Newsflash

Ukraine Evacuates 19 Villages Near Donetsk Front Line

Ukrainian authorities are urgently evacuating 19 villages in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine due to the advancing Russian invasion forces. Donetsk Governor Vadym Filasjkin emphasized the extreme danger of remaining in the area, urging residents to evacuate while they still can. The affected villages are situated within a three-mile radius of the active war front, putting approximately 109 children at risk. The evacuation order comes as Russian forces have made significant advances in the region over the past four months, intensifying the conflict and threatening the safety of local residents. 🏠💥

Ankara blocks research on cable route

Turkey has halted survey work for an international undersea cable project, sending a clear message to Greece and other stakeholders amid escalating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Gibraltar-flagged research vessel Fugro Gauss, conducting surveys for the East to Med Corridor (EMC), was stopped for operating without permission in waters Turkey claims as part of its continental shelf. This incident follows Turkey's opposition to the Greece-Cyprus electrical interconnection project, known as the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI).

The EMC project, valued at approximately $850 million, aims to connect Saudi Arabia to Europe via Greece’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Backed by a Saudi-majority consortium with a 20% stake held by Greece’s Public Power Corporation (PPC), the project has faced setbacks, including the exit of Cyprus’ telecom company CYTA. The majority stake in one of the key companies, Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN), belongs to the French firm Nexans, which is also involved in the frozen Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection project.

Turkey's actions, including the dispatch of a Navy frigate to the area, underscore its bid for inclusion in major regional infrastructure initiatives and its direct challenge to Greece's plans. Greece has indicated a possible resumption of GSI work in September, which could further escalate tensions. This is not the first time Turkey has intervened in research activities within Cyprus’ EEZ, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical disputes in the region. 🌊🇹🇷🇬🇷

Trump and Putin to Meet in Alaska on August 15

A highly anticipated summit between U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled for August 15 in Alaska. The Kremlin has also extended an invitation for a subsequent meeting in Moscow. Both leaders have expressed a desire for peace, with Trump suggesting that a territorial exchange may be part of a potential agreement. However, Ukraine has consistently refused to cede occupied territories, citing constitutional constraints.

The proposed peace plan aligns with previous demands from Putin, who seeks to annex the eastern Donbass region, the Crimean Peninsula, and freeze the front lines in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. The U.S. is reportedly working to garner support from Ukraine and European leaders for this agreement, which would significantly bolster Putin's territorial gains. Despite these efforts, Zelenskyy has maintained Ukraine's stance against surrendering occupied lands, presenting a significant obstacle to the proposed peace deal. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦🤝

Lithuania’s Litgrid seeks contractor to dismantle remaining electricity connections with Kaliningrad

Lithuania is taking a significant step towards full integration with Europe's electricity grid by dismantling its remaining power transmission lines with Kaliningrad and Belarus. The state-owned electricity transmission system operator, Litgrid, announced plans to remove over 182 kilometers of transmission lines and 544 pylons by the end of 2026. This move includes the dismantling of 12 lines with Belarus and six with Kaliningrad, marking a historic shift in Lithuania's energy infrastructure.

The initiative follows the Baltic states' successful disconnection from the Russian-controlled IPS/UPS electricity system on February 8 and their subsequent synchronization with the Continental European Synchronous Area on February 9. This synchronization connects Lithuania, along with Latvia and Estonia, to a network serving over 400 million customers across 26 countries, symbolizing a major leap towards energy independence and European integration. The dismantling process is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, further solidifying Lithuania's commitment to aligning its energy infrastructure with that of continental Europe. 🔌🇱🇹

Pentagon can divert some weapons meant for Ukraine to US stockpiles, CNN reports

The Pentagon has the authority to divert certain weapons, originally intended for Ukraine, back into U.S. stockpiles, according to a memo from Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby. This policy, outlined in a July memo, allows the U.S. to reclaim weapons produced for Ukraine under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) and return them to domestic reserves. Although no weapons have been diverted yet, this provision could potentially deprive Ukraine of billions of dollars' worth of U.S.-made equipment planned for future delivery.

