents a significant step towards enhancing collective security and deterrence capabilities. This partnership aims to provide a robust defense against potential nuclear threats, ensuring that European nations can better protect their interests and maintain regional stability. The leaders in Rome and Northwood are prepared to face the evolving geopolitical landscape, determined to safeguard Europe's future in an uncertain world. 🇫🇷🇬🇧🇺🇦⚔️

At least two killed as Russia launches 'massive' overnight attack on Kyiv

In the early hours of Thursday, Kyiv endured a prolonged and intense Russian drone and missile assault that lasted nearly 10 hours, resulting in the deaths of at least two people and injuring around a dozen more. The city's residents sought refuge in metro stations as explosions rocked the capital, striking residential buildings, garages, and a gas station. This attack marked the second consecutive night of heavy bombardment, coinciding with a planned meeting between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his U.S. counterpart, Marco Rubio.

The relentless barrage underscores the escalating intensity of Russia's military campaign, which has increasingly targeted civilian areas and infrastructure. Kyiv's mayor, Vitaly Klitschko, reported fires in several districts due to falling debris, while the city's military administration had earlier warned of potential ballistic weapon strikes. The assault comes on the heels of Moscow's largest missile and drone attack in over three years of conflict, which claimed the life of at least one civilian the previous day.

As the war grinds on, diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire have stalled, despite two rounds of direct talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations this year. The upcoming meeting between Lavrov and Rubio, set against the backdrop of heightened tensions and U.S. President Donald Trump's recent criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin, may offer a glimmer of hope for renewed dialogue. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to join a call with leaders from a coalition of over 30 countries, focused on bolstering support for Ukraine and intensifying pressure on Russia. The coalition, led by Britain and France, is exploring the possibility of deploying peacekeeping forces to facilitate a potential ceasefire. 💥🏙️

How one German state is blocking AfD members from civil service roles

In Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, a significant policy change has been implemented to bar members of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party from public service positions. The state's interior minister, Michael Ebling, announced that applicants for government jobs must now declare they are not affiliated with extremist organizations, effectively excluding AfD members due to the party's surveillance by the Office for the Protection of the Constitution. This rule change also applies to existing public sector employees, who could face disciplinary actions, including dismissal, for belonging to extremist groups.

Interior Minister Ebling emphasized that loyalty to the constitution is a fundamental duty for all civil servants. The AfD has criticized the move, with deputy state chairman Sebastian Münzenmaier calling it a "declaration of political bankruptcy." The party has been labeled as a right-wing extremist group by Germany's domestic intelligence agency, although it has challenged this designation in court. The new policy underscores the state's commitment to maintaining constitutional loyalty within its public service. 🏛️🚫🇩🇪

Israel condemns new plaques “distorting history” at site of Jedwabne pogrom in Poland

In Poland, a contentious dispute has arisen over the historical narrative of the Jedwabne pogrom, a World War II massacre where hundreds of Jews were burned alive. Recently, new plaques were installed near the official memorial, asserting that Poles were not responsible for the atrocity and instead blaming German forces. These plaques, part of a crowdfunded alternative memorial, have sparked international outrage, with Israel’s official Holocaust memorial, Yad Vashem, condemning them as an attempt to "falsify history" and absolve Poles of blame. The official findings by Poland’s Institute of National Remembrance confirm that ethnic Poles living in the area were the direct perpetrators, although broader responsibility lies with the German occupiers. Despite this, many on the Polish political right dispute these findings, arguing that the Germans were solely responsible. The new plaques, installed by author Wojciech Sumliński, have been described as a "disgrace" and a manifestation of antisemitism by Poland’s chief rabbi, Michael Schudrich. Yad Vashem has called on Polish authorities to remove the offensive installation and preserve the historical integrity of the site. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions surrounding historical memory and the responsibility for wartime atrocities. 🕯️🇮🇱🇵🇱

Turkey detains hundreds of Erdogan opponents in pursuit of ‘octopus’ of corruption

In Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's administration has launched an extensive crackdown on political opponents, detaining over 500 individuals in just nine months. This investigation, dubbed the "octopus" probe, targets municipalities run by the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), accusing them of corruption. The CHP denies these allegations, asserting that the crackdown is a political maneuver to eliminate democratic opposition.

