Newsflash

'Taking back what is theirs' — Ukrainian special forces successfully raid Russian-occupied island in Black Sea

Ukrainian special forces successfully executed a daring raid on the Tendra Spit, a strategically important island in the Black Sea occupied by Russian forces. The operation, conducted on the night of July 28, involved a daring landing by reconnaissance troops who eliminated Russian positions and personnel. Ukrainian forces also destroyed a Russian "Zont" electronic warfare complex and a "Rosa" radar station, demonstrating their capability to strike deep within enemy-held territory.

The raid was part of a broader effort to reclaim Ukrainian land and disrupt Russian military operations. Ukrainian forces sustained no losses during the operation, and the Ukrainian flag was raised over the island, symbolizing the country's resolve to reclaim its territory. The operation was supported by international partners and donors through the "Boats for HUR" project, which provided new vessels enabling Ukrainian special forces to operate in unexpected areas. This successful raid follows a previous operation on Tendra Spit in August 2024, where Ukrainian forces destroyed Russian armored vehicles, electronic warfare systems, and fortifications. The ongoing efforts highlight Ukraine's determination to push back against Russian occupation and reclaim its sovereign territory. 🇺🇦🌊💥

At least 25 killed in overnight Russian strikes, Ukraine says

Overnight Russian strikes across Ukraine resulted in the deaths of at least 25 people and injuries to dozens more, including a 23-year-old pregnant woman and 16 inmates in a prison in the Zaporizhzhia region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack on the prison, accusing Russia of deliberately targeting civilians. The Kremlin denied the allegations, asserting that it does not strike civilian targets and remains committed to the peace process.

The prison in Zaporizhzhia was hit by four glide bombs, killing 16 inmates and wounding 43 others. Ukrainian authorities described the attack as a war crime, emphasizing that individuals in detention retain their right to life and protection. Meanwhile, Russian forces launched 37 drones and two missiles, with Ukrainian air defenses downing 32 of the drones. Separate strikes targeted a hospital in Kamyanske, killing three people, including the pregnant woman, and six others in the Kharkiv region. In the southern Russian region of Rostov, a Ukrainian drone attack resulted in one fatality.

The attacks occurred amidst ongoing efforts by Ukraine to repel Russia's summer offensive, which has seen advances into previously spared areas. The Russian defense ministry claimed control of two additional villages, one in the Donetsk region and another in Zaporizhzhia. The prison attack marked the third anniversary of a similar incident at the Olenivka detention facility, where dozens of Ukrainian prisoners were killed. Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of responsibility for that attack, with investigations pointing to Russian involvement. 💥🏥

UK to recognize Palestinian statehood in September — unless Israel backs off in Gaza

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged to recognize a Palestinian state by September, coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly. This decision comes amidst worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza and dwindling hopes for a peace process. Starmer emphasized that the move is intended to push Israel towards substantive actions to resolve the Gaza crisis and advance a two-state solution. Israel's government, however, has criticized the announcement, labeling it a "reward for Hamas" and accusing the UK of "appeasement." Starmer has made it clear that recognition will proceed unless Israel takes significant steps towards peace and addresses the humanitarian situation in Gaza. 🇬🇧🇵🇸

Heatwaves to shave 1.1% off Greek GDP

Extreme heatwaves are significantly impacting economic productivity across Europe and globally. In Greece, the intense heat is expected to reduce the country's GDP by 1.1%, with similar or even greater impacts in Spain (1.4%) and Italy (1.2%). The economic slowdown is attributed to decreased worker productivity, as high temperatures make it difficult to perform tasks efficiently, both outdoors and indoors. Public transportation struggles and disrupted sleep patterns further exacerbate the issue. The Allianz Trade study highlights that a day with temperatures above 32°C can be as economically detrimental as half a day of strike action. With climate change intensifying, heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe, posing long-term economic risks. The International Labour Organization reports that 2.2% of global working hours are lost due to heat stress, equivalent to around 80 million full-time jobs. Workers in developing countries are particularly vulnerable due to greater exposure and poorer living conditions. In Greece, temperatures above 32°C persisted for 43 days between May 1 and July 14, underscoring the urgent need for adaptation to mitigate these economic losses. 🌡️💸

Russia's new mobilization law yet another sign Kremlin is preparing for war with NATO, analysts say

Russia’s recent legislative and military developments indicate a significant shift towards an aggressive, long-term military strategy, with analysts warning of potential future conflicts with NATO. The introduction of a bill allowing year-round conscription, coupled with unprecedented defense spending and the creation of new military districts, suggests that the Kremlin is preparing for prolonged warfare, both in Ukraine and potentially against Western allies. This stealth mobilization, if passed, would enable continuous replenishment of military personnel, addressing the unsustainability of current volunteer-based recruitment methods.

