Newsflash

Finland's Valtonen meeting with Ukrainian foreign minister in Helsinki

Finland's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen, is set to meet with her Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, to discuss critical issues related to Ukraine's ongoing conflict and its path towards Euro-Atlantic integration. The meeting coincides with the Helsinki+50 Conference, which marks the 50th anniversary of Finland's chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). This conference will bring together representatives from 57 states, including those from Russia and Belarus, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy participating remotely.

Key topics of discussion will include Ukraine's peace efforts, Finland's role in supporting the war-torn nation, and Ukraine's progress towards EU membership. Valtonen emphasized the importance of firm support for Ukraine, highlighting its commitment to sustainable peace and independence. She also stressed the need for Ukraine to continue necessary reforms and ensure the effective functioning of its key institutions, such as anti-corruption agencies. The meeting underscores Finland's dedication to aiding Ukraine in its quest for stability and integration within the European community. 🇫🇮🇺🇦🌍

Russia is forcing Ukrainians in occupied territories to watch Kremlin TV — but it's not quite going to plan

In occupied Ukrainian territories, Russia has been attempting to impose its propaganda by replacing local satellite TV dishes with those that only receive Russian broadcasts, a move met with significant resistance from residents. This initiative, part of the "Russkiy Mir" (Russian World) project, aims to control the information space by providing access to Kremlin-controlled TV channels and regional broadcasts from the occupied regions of Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, Zaporozhia, and Crimea. However, locals have been actively boycotting the switch, refusing to voluntarily adopt the Russian satellite equipment. This resistance has frustrated both local occupation authorities and Moscow, which had hoped to consolidate control over the information landscape.

The Ukrainian Resistance Center (URC) reported that over 1,000 pieces of equipment enabling access to Ukrainian television were confiscated in just one week. Despite threats of fines and forced confiscation, residents have persisted in their defiance, risking imprisonment and torture. The Russian-installed head of occupied Kherson, Volodymyr Saldo, offered free replacements for Ukrainian satellite dishes, but his decree banning Ukrainian TV broadcasts has been largely ignored. The Institute for the Study of War noted that the installation of "Russkiy Mir" satellites allows Russia to directly control the media consumption of residents, further entrenching Kremlin propaganda. Despite these efforts, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has maintained that Ukraine will not recognize any occupied territories as part of Russia, underscoring the ongoing struggle for sovereignty and information freedom. 📡📺🇷🇺🇺🇦

Ukraine arrests air force major suspected of spying for Russia

Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) has arrested a major in the Ukrainian Air Force, who is accused of spying for Russia. The officer, a flight instructor in one of Ukraine's air brigades, is suspected of acting as an agent for Russia’s military intelligence agency. He allegedly provided Russian forces with crucial information, including the locations and flight schedules of Western-supplied fighter jets such as U.S.-made F-16s and French Mirage 2000s. The SBU claims that the officer's actions facilitated Russian missile and drone attacks on key Ukrainian air bases and aided in evading Ukrainian air defenses. This arrest highlights the ongoing security challenges Ukraine faces, both from external threats and internal vulnerabilities. 🛩️🕵️‍♂️

Chile Evacuates 1.4 Million Amid Tsunami Warnings

Chile has elevated its tsunami warnings to the highest level, covering areas from Arica in the north to Los Lagos in the south, following a powerful earthquake near the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. The earthquake, measuring 8.8 in magnitude, triggered tsunami alerts across several continents, marking the strongest seismic event since 2011. In Chile, authorities praised the public for executing the "largest mass evacuation in the country's history," which is expected to enhance future preparedness.

While Chile remains on high alert, tsunami warnings have been lowered for some regions, including Easter Island. Meanwhile, New Zealand, located nearly 10,000 kilometers from the epicenter, has reported strong currents and advised against sea activities. Authorities emphasized that the first tsunami waves may not be the largest and urged the public to heed the warnings seriously. Although the tsunami warning for Kamchatka was later lifted, the event underscores the global impact of significant seismic activities. 🌊🌍

Ukraine misses another chance to appoint economic crimes bureau head as IMF deadline looms, MP says

Ukraine is facing a critical deadline to appoint a director for its Economic Crimes Bureau, a move essential for securing continued support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the European Union. The Cabinet of Ministers missed an opportunity to appoint Oleksandr Tsyvinsky, an anti-corruption investigator recommended by a selection committee, during a general meeting on July 30, just a day before the IMF's deadline. Tsyvinsky, who was initially selected by the committee on June 30, has faced opposition from the government, which has cited alleged Russian ties due to his estranged father's citizenship, despite Tsyvinsky's extensive security clearances and vetting.

