Newsflash

Russia warns Trump’s new pledge of aid to Ukraine could hinder any peace deal

Russia has strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's recent pledge to increase military aid to Ukraine and impose new sanctions on Russia's allies, warning that these actions could escalate the conflict and impede peace negotiations. Trump's announcement, which includes a 50-day deadline for Russia to strike a peace deal with Ukraine, has been met with skepticism by the Kremlin. Russian officials argue that such moves could embolden Ukraine and further delay already stalled peace efforts, which have seen no significant progress despite two rounds of talks held in Turkey.

The Kremlin spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, expressed concern that Trump's decision could be perceived by Kyiv as a signal to continue the war rather than seek peace. Russia has consistently rejected calls for a ceasefire and has launched extensive drone and missile attacks on Ukraine in recent months. Moscow has demanded that Ukraine withdraw from four regions in the east and south, which it claims to have annexed, and cease all Western military support—a demand that Kyiv and the West have rejected as tantamount to surrender.

Trump's plan involves NATO members purchasing American weapons, including Patriot air defense systems, to be sent to Ukraine. This initiative aims to bolster Ukraine's defenses against ongoing Russian aerial attacks, which have devastated eastern and southern regions of the country. However, the effectiveness of this aid is a subject of debate among Ukrainian soldiers, with some expressing hope and others cautioning that the support may come too late.

Despite the ongoing conflict, Russia remains open to further talks, although Kyiv has deemed such negotiations "pointless" under the current circumstances. The situation remains tense, with both sides digging in and the prospect of a swift resolution appearing increasingly distant. The international community watches closely, hoping for a diplomatic breakthrough that could bring an end to the devastating war. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Denmark and Netherlands could join Trump's Ukraine arms plan

In a significant move, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, alongside Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, unveiled a deal where European NATO members will purchase billions of dollars worth of arms from the United States. These weapons, including Patriot anti-missile batteries, will be sent to Ukraine to bolster its defense against ongoing Russian attacks. Germany has already committed to a leading role, offering to buy two Patriot systems. Denmark has expressed readiness to contribute financially, while the Netherlands is considering participation with a positive outlook. Other potential buyers include Canada, Norway, Sweden, and Britain.

The initiative aims to expedite the delivery of much-needed weaponry to Ukraine, which faces nightly Russian bombardments. The plan involves European countries sending weapons from their stocks to Ukraine, which would then be replaced by new U.S. arms. However, the speed of implementation and the availability of advanced systems like Patriots remain significant challenges, as few countries possess these systems and are often reluctant to part with them.

This shift in U.S. policy, moving away from a rapprochement with Russia, has been welcomed by European allies. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys noted that the U.S. is once again taking a leadership role. European countries acknowledge that supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression would be nearly impossible without access to U.S. weaponry. The deal underscores the strategic importance of transatlantic cooperation in maintaining European security. 🇺🇸🇪🇺

LISTED: How could Switzerland's new treaties with the EU impact immigration?

Switzerland's immigration policy is set to undergo significant changes with the expansion of the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons (AFMP), which has been a cornerstone of the country's immigration framework for over two decades. The new treaty, while maintaining the principle of immigration tied to employment, introduces several key modifications.

Under the revised AFMP, EU citizens will need a signed employment contract to enter and remain in Switzerland. Those arriving without a job will be granted a three-month stay but will not receive a residence permit or social benefits. Additionally, EU nationals who lose their job within the first year will be eligible for temporary assistance but will lose their residence right after six months.

A significant change is the introduction of a new "permanent residence" status for EU immigrants. After five consecutive years of legal work in Switzerland, EU citizens will be able to reside indefinitely without restrictions. This change is particularly beneficial for Eastern European citizens, who previously had to wait 10 years for permanent residence. The new status will also extend to family members, even if they no longer work or live with the initial permit holder, representing a substantial expansion of residence rights.

