Newsflash

Russia makes biggest 24-hour advance in eastern Ukraine ahead of Alaska summit

Russian forces have made significant territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, seizing 110 square kilometers in a single day, marking their largest advance in over a year. This escalation comes just days before a crucial summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The advance has prompted Ukrainian authorities to initiate mandatory evacuations of families with children from several towns, including Bilozerske, as Russian troops push towards strategic locations like Pokrovsk.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged the Russian advances, stating that the enemy is preparing for new offensive operations rather than seeking peace. The conflict has intensified, with Russian forces launching drones and missiles, resulting in civilian casualties in the Kherson region. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces have conducted a strike on an oil pumping station in Russia's Bryansk region, disrupting Russian supply lines and causing significant damage. The situation remains tense, with both sides fortifying their positions ahead of the upcoming diplomatic talks. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Trump to push ceasefire in Alaska meeting with Putin, says Zelensky after call with US president

In preparation for a crucial summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, U.S. President Donald Trump held a video call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders. The call focused on pushing for a ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with Trump expressing his intention to prioritize this issue during his meeting with Putin. Zelensky, however, remains skeptical about Putin's willingness to engage in meaningful negotiations, citing past experiences where talks only led to increased Russian military aggression.

European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, emphasized the importance of a ceasefire as the first step towards any peace agreement. They stressed that Ukraine must be included in all negotiations and that the recognition of territories occupied in violation of international law is not negotiable. The European Union has pledged continued support for Ukraine, with plans for additional sanctions against Russia and increased military and financial aid for Ukraine.

Trump described the call as "very friendly" and hinted at the possibility of a second meeting with Putin, aiming to assess the situation and work towards a more productive dialogue. However, his suggestion of potential "land swaps" as part of a peace agreement has raised concerns in Europe and Ukraine. Zelensky has been actively engaging with international partners to present a united front ahead of the Alaska summit, urging coordinated efforts to pressure Russia into a just peace.

The upcoming summit follows a period of intense diplomatic activity, with Trump's special envoy meeting Putin in Moscow to set the stage for the leaders' talks. The EU has welcomed Trump's diplomatic efforts while maintaining strong support for Ukraine, with Hungary being the sole EU member to abstain from a joint statement backing Ukraine ahead of the summit. The international community watches closely as the Alaska meeting approaches, hoping for progress towards a lasting peace in Ukraine. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

Trump agreed only Ukraine can negotiate territorial concessions, Macron says

In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. President Donald Trump aligned with European leaders in affirming that Ukraine must be a central participant in any discussions regarding territorial concessions to end the ongoing war with Russia. This consensus was reached during a crucial meeting involving Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and key European leaders. The discussion took place ahead of Trump's scheduled meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that territorial issues under Ukraine's jurisdiction cannot be negotiated without Ukraine's direct involvement. Macron further stated that Trump had concurred with this position, underscoring the importance of Ukraine's sovereignty and its right to participate in any talks that could affect its territorial integrity. This alignment signals a united front among Western leaders in supporting Ukraine's role in determining its own future. 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇷🇺

Russia aims to build 79,000 Shahed-type drones in 2025, Ukraine's military intelligence says

Russia is significantly ramping up its production of Shahed-type drones, with plans to manufacture 79,000 units in 2025, according to Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of Ukraine's military intelligence. These drones, originally designed in Iran, have become a crucial component of Russia's long-range strike arsenal, frequently targeting Ukrainian cities, infrastructure, and energy facilities. Russia is enhancing its manufacturing capabilities by establishing new production lines and replacing imported parts with domestically produced components. A major assembly plant for these drones is located in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Tatarstan, which Ukrainian forces have targeted in recent strikes.

The escalation in drone production and usage is alarming, with Ukraine's Air Force reporting a record 6,129 Shahed-type drones launched in July alone, a more than fourteen-fold increase compared to the same month last year. This surge has raised concerns about Russia's ability to conduct sustained, high-intensity bombardments against Ukrainian targets. Ukraine's military intelligence is actively working to disrupt Russia's production goals and destroy drone manufacturing facilities to mitigate this threat. 🛸💥

Poland arrests Ukrainian teen “recruited by Russia” to vandalise massacre monument