The probe, initiated in Istanbul, has expanded nationwide, leading to the detention of 14 elected CHP mayors, including Istanbul’s Ekrem Imamoglu, Erdogan’s primary political rival. More than 220 individuals have been imprisoned or placed under house arrest, with many facing charges related to corruption and terrorism. The crackdown has intensified Erdogan's grip on power, coinciding with Turkey's growing influence in the Middle East and Europe. Despite concerns from diplomats and analysts about democratic threats, Western allies have offered muted criticism.

Erdogan and his ministers maintain that the investigations are independent legal processes, rejecting accusations of judicial interference. The CHP, however, argues that the probe is politically motivated, aiming to undermine their electoral prospects. The crackdown has sparked protests and economic turmoil, with the Turkish lira experiencing significant volatility. As the investigation continues to spread, it raises questions about political interference and the future of democratic opposition in Turkey. 🇹🇷💥

France, UK agree on ‘groundbreaking’ migrant returns pilot plan

France and the UK have reached a significant agreement on a pilot plan to address the influx of migrants crossing the English Channel on small boats. This "groundbreaking" initiative, announced during French President Emmanuel Macron's state visit to Britain, aims to deter dangerous crossings by returning some migrants to France while accepting an equal number of asylum seekers with legitimate claims. The "one in, one out" scheme is designed to discourage illegal crossings, which have surged by 56% this year compared to the same period last year, with over 21,000 migrants arriving in the UK via small boats.

The agreement comes amid political pressure on both leaders to tackle the issue of illegal immigration. Macron criticized Brexit for failing to curb illegal immigration, while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for a united effort and new tactics to manage the border crisis. The pilot program will initially involve a limited number of migrants but is seen as a crucial step in addressing the broader challenge. The deal also includes measures to combat illegal working in the UK, which France identifies as a significant "pull factor" for migrants. Despite the political risks for Macron, the agreement underscores the importance of cross-Channel cooperation in managing migration and security threats. 🇫🇷🇬🇧🛳️

Will far-right Vox play a role in Spain's next government?

Spain's far-right Vox party has recently sparked controversy with proposals to deport up to 8 million foreigners living in Spain, including second-generation migrants born in the country. While Vox leader Santiago Abascal has backed the idea of deportations, he has not committed to a specific number. This extremist rhetoric has gained traction amid a political climate where the ruling Socialist Party, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, faces corruption scandals and calls for resignation. The prospect of Vox entering government, either through coalition or informal agreements, has intensified as polling suggests a right-wing bloc, including Vox and the center-right Partido Popular (PP), could secure a majority. The PP, while distancing itself from Vox's mass deportation policy, has not ruled out making arrangements with the far-right party, should it be necessary to form a government. The political landscape is tense, with the left fearing the rise of the far-right and the right seeking to reassure centrist voters. The upcoming elections could significantly alter Spain's political dynamics, with Vox poised to play a pivotal role, whether formally or informally. 🇪🇸🏛️

Polish president discusses “hanging traitors”, suggests “cleansing” of judiciary necessary

In a recent interview, Polish President Andrzej Duda suggested that a "cleansing" of the judiciary might be necessary if judges continue to defy his administration's reforms. Duda, who has long advocated for significant changes to Poland's judicial system, argued that the current judicial establishment is dominated by "post-communists" and "leftist liberals" who have obstructed meaningful reforms since the fall of communism. He cited a conversation with a man who advocated for hanging traitors as a deterrent, noting that "there is truth in those words."