The Russian government's increased defense budget, now surpassing that of all European countries combined, underscores its commitment to military expansion. This financial strain, exacerbated by Western sanctions, is driving the Kremlin to prioritize defense spending over social programs, aiming to establish a wartime economy. The long-term goal appears to be the restoration of Russian imperial influence, challenging the Western world order, and potentially confronting NATO. Western leaders, such as Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, are increasingly acknowledging the severity of this threat, with some predicting a potential military confrontation within the next two years. 💥🌍

Accord commercial UE-Etats-Unis : les plus grands perdants et (quelques) gagnants

The recent commercial agreement between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and U.S. President Donald Trump, negotiated at Trump's Scottish golf resort, heavily favors American interests. The deal imposes a 15% tariff on most European exports to the U.S. and commits Europe to substantial investments in American energy and infrastructure. Despite these concessions, certain European industries stand to benefit. The powerful German automotive sector, along with Europe's aeronautics and semiconductor industries, are among the potential winners of this agreement, which is still pending final written confirmation. The deal underscores the shifting dynamics in transatlantic trade relations, with significant implications for European economies. 🇪🇺🇺🇸💼

EU’s trust in Ukraine on the line after Zelensky’s crackdown on anti-corruption infrastructure

President Volodymyr Zelensky's abrupt decision to undermine Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure by subordinating key agencies to the Prosecutor General sent shockwaves through the European Union, jeopardizing Ukraine's potential accession to the bloc. The hasty move, which was swiftly reversed following intense backlash, raised serious concerns about the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption bodies and the rule of law. European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, stressed the importance of maintaining independent anti-corruption institutions, warning that the chaotic back-and-forth could undermine trust and future EU support.

The timing of the controversial legislation was particularly damaging, coming just as the EU was on the verge of launching formal accession talks. The move provided ammunition for EU members like Hungary, which has been blocking Ukraine's progress, and raised questions about Ukraine's commitment to transparency and democratic governance. Experts warn that the incident has already eroded trust and could complicate future negotiations, even if the changes are reversed. The EU has made it clear that strict monitoring and control of Ukraine's anti-corruption efforts will be crucial moving forward, with the bloc's enlargement policy facing significant challenges due to this setback. 🇪🇺🇺🇦💼

European countries to borrow billions from EU to rearm Ukraine

Ukraine's key European allies are preparing to request tens of billions of euros in EU loans to collectively purchase weapons for Ukraine and bolster their own defenses. As the deadline for applications to the new €150 billion Security Assistance Facility for Europe approaches, several EU countries are considering using these funds to support Ukraine's defense against Russia's ongoing invasion. The loan scheme, introduced by the European Commission in March as part of the broader ReArm Europe initiative, seeks to strengthen Europe's defense industry and reduce its long-standing military reliance on the United States. This move underscores the growing commitment among European nations to support Ukraine and enhance their collective security in the face of evolving geopolitical threats. 🇪🇺🛡️

EU to Reduce Ukraine Support Over Unmet Reform Targets

The European Union Commission has proposed a significant reduction in aid to Ukraine, slashing the upcoming payment from over 45 billion Swedish kronor to just over 30 billion. This adjustment is part of a larger €50 billion fund established last year, with each payment contingent on Ukraine implementing specific reforms. The reduction stems from Ukraine's admission in June that it failed to meet three of the 16 required reform targets, including the appointment of a judge to an anti-corruption court. Ukraine now has a year to complete the outstanding reforms to secure the additional 15 billion kronor that have been withheld.