The memo categorizes U.S. weapons into three groups: "red," "yellow," and "green," with the first two indicating shortages and requiring additional approval before being sent abroad. This includes critical items like interceptor missiles for Patriot air defense systems. Despite a U.S. Senate committee approving $800 million for the USAI as part of the Pentagon’s annual budget, the future delivery of these weapons to Ukraine remains uncertain under the new policy.

Recent announcements include a $200 million foreign military sales approval for Ukraine, covering artillery support, transportation, and logistics. Additionally, the U.S. has provided over $60 billion in military aid to Ukraine under the Biden administration, including key systems like Patriot air defense systems, HIMARS, and ATACMS. The potential diversion of weapons has raised concerns about the U.S.'s commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense needs amidst ongoing conflicts. 💥🇺🇸🇺🇦

US, Russia discuss deal to cement Moscow's hold on occupied Ukrainian territories, Bloomberg reports

The United States and Russia are reportedly in discussions to broker a deal that would solidify Moscow's control over occupied Ukrainian territories, potentially ending the ongoing conflict. This development comes ahead of an anticipated meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The proposed agreement aims to freeze the conflict, establish a ceasefire, and initiate technical negotiations for a final peace settlement.

Russia is insisting on Ukraine ceding the entirety of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, as well as Crimea. Currently, Russia occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine's territory, including all of Crimea and significant portions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts. Moscow has illegally annexed these regions and demands Ukraine's complete withdrawal, despite not fully controlling them. The Kremlin seeks formal recognition of its control over these territories, a move that Ukraine has strongly rejected.

Under the potential deal, Russia might halt offensive operations in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia along existing front lines, although the terms are still fluid and subject to change. It is unclear whether Russia is willing to relinquish any of the territories it currently occupies, including the strategic Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. The U.S. is working to secure support from Ukraine and its European allies for this deal, but its success is far from guaranteed.

The Trump-Putin meeting occurs amid U.S. efforts to cut off Russia's war funding, with a focus on targeting oil revenues that constitute about one-third of Russia's federal budget. Trump has issued an ultimatum to Moscow, demanding a ceasefire within a specified timeframe or facing severe U.S. sanctions. As the deadline approaches, Trump has expressed impatience, indicating that the outcome now "depends on Putin." 🇷🇺🇺🇸⚖️

Azerbaijan and Armenia Sign Peace Agreement at White House

In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Armenia and Azerbaijan have agreed to permanently cease all hostilities and establish open trade, travel, and diplomatic relations. The historic peace agreement, signed with the facilitation of the United States, also includes the creation of a new trade and transit corridor dubbed "Trump's Road for International Peace and Prosperity." This corridor will reconnect Azerbaijan's mainland with the autonomous region of Nakhchivan, a long-standing goal for Azerbaijan. The U.S. President, Donald Trump, announced the lifting of military restrictions on Azerbaijan, including the repeal of parts of a 1992 law that previously prohibited direct assistance to the country.

The agreement marks the end of a prolonged military conflict between the two nations, notably over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which Azerbaijani forces captured in a military offensive in September 2023. Both Armenia and Azerbaijan have expressed their intention to nominate Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, a suggestion also made by Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu. This peace accord is poised to foster regional stability and economic cooperation, with the newly established corridor expected to play a crucial role in enhancing connectivity and prosperity. 🇦🇲🇦🇿🤝

US Military Authorized to Target Latin American Drug Cartels

The United States has authorized its military to conduct offensive operations against drug cartels both at sea and on foreign soil, following a presidential decree. This move, aimed at intensifying the fight against fentanyl trafficking and powerful cartels, has sparked immediate reactions from Mexico. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum swiftly clarified that there would be no invasion of Mexico, asserting that the decree does not involve U.S. military personnel or institutions operating within Mexican territory. Sheinbaum's statement came in response to reports that the U.S. military is developing strategies to execute this new directive.