Duda's comments have sparked controversy, with critics pointing out that Poland has been bound by the Council of Europe's protocol abolishing the death penalty since 2000. Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski reminded Duda of this fact, emphasizing the country's international obligations. The president's remarks come amid ongoing tensions between the national-conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party, which Duda supports, and the current government led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Since losing power in 2023, PiS has sought to block judicial reforms aimed at depoliticizing the courts and restoring their legitimacy.

The PiS party and Duda have long maintained that Poland's post-communist transition was incomplete, with former communists retaining influence in key sectors. However, critics have noted that PiS has also appointed former communists to prominent positions, such as Stanisław Piotrowicz, a former communist prosecutor who became a constitutional court judge. Public opinion polls indicate that most Poles believe the judicial reforms introduced by PiS were intended to exert political control rather than improve the judiciary's functioning. As Duda's second term nears its end, the incoming PiS-backed President-elect Karol Nawrocki is expected to continue opposing the government's judicial reforms, prolonging Poland's rule-of-law crisis. 🇵🇱🏛️

What's the difference between German citizenship and residency?

Visiting Germany as a non-resident offers various experiences, from short vacations to extended stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period for citizens of visa-free countries like the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. For longer stays, a residence permit is required. Non-EU nationals without visa-free privileges must obtain a visa for any visit. EU citizens enjoy freedom of movement but must register their address within two weeks of moving to Germany. Non-EU residents face stricter requirements, including securing a residence permit based on their personal circumstances and the type of permit needed.

Healthcare access varies: EU visitors with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) receive the same benefits as German residents, while non-EU visitors must pay for services. Residency in Germany grants legal status to live and work, with EU nationals having an easier process due to freedom of movement. Non-EU nationals must navigate more complex requirements, including securing a residence permit and providing extensive documentation. Permanent residency is available after five years of legal residency, offering greater security but requiring financial self-sufficiency, pension contributions, and German language skills. Citizenship confers full voting rights and EU mobility, but the process is rigorous, involving ancestry, residency, or marriage criteria, and requires demonstrating language proficiency, financial security, and passing a citizenship test. 🏠🏥🇩🇪

Greece to formally recognize Bektashi Alevi Muslims in Thrace as religious entity

The Greek government has proposed legislation to formally recognize the Bektashi Alevi Muslim community in Thrace as a private religious legal entity. Introduced by Education and Religious Affairs Minister Sofia Zacharaki, the draft bill is open for public consultation until July 22. This move grants the community legal status without the need for court approval and establishes a nonprofit body to manage religious endowments and properties. The recognition also exempts the group from the jurisdiction of state-appointed muftis in Thrace, a significant concession for Greece’s Muslim minority, who are protected under the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne.

The initiative aims to enhance religious freedom and fulfills a request made three years ago by the community, following extensive consultations. The bill includes provisions for places of worship and religious education, catering to the needs of the Bektashi Alevi community, which resides in northeastern Greece near the Turkish border. This legislative effort is seen as a strategic step towards greater religious autonomy and cultural preservation for the minority group. 🇬🇷🕋

Lawmakers to vote on North Africa asylum ban as rights groups cry foul

Greek lawmakers are poised to vote on controversial legislation that would temporarily suspend the processing of asylum applications for individuals arriving from North Africa. This move comes amid a significant increase in migrant arrivals to the island of Crete and the abrupt cancellation of talks with Libya's eastern government to address the migrant influx. Since 2019, Greece has adopted a stringent stance on migration, constructing barriers at its northern borders and enhancing sea patrols.

The proposed law, if passed, would prevent migrants crossing from North Africa by sea from applying for asylum for three months and expedite their deportation without proper identification. This measure has sparked outrage from human rights groups, who argue that it violates international and European laws and is inhumane. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has condemned the ban, emphasizing that seeking refuge is a fundamental human right.

