Newsflash

Russian strikes pound Ukraine, Kyiv targets Moscow

Russian forces have intensified their strikes on Ukraine, targeting key regions and causing significant civilian casualties. In the eastern Donetsk region and the southern areas of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, six people lost their lives due to drone and artillery attacks. The violence escalated when a Russian glide bomb struck a bustling central bus station in Zaporizhzhia, injuring 20 individuals. The ongoing assaults underscore the relentless nature of the conflict, with Ukrainian cities and infrastructure remaining prime targets. 🇺🇦💥

Synthetic sapphire factory in Russia's Stavropol reportedly attacked by drones

A synthetic sapphire factory in the Russian city of Stavropol was reportedly struck by drones overnight on August 12. The attack targeted the JSC Monocrystal plant, a leading global producer of synthetic sapphire used in optoelectronics, solar energy, and aerospace industries, including military applications. Local residents reported explosions and a fire at the site, with footage showing smoke rising from the factory's street. Earlier in the night, Stavropol Krai Governor Vladimir Vladimirov had issued a drone warning for the area. The factory is a subsidiary of Energomera, an electronics and manufacturing company. Ukraine has been conducting drone strikes on Russian industrial and military sites to undermine Moscow's war capabilities in Ukraine. 💥🏭

Russian forces pierce Ukrainian defense in Donetsk Oblast, bypassing fortifications, monitoring group says

In Donetsk Oblast, Russian forces have made significant advances, bypassing Ukrainian fortifications and threatening key logistics routes. The Ukrainian battlefield monitoring group DeepState reported that Russian troops have seized positions in settlements near the Dobropillia–Kramatorsk highway, leveraging their numerical superiority to push into areas like Kucheriv Yar, Zolotyi Kolodiaz, and Vesele. This offensive, part of a broader campaign since spring, has brought crucial Ukrainian supply lines within range of Russian drones, jeopardizing Kyiv's defense of the eastern region.

Russian troops are also attempting to establish footholds in Petrivka and Novovodiane, further complicating Ukraine's defensive efforts. The latest gains threaten to isolate Ukrainian-controlled cities like Sloviansk, Kramatorsk, Druzhkivka, and Kostiantynivka. Despite new fortifications in areas like Zolotyi Kolodiaz and Shakhove, Russian forces are bypassing these positions, setting the stage for potential future offensives. The situation is dire, with Ukrainian forces facing heavy losses and the possibility of Dobropillia falling faster than other strategic locations.

Ukraine's General Staff reported intense fighting in the Pokrovsk area, with Russian forces attempting to breach Ukrainian lines in small groups. The Commander-in-Chief has ordered additional forces to detect and destroy enemy sabotage groups. This development comes as Russia seeks to strengthen its position ahead of potential peace talks, intensifying its efforts on the front line. The conflict remains brutal, with Ukrainian brigades severely understrength and Russian forces targeting weak points in the defense. Civilian evacuations from contested areas remain perilous, with repeated accusations of Russian forces targeting non-combatants. 🇺🇦💥

Ukraine Holds Key Decision-Making Role, Says Swedish Foreign Minister

European Union foreign ministers convened to discuss the impending meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the critical role Europe must play in any negotiations due to the long-term implications for European security. Swedish Minister for EU Affairs Jessika Roswall Malmer Stenergard stressed that any decisions must include Ukraine, as its interests are paramount. She affirmed that Ukraine's position will guide Sweden's support, particularly regarding potential territorial exchanges. The ministers agreed that Ukraine's involvement is non-negotiable, underscoring the importance of European unity and engagement in resolving the conflict. The upcoming Trump-Putin meeting is seen as a pivotal moment that could shape the future of European security, making it essential for the EU to have a voice in the process. 🇪🇺🇺🇦

Europe pushes for Ukraine role in Trump-Putin talks

European leaders have called for Ukraine to be included in upcoming negotiations between the United States and Russia, emphasizing the importance of Ukraine's involvement in discussions led by Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. This push comes as European nations seek to ensure that Ukraine's voice is heard in any diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. The inclusion of Ukraine is seen as crucial for addressing the security concerns and sovereignty of the country, which has been at the forefront of the geopolitical tensions between the West and Russia. European leaders argue that excluding Ukraine from these talks would undermine the prospects for a lasting and just peace, as well as the stability of the broader European region. The call for Ukraine's participation underscores the continent's commitment to supporting its allies and maintaining a unified front against Russian aggression. 🇪🇺🇺🇦🇷🇺