President Trump has consistently prioritized combating drug cartels, vowing during his election campaign to deploy all necessary military capabilities to disrupt the flow of illicit drugs into the U.S. This aggressive stance has included designating several Latin American cartels as terrorist organizations upon Trump's return to the presidency in January. The new decree underscores a significant escalation in the U.S.'s approach to countering transnational criminal organizations, with potential implications for regional security and diplomatic relations. 🇺🇸🌊💥

Prisoners Returned to Iran's Evin Prison After Israeli Attack

Evin Prison in Iran recently experienced significant upheaval following an Israeli attack. The exact number of prisoners moved from the facility and subsequently returned remains undisclosed. However, new facilities have been constructed within the prison to accommodate the inmates. The attack, which occurred during visiting hours, resulted in a disputed death toll, with Iranian officials reporting 71 fatalities, including five prisoners, while local media cited 80 deaths. The victims included prison staff, soldiers, prisoners, and visiting family members.

In the aftermath of the attack, 75 prisoners escaped, with 48 either recaptured or voluntarily returned, according to Iranian authorities. Evin Prison is notorious for housing many political prisoners, including the Swedish-Iranian researcher Ahmadreza Djalali, who has been imprisoned since 2016 and sentenced to death. Djalali was among those moved from the prison at the end of June and has been missing since then. The attack and subsequent events have raised concerns about the treatment and safety of political prisoners in Iran. 🏛️🔒

Is the mere announcement of a Trump-Putin meeting enough to delay sanctions on Russia?

The prospect of an upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin has sparked both skepticism and cautious optimism among Russians, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As Trump seeks to persuade Moscow to cease its military operations, which have persisted for over three years, many Russians on the streets of Moscow express doubts about the potential for a breakthrough.

The mere announcement of the summit has already had diplomatic repercussions, with some suggesting it may delay or influence the imposition of further sanctions on Russia. The complex dynamics of this high-stakes meeting are under scrutiny, with experts weighing in on the potential outcomes and implications for global security. Professor Stefan Wolff, a German political scientist and expert in international security from the University of Birmingham, discusses the nuances of this diplomatic maneuver and its potential impact on the Ukraine conflict. The world watches closely as these two powerful leaders prepare to engage in crucial talks that could shape the future of Eastern Europe. 🌍🤝

Ukraine war latest: US, Russia discuss deal to cement Moscow's hold on occupied Ukrainian territories, Bloomberg reports

In a significant diplomatic development, the United States and Russia are reportedly discussing a deal to solidify Moscow's control over occupied Ukrainian territories, potentially freezing the ongoing conflict. This potential agreement, discussed ahead of a planned meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, aims to establish a ceasefire and pave the way for future peace negotiations. Russia is demanding the cession of Donetsk, Luhansk, and Crimea, while the U.S. seeks to secure support from Ukraine and its European allies for the deal.

Military tensions remain high, with reports of Russian troops attempting to enter Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, although Ukrainian forces claim to have repelled these advances. Additionally, Ukraine's military intelligence reportedly targeted a Russian air defense brigade in Krasnodar Krai, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 Russian soldiers. Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk suggested that a pause in the conflict could occur sooner rather than later, following discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The geopolitical landscape remains tense as both sides navigate potential diplomatic solutions amidst ongoing military engagements. 🇷🇺🇺🇸🇺🇦💥

Experts say Purra's plans to abolish integration funding will increase segregation, further weaken job prospects

Finland's finance minister, Riikka Purra, has proposed significant budget cuts that include the elimination of funding aimed at helping immigrants integrate into Finnish society. The current system involves municipalities and regional healthcare authorities providing integration services and then claiming reimbursement from the state. The proposed cuts, amounting to €167 million in 2026 and €150 million in 2027, follow previous reductions in integration funding and a shift in responsibility from the state to municipalities.

Critics argue that these cuts will severely impact integration efforts, making it harder for immigrants to find employment and negatively affecting Finland's international image as an inclusive society. The City of Helsinki, for instance, estimates spending €17 million this year on integration services, including refugee housing, language training, and support for families. The proposed cuts will exacerbate the challenges faced by immigrants, particularly in municipalities like Vantaa, where unemployment is already high.

Directors of migration and integration services in Helsinki and Vantaa warn that the cuts will weaken integration services, increase segregation, and hinder immigrants' ability to enter the workforce. Language training, a crucial component of integration, will be particularly affected, leading to longer wait times for essential services. The proposed changes raise critical questions about Finland's commitment to fostering an inclusive society and supporting the successful integration of immigrants.