The selection committee, which includes international experts, has consistently supported Tsyvinsky's candidacy, accusing the government of political interference rather than genuine security concerns. The government's failure to appoint Tsyvinsky has drawn criticism from anti-corruption groups, international partners, and business leaders, who view the delay as a breach of Ukraine's commitments to anti-corruption efforts and legal obligations. The European Commission and the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine have urged the government to swiftly appoint Tsyvinsky to uphold the rule of law and ensure the independence of anti-corruption agencies.

The Economic Crimes Bureau, established in 2021, has been plagued by accusations of corruption and political meddling. Tsyvinsky's appointment is seen as a pivotal step in reforming the bureau and aligning it with EU-backed reforms, crucial for Ukraine's economic and political future. As the IMF deadline looms, the pressure on Ukraine's government to act decisively and transparently intensifies, with the country's international partners and domestic stakeholders closely watching the developments. 🇺🇦💼

EU confirms launch date for new border system to 'help identify overstayers'

The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES), initially delayed from its November launch, is set to commence on October 12, 2025. This automated system will track the entry and exit dates of visitors, monitor overstays, and record refused entries. Travellers will have their biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints, collected. The EES aims to enhance security by identifying overstayers, preventing irregular movements, and reducing document and identity fraud.

The system will be implemented across the EU's 27 member states, except for Ireland and Cyprus, and will also apply to Schengen Area countries Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. The European Commission has planned a phased rollout, with member states expected to have the system operational at half of their border crossing points within three months and fully deployed within six months. 🌐🛂

To ease the transition, information campaigns will be conducted at airports and border crossings across the EU. Travellers should anticipate longer waiting times, as the EES may add a few extra minutes to each passenger's border crossing process. The system, agreed upon in 2017, represents a significant step in strengthening Europe's border security and managing migration.

Washington Post Lists 18,500 Children Killed in Gaza Conflict

A grim tally of the human cost of the nearly two-year war between Israel and Hamas has been revealed, with a list documenting the names and ages of 18,500 children who lost their lives in Gaza. This list is part of a larger roster of 60,000 fatalities, published by the Hamas-controlled health department. The names of the children fill page after page, with over 900 infants under one year old among the victims. The list not only records the names and ages but also shares the poignant stories of some of the children, such as six-year-old Hind, who spent her final hours trapped in a bullet-riddled car, surrounded by the bodies of her relatives, desperately calling for help.

The Israeli military has responded to the high number of child casualties by asserting that it does not intentionally target children and that it strives to minimize civilian casualties. The Hamas-controlled health department compiled the list using hospital and morgue records, reports from victims' families, and reliable media sources. The sheer scale of the tragedy underscores the devastating impact of the conflict on Gaza's youngest and most vulnerable population. 😢👶

Finland issues advisory to hundreds of its citizens in tsunami danger zones

Finland's foreign ministry swiftly responded to a powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula by sending advisory text messages to hundreds of Finnish citizens in potentially affected regions. The messages, dispatched to travelers who had registered their trips to Japan, Hawaii, New Zealand, and various Pacific islands, urged recipients to heed local authorities' instructions and stay informed through local media. The ministry advised avoiding coastal and river areas and contacting friends and family to share their status.

As of Wednesday, the ministry had received travel notifications from 360 Finns in Japan, 10 in Hawaii, and around 110 in New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. However, the actual number of travelers in these areas may be higher, as not all Finns register their trips with authorities. The ministry's diplomatic missions are actively monitoring the situation and have provided an emergency contact number, +358 9 1605 5555, for Finns in affected regions. This proactive approach aims to ensure the safety and well-being of Finnish citizens amid potential tsunami threats, recalling the tragic 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami that claimed the lives of 179 Finns in Thailand. 🌊📲

Cousins who survived mass shooting now battle over Norway's oil riches

In 2011, cousins Andreas Bjelland Eriksen and Vebjorn Bjelland Berg survived a mass shooting at a youth camp on the island of Utøya, an experience that initially brought them closer. However, 14 years later, they find themselves on opposing sides of Norway's climate politics. Eriksen, now the environment minister in Norway's pro-oil, center-left government, faces criticism from his younger cousin, Berg, a prominent activist with Extinction Rebellion. Berg has announced a hunger strike to pressure the government into abandoning oil drilling, putting Eriksen in a challenging position as the country approaches its general election on September 8th.