The Greek government, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, defends the legislation as an emergency response to the current crisis, aiming to reduce the attractiveness of Greece to illegal migrants. However, the country faces ongoing accusations of forcibly expelling migrants, known as "pushbacks," a practice deemed illegal. Additionally, a Greek naval court has charged 17 coastguard officers in connection with a major shipwreck that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of migrants two years ago. The situation highlights the complex and contentious nature of migration policies in Greece and the broader European context. 🚨🛳️

Companies start paying share capital in cryptocurrency in Latvia

Latvia has taken a significant step forward in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship by allowing the establishment of limited liability companies (SIA) with share capital contributed in cryptocurrency. This groundbreaking move eliminates the need for an appraiser for non-monetary contributions, streamlining the process for crypto-based investments. SIA Sats Inc., a company specializing in Bitcoin infrastructure and consulting, has already leveraged this opportunity, with board member Jānis Sprenne expressing strong support for Latvia's leadership in the innovative industry.

Minister for Economics Viktors Valainis highlighted the strategic importance of this development, emphasizing Latvia's potential to attract new investments and create jobs in emerging industries. The country has been proactive in positioning itself as a hub for the Web3 industry, with recent legislative changes facilitating the use of crypto assets for share capital contributions. These amendments, approved in anticipation of the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, reflect Latvia's commitment to becoming a global player in the crypto sector.

To ensure regulatory compliance and mitigate risks such as money laundering, Latvia has implemented strict requirements for crypto asset management. Companies must deposit crypto assets into a distributed ledger address or an account held with a MiCA-registered crypto service provider, rather than private wallets. This approach aims to enhance transparency and enforcement, solidifying Latvia's position as a forward-thinking and secure destination for crypto-based investments. 💡💻💸

Swedish games industry in crisis as 'perfect storm' sparks mass layoffs

The Swedish gaming industry, once a thriving sector and a significant exporter, is currently facing severe challenges. Industry experts like Karl Magnus Troedsson, founder of Behold Ventures and former CEO of DICE, describe the situation as a "negative perfect storm," with companies struggling to secure funding and maintain staff. The turmoil has already led to the bankruptcy of Cult of the North, despite a substantial investment just two years prior.

The crisis is particularly acute for international workers on work permits, who face the prospect of losing their jobs and residency. One such worker, who has been job hunting for six months, expressed frustration with the limited time to find new employment and the lack of consideration in Swedish migration rules. The situation has led to increased stress and uncertainty, with some colleagues already forced to leave the country.

Major companies like King, known for Candy Crush, are also affected, with plans to lay off 200 employees, including 96 in Stockholm. Union representatives report that many affected workers are foreign citizens whose residence permits are tied to their employment, adding another layer of complexity to the crisis. Meanwhile, Microsoft's broader layoffs, which include its gaming division, further exacerbate the industry's woes.

Industry insiders acknowledge the shift in the labor market, with a surplus of qualified applicants now competing for fewer positions. The era of substantial investments, particularly from China and North America, has waned, leading to a focus on consolidation rather than growth. As the industry navigates these turbulent times, the future remains uncertain for many workers and companies alike. 🎮💼💔

Investigation launched into Patra coroners after forensic failures

A preliminary investigation has been initiated by Patra’s appeals prosecutor into potential criminal misconduct within the city’s coroner’s service, sparked by mounting concerns over its involvement in several high-profile child death cases and a formal complaint from the head of the national public hospital workers’ union. The probe will scrutinize allegations of dereliction of duty, issuing false forensic reports, and falsified medical certifications.

The Patra coroner’s office has faced intense criticism for its role in key cases, including those involving convicted murderer Roula Pispirigou and Eirini Mourtzoukou, who confessed to killing four infants over a decade. Forensic reports from the office were pivotal in both investigations. Additionally, the investigation will review a complaint against coroner Andreas Gotsis, who failed to identify signs of abuse in a minor who later died by suicide. A subsequent autopsy revealed evidence of mistreatment.