Eagle S captain, two officers to face trial over suspected sabotage of undersea cables

Finnish authorities have filed serious charges against the captain, first officer, and second officer of the Cook Islands-registered oil tanker Eagle S. The trio, who have been barred from leaving Finland since the investigation began, are accused of aggravated sabotage and aggravated telecommunications interference. The charges stem from an incident last December when the vessel allegedly damaged the Estlink 2 power cable and four other telecommunication wires in the Gulf of Finland by dragging its anchor along the seabed for approximately 90 kilometers. The incident raised significant concerns about Finland's energy supply and telecommunications infrastructure.

The damage to the cables, which were out of commission for months, has resulted in repair costs of at least €60 million for the owners, Finnish telecommunications firm Elisa and the state-owned digital security company Cinia. Finnish authorities suspect the Eagle S is part of Russia's "shadow fleet," which is used to evade Western sanctions imposed due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The defendants have consistently denied any wrongdoing and have argued that Finland lacks jurisdiction because the incident occurred outside of its territorial waters. The case underscores the broader geopolitical tensions and the strategic importance of underwater infrastructure in the region. 🛢️🇷🇺🇫🇮

Finland charges crew of Baltic tanker with ties to Russia over undersea cable damage

Finland has filed criminal charges against the top officers of the Baltic oil tanker Eagle S, accusing them of severe damage to undersea cables in the Gulf of Finland. The Cook Islands-registered vessel, part of a "shadow fleet" transporting Russian oil, allegedly dragged its anchor for over 90 kilometers on December 25, 2024, severing five electricity and telecom cables and causing nearly $70 million in damages. The incident disrupted Finland's energy supply and telecommunications, raising concerns about potential sabotage. The tanker's crew, comprising Georgian and Indian nationals, faces charges of aggravated criminal mischief. While Finland has not directly implicated Russia, officials have noted the ship's recent departure from a Russian port and suggested possible Kremlin involvement. This incident is part of a broader pattern of suspected Russian operations and undersea infrastructure damage in the Baltic region since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Finnish authorities aim to hold shadow fleet operators accountable and deter future acts of sabotage. 🛳️💥

EU's top diplomat draws up Russia sanctions, warns against 'concessions' to Moscow

Following a meeting of EU foreign ministers, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced that the bloc will prepare a 19th package of sanctions against Russia. Kallas emphasized that the EU must not consider making concessions to Moscow until a full and unconditional ceasefire is achieved. She stressed the importance of a strong monitoring system and ironclad security guarantees as prerequisites for any peace negotiations. The EU is also committed to bolstering military and financial aid to Ukraine and supporting its accession process to the EU.

Kallas' remarks come amid heightened diplomatic efforts, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky engaging in calls with key international leaders, including those from Germany, Britain, and France. These discussions aim to coordinate a unified response to the ongoing conflict and prepare for an upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kallas underscored that any deal between the U.S. and Russia must include Ukraine and the EU, as the security of the entire continent is at stake. 🇪🇺🇷🇺

NATO chief Mark Rutte also weighed in, acknowledging the significance of the upcoming U.S.-Russia summit in testing Putin's commitment to ending the war. Meanwhile, Ukraine maintains its stance that it will never recognize Russian control over its sovereign territory, insisting that any resolution must adhere to international law and involve Ukraine's participation. The EU and its allies remain steadfast in their support for Ukraine, advocating for a just and sustainable peace that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Finland charges captain of Russian 'shadow fleet' tanker over Baltic Sea cable sabotage

Finnish prosecutors have charged the captain and two officers of the Cook Islands-registered oil tanker Eagle S with sabotage, accusing them of damaging five undersea cables in the Gulf of Finland last December. The vessel, believed to be part of Russia's "shadow fleet," allegedly dragged its anchor along the seabed for about 90 kilometers, causing significant harm to critical infrastructure. The damaged cables included the EstLink 2 submarine power cable and four telecommunications cables connecting Finland to Estonia, resulting in at least €60 million in repair costs. The incident is suspected to have posed a serious risk to Finland's energy supply and telecommunications. The defendants have denied the charges, arguing that the incident occurred outside Finnish territorial waters. This event is part of a broader pattern of suspected hybrid warfare by Russia against Western countries, with increased NATO surveillance in the Baltic Sea following Sweden and Finland's accession to the alliance in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. 🌊💥

