Newsflash

Heatwaves and wildfires: Europe battered by the consequences of global warming

A blistering heatwave is currently gripping Europe, with temperatures reaching 43°C in France, 40°C in Spain, and 43°C in Greece. This extreme heat is part of a worrying trend, as Europe is warming at twice the global average rate, leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves and wildfires. The European Drought Observatory reports that over half of Europe and the Mediterranean basin experienced drought in July, marking the highest levels on record for the month. This prolonged dry spell, exacerbated by the burning of fossil fuels, has created ideal conditions for wildfires, posing significant threats to ecosystems, communities, and infrastructure. The past decade has been the warmest on record, underscoring the urgent need for climate action to mitigate these escalating impacts. 🌡️💥🌍

The security of Europe is being decided in Ukraine, former ambassador says

The security of Europe is currently at stake in Ukraine, according to Oleh Shamshur, former Ambassador of Ukraine to France. In a discussion with FRANCE 24's Mark Owen, Shamshur emphasized that any territorial concessions made to Russian President Vladimir Putin would likely escalate tensions and lead to a broader conflict across the continent. He argued that the outcome of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine will significantly influence Europe's future security landscape. The upcoming meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Putin in Alaska is seen as a critical juncture in these geopolitical dynamics. Shamshur's insights underscore the urgent need for a resolute stance to prevent further Russian aggression and safeguard European security. 🇪🇺🇷🇺

Russian forces advance in Ukraine's east in lead-up to Trump-Putin talks

Russian forces have made significant advances in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, threatening the mining town of Dobropillia and further isolating the besieged city of Kostiantynivka. This rapid progress comes just days before a scheduled meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, raising concerns about Moscow's intentions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is preparing for further attacks rather than seeking peace, and has vowed not to withdraw from the Donbas region. The Ukrainian military acknowledges the challenges but reports some successes in the Sumy region. The situation underscores the ongoing intensity of the conflict and the strategic maneuvers ahead of the high-stakes diplomatic talks. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Russia suspected of hacking US federal court filing system, NYT reports

Russian hackers are suspected of infiltrating a U.S. federal court filing system, which contains highly sensitive documents, including information on confidential sources and individuals charged with national security crimes. This breach, reported by the New York Times, comes just days before a crucial meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The court system has reportedly faced ongoing infiltration attempts for several years, with potential involvement from hackers from other countries. This incident is part of a broader pattern of Russian cyber aggression, which has escalated since Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian hacker groups have been linked to numerous cyberattacks targeting Ukraine, civilian infrastructure in Europe, and foreign elections, raising concerns about the Kremlin's expanding cyber operations. 🇷🇺💻🔒

EU remains mute on secondary tariffs, eyes Trump’s next move

The European Union is preparing its 19th sanctions package against Russia, focusing on increased military and financial support for Ukraine, as well as potential sanctions against third countries aiding Russia’s war efforts. This move comes amidst growing pressure from the U.S., which has threatened steep tariffs on countries like India for their continued purchases of Russian oil. The EU is grappling with how to align with the U.S. stance while safeguarding its own economic interests, particularly regarding Russian energy imports. 🇪🇺🇷🇺

EU officials acknowledge the need to close loopholes in their sanctions regime but remain cautious about matching the U.S. hardline approach. The upcoming informal gathering of EU foreign ministers in Copenhagen will discuss sanctions enforcement and further support for Ukraine, potentially laying the groundwork for more concrete measures in September. Key areas of focus include tightening controls on Russia’s shadow fleet, expanding sanctions on the Russian banking sector, and enhancing military support for Ukraine through the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative. The EU's actions will likely be influenced by the success of U.S. efforts to persuade India to reduce its dependency on Russian energy, as well as the broader geopolitical dynamics surrounding the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Trump’s ‘land-swapping’ ideas dead on arrival for Ukraine

As the world watches the upcoming meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump has proposed a controversial "land-swapping" idea to end the war in Ukraine. This suggestion, which involves Ukraine ceding territory to Russia in exchange for a ceasefire, has been met with strong opposition from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders. Zelensky firmly rejected any plan that involves handing over Ukrainian territory, emphasizing that Ukrainians will not "gift their land to the occupier." The proposal has sparked confusion and concern, with many viewing it as a capitulation to Russian aggression.

The idea of land swapping emerged after months of failed peace talks and diplomatic efforts, with Russia initially demanding the handover of all remaining Ukrainian-controlled territory in the four regions it illegally claimed and partially annexed. While recent reports suggest Russia might only be demanding the remainder of Donetsk Oblast, this concession would still be unacceptable to Ukraine. The proposed handover would violate Ukraine's constitution and moral principles, as well as the core reasons Ukraine has fought to defend its independence. Residents of Ukrainian-controlled areas in Donetsk Oblast, such as Kateryna Seledtsova from Kramatorsk, express panic and despair at the prospect of Russian occupation, highlighting the human cost of such a deal.