Poland has arrested a 17-year-old Ukrainian national accused of vandalizing a monument commemorating Poles massacred by Ukrainian nationalists during World War II. The teenager is believed to have been recruited by Russian intelligence to stir social and diplomatic tensions between Poland and Ukraine. The vandalism involved painting the red-and-black flag of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) and offensive slogans on the memorial, which is seen as highly provocative in Poland due to the UPA's role in the Volhynia massacres.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk and other officials have accused Russia of orchestrating such acts to divide Poland and Ukraine. The teenager is also suspected of similar vandalism in Warsaw, Wrocław, and the village of Domostawa. Additionally, Poland has recently deported 57 Ukrainians and six Belarusians for criminal activities and is investigating the display of totalitarian symbols at a concert in Warsaw. Poland has a history of uncovering and prosecuting foreign-backed sabotage and espionage operations, with recent cases involving Ukrainians and Belarusians acting on behalf of Russian intelligence. The government urges citizens to remain vigilant against Russian manipulation and provocations. 🇵🇱🕵️‍♂️

Trump and Zelensky seek meeting with Putin after US-Russia talks in Alaska

In a significant diplomatic maneuver, U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed a three-way meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin following his upcoming summit with Putin in Alaska. This proposal comes after an online meeting between Trump, European leaders, and Zelensky, where Zelensky also pushed for trilateral talks. The "Coalition of the Willing," comprising Britain, France, and Germany, has emphasized the need for robust security guarantees for Ukraine and expressed readiness to deploy a reassurance force post-ceasefire. However, Ukrainians remain wary of Russian intentions, given past ceasefire violations.

Meanwhile, Poland has expressed concerns over Russia's attempts to link NATO troop reductions to Ukraine talks. Trump has warned of severe consequences if Putin does not halt the war in Ukraine. Germany, along with other European nations, is contributing significantly to Ukraine's defense through NATO's Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative, providing critical military equipment and munitions. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have stressed the importance of upholding European and Ukrainian security interests during the Trump-Putin meeting. Macron has also underscored that territorial issues can only be negotiated by Ukraine.

In a related development, Belarus and Russia are planning joint military exercises that include nuclear weapon drills and the use of the Russian-made, intermediate-range hypersonic Oreshnik missile. This announcement has heightened tensions ahead of the Trump-Putin summit, with European leaders expressing unease about the potential outcomes of the meeting. The international community is closely watching these diplomatic efforts, hoping for a resolution that ensures lasting peace and security for Ukraine and the broader region. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦🇪🇺

Russian-linked church faces potential ban in Ukraine as it remains reluctant to officially cut ties with Moscow

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate faces a critical juncture as it grapples with a potential ban under Ukrainian law, which mandates that it sever ties with Russia or face prohibition. This church, with deep historical and administrative ties to the Russian Orthodox Church, has been under intense scrutiny due to its perceived collaboration with Russian authorities and its reluctance to fully disassociate from Moscow. The Ukrainian government has accused some of its priests of treason and collaboration, leading to investigations and convictions. Despite the church's claims of independence, experts argue that it remains dependent on Russia, both administratively and financially.

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church's future is further complicated by its refusal to seek formal autocephaly, or independence, from the Russian Orthodox Church. This refusal has fueled debates within the Orthodox clergy and raised questions about the church's true autonomy. The Ukrainian government, however, is not demanding autocephaly but rather a clear and formal break with Moscow. The church's leadership has pushed back against the government's demands, arguing that it has already taken steps to ensure its independence and that any remaining ties are not within its control.

The potential ban has sparked legal and practical concerns. Critics argue that while the church's leadership can be targeted, individual parishes may continue to operate under canonical, rather than legal, structures. This could lead to a complex web of appeals and legal challenges, potentially involving the European Court of Human Rights. Meanwhile, some within the Ukrainian government suggest that the law may serve as a political tool rather than a practical measure, with various solutions being considered to address the situation without immediate action. The outcome of this standoff will significantly impact Ukraine's religious landscape and its ongoing struggle for independence from Russian influence.

Israel's Explanation for Killing Journalists in Gaza

Anas al-Sharif, a 28-year-old journalist from the Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, was tragically killed in an Israeli drone strike on a press tent in Gaza City. Al-Sharif, who worked for Al Jazeera and had previously contributed to Hamas' media team, was married and had two children. Israel has accused him of being a member of Hamas' armed wing, citing unverified screenshots and social media posts. However, Al Jazeera and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) have strongly denied these allegations, emphasizing that al-Sharif was a protected journalist under international law.