Family reunification rules remain largely unchanged, allowing EU workers to bring their spouses and children under 21. The new agreement also extends equal rights to registered same-sex couples and introduces greater flexibility for unmarried, cohabiting couples and family members in need of care, provided they meet specific conditions. The requirement for "adequate" housing for family reunification will be removed, although cantons may still require a rental contract.

These new rules are currently on paper and await Swiss voters' approval through referendums, the dates for which have not yet been set. The changes aim to provide greater flexibility and rights for EU immigrants while maintaining a strong link between immigration and the labor market.

Gerapetritis discusses migration and maritime zones in Tripoli

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis held productive talks with Libyan Prime Minister Hamid Dbeibeh in Tripoli, focusing on key issues of mutual concern. The discussions centered around migration, bilateral trade, and the delimitation of maritime zones between the two countries. Gerapetritis emphasized the importance of a strong, unified, and self-sufficient Libya in partnership with Greece for ensuring regional security and prosperity. The meeting highlighted the shared commitment to addressing critical challenges and fostering cooperation between the two nations. 🇬🇷🇱🇾🌊

Repatriation to Greece: The tax incentive

Greece is actively working to reverse the brain drain caused by its prolonged economic crisis, during which an estimated 600,000 Greeks, many holding key positions, emigrated. Recent trends indicate a positive shift in repatriation, driven by the government's tax incentives and emerging opportunities in the Greek business sector. The primary incentive is the 5C tax regime, which offers a 50% income tax reduction for eligible individuals returning to Greece for salaried or self-employment. This regime applies to income earned in Greece and is valid for seven years, benefiting both employees and freelancers.

To qualify, individuals must have lived abroad for at least five years and meet specific employment or residence conditions. Foreign spouses or partners of returnees can also benefit if they meet the same criteria. However, those considering repatriation must ensure they have officially transferred their tax residence abroad to avoid potential tax consequences. Failure to do so could result in the Greek state taxing worldwide income and imposing fines. Proper documentation and preparation are crucial for returnees to fully leverage the tax incentive and resolve any outstanding tax issues. 🇬🇷💼

Today in Germany: A roundup of the latest news on Tuesday

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Germany will play a pivotal role in a new NATO-U.S. deal to supply Ukraine with weapons to combat Russia's ongoing invasion. The agreement, unveiled by U.S. President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, involves NATO countries purchasing arms from the United States, including Patriot anti-missile batteries, and then transferring them to Ukraine. This initiative aims to address Trump's longstanding concerns about the U.S. bearing too much of the financial burden for Ukraine's defense. Merz emphasized that Germany is committed to working with its allies to finalize the details of the plan, which is intended to increase pressure on Moscow to negotiate peace. Meanwhile, Germany has offered to buy two Patriot systems under this deal. 🇩🇪🇺🇸🇺🇦

In other news, Poland has intensified border checks with Germany and Lithuania, citing increased irregular migration but also seen as a response to heightened German border controls. The checks, which began last Monday, are scheduled to continue until August 5th. Additionally, around 300 legal scholars have criticized the treatment of constitutional judge candidate Brosius-Gersdorf, accusing political leaders of defamation and lack of preparation after her election was called off due to alleged plagiarism. The Greens in the Bundestag are pushing for a special session to elect three constitutional judges, including Brosius-Gersdorf. 🇵🇱📜

Lastly, German customs officials discovered approximately 1,500 tarantulas hidden in a cookie shipment from Vietnam at Cologne-Bonn airport. The venomous spiders were packed into plastic tubes, and many did not survive the journey. A criminal investigation has been launched into the intended recipient for failing to pay duties and make proper declarations. This unusual discovery highlights the ongoing issue of wildlife smuggling and the inhumane treatment of animals for profit. 🕷️🍪

What we know about mysterious explosions on ships visiting Russian ports

Since January 2025, six tankers have experienced unexplained explosions shortly after entering Russian ports, raising concerns about potential sabotage by a state actor. The most recent incident involved the Eco Wizard tanker, which suffered two explosions while docked at Russia's Ust-Luga port. The Russian transport ministry attributed the blasts to a minor ammonia leak during loading operations, but the incident echoes similar events involving five other tankers this year.