Berg argues that Norway's oil industry, while making the country extremely wealthy, comes at an unacceptable cost to the planet and vulnerable populations. He criticizes the government's plans to further develop the oil sector, stating that the wealth gained is not worth the potential loss of millions of lives due to climate change. Several smaller parties in Norway support Berg's stance, but the ruling Labour Party, backed by conservative and hard-right allies, aims to "develop, not dismantle" the oil industry. Norway's sovereign wealth fund, largely funded by oil revenues, is the world's largest, with nearly $2 trillion in assets.

Despite their political differences, the cousins maintain a respectful and affectionate relationship. Eriksen has acknowledged the urgency of climate action but believes in a more gradual transition that garners broad support. Berg, meanwhile, is committed to holding his cousin accountable while preserving their bond. Their story highlights the complex interplay of personal history, political beliefs, and national policy in the face of climate change.

Today in Norway: A roundup of the latest news on Wednesday

The Norwegian government has implemented a comprehensive ten-year fishing ban in critical areas of the Oslo Fjord, including regions off Sandefjord and Tønsberg. This initiative, announced by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, aims to restore the fjord's fragile marine ecosystem and replenish depleted fish stocks. The ban, set to begin next year, will significantly impact the fishing industry, with the Norwegian Fishermen's Association expressing grave concerns about the future of shrimp fishing in the area.

The decision has sparked controversy, with industry leaders warning of severe economic repercussions. In addition to the ban, fishing regulations will be tightened across the entire fjord, emphasizing the government's commitment to environmental preservation. 🐟🌊

Meanwhile, as Norway enters the 2025 mushroom season, health authorities have issued a warning about the dangers of mushroom poisoning. The National Institute of Public Health (FHI) has urged the public to exercise caution, particularly regarding the deadly webcap mushroom, which has caused several poisoning cases in the past year. Experts recommend taking identification courses or consulting experts to avoid misidentification.

In diplomatic news, Norway and Palestine have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation, reaffirming Norway's support for Palestinian statehood. The agreement, signed at the United Nations, underscores Norway's commitment to the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

Additionally, Norway's restrictions on Russian fishing vessels have drawn a strong response from Russia. Norwegian authorities have been summoned to discuss the measures, which Russia views as a violation of the 1976 bilateral agreement on Barents Sea fisheries. Norway maintains that the restrictions are in line with its support for European allies in response to Russia's actions in Ukraine. 🇳🇴🇷🇺

Ukrainians return to streets to back anti-corruption agencies ahead of key vote

Across Ukraine, protesters gathered in anticipation of a crucial parliamentary vote to reinstate the independence of key anti-corruption agencies, which were recently curtailed by lawmakers. The move to grant unprecedented control to the Prosecutor General over the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) sparked widespread outrage and protests, the first since Russia's full-scale invasion began.

Demonstrators in Kyiv and other cities, including Odesa, Dnipro, and Lviv, held signs supporting the embattled anti-graft agencies, which had been investigating the inner circle of President Volodymyr Zelensky. The protests, while critical of the government, did not directly blame Zelensky, acknowledging the shared responsibility of parliament and other parties. Protesters also called for the immediate appointment of a director for the Bureau of Economic Security, which has remained leaderless despite ongoing selection processes and international pressure.

The backlash led Zelensky to propose a new bill restoring the agencies' autonomy, which was endorsed by the parliamentary law enforcement committee. As protesters urged parliament to pass the bill, they expressed hope that the government would listen to their demands and make the right choice. The demonstrations highlighted the public's commitment to anti-corruption reforms and their determination to hold the government accountable. The protesters' message was clear: the authorities must engage more with the people and demonstrate their commitment to the country's future. 🇺🇦🚨

Belarus convicts 15 minors on politically motivated charges this year, including for insulting Lukashenko

In 2025, Belarus has convicted fifteen minors on politically motivated charges, according to data from the country's Supreme Court. The charges range from insulting President Alexander Lukashenko to promoting "extremist" activities and mocking state symbols. Nine minors were convicted under Article 342 for organizing or participating in actions that severely disrupt public order. This wave of convictions highlights the ongoing suppression of political freedoms in Belarus, which has intensified since the mass protests in 2020 following a disputed presidential election. The regime, led by Lukashenko, has been criticized internationally for its authoritarian practices and complicity in Russia's actions against Ukraine.