The attack also claimed the lives of five other journalists, with Israel offering little information about their involvement. Since the conflict began in October 2023, nearly 200 journalists and media workers have been killed in Gaza. The CPJ has accused Israel of using these attacks as a deterrent, aiming to intimidate journalists and suppress reporting from the region. The ongoing conflict has raised serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in Gaza. 📰💔

Aid Groups Urge Immediate Opening of Gaza Border Crossings

International aid organizations, including Doctors Without Borders, Save the Children, and Norwegian Refugee Aid, have criticized Israeli authorities for rejecting applications to bring life-saving goods into Gaza. The organizations highlight the role of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), supported by the U.S. and Israel, which controls nearly all food distribution in the region. The GHF's militarized distribution system has reportedly led to extreme violence and deaths, particularly among young Palestinian men, women, and children seeking food.

The United Nations and other sources report unprecedented levels of starvation and malnutrition in Gaza. Hamas-controlled authorities have stated that over 100 children and nearly 130 adults have died from hunger-related causes since late June. Aid workers emphasize that the current system of food distribution has effectively "armed hunger," exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. The international community is urged to address these urgent issues and ensure that essential aid reaches those in desperate need. 🍞💔

'Zelensky and the Europeans should be a part of the decision-making process'

Former Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S. and France, Oleh Shamshur, has emphasized the critical role of Ukraine and European institutions in shaping the continent's security. He warns that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is pivotal for Europe's future, with all European institutions at stake. Shamshur argues that a lasting peace cannot be achieved through capitulation to Russia. Instead, he advocates for exerting pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to create a favorable negotiating position for Ukraine and its European partners. This approach, he believes, is essential for ensuring a secure and stable Europe. 🇪🇺🇺🇦🤝

Russian hackers took control of Norwegian dam, police chief says

In April, the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST) uncovered a significant cyber-attack on a dam in southwestern Norway, allegedly orchestrated by pro-Russian hackers. The hackers infiltrated the dam’s control system, opening valves for four hours and causing a substantial release of water before the valves could be closed. The incident was revealed by PST Chief Beate Gangås during a public presentation on pro-Russian cyber operations. The breach highlights the growing threat of cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure, underscoring the need for enhanced security measures to protect against such malicious activities. 💦💻

Europe in diplomatic push for Ukraine as Zelensky arrives in Berlin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Berlin to engage with European leaders in a crucial video conference with U.S. President Donald Trump. This diplomatic effort precedes Trump's upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Zelensky emphasized the need for international pressure on Russia to cease its aggression in Ukraine, noting that there are no indications Moscow is preparing to end the conflict. The meeting underscores the urgent diplomatic push to address the ongoing crisis and find a path toward peace. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

Trump prepares for high stakes summit with Putin

In the coming days, U.S. President Donald Trump will engage in a high-stakes summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. This meeting comes at a critical juncture in global politics, with tensions escalating due to Russia's ongoing military aggression in Ukraine and the shifting dynamics of international alliances. The summit is expected to address a range of contentious issues, including Russia's military buildup on the Finnish border, the potential for a ceasefire in Ukraine, and the broader implications of a new "transactional" U.S. foreign policy that prioritizes economic deals over traditional alliances and democratic values.

The stakes are particularly high for Europe, which finds itself in a vulnerable position as it grapples with the consequences of diminished American support. European leaders have warned that a Russian victory in Ukraine would pose significant security risks to the continent, but they currently lack the credible security guarantees needed to counter Russian aggression. This summit could potentially reshape the geopolitical landscape, with far-reaching implications for European security, the future of Ukraine, and the broader global order. The outcome of the Trump-Putin meeting will be closely watched by allies and adversaries alike, as the world braces for the potential ramifications of this pivotal diplomatic encounter. 🌍🤝

Russia exceeds monthly recruitment targets, Ukraine's military intelligence says

Russia is successfully meeting and exceeding its monthly military recruitment targets, according to Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of Ukraine's military intelligence. The Kremlin aimed to enlist 343,000 personnel in 2025 and has already surpassed 60% of this goal. Moscow plans to increase this target by an additional 15-17%, leveraging operational reserves to rotate troops and reinforce critical frontline areas. The recruitment drive has been bolstered by lucrative contracts and extensive campaigns, offering substantial signing bonuses and social packages, particularly in regions like Moscow and Leningrad.