In response to these allegations, Justice Minister Giorgos Floridis has suspended the entire Patra coroner’s unit pending a comprehensive restructuring. New cases from the region will now be managed by the Corinth office. The investigation aims to address the serious concerns surrounding the coroner’s service and ensure the integrity of forensic practices in Patra. 🔍🏛️

Nordic capital cities top Europe's cleanest air rankings

A recent study by the European Environment Agency highlighted the air quality in European capitals, with Stockholm topping the list as the cleanest. The Nordic capitals dominated the rankings, with Reykjavik and Helsinki securing the second and third spots, respectively. Tallinn, Estonia's capital, was the sole non-Nordic city in the top five, followed by Copenhagen in fifth place. Oslo narrowly missed the top five, placing seventh. Conversely, Athens was identified as the European capital with the poorest air quality, with Bucharest, Nicosia, and Zagreb also ranking low. Madrid and Rome were among the other cities with significant air pollution issues.

When considering all European cities, the Nordic countries continued to lead, with the top 20 cleanest cities all located in Finland, Sweden, Norway, or Iceland. Oulu, Finland, claimed the top spot, while Swedish cities like Umeå, Uppsala, Örebro, and Västerås featured prominently in the top ten. The rankings were based on the risk of mortality associated with long-term exposure to fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone over the past two years. Residents can assess their city's air quality using the agency's interactive air quality viewer. 🌳💨

EU carbon tax to hit Greek households

Starting January 1, 2027, the European Union will enforce a new carbon tax on fossil fuels under the second Emissions Trading System (ETS 2) regulation, focusing on buildings, road transport, and small industries. This tax aims to reduce emissions by 42% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels, impacting gasoline, diesel, natural gas, and other polluting fuels used for heating, transportation, and small industrial operations.

For Greece, this regulation is expected to significantly increase fuel costs. Based on the current CO2 price of €45 per ton, Greek consumers may face an additional €800 million annually in fuel expenses, assuming 2027 consumption levels remain unchanged. The Petroleum Companies Association warns that fuels, already subject to high tariffs, will face further financial burdens, reducing competitiveness and increasing costs for consumers.

The EU has established a Social Climate Fund with a €65 billion budget to support vulnerable households and small businesses, with member states contributing at least 25% of the funds. Greece is set to receive 5.52% of the total funds. Green Tank, a research organization, proposes immediate financial assistance to vulnerable households and structural measures such as housing renovations, heat pump installations, and electric vehicle subsidies, totaling €11.9-15.5 billion through 2032. These measures aim to mitigate the impact of the carbon tax on the most affected households and ensure a smoother transition to a greener economy. 🏡🚗💨

Italy launches investigation into online bank Revolut for 'misleading' clients

Italy's Competition and Market Authority (ACGM) has accused Revolut, a rapidly growing digital bank, of employing "aggressive" tactics in its banking services and misleading customers about its no-commissions policy. The authority highlighted that Revolut failed to clearly disclose additional costs and limitations associated with its investment offerings. This criticism follows an inspection by Italy's financial police of Revolut's Milan unit.

Revolut, which serves 3.4 million clients in Italy, has pledged full cooperation with the investigation, asserting its commitment to compliance and customer protection. The bank, launched in 2015 and operating under a Lithuanian license, has faced scrutiny over its ability to adhere to financial regulations amid its swift expansion. In April, Revolut was fined €3.5 million by Lithuanian authorities for deficiencies in its anti-money laundering controls.

The ACGM also criticized Revolut for its cryptocurrency disclosures, stating that the bank did not adequately inform clients about restrictions on modifying stop-loss and take-profit settings, which are crucial for managing financial risks. Additionally, the watchdog noted that Revolut either omitted or provided unclear information about the terms and conditions for suspending or blocking accounts, leading to prolonged periods where customers were unable to access their funds. 💸🚨