Europe is warming twice as fast as the rest of the globe

Europe is currently experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures reaching 43°C in France, 40°C in Spain, and 43°C in Greece. This extreme heat is part of a broader trend, as Europe is warming at a rate twice as fast as the global average. This rapid warming is leading to increasingly frequent and severe heatwaves, posing significant challenges to public health, infrastructure, and ecosystems across the continent. The current heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action and adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of this accelerating warming trend. 🌡️🔥

Trump to join European leaders on emergency call before Putin talks

U.S. President Donald Trump will participate in an emergency virtual summit with European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, organized by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The summit, scheduled for Wednesday, aims to address critical issues related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Key topics of discussion will include potential pressure tactics against Russia, the status of Ukrainian territories seized by Russia, security assurances for Kyiv, and the timing of possible peace negotiations. This virtual meeting precedes a significant summit in Alaska between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, set for Friday, where the war in Ukraine will be a central focus. The gathering underscores the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to address the escalating crisis and its broader implications for European security. 🌍💬

‘What were so many deaths for?’ Ukrainians react to Trump-Putin peace plan ahead of Alaska summit

As U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin prepare to meet in Alaska to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine, the proposal has sparked significant controversy and debate among Ukrainians. The plan, which may involve territorial exchanges, has been firmly rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who emphasizes that the country’s Constitution prohibits ceding territory.

The proposed agreement includes Ukraine withdrawing its troops from parts of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, while Russia would retreat from areas it controls in Kharkiv and Sumy oblasts. However, many Ukrainians express deep skepticism and anger about the prospect of their future being decided without their involvement. They question the value of the sacrifices made during the conflict and express fear that any concessions will only embolden Russian aggression. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

A lawyer in Kyiv, Artem Nikitin, though hopeful, acknowledges the limited influence Ukraine has in the negotiations. Vitalii, a service member, strongly opposes giving up territory and insists that Ukraine should be part of any discussions. Nataliia Prykhodko, whose husband died in the war, views the negotiations as a "farce" driven by financial interests and calls for Ukrainians to take action. Roman, an IT worker, finds it strange to discuss the agreement without Ukrainian representatives but sees a potential agreement as a necessary step to end the conflict. Antonina Pidlisna, an administrator, supports the decision to end the war quickly but fears further Russian ambitions. The diverse reactions underscore the deep-seated concerns and divisions within Ukrainian society as they confront the possibility of territorial concessions and the uncertain future of their nation.

Germany’s Merz faces party backlash over partial arms freeze to Israel

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is under intense scrutiny from his conservative party over his decision to partially halt weapons shipments to Israel. In a televised interview with ARD, Merz defended his stance, asserting that Germany's commitment to Israel remains steadfast. However, he emphasized that supplying weapons to a conflict that risks escalating into a large-scale military operation, potentially resulting in massive civilian casualties, is untenable. His remarks were directed not only at the German public but also at his own party, seeking to justify his actions amidst internal dissent. 🇩🇪🔍

Azerbaijan, Armenia publish text of initialed peace agreement

Armenia and Azerbaijan have published a historic peace agreement, initialed during a trilateral summit with the United States in Washington, D.C. The 17-point document, released by both countries' foreign ministries, marks a significant step towards resolving decades of conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The agreement affirms the mutual recognition of each country's Soviet-era borders and renounces any territorial claims against one another. This pact comes after Azerbaijan's swift 2023 offensive recaptured the disputed territory, leading to the displacement of over 100,000 ethnic Armenians.

The two nations, long-standing adversaries, have pledged to refrain from using or threatening force against each other's territorial integrity or political independence. They have also agreed not to interfere in each other's internal affairs or deploy third-party forces along their shared border. Diplomatic relations will be established once both sides exchange ratification instruments, with further discussions on border delimitation and demarcation to follow. The agreement includes the creation of a bilateral commission to oversee its implementation and the withdrawal of mutual claims in international courts within a month of the deal's enactment.