Peace talks will include 'some swapping of territories,' Trump says ahead of proposed meeting with Putin

U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that upcoming peace talks between Russia and Ukraine may involve "some swapping of territories." This statement comes as Trump prepares for a potential summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump suggested that a peace deal could include territorial exchanges, though he did not specify which areas might be involved, potentially referring to Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine. Trump also hinted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would need to be prepared to sign an agreement, though the exact terms remain unclear.

The proposed summit, tentatively scheduled for next week, aims to discuss a territorial agreement that would solidify Russia's control over occupied Ukrainian regions and pave the way for a ceasefire and eventual peace settlement. Putin has demanded that Ukraine cede Donetsk, Luhansk, and Crimea, as well as withdraw from NATO, as conditions for peace. Zelensky, however, has emphasized Ukraine's commitment to active negotiations for a genuine and reliable peace, criticizing Russia's rejection of a proposed ceasefire. The situation remains fluid, with no official comment from Ukraine's Presidential Office on Trump's remarks. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦✍️

Breaking: Trump, Putin to meet in Alaska on Aug. 15 for peace talks

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15, marking the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since the start of Trump's second term. The meeting, confirmed by Putin's foreign policy aide, Yuri Ushakov, will take place on U.S. soil, with Moscow expecting Trump to attend subsequent summits in Russia. The details of the meeting, including the participation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, remain unclear.

The location of the meeting, Alaska, comes as a surprise, as both parties had previously proposed more neutral settings, such as Rome or the United Arab Emirates. The announcement follows a meeting between Putin and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine. Trump has suggested that a territorial swap could be part of the peace negotiations, though he did not specify which territories he was referring to.

The proposed deal aims to freeze the conflict, lay the groundwork for a ceasefire, and pave the way for technical negotiations toward a final peace settlement. Putin has demanded that Ukraine cede all of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, as well as Crimea. However, Ukraine's Presidential Office has not yet commented on Trump's comments or Zelensky's potential presence at the meeting. Meanwhile, Zelensky has criticized Moscow for ignoring a proposed ceasefire and emphasized Ukraine's active negotiations with partners for a reliable peace. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

‘Just a trickle’: Residents in Russian-occupied Ukraine face severe water shortage

Residents in the Russian-occupied Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine are facing a severe water crisis, with supplies reduced to a mere trickle or completely cut off in some areas. The situation has been exacerbated by Russia's occupation, mismanagement, and wartime destruction, leading to dire conditions for locals. Since 2014, when Russian-backed separatists took control of the region, water supply issues have been persistent, but the full-scale invasion in 2022 has significantly worsened the problem.

The water crisis is evident in major cities like Donetsk and Mariupol, where residents receive water for only a few hours every few days. This has led to long queues for water, with people carrying containers to collect what little is available. The situation is particularly challenging for those living in high-rise buildings, as water often does not reach the upper floors. Residents have had to adapt, planning their water usage meticulously and resorting to creative solutions like collecting rainwater.

The crisis has been compounded by a severe heatwave, making hydration even more critical. The US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has described the situation as a "humanitarian catastrophe," with people resorting to drinking from puddles and rainwater. The upcoming school year adds further complexity, as children will need access to clean water in classrooms.

Russian-backed authorities have blamed Ukraine for the water shortage, claiming that a "Ukrainian water blockade" is to blame. However, experts argue that the crisis is largely a result of Russia's mismanagement and destruction of critical infrastructure. The Siverskyi Donets-Donbas canal, a primary water source for the region, has been severely damaged due to military actions. Russia has attempted to address the issue by constructing a new water pipeline, but it has proven insufficient and has already sustained damage.