Ukrainian soldiers and civilians alike reject the notion that their fate can be decided without their input. Oleksii Ladyka, a local journalist and soldier from Kramatorsk, emphasizes that the outcome depends on Ukraine's resistance and the cohesiveness of its armed forces. Artem Fysun, a city council member and drone unit member, dismisses the idea as a Russian ploy to spread false messages about their intentions. Ultimately, the focus should be on the people living in these territories, who have families, hopes, and dreams for a peaceful future. As the conflict continues, the world watches to see how this diplomatic maneuver will play out, with Ukraine steadfast in its refusal to capitulate to Russian demands. The battle for Ukraine's sovereignty and the well-being of its people remains at the forefront of this complex geopolitical struggle.

Parts of Europe burn as millions are facing record heat

Across Europe, millions are grappling with unprecedented summer heat, as temperatures in some regions exceed 40 degrees Celsius. This extreme heat, exacerbated by climate change, is fueling wildfires and pushing Europe to warm at twice the global average rate since the 1980s. Last year marked the hottest on record for both Europe and the world, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service.

In Spain and Portugal, numerous wildfires have forced evacuations and claimed lives. In Spain, a blaze near Madrid killed a man, and thousands were evacuated from homes and hotels. Portugal is battling significant fires, with over 700 firefighters tackling a major blaze. Turkey has also seen severe wildfires, with thousands evacuated and hospitals treating smoke-related injuries. A major blaze in the northwest was largely contained, but fires persist in other regions.

France is under a red alert for heat, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius in the south and spreading to the northeast, including Paris. The heatwave has heightened the risk of forest fires, with recent blazes causing fatalities and destruction. Greece is facing multiple evacuations due to wildfires, with flames threatening homes, businesses, and industrial areas. The fire service is stretched thin, battling blazes across the mainland and islands.

Meanwhile, Britain is experiencing another heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 34 degrees Celsius in southern England. The extreme weather conditions are straining resources and highlighting the urgent need for climate action. 🌡️🔥

Putin and Kim Pledge to Enhance Russia-North Korea Cooperation

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un held a phone conversation on Tuesday, characterized by North Korea's state media as having a "warm comradely atmosphere." The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening future cooperation, reflecting the deepening ties between their countries. In June of the previous year, Russia and North Korea signed a military agreement that includes a mutual defense clause, and North Korea has since provided significant military support to Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine, including thousands of soldiers and weapons.

As Putin prepares to visit Alaska on Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump is anticipated to intensify efforts to persuade Putin to cease hostilities in Ukraine. The visit comes amidst heightened geopolitical tensions and strategic alignments, with North Korea's support for Russia further complicating the international dynamics surrounding the conflict. The strengthening bond between Russia and North Korea underscores a shift in global alliances and poses challenges for U.S. foreign policy. 📞🌍

European leaders say Ukrainians must 'decide their future' ahead of Trump-Putin summit

European leaders, excluding Hungary, have emphasized that Ukrainians must determine their own future ahead of a critical summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The summit, focused on the ongoing war in Ukraine, has raised concerns among European nations about potential concessions to Russia that could undermine Ukrainian and European security interests.

In a joint statement, 26 EU heads of state and government asserted that meaningful negotiations must occur within a ceasefire or reduced hostilities framework. They stressed that any diplomatic solution must uphold Ukrainian and European security interests, respect international law, and preserve Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The leaders welcomed Trump's efforts to end the conflict but insisted that Ukraine must be involved in any peace process.

The statement underscored the importance of a just and lasting peace that respects international borders and territorial integrity, rejecting any changes imposed by force. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly opposed the idea of ceding territory to secure a ceasefire, a position supported by the European leaders. The summit comes amid Trump's public rehabilitation of Putin and criticism of Zelensky, which has alarmed Ukraine's supporters.

The European leaders will further discuss rallying Trump to Ukraine's cause in virtual meetings convened by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. However, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, known for his alignment with Putin, did not endorse the statement, highlighting divisions within the EU on the issue. The summit in Alaska, held in a state once colonized by Russia, adds historical context to the geopolitical tensions at play. 🇪🇺🇺🇸🇷🇺

What Ukraine wants (and fears) ahead of Trump-Putin summit in Alaska

Ukraine is grappling with the alarming prospect that U.S. President Donald Trump may leverage his upcoming summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin to present himself as a Nobel Peace Prize contender by pushing through a hasty and unfavorable war settlement. This scenario would effectively betray Ukraine's interests and bolster Russia's ambitions. To counteract this risk, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and key European allies are planning a pre-summit meeting with Trump to establish clear red lines. These boundaries aim to prevent Putin from exploiting any agreement with Trump to advance his ultimate goal: the eradication of an independent, democratic Ukrainian state. Zelenskyy has already expressed Ukraine's resolve, stating, "We understand the Russians’ intention to try to deceive America — we will not allow this." 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

Wildfires rage in Europe as millions swelter under record heat

Intense wildfires swept across parts of Europe on Tuesday, fueled by record-breaking temperatures that soared above 40°C (104°F) in some areas. This extreme heat, exacerbated by climate change, has left regions from Spain to Turkey battling blazes and ordering evacuations. Europe is warming at twice the global average since the 1980s, with last year being the hottest on record for the continent.