U.S. President Donald Trump hailed the accord as a breakthrough after more than 35 years of conflict, expressing hope that it would bring an end to the suffering experienced by both nations. The document, drafted in Azerbaijani, Armenian, and English, emphasizes that the English text will prevail in case of any discrepancies. This peace agreement represents a pivotal moment in the region's history, offering a path towards lasting peace and stability. 🤝🌍

Greece in the era of irregular deals

In today's geopolitical landscape, the world is witnessing a paradoxical phase where conflicts persist due to the absence of a strong international deterrent and the U.S.'s distancing policy, while U.S. President Donald Trump personally engages in various conflicts to bolster his image as a peacemaker. This approach, however, comes with significant risks, as it often involves irregular, ad-hoc deals outside a defined framework. The U.S. is seeking to resolve conflicts where its influence is strong, such as in Cambodia-Thailand and Azerbaijan-Armenia, often bypassing international and regional organizations.

In this shifting environment, multilateral diplomacy and the rule of law are declining, and Turkey is positioning itself as a key player in the Middle East and beyond. It aims to be a guarantor power in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and Gaza, and is attempting to influence European defense policy and individual crisis situations. Greece, meanwhile, is navigating this complex landscape by asserting its sovereign rights, but faces challenges due to its delayed actions and the reactions of states like Egypt. The lack of maritime delimitation in the region allows maximalist views to take root, making agreements more difficult.

Greece must continue to assert its sovereign rights while balancing its Middle Eastern policy through deeper engagement with Saudi Arabia and other Arab states. The country should aim to become a mediator and catalyst in resolving regional crises, including in the Balkans, and ensure the implementation of energy projects of European interest. Publicly calling out Turkey's obstructionist behavior and establishing permanent communication channels with the Trump administration are also crucial steps. The future will see energy projects and transport networks at the center of developments, sometimes competitively, sometimes inclusively. Greece must be prepared to navigate these complexities to secure its interests and influence regional dynamics. 🌍🛢️

High-stakes poker in the East Med

The Eastern Mediterranean is becoming a hotbed of geopolitical tension as the deadline for hydrocarbon exploration bids in the region approaches. With submissions due by September 10, interest from major players like Chevron and new potential bidders is high. Greece has intensified its diplomatic and energy initiatives, submitting a maritime spatial plan, inviting exploration interest, and designating marine parks, which has drawn reactions from Turkey, Libya, and Egypt.

Turkey's actions have been particularly concerning for Greek officials, especially the stalled Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) electricity link between Greece and Cyprus. Ankara sent the frigate Gedik to shadow a survey vessel conducting research in Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone, claiming jurisdiction and warning that no project could proceed without Turkey’s approval. This incident underscores Turkey’s consistent posture towards regional infrastructure, challenging Greece's hopes that Chevron's interest in Cretan exploration blocks will shield the area. The East to Med Corridor (EMC), an undersea fiber-optic cable project backed by Saudi Arabia and involving France’s Alcatel Submarine Networks, has also faced Turkish obstruction. Despite these challenges, Greece has approved seabed surveys for the EMC’s planned routes, highlighting the strategic importance of US-Greece energy cooperation. The region remains a critical arena for energy diplomacy and geopolitical maneuvering. 🛢️🌊

Latvia wants to be part of 'Baltic AI Gigafactory' in Poland

The Baltic AI Gigafactory initiative aims to propel the region's artificial intelligence (AI) development and establish a robust innovation ecosystem. The project, backed by the Latvian Ministry, seeks to integrate Latvian companies into a European-level innovation infrastructure, fostering new products, services, and competitiveness in the digital economy. The Gigafactory, planned for Poland, will feature advanced high-performance computing centers powered by 100% green energy, with construction occurring in phases to ensure sustainable growth.

The Gigafactory will collaborate with national AI centers across the region, including Riga, Tallinn, Vilnius, and several Polish cities, creating a connected and scalable innovation network. It will support the development, training, and deployment of large-scale AI models and applications, catering to both training and inference needs. The project's €3 billion budget will primarily fund capital investments, with the majority of costs covered by private capital from equity contributions, venture capital funds, and other financial investors. The initiative is designed to be fully sustainable and commercially viable, generating revenues to cover operational costs and provide high returns on investment.