The water crisis has broader implications, affecting power generation and public health. As reservoirs dry up and water supplies dwindle, the long-term consequences for the region's infrastructure and humanitarian situation are dire. The international community must recognize the severity of the crisis and the urgent need for intervention to alleviate the suffering of the people in the Donetsk region. 💦🚰

Ukraine pulls civilians back from parts of endangered Kherson

Ukraine is urgently evacuating residents from Korabel, an island district of Kherson city in southern Ukraine, following a recent Russian attack that severely damaged the sole bridge connecting the suburb to the rest of the city. The evacuation effort comes as Russian forces continue to target the bridge and surrounding area, hampering rescue operations. Out of the original 1,800 residents, approximately 600 remain, with at least 200 people scheduled for evacuation today.

The situation in Korabel is dire, with residents lacking access to essential services such as gas, electricity, shops, and public transportation. The ongoing Russian attacks have exacerbated the challenges faced by the remaining inhabitants, making the evacuation process both urgent and perilous. 🚨🏠

Valtonen: Finland following Israel's actions in Gaza with 'great worry'

Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen has expressed deep concern over the escalating situation in Gaza, emphasizing Finland's strong opposition to any attempts to alter or seize territories designated for Palestinians under the 1967 agreements. Valtonen underscored the importance of maintaining the conditions for a two-state solution, despite the current challenges. Finland's immediate priorities include easing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, ensuring aid reaches all affected areas, and opposing new Israeli settlements and settler violence in the West Bank. The Finnish government hopes for the swift release of hostages and the establishment of a ceasefire to pave the way for broader political solutions.

Valtonen also addressed Finland's stance on recognizing Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September, stating that the government will assess the situation and make a decision afterward. This position is complicated by the opposition from coalition partners, the Finns Party and Christian Democrats.

In addition to the Middle East, Valtonen called for increased U.S. sanctions on Russia and its oil buyers, particularly China and India. She expressed hope that President Trump would advance these secondary sanctions. Meanwhile, President Alexander Stubb engaged in diplomatic efforts, participating in a phone call with President Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and other European leaders to discuss a ceasefire and end to Russia's aggression in Ukraine. Stubb has been actively communicating with key European allies, including French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, to address the ongoing crisis. 🌍📞

Probe into EU farm funds fraud in Greece widens

A major investigation into the misappropriation of hundreds of millions of euros in EU farm funds in Greece has expanded to include a former official from the ruling New Democracy party, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The probe stems from a report revealing that Kalliopi Semertzidou, along with her partner and at least six family members, received €2.5 million in subsidies from OPEKEPE, the organization responsible for distributing EU farm funds in Greece, between 2019 and 2024.

Facing increasing scrutiny, Semertzidou resigned from her position as the coordinator of EU funds and women’s entrepreneurship within the New Democracy party. The widening investigation underscores the depth of the alleged fraud and the potential involvement of high-ranking officials, raising concerns about corruption and mismanagement of EU funds in Greece. 🇬🇷💸

Secretary Marco Rubio emphasizes US-Greece energy cooperation

Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the strategic importance of U.S.-Greece energy cooperation and Greece's role as a key NATO ally during a recent phone call with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The conversation highlighted the strength of the bilateral relationship and the significance of regional collaboration, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean. The discussion also covered topics such as Libya and regional cooperation with Israel and Cyprus, emphasizing the shared interests and mutual benefits of enhanced partnership between the two nations. 🇺🇸🇬🇷🔋

'Once Hamas releases the hostages the war will be over, regardless of Israel's own agenda'

Global condemnation has mounted against Israel's plan to seize control of Gaza City, with nations worldwide warning that such a move would exacerbate the conflict and result in further bloodshed. The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, labeled Israel's strategy a "dangerous escalation," while the European Union threatened severe repercussions for EU-Israeli relations. Despite international pleas for Israel to avoid expanding the war in Gaza, the country appears poised to proceed with its agenda. In a discussion with FRANCE 24's Jean-Emile Jammine, Ofer Bronchtein, Middle East Envoy for France and President of the International Forum for Peace, weighed in on the escalating tensions. Bronchtein, who previously served as an advisor to Yitzhak Rabin, emphasized that the release of hostages by Hamas could potentially bring an end to the conflict, irrespective of Israel's own plans. The international community watches with bated breath as the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with fears of a full-blown humanitarian crisis looming. 🇮🇱🇵🇸🌍