In Spain, firefighters and soldiers battled multiple blazes, leading to evacuations in regions like Castile and Leon, Castile-La Mancha, Andalusia, and Galicia. A man died from severe burns in a fire outside Madrid. Portugal also faced significant wildfires, with over 700 firefighters tackling a major blaze. In Turkey, a large wildfire in Canakkale province forced the evacuation of 2,000 residents, with 77 people hospitalized due to smoke exposure. Additional fires burned in Manisa and Izmir provinces.

France's southern region was placed on the highest heat warning, with temperatures expected to remain dangerously high. The heatwave spread to the northeast, including Paris, prompting some municipalities to offer free or discounted access to public swimming pools. In Greece, high winds and heat led to evacuations on the island of Zakynthos and nearby mainland areas. Meanwhile, the UK braced for temperatures reaching 34°C (93.2°F), with officials warning of a prolonged heatwave. 🔥🌡️

Ukraine won’t give up Donbas, Zelenskyy vows

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly stated that Ukraine will not cede the Donbas region to Russia as part of any ceasefire agreement. This declaration comes just days before a crucial meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where discussions on a potential truce in the Ukraine war are expected to take place. Trump has suggested that a truce could involve territorial exchanges, but Zelenskyy has made it clear that Ukraine will not abandon Donbas, viewing it as a strategic stronghold that Russia could use for future offensives. The upcoming meeting in Alaska is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, with significant implications for regional security and stability. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

Second deep strike in days hits Shahed-type drone storage site in Russia, SBU says

Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) reported that Ukrainian drones struck a storage facility in Russia's Republic of Tatarstan, targeting Shahed-type attack drones and their foreign components. The attack, which occurred on August 12, ignited a fire at the site in the village of Kyzyl-Yul, approximately 1,300 kilometers from Ukraine. This strike follows a similar attack on August 9, demonstrating Kyiv's strategic efforts to disrupt Russia's drone production and supply chain.

The targeted facility is part of the Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Tatarstan, which produces Shahed-type long-range attack drones and other reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The SBU stated that the repeated attacks aim to hinder Russia's ability to conduct drone strikes against Ukraine. Tatarstan, located in central European Russia, is far from the front lines, with its capital, Kazan, situated about 800 kilometers east of Moscow. Russia's Defense Ministry reported that nine Ukrainian drones were intercepted during the August 9 attack. Shahed-type drones, known as Geran-2 in Russia, are long-range "kamikaze" UAVs derived from Iranian models, valued for their range, payload capacity, and cost-effectiveness. These drones have been extensively used by Russia since late 2022 for long-range attacks, often operating under the cover of darkness. 🛩️💥

Far-right AfD takes lead in Germany, says bombshell new survey

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has surged to become the most popular party in Germany, according to a recent poll by the Forsa Institute. The survey indicates that 26% of Germans would vote for the AfD if a national election were held today, surpassing Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservative bloc, which received 24% support. This development follows a broader trend of right-wing populist parties gaining traction across Europe, with the National Rally leading in France and significant performances in countries like Poland, Romania, Portugal, and the Netherlands. The rise of the AfD is likely to raise concerns among mainstream European leaders about the growing influence of far-right ideologies. 🇩🇪📈

19 EU countries condemn Israel’s ‘restrictive’ aid rules in Gaza

Foreign ministers from 19 European Union countries, along with counterparts from Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom, have expressed grave concerns over Israel's new regulations for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in the occupied Palestinian territories (OPTs). The additional bureaucratic requirements, set to take effect in early September, are expected to significantly hinder humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza, where famine is already a pressing issue.