The affected vessels include the Vilamoura, Seacharm, Grace Ferrum, Seajewel, and Koala, all of which had recently called at Russian ports. These incidents, occurring in various locations such as the Mediterranean Sea, the Baltic Sea, and the Black Sea, have led industry analysts to suspect coordinated sabotage. The explosions often occurred near engine rooms and machinery, suggesting the use of limpet mines, which are typically attached by divers and detonated remotely.

The exact perpetrator remains unknown, but experts point to a state actor due to the sophistication and coordination of the attacks. Ukraine has been mentioned as a potential suspect, given its interest in disrupting Russian exports and funding. However, no concrete evidence links Ukraine to these incidents. The attacks have targeted vessels that were not subject to sanctions at the time, indicating a broader strategy to deter shipping from Russian ports, regardless of the cargo's origin. The economic impact of these incidents could lead to increased maritime insurance costs and higher operational expenses for vessels calling at Russian ports. 🚢💥

Polish president partially pardons nationalist leader over attack on female abortion protester

Poland's President Andrzej Duda has partially pardoned nationalist leader Robert Bąkiewicz, who was convicted for his role in a violent incident against a prominent women’s and LGBT rights activist, Katarzyna Augustynek, during anti-abortion protests in 2020. Bąkiewicz, a former leader of the far-right National Radical Camp (ONR) and organizer of the annual nationalist Independence March, was sentenced to a year of community service and a fine for his actions. His conviction stemmed from an incident where he and his followers forcibly removed Augustynek from a church, an act that was deemed a "hooligan act" by the courts.

The pardon, confirmed by the Justice Ministry, comes after a lengthy legal process and political maneuvering. Initially, the Justice Ministry had suspended Bąkiewicz's sentence, but this was later revoked by prosecutor general Adam Bodnar, prompting Duda to intervene. The president's decision revokes only the community service portion of Bąkiewicz's sentence, leaving the fine and conviction intact. Bąkiewicz, who had stood as a parliamentary candidate for the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party, has not publicly commented on the pardon but has shared a video of the 2020 incident on social media.

This pardon follows a pattern of similar actions by Duda, who has previously pardoned other nationalists and former government officials convicted of various crimes. The move has raised concerns about the influence of nationalist and conservative elements within the Polish government and their impact on judicial independence and human rights. 🇵🇱🏛️

Probe urged into Vasilikos bank accounts

Cyprus’ political parties are united in their call for a thorough investigation into the bank accounts associated with the failed Vasilikos LNG terminal project. This probe, conducted by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), has been ongoing for nearly a year and has recently gained public attention following a prominent news report. The investigation aims to scrutinize the financial activities of all individuals involved in the project, from the tender process to its eventual cancellation. This includes politicians, contractors, consultants, and subcontractors. Financial experts in Cyprus and Luxembourg are assisting in the examination of the data. The political consensus is clear: the investigation must proceed without hindrance, and any wrongdoing uncovered must be met with appropriate legal consequences. The Vasilikos project is seen as a significant scandal that requires full transparency and accountability. 🔍💸

Today in Austria: A roundup of the latest news on Tuesday

In Austria, three candidates from the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) are facing trial for repeatedly posting images of "Eiernockerl," a dish linked to far-right circles and Adolf Hitler’s birthday. The posts, made annually between 2019 and 2024, are alleged to violate Austria’s Verbotsgesetz, which prohibits Nazi glorification. The defendants, who ran for local office in Lower Austria, deny any neo-Nazi intent, with one claiming a hack and another admitting to provocative behavior. The trial has been adjourned indefinitely as the defense requests a cybercrime expert review.

Meanwhile, a political debate has reignited over Austria’s 2018 health insurance fund merger, with Tyrolean governor Anton Mattle describing it as a "mistake" and advocating for more regional control. While some support Mattle’s call for reform, others warn against dismantling the current structure. In Klagenfurt, the 2025 draft budget faces heavy criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the city of misusing internal loans to cover current spending. The budget's adoption is crucial to avoid a financial crisis.