Lukashenko's regime has been marked by severe restrictions on civil liberties, as noted by Freedom House. In January 2025, Lukashenko secured another term as president in an election widely condemned as fraudulent. The Belarusian government's refusal to allow international election observers further underscores its disregard for democratic norms and transparency. The convictions of these minors serve as a stark reminder of the repressive environment in Belarus, where dissent is met with harsh legal consequences. 🇧🇾🚨

Pressure piles on Merz to punish Israel over Gaza

As famine threatens Gaza, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces mounting pressure to reassess his unwavering support for Israel and allow the European Union to impose penalties on Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. The European Commission has proposed suspending parts of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, citing Israel's role in creating a "humanitarian catastrophe" that endangers the entire population of Gaza. While several EU member states back this move, Germany has thus far resisted, maintaining its traditional stance of steadfast support for Israel. Diplomats from various EU countries have expressed frustration with Berlin, as Merz has indicated a desire to monitor the situation in Gaza over the coming days before taking any action. The looming crisis in Gaza has intensified the debate within the EU about how to balance support for Israel with addressing the dire humanitarian situation. The EU is divided over how to respond to the escalating crisis, with some nations pushing for immediate action and others, notably Germany, advocating for a more cautious approach. The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with the potential for widespread famine putting immense pressure on EU leaders to find a resolution. 🍞🏛️

Ukraine will 'fix' controversial anti-graft law, FM says on eve of vote

Ukraine's government has pledged to amend a contentious anti-corruption law that sparked widespread protests, with Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga assuring that the necessary fixes will be implemented. The original legislation, which placed anti-graft bodies under the control of the prosecutor general—an appointee of President Volodymyr Zelensky—raised concerns about potential presidential interference in corruption investigations. The revised bill, set for a parliamentary vote, aims to restore the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), while also introducing regular lie detector tests for anti-graft officials.

The initial law, which sparked the largest public unrest since Russia's invasion, was seen as a setback for Ukraine's anti-corruption efforts and raised alarms among European allies, who viewed it as a threat to the country's EU accession bid. Despite Zelensky's reversal, NABU director Semen Kryvonos expressed concern about ongoing attempts to undermine his agency's work, highlighting the significant opposition they faced. The upcoming vote in parliament, largely loyal to Zelensky, will be crucial in determining the future of Ukraine's anti-corruption framework and its alignment with Western standards. 🇺🇦📜

On Europe’s hardened frontier, Greek island keeps migrants at bay

The Greek island of Lesvos, once a symbol of European solidarity during the 2015 migration crisis, has transformed into a hardened frontier, reflecting the continent's shifting stance on migration. A decade ago, Lesvos welcomed hundreds of thousands of migrants fleeing war and poverty, with locals and aid workers providing crucial support. Today, the island's response has dramatically changed, mirroring Europe's broader hardening against irregular migration.

In 2015, Lesvos became the first stop for half a million migrants from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq, with residents and charities offering food, shelter, and aid. However, the influx overwhelmed communities, leading to a backlash and a surge in anti-immigration sentiment across Europe. By 2024, irregular migrant arrivals to the EU had plummeted to around 240,000, with just 11,200 reaching Lesvos. The island's tourism industry has since recovered, and the once-frenzied migrant hubs have returned to tranquility.

However, the shift has come at a cost. Under a 2021 law, anyone caught helping migrants ashore may face charges, including facilitating illegal entry or aiding criminal enterprises. This deterrent has significantly reduced arrivals but has also put lives at risk. In April, eight migrants, including a 2-year-old boy, drowned after their dinghy capsized near Lesvos, with survivors alleging that the coastguard did not intervene promptly. Greece denies violating human rights or forcibly returning asylum seekers, but the country faces scrutiny for its treatment of migrants.

Lesvos's transformation began with a 2016 EU-Turkey deal, which turned Greece into a holding zone for migrants. The island's response hardened as the number of migrants swelled, leading to tensions with locals and a rise in support for far-right parties. A fire swept through the Moria camp in 2020, displacing thousands and further straining relations. Today, a new camp is under construction, but locals oppose it, citing fire risks and the facility's remote location.