The stringent new rules, which were approved in March, will impose extensive paperwork and administrative burdens on aid organizations. The United Nations has warned that these changes could result in the de-registration of most international NGOs by September 9, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation. The ministers emphasized the urgent need for immediate action to prevent and reverse the ongoing starvation in Gaza, describing the current level of suffering as "unimaginable." The international community's call for action underscores the critical need to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region. 🇮🇱🇵🇸💔

Maritime unions planing protest in Piraeus for arrival of Israeli cruise ship

Two Greek maritime unions, the Panhellenic Union of Marine Engineers (PEMEN) and Stephenson, are organizing a protest at Piraeus Port on Thursday morning to oppose the arrival of an Israeli cruise ship. The Communist Party-affiliated labor union PAME will also participate. The unions criticize the Greek government for supporting Israel amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza, where civilian casualties, particularly children, have reached 60,000. The protesters aim to express solidarity with the Palestinian people and voice their disapproval of the Greek government's stance on the issue. The rally will take place at Gate 12 of Piraeus Port, with participants gathering to make their voices heard. 🇬🇷🚢🇮🇱🇵🇸

Israeli military takeover of Gaza would be ‘catastrophic,’ EU commissioner warns

Europe's crisis management commissioner, Hadja Lahbib, has issued a stark warning about the escalating situation in the Gaza Strip, where Israel's military offensive is pushing the region to the brink of famine. Lahbib highlighted several critical issues, including the blockade of aid, the ineffectiveness of airdrops, and new regulations that could further hinder humanitarian efforts. She emphasized that a full Israeli military takeover would be disastrous, potentially leading to mass casualties, the collapse of essential services, and increased risks to hostages.

Lahbib's concerns echo those of European Commission Vice President Teresa Ribera, who recently condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's push for complete control over Gaza as an "unacceptable provocation." The European Union's growing criticism reflects deepening worries about the humanitarian crisis and the potential for further destabilization in the region. 🇮🇱🇪🇺😢

Baltic electricity operators to investigate potential breaches in pricing

In early August, the Lithuanian State Energy Regulatory Board reported significant price fluctuations in the Baltic electricity market, with spikes exceeding €10,000 per megawatt hour (MWh) during periods of scarcity. Normally, electricity prices hover around €360 during shortages and can drop to minus €75 when there is a surplus. The EU's Regulation on Wholesale Energy Market Integrity and Transparency (REMIT) strictly prohibits market manipulation, and regulators are empowered to impose sanctions on any confirmed breaches.

The Baltic Balancing Capacity Market, operational since February 5, 2025, has been crucial for maintaining the region's energy stability. The three Baltic transmission operators collaborate to procure frequency control reserves through a unified auction process, ensuring a reliable energy supply. Alda Ozola, Chair of the Latvian Public Utilities Regulatory Commission, emphasized the importance of responsible market behavior, stating that adherence to regulations is vital for the sustainable development of the energy market and the provision of services in the interests of users. Regulators closely monitor both the balancing capacity and energy markets to uphold fairness and transparency. 📈💡

Minority website targets Androulakis over Tenedos visit

A Muslim-minority website based in Thrace has criticized the leader of Greece's main opposition party, Nikos Androulakis, for his recent visit to Tenedos island in Turkey. Androulakis traveled to the island, known as Bozcaada in Turkish, to attend the inauguration of the renovated Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. During his speech, delivered in the presence of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Androulakis highlighted the challenges faced by the Greek community on Tenedos, including obstacles imposed by the Turkish government on inheritance rights, the absence of a Greek school, and the lack of a ferry connection.

The opinion piece, published by MilletNews, accused Androulakis of advocating for "Greek expansionism" and compared his historical focus to that of Adolf Hitler. The author, Cengiz Omer, argued that Androulakis, despite claiming to be left-wing, frequently uses language associated with the far-right. Tenedos and nearby Imbros, both with majority Greek populations, were ceded to Turkey under the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne. The criticism underscores the ongoing tensions and differing historical narratives surrounding these islands. 🇹🇷🇬🇷

Gaza suffering has reached ‘unimaginable’ levels, say 24 foreign ministers

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has escalated to unprecedented levels, prompting 24 foreign ministers, including those from Greece and 23 other nations, to issue a joint statement urging Israel to facilitate unrestricted aid into the besieged Palestinian territory. The ministers described the situation as "unimaginable," with famine becoming an imminent threat. They called on Israel to authorize all international NGO aid shipments, unblock essential humanitarian actors, and ensure the safe passage of aid, including food, shelter, fuel, clean water, and medical supplies. The statement emphasized the need for immediate and concrete steps to protect humanitarian space and prevent the politicization of aid.

Israel has denied responsibility for the worsening hunger in Gaza, accusing Hamas of diverting aid, a claim Hamas denies. In response to international pressure, Israel recently announced measures to increase aid flow, such as pausing fighting in certain areas and designating protected routes for aid convoys. However, Western countries maintain that much more aid is urgently needed. The statement was signed by foreign ministers from a diverse group of nations, including Australia, Canada, France, Japan, and several European countries, as well as EU officials. Notably, some EU member states, such as Germany and Hungary, did not endorse the statement. The ministers also expressed gratitude to the US, Qatar, and Egypt for their efforts in pushing for a ceasefire and urged a permanent halt to the conflict, the release of hostages, and unhindered aid access to Gaza. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the international community calling for swift and decisive action to alleviate the suffering. 🇵🇸💔