Austria is also planning further deportations of Syrians convicted of serious crimes, with Interior Minister Gerhard Karner emphasizing that these will not be mass deportations. Additionally, the government aims to introduce a law limiting rent refund claims to five years, following a Constitutional Court ruling that allowed tenants to reclaim decades of rent increases. This change is intended to prevent potential rent freezes and stabilize property values.

In related news, a 15-year-old Syrian is on trial in Germany for allegedly aiding in the planning of a terrorist attack on Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna in 2024. The teenager is accused of translating bomb-making instructions and drafting an oath of allegiance to Islamic State. The trial, held behind closed doors due to the accused’s age, is expected to continue until late August. 🇦🇹🏛️

‘Now we can have an age limit’: Danish minister welcomes EU decision on social media

A significant shift in European policy regarding children's access to social media is underway, with Denmark advocating for a 15-year age limit. Danish Minister for Digitalisation, Maria Wengler Stage, has endorsed this age restriction, viewing it as a major advancement in protecting minors online. The European Commission has introduced new guidelines allowing EU member states to establish national legislation for social media age limits, and Denmark is among five countries testing a new age-verification app to prevent children from accessing harmful online content.

The app, to be customized by Denmark, France, Greece, Italy, and Spain, will verify users' ages, ensuring compliance with national age limits on websites and platforms. Stage highlighted the ineffectiveness of age limits set by social media companies, citing statistics that reveal a significant number of Danish children under 13 have social media accounts. The app could also extend to real-world applications, such as age verification for purchasing alcohol or cigarettes.

Stage personally supports a 15-year age limit for social media use, although the final decision rests with the Danish parliament. The government aims to introduce national legislation by 2026, aligning with the EU's efforts to enhance online safety for minors. 🌐🔒

'Don't lose hope': How to navigate Germany's painful job market

Germany is currently grappling with a paradoxical labor market: despite widespread worker shortages across various sectors, job seekers, particularly foreigners, face significant challenges in securing employment. The economy's sluggish recovery and increasing unemployment figures exacerbate the situation, with many large employers implementing hiring freezes or even conducting layoffs.

Foreign job seekers in Germany encounter a multitude of obstacles, including nepotism, language barriers, and bureaucratic hurdles. Many respondents to a recent survey highlighted the importance of personal connections and networking in securing jobs, with some expressing frustration over the prevalence of hiring based on who you know rather than your qualifications. Mastery of the German language remains a critical factor, even in multinational companies, and many employers are reluctant to invest in foreign employees who are not already fluent.

To improve their chances, foreign job seekers are advised to leverage their networks, both in-person and online, and to be proactive in applying for positions. Tailoring CVs to the German format, being clear about career goals, and demonstrating patience and persistence are also crucial. Despite the challenges, there are opportunities for those who are thorough and focused in their job search. However, the system often favors those with existing connections and language proficiency, making it a tough market for newcomers.

German court rejects Yemenis' claim over US strikes

In 2014, Yemeni brothers Ahmed and Khalid bin Ali Jaber initiated legal action against Germany, seeking justice for family members killed in a U.S. drone strike on their village of Khashamir. The case has navigated through various German courts, culminating in a recent ruling by the Constitutional Court. The court determined that while Germany has a general duty to uphold human rights and international humanitarian law, it could not be proven that the drone attack violated international law. The plaintiffs, supported by the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR), argued that Germany was complicit due to the U.S. military's use of the Ramstein base in Germany for signal relay in drone operations.

The ECCHR contended that without data routed through Ramstein, the U.S. could not conduct drone strikes in Yemen. Andreas Schueller, the ECCHR's program director for international crimes, urged the German government to halt the use of the base to avoid complicity in civilian deaths. The Constitutional Court acknowledged Germany's duty to protect fundamental rights but found that the plaintiffs had not demonstrated a "serious risk of systematic violation" of international law. The court thus dismissed the complaint.