The consortium behind the project includes private partners such as cloud service providers, leading AI companies, research institutions, and industry associations. As the project progresses, the consortium will expand to better address market needs and the planned scale of activities, inviting new partners to join the effort. The Baltic AI Gigafactory represents a significant step towards strengthening the region's AI capabilities and fostering innovation. 💡🌐

“Russia cannot emerge from this war stronger,” warns Polish PM ahead of Trump-Putin meeting

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk expressed both concern and hope regarding the upcoming meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, scheduled for Alaska. Tusk emphasized the unity among European leaders in supporting Ukraine, stressing that Kyiv must be involved in any peace process and that territorial concessions cannot be forced upon it. He warned that allowing Russia to benefit from its aggression would set a dangerous precedent and threaten regional security, including Poland's.

Tusk acknowledged Trump's efforts to end the war but cautioned that a resolution must not empower Putin or validate his actions. He highlighted intelligence assessments indicating that Russia poses a ongoing threat to neighboring countries. Alongside leaders from France, Italy, Germany, Finland, the UK, and the European Commission, Tusk reiterated the importance of Ukraine's involvement in any peace negotiations and the need for robust security guarantees to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Poland has been a steadfast ally of Ukraine since the full-scale invasion in 2022, supporting its EU and NATO aspirations and signing a security agreement with Kyiv last year. 🇵🇱🇺🇦🇷🇺

Erdogan’s covert pact with Iran’s Houthis

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's strategic ambiguity has led to a troubling alliance with Iran's Houthi rebels in Yemen, with significant implications for global security. In early July, Houthi rebels sank two Greek-operated cargo ships in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, killing four crew members and abducting others. These attacks, initially seen as part of Yemen's conflict, reveal a deeper issue: Turkey's complicity in Iran's proxy wars.

Evidence shows that Turkish authorities have enabled financial and arms routes for the Houthis, with Istanbul-based companies like Al Aman Kargo acting as conduits for millions of dollars from Iran's Quds Force. Despite U.S. Treasury sanctions and intercepted arms shipments, Ankara has maintained silence and even muted condemnations when Turkish vessels were targeted. Erdogan's shift from opposing the Houthis to quiet cooperation with Tehran's proxies has escalated tensions, particularly for NATO ally Greece, which now faces direct threats to its maritime security.

The situation poses a critical test for NATO, as Erdogan's actions endanger European security and undermine the alliance's integrity. With President Trump's portrayal of Erdogan as "reasonable," the U.S. has inadvertently encouraged Turkey's cooperation with Iran's proxies. To restore NATO's credibility and secure Europe's maritime routes, Western policymakers must confront Turkey's covert support for Iran's proxies, end strategic ambiguity, and demand the dismantling of IRGC-linked networks. The time for decisive action is now, as the silence and inaction risk further emboldening Iran's proxies and deepening regional insecurity. 🚢🌊

Trump, the Nobel Peace Prize and the Aegean

In the pursuit of the Nobel Peace Prize, U.S. President Donald Trump has touted his administration's mediation successes, including agreements between Turkey and Armenia, Serbia and Kosovo, and Israel with moderate Arab countries. However, a potential crisis in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean, involving Turkey, could draw the U.S. into a complex diplomatic situation. Historically, the U.S. has played a crucial role in mediating disputes between Greece and Turkey, with Europe often relegated to a secondary role due to its limited influence.

Trump's approach to diplomacy prioritizes power, personal relationships, and business deals over strict adherence to international law. His mediation style could involve imposing tariffs, freezing weapons supplies, or offering incentives like joint ventures for American companies. This "brutal" mediation could put Greece in a challenging position, as seen in the forced agreement between Serbia and Kosovo. While former President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken might lack Trump's leverage over Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the current administration must navigate a delicate path. Greece must avoid a crisis that could entangle it in U.S. diplomacy while steadfastly defending its national interests, all within a highly polarized political landscape. The hope is that Trump's focus remains on other major diplomatic challenges, such as Gaza and Ukraine, keeping the Aegean region off his radar. 🌊🇬🇷🇹🇷