The proposed reduction was planned before Kyiv enacted a controversial law that undermined the independence of anti-corruption agencies, sparking public protests and criticism from several European countries. However, the Ukrainian government has since introduced a new proposal aimed at restoring the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the specialized anti-corruption prosecutor (SAPO). The EU Commission's proposal must still be approved by the member states before it takes effect. This development highlights the ongoing challenges and conditionalities associated with international aid and reform implementation in Ukraine. 🇺🇦💸

Why Ukraine can't afford to demobilize its soldiers

Ukraine is currently unable to demobilize its soldiers due to the ongoing war with Russia, now in its fourth year. President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that soldiers will return home only after victory, highlighting the sensitive issue of troop rotation and demobilization. The Ukrainian government has not established a system for rotating troops or discharging them after extended deployments, as martial law permits demobilization only under specific conditions, such as serious health issues or family emergencies.

The primary challenge is recruiting enough new soldiers to relieve those who have been on continuous duty since 2022. Ukraine is mobilizing around 25,000 to 27,000 troops per month, significantly less than Russia's nearly double that number. This shortage leaves many soldiers, like Dmytro from the 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, with no clear path to leave the army, taking a toll on their mental health and the overall morale of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Attempts to change the regulations have failed, with proposals for clear terms of service and troop rotations stalled or rejected due to insufficient troop levels or lack of support from the General Staff. Soldiers like Oleksii Nazarenko and Pavlo Kazarin express feelings of being trapped and worn down, with the uncertainty of their service terms adding to their burden. Despite official claims of sufficient mobilization, the lack of clear service terms and rotations has led to a decline in service discipline and morale.

Lawmaker Fedir Venislavskyi acknowledges that while mobilization has slowed, it remains enough to "hold the front line." However, soldiers and experts like Iryna Friz argue that the lack of clear terms of service and stalled demobilization bills directly impact the morale and effectiveness of those serving. As the war continues, Ukrainian soldiers face an uncertain future, hoping for either a resolution to the conflict or a change in demobilization policies. 🇺🇦⚔️

Israeli tourists face growing anger in Greece while Athens pledges crackdown on protests

Tensions are escalating in Greece as demonstrations against Israeli tourists gain momentum, fueled by widespread anger over the ongoing conflict in Gaza. On Tuesday, clashes erupted between local police and protesters attempting to block approximately 1,500 Israeli tourists from disembarking from a cruise ship at the port of Agios Nikolaos on the island of Crete. Greek authorities have expressed concern that these protests, initially framed as anti-war demonstrations, have evolved into broader attacks on Israelis, with a notable racist undertone. The situation highlights the growing polarization and potential for unrest as the Gaza conflict continues to reverberate globally. 🇬🇷🇮🇱🌊

‘Revenge is not a policy’: Israelis voice dissent against the war in the Gaza Strip

In Israel, a growing number of citizens are voicing dissent against the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, expressing concern over what they perceive as atrocities committed in their name. Initially, the majority of Israelis supported the military offensive following the deadly Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. However, a vocal minority is now advocating for an end to the war on moral grounds, arguing that the current strategy is causing excessive harm and contradicts their values.

The conflict has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with over 60,000 Palestinians killed and more than 80 children dying from starvation. Despite these grim statistics, a significant portion of the Israeli public remains largely unconcerned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. However, there is a discernible shift in public opinion, with an increasing number of Israelis expressing discomfort and activism, particularly within the liberal camp.

Prominent figures, including former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and retired military leaders, have criticized the government's actions, accusing it of indiscriminate killing and war crimes. Protests and vigils, such as those held at Hebrew University and other campuses, are becoming more frequent, with participants calling for an end to the war and a return to humanitarian principles. The Israeli government denies these allegations, asserting that its military operations adhere to international law and prioritize minimizing civilian casualties.