The Yemeni men were dining together in 2012 when a drone strike hit their family gathering, resulting in multiple fatalities. Their legal battle has seen mixed outcomes, with lower courts initially dismissing the case, only for it to be revived and then overturned on appeal. The German government has maintained that it is in "trusting dialogue" with the U.S., receiving assurances that drone operations comply with international law and are not controlled from German soil. The case highlights the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding international cooperation in military operations and the responsibility of host nations. 🛩️📡

Government spokesperson defends OPEKEPE inquiry amid opposition criticism

Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis has defended the establishment of a parliamentary inquiry committee to scrutinize the farm subsidy agency OPEKEPE, from its inception in 1998 to the present. This move has drawn criticism from the opposition, which advocates for an investigative committee to probe potential criminal liabilities involving former Ministers of Rural Development, Makis Voridis and Lefteris Avgenakis.

Marinakis emphasized that the government does not perceive any criminal wrongdoing by the two former ministers. He pointed out that, unlike previous high-profile cases such as the Tempe train accident, the judiciary has not pursued criminal charges against non-political figures involved with OPEKEPE. The government maintains that a parliamentary inquiry is sufficient to address any concerns and ensure transparency in the agency's operations. 📜🏛️

From 2015 to 2025, big stakes for narrow gains

In 2015, former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras held a referendum on accepting a third bailout deal, a move that, while initially framed as a strategic negotiation tactic, ultimately backfired. The referendum, which Tsipras reportedly hoped to lose, was driven by internal party politics rather than national interest. Despite the Greek people's "No" vote, Tsipras signed the bailout agreement, leaving Greece in a weakened position. This political maneuver was aimed at appeasing hardliners within his party, SYRIZA, but ultimately harmed the country's negotiating power and public trust.

Fast forward to the present, and a similar dynamic is playing out with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the migration issue. Mitsotakis has empowered his migration minister to implement controversial measures and spread misinformation to appease far-right factions within his party, New Democracy. While the stakes may not seem as immediate as they were in 2015, the gradual escalation of far-right rhetoric and policies poses a significant long-term threat. The "frog theory" illustrates this danger: while immediate crises can jolt society into action, gradual changes can lead to complacency and, ultimately, catastrophic outcomes. To prevent the rise of far-right populism, it is crucial to address the root causes of the migration issue and resist the allure of simplistic, divisive solutions. 🐸🌡️🚨

Porn sites must check age of French users, says top court

France is actively working to prevent minors from accessing pornographic content online, but the effort has encountered significant resistance from adult websites. The French government implemented a law in 2024 requiring EU-based porn sites to verify the ages of their visitors, aiming to block underage users. However, major platforms like Pornhub, YouPorn, and RedTube, all owned by the same company, protested by making their services unavailable in France in early June. Additionally, Hammy Limited, the operator of Xhamster, took legal action against the French decree, leading to a suspension by the Paris administrative tribunal.

The Council of State, France's highest administrative court, recently annulled the suspension, reinstating the age-verification requirement. France's junior minister for digital affairs, Clara Chappaz, emphasized the importance of protecting children online, stating that judicial maneuvers to circumvent child protection measures are ineffective. To address privacy concerns, the French audiovisual watchdog Arcom has suggested a "double-blind" option for age verification, ensuring that platforms do not access users' identifying information.

Meanwhile, Aylo, a major adult film firm, has proposed an alternative approach, advocating for operating system makers like Apple, Microsoft, and Google to verify users' ages at the device level. The EU Commission has also announced a pilot program involving France and four other EU countries to test an age-verification app designed to prevent children from accessing harmful online content. This app will be customized and launched nationally within the coming months, reflecting a broader European effort to enhance online safety for minors. 🔞🚸

Latvian Finance Minister: no tax changes planned for next year

Latvia's Finance Minister, Ašeradens, has emphasized that the government's immediate focus is on streamlining expenses and addressing budget priorities, rather than considering tax changes. The most pressing discussions within the government revolve around retirement pensions and the potential listing of state-owned companies on the stock exchange to raise revenues, given the slower-than-desired economic growth and increasing debt financing expenses.