Despite the reduced migrant arrivals, people continue to attempt the dangerous journey. In June, a fisherman spotted a dinghy carrying migrants from Yemen and Sudan, but he hesitated to approach, fearing coastguard reprisals. The migrants disembarked and were quickly picked up by police, highlighting the island's tense atmosphere. As Europe grapples with migration, Lesvos stands as a stark reminder of the continent's evolving stance on those seeking refuge. 🛳️🇬🇷🌊

Kyiv stonewalls as pressure mounts to confirm top economic watchdog

The European Commission has publicly called on Ukraine to promptly appoint Oleksandr Tsyvinskyi, a seasoned anti-corruption investigator, as the head of the Economic Security Bureau. This bureau is crucial for probing economic crimes in the country. Tsyvinskyi was chosen by an independent commission on June 24, but his appointment has been stalled by two consecutive Ukrainian governments, despite Ukraine's commitments to the EU and the International Monetary Fund to uphold reform pledges. The European Commission emphasized that appointing Tsyvinskyi is essential for Ukraine's broader reform agenda and its progress towards EU accession. The delay in confirming Tsyvinskyi's appointment highlights ongoing challenges in Ukraine's efforts to strengthen its law enforcement and anti-corruption frameworks. 🇺🇦📜

Libyan coast guards train in Greece under plan to stem migrant flows

Libyan coast guard officers have commenced training in Greece, specifically on the island of Crete, as part of a broader initiative to bolster cooperation between the two nations and address the increasing number of migrant arrivals. This training program, which includes patrols and search and rescue operations, is currently involving officers from eastern Libya, with plans to extend the training to western Libyan coast guards.

The move comes amidst strained relations between Greece and Libya, exacerbated by a 2019 maritime boundary agreement between the Tripoli-based Libyan government and Turkey, a long-standing adversary of Greece. Additionally, Greece's efforts to develop hydrocarbon resources off Crete have further complicated the diplomatic landscape. In response to a surge in migrant flows from North Africa, Athens has deployed naval frigates off Libya and enacted legislation preventing migrants arriving from Libya by sea from seeking asylum.

Despite these tensions, Greece remains committed to engaging with both the Tripoli-based government and the parallel administration in Benghazi. Recent diplomatic efforts include Athens inviting Libya’s internationally recognized government in Tripoli to initiate talks on demarcating exclusive economic zones in the Mediterranean. Both countries are expected to hold discussions on maritime zones in the coming months, signaling a potential thaw in relations and a collaborative approach to managing migrant flows and maritime boundaries. 🛳️🌊

Powerful earthquake in Russia's Far East triggers tsunami warnings, evacuations in Japan and US

A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck near the Russian peninsula of Kamchatka, triggering tsunami warnings and evacuations across the Pacific region. The quake, one of the strongest in decades, caused significant damage in Kamchatka and Sakhalin Island, including a flooded town and injuries. Tsunami waves up to 3-4 meters high were recorded, prompting evacuations in Japan and Hawaii, as well as alerts along the U.S. West Coast and other Pacific nations. The earthquake also triggered a volcanic eruption at Klyuchevskaya Sopka, Russia's highest active volcano, adding to the region's seismic activity. The event highlighted the vulnerability of the Ring of Fire, a tectonic belt known for its frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. 🌊🌋🇷🇺🇯🇵🇺🇸

Trump Raises Tariffs on Brazil to 50 Percent

President Donald Trump has issued a presidential order significantly increasing tariffs on Brazilian goods from 10% to 50%. This decision is justified by the White House as a response to actions by the Brazilian government that allegedly pose an "unusual and extraordinary threat" to U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economy. The tariffs are partially motivated by claims that American companies operating in Brazil have been coerced into censoring political statements, shutting down users, sharing sensitive information about American users, and altering their content moderation policies.

The order also criticizes the ongoing legal proceedings against Brazil's former president, Jair Bolsonaro, describing them as part of a "politically motivated persecution" and a violation of human rights. Bolsonaro, a right-wing radical who served from 2019 to 2022, is currently facing trial for attempting to stage a coup following his election defeat in 2022. He is also accused of leading a "criminal organization" aimed at preventing the current president, Lula da Silva, from taking office. The U.S. recently revoked the visa of a Brazilian judge who ordered Bolsonaro to wear an electronic ankle monitor, further escalating tensions between the two nations. 🇧🇷🇺🇸💥

Germany’s budget woes set to return, finance minister warns

A significant €30 billion budget shortfall looming in Germany's 2027 federal budget poses a substantial challenge for Chancellor Friedrich Merz's coalition government. Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has underscored the gravity of the situation, describing it as one of the most pressing domestic policy issues the government will face in the coming year. The fiscal strain follows the collapse of the previous left-leaning administration led by Olaf Scholz, which fell due to budgetary constraints and deep-seated disagreements over spending. The subsequent snap election in February brought Merz and his conservative party to power in a coalition with the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD). This budgetary crisis will test the new government's ability to manage economic pressures and maintain political stability. 💸📉