The war has also sparked internal political tensions, with some Israelis believing that the resumption of fighting in March was politically motivated. Grassroots organizations like Standing Together have been instrumental in organizing anti-war protests and advocating for peace and equality. The mainstream media's coverage of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has been limited, but activists are pushing for more transparent reporting. The dissenting voices in Israel are careful to criticize the government rather than the soldiers, emphasizing the need for a more humane and effective approach to the conflict. 🇮🇱🕊️

Greece to tap EU loans to aid defense industries

Greece is set to leverage the European Union's Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative to bolster its defense capabilities. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that Greece will seek €1.2 billion in low-interest loans from the EU to fund defense procurement. The funds will be used to enhance military mobility, a key priority for the Greek armed forces. Specifically, the loans will accelerate the upgrading of M-113 armored personnel carriers and the procurement of trucks and other general-use vehicles, projects that were previously slated for completion by 2036. By advancing these initiatives, Greece aims to strengthen its defense industries and foster partnerships with European firms, all while adhering to SAFE's funding rules, which require finalization of partnerships by November. The SAFE initiative, offering a total of €150 billion in loans repayable over 40 years, provides a significant opportunity for Greece to modernize its military infrastructure and enhance its operational capabilities. 🇬🇷🛡️

Cyprus Audit Office warns on takings

Cyprus is grappling with a significant tax revenue challenge, as highlighted by the country's Audit Office. The office has identified €3.1 billion in delayed tax revenues owed to the state, with a concerning €1.4 billion at risk of never being collected. Despite recent increases in overall tax collections, the 2023 audit of the Tax Department uncovered substantial weaknesses in revenue management.

Key issues include the imposition of tax assessments beyond legal deadlines, inadequate audits of companies with suspicious financial activities, and improper handling of overpayments and interest. Additionally, the audit noted insufficient monitoring of Value-Added Tax (VAT) and the issuance of tax refunds without verifying outstanding debts. While tax collections have shown positive growth—18% in 2022, 14% in 2023, and 12% in 2024—the amount of delayed revenues has also surged, reaching €3.1 billion by the end of 2023.

The Audit Office also pointed out a failure to track individuals and businesses that have not submitted tax returns on time, with over half of the sampled companies and 30% of individuals being delinquent for years. To address these issues, the Audit Office has called on the Tax Department to take immediate action. This includes fully utilizing legal tools, updating taxpayer databases, and enhancing monitoring systems to curb unpaid receivables and improve overall tax compliance. The urgency of these reforms is underscored by the risk of losing a significant portion of the delayed revenues, which could have serious implications for Cyprus' fiscal health. 💸📉

Valtonen: No reason to change Finnish policy on recognising Palestine

Finland is closely monitoring the international discussions surrounding the recognition of Palestine, with Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen emphasizing the country's engagement with key allies and the international community. While Finland has not confirmed any formal preparations for recognizing Palestine, it has expressed a willingness to align with decisions made by significant peer countries, such as France, Denmark, and the United Kingdom. Valtonen's recent visit to France included discussions with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, focusing on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the broader Middle East situation.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is a pressing concern for Finland, with Valtonen stressing the international community's responsibility to address the famine and human suffering in the region. Finland's approach to recognizing Palestine is guided by its constitutional framework and the need for consensus among its political parties. While a majority of Finnish parliamentary parties support recognizing Palestine, the government faces internal divisions, with the Finns Party and the Christian Democrats opposing the move. This political split complicates the path forward, as Finland seeks to balance its foreign policy objectives with domestic political realities. 🇫🇮🇵🇸🤝

Trump says Russia tariffs will be imposed in 10 days

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that tariffs on Russia will take effect in ten days if the Kremlin does not agree to halt its war in Ukraine. These tariffs are expected to target secondary sanctions on countries purchasing Russian oil, gas, and other products, notably China and India. Trump's statement follows his earlier ultimatum, issued on July 14, which threatened "severe" tariffs of up to 100% if Russia did not agree to a peace deal within 50 days. However, Trump has since accelerated the timeline, expressing frustration with Russia's continued aggression and lack of progress in peace negotiations.

Trump's impatience was evident in his remarks, where he criticized Russia's repeated violations of ceasefire agreements and the ongoing attacks on Ukrainian cities, including a strike on a nursing home in Kyiv. He also indicated a reluctance to engage in further dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, citing the discrepancy between Putin's diplomatic rhetoric and Russia's military actions. The U.S. State Department has reinforced Trump's stance, emphasizing that the time for misinterpretation of U.S. intentions is over.

In response, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chair of Russia's Security Council, accused Trump of escalating tensions and pushing the two countries closer to direct confrontation. Despite the warnings, Russia has continued its military offensives, maintaining active fronts and conducting drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities. The situation remains tense, with both sides showing no signs of backing down.