Defense remains the largest budget item, but the government is also scrutinizing the public sector wage bill, which amounts to approximately €2 billion and covers nearly 50,000 employees. The minister highlighted ongoing collaborations with the State Chancellery, the Bank of Latvia, and the State Treasury to ensure fiscal stability and manage the state's significant debt. The potential listing of publicly-owned companies is a contentious issue that nearly impeded the formation of the current government, but efforts are being made to find a compromise within the coalition. Despite the challenges, the minister expressed optimism in navigating these complex discussions. 💸📉

Positive outlook shared by German investors as tariff fears subside

Investor confidence in Germany's economy has surged, with expectations for the next six months rising by 5.2 points to 52.7, surpassing analysts' predictions of a 2.7-point increase. This optimism marks a significant recovery from April's downturn, triggered by President Trump's proposed "Liberation Day" tariffs, and reaches its highest level since February 2022. Despite lingering global trade uncertainties, nearly two-thirds of experts anticipate an economic improvement, buoyed by hopes of resolving the US-EU customs dispute and anticipated stimulus spending from the German government. The postponement of Trump's tariff threats has also contributed to this positive sentiment.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz's administration has further bolstered investor morale with tax incentives for private investment and an €847 billion infrastructure upgrade plan. Additionally, the current economic performance barometer improved by 12.5 points to -59.5. This renewed investor confidence reflects a growing belief in Germany's economic resilience and the effectiveness of recent policy measures. 💰📈

Latvian Prime Minister Siliņa hands over armoured vehicles in Kyiv

The Prime Minister of Latvia, Evika Siliņa, recently visited Kyiv, where she participated in a ceremony commemorating Ukraine's statehood and met with senior Ukrainian officials. During the ceremony, she was deeply moved by the bravery and sacrifice of Ukrainian soldiers and their families, particularly noting the poignant moment when a widow received her husband's Hero of Ukraine award. Siliņa emphasized the profound sense of Ukrainian identity and the heroic defense of the nation, both on the front lines and in support roles.

In Kyiv, Siliņa also engaged with the U.S. Special Envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, discussing ongoing support for Ukraine and the coordination of the latest U.S. sanctions package with the European Union. This package aims to significantly impact Russia and its supporting countries. During her visit, Siliņa fulfilled a promise made last year by delivering 15 Latvian-made Patria armored personnel carriers to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This delivery is part of a broader military aid package worth 70 million euros, which includes additional Patria vehicles, drones, and other military equipment. Latvia is also committed to training up to 4,000 Ukrainian soldiers this year and allocates 0.25% of its GDP annually for military support to Ukraine.

Siliņa underscored the deep bond between the Latvian and Ukrainian peoples, rooted in shared values and understanding. She reiterated Latvia's unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that their cooperation is driven by a strong human connection and a shared commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace. 🇱🇻🇺🇦❤️

Poland records EU’s largest population decline for second year running

Poland's population experienced a significant decline in 2024, with a decrease of over 123,000 people, marking the largest overall population drop among all European Union member states for the second consecutive year. This decline represents a 0.34% reduction in relative terms, placing Poland third in the EU for the largest proportional population decrease, alongside Estonia. The overall EU population, however, grew by 1.07 million, or 0.24%, driven primarily by increased migratory movements.

Between January 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025, Poland's population fell from 36,620,970 to 36,497,495. This trend is part of a broader demographic crisis that has seen Poland's population decline for six consecutive years. Despite receiving a large number of immigrants and Ukrainian refugees in recent years, Poland has not been able to offset the negative demographic trends caused by falling birth rates and high excess death numbers during the pandemic.

The fertility rate in Poland reached a new record low of 1.099 in 2024, one of the lowest in the world. This ongoing decline is expected to continue, with projections indicating that Poland's population could drop to as low as 26.7 million by 2060, a 27% decrease from current levels. To maintain its current ratio of working-age population to retirees, Poland would need to attract nearly two million immigrant workers over the next decade. The demographic challenges facing Poland highlight the urgent need for policy interventions to address declining birth rates and promote sustainable population growth. 📉🇵🇱