Awaiting the details of the EU-US trade deal

The European Union and the United States have reached a trade agreement, but key details remain undisclosed, sparking mixed reactions across Europe. While some view the deal as a positive step to avoid a full-blown trade war, others criticize it for favoring the U.S. Greek Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis expressed optimism, highlighting the deal's potential to strengthen Atlantic unity, prevent trade disruptions, and enhance Europe's energy security by reducing reliance on Russian natural gas. However, he acknowledged that the agreed 15% tariff is higher than Greece's preferred 10% and noted the significant impact of internal EU regulations on trade.

Greek exporters, while hopeful for tariff exemptions on key products like olive oil, brace for potential losses due to the new tariffs and a strengthening euro. The deal, though seen as a return to normalcy, may negatively impact the competitiveness of Greek products in the U.S. market. Exporters like Alkiviadis Kalambokis, president of the Panhellenic Exporters’ Association, and Nelos Georgoudis, a major olive exporter, express concerns about the deal's immediate effects on their businesses, including the need to renegotiate terms with U.S. clients. Despite these challenges, there is a consensus on the importance of diversifying export markets to regions like India and the Middle East. 📉🇪🇺🇺🇸

Netherlands Bans Israeli Ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir

The Netherlands has declared two Israeli ministers, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, "persona non grata," barring them from entering the country. This decision follows a letter from Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp to the parliament, citing the ministers' advocacy for violence against Palestinians, support for illegal settlement expansion, and incitement of ethnic unrest in Gaza. The Netherlands joins Slovenia and a coalition of non-EU nations, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway, in imposing these sanctions.

The move comes amid growing international criticism of the ministers' extremist views and actions. Ben-Gvir and Smotrich have publicly defended their positions, with Smotrich accusing European leaders of succumbing to "radical Islam" and anti-Semitism, and Ben-Gvir asserting that Israel is unfairly targeted while terrorists are tolerated. Despite Sweden's push for EU-wide sanctions, a lack of consensus among member states, particularly due to support from Hungary and the Czech Republic, has hindered a unified European response. The Netherlands' decision underscores the increasing diplomatic pressure on Israel over its policies towards Palestinians. 🇮🇱🇳🇱🇪🇺

Former Finnish president: I advised Trump about Putin

Former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, known for his insights into Russian President Vladimir Putin's mindset, shared his advice to U.S. President Donald Trump during an interview with Germany's Deutsche Welle. Niinistö, who was one of the few Western leaders in regular contact with Putin before the invasion of Ukraine, described Putin as a fighter who thrives on opposition and respects those who stand their ground. He cautioned Trump about Putin's strategic proposals, which often have hidden complexities, and advised him to avoid engaging with unfamiliar ideas.

Niinistö's advice highlighted Putin's desire for respect and acknowledgment, even in the face of opposition. This perspective contrasts with Trump's earlier stance, where he seemed more aligned with Putin, notably refusing to blame him for election meddling during their 2018 summit. However, Trump's recent comments reflect a shift, with increased criticism and a willingness to support European defense efforts for Ukraine.

Niinistö also expressed hope that Europe would bolster its defense capabilities, asserting that EU enlargement is not subject to Russian approval. While the extent to which Trump heeded Niinistö's advice remains uncertain, the former president's insights offer a nuanced view of Putin's motivations and strategies. 🇷🇺🇺🇸

Forest Fires in Portugal: 2000 Firefighters Battle Major Blazes

Portugal is currently battling 10 major wildfires, with five of the most critical blazes located in the northern and central regions. The most pressing concern is a fire in the eucalyptus forests of Arouca, northern Portugal, where 600 firefighters have been mobilized to combat the flames. Authorities are concentrating their efforts and reinforcements on this fire, as stated by Mario Silvestre, head of the national authority for civil protection. In addition, 100 more firefighters are tackling a fire near Penamacor in the central region, and another near the northern border with Spain, with support from four Spanish aircraft. High temperatures in the coming days pose a significant risk of exacerbating the situation, according to local authorities. The country is on high alert as it works to control these devastating wildfires. 🔥🇵🇹