The current recruitment rate, estimated at 30,000 to 40,000 new recruits per month, is sufficient to replace Russia's daily frontline losses, which are estimated at around 1,000 troops. Despite the Kremlin's reluctance to initiate another large-scale draft following the unpopular 2022 partial mobilization, military leaders are advocating for a broader draft to prepare for potential conflicts with the West. In March, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the conscription of 160,000 men, the largest call-up in 14 years, with many conscripts indirectly drawn into the war despite official bans on their frontline deployment. 🇷🇺💥

Jerusalem Patriarchate stance over Sinai troubles Athens

Tensions are escalating in Athens due to the Patriarchate of Jerusalem's recent actions regarding Saint Catherine’s Monastery at Mount Sinai. Greek officials express concern over the patriarchate's attempt to position itself as a central authority in negotiations over the monastery's future, potentially undermining ongoing talks with Egypt. A recent statement from the patriarchate, issued after meetings with Archbishop Damianos of Sinai and rebel monks, suggests a desire to secure a pivotal role in decisions affecting the monastery.

The patriarchate's statement, which emphasized cooperation with political authorities and the preservation of the monastery's status, has raised eyebrows in Athens. Greek officials had previously advised the patriarchate to refrain from actions that could disrupt the negotiations, but these warnings were disregarded. Additionally, the statement notably omitted any condemnation of the rebellion against Archbishop Damianos, despite his request for such a stance.

In response to the ongoing unrest, Archbishop Damianos has imposed penalties of excommunication on the rebel monks, suspending clergy among them from their duties and urging repentance. Athens fears that these developments could jeopardize the delicate negotiations with Egypt and empower external actors seeking to influence the monastery's governance. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for the monastery's future and the broader geopolitical dynamics in the region. 🕯️🏰

European leaders optimistic Trump listened to them on Ukraine ceasefire

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron expressed cautious optimism following a virtual meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, hoping that he will prioritize a ceasefire in Ukraine and resist any attempts to cede Ukrainian territory to Russia during his upcoming talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. European leaders, including those in Berlin, Paris, and London, have been engaged in diplomatic efforts to influence the U.S. administration's stance on the conflict. Both Merz and Macron conveyed that Trump had acknowledged the importance of a ceasefire and the non-negotiable nature of Ukraine's territorial integrity, with Macron emphasizing that only Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy can negotiate on matters of Ukrainian sovereignty. This shift in the U.S. administration's perceived stance has brought a sense of relief to European governments, who have been working to ensure that Ukraine's interests are protected in any potential peace deal. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇪🇺

Ukraine will be in 'a situation similar to that of Germany in the Cold War' after ceasefire

In an interview with FRANCE 24, Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics at the University College Dublin Clinton Institute, discussed the potential outcomes of a ceasefire in Ukraine. He suggested that Ukraine might face a situation akin to Germany's during the Cold War, where it would continue to receive Western support and maintain European integration. Lucas posited that Ukraine could accept a temporary occupation by Russia, as the aggressor nation struggles economically and holds onto territories that are severely damaged. This scenario implies a complex geopolitical landscape where Ukraine balances immediate concessions with long-term strategic gains, backed by sustained Western support.

At least 3 dead and thousands displaced as wildfires rage across southern Europe

Southern Europe is grappling with intense wildfires, with at least three fatalities reported in Spain, Turkey, and Albania, and thousands of residents displaced. In Greece, firefighters are battling to protect homes and agricultural areas around Patra, the country's third-largest city, as flames consume olive groves. Residents are actively assisting in the firefighting efforts, using branches and water to combat the blazes. The situation is exacerbated by weeks of heat waves and temperature spikes, stretching firefighting resources thin.

In Albania, an 80-year-old man died in a fire south of Tirana, and evacuations were ordered for four villages near a former army ammunition depot. Explosions from buried World War II-era artillery shells were reported in the southern Korca district. Athens has dispatched assistance to Albania as part of an international effort to combat the dozens of wildfires ravaging the region.

Spain's Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, offered condolences following the death of a firefighting volunteer in the severely affected Castile and León region, where thousands have been evacuated. The government has elevated the national emergency response level to provide additional support for regional authorities managing evacuations and highway closures.

In Turkey, a forestry worker died while responding to a wildfire in the south, adding to the 18 fatalities since late June, including rescue volunteers and forestry workers. The country has been battling severe wildfires for weeks, with firefighting resources stretched across multiple blazes. 🌳🔥⚠️

US temporarily lifts sanctions on Russian transactions to facilitate Alaska peace talks

The United States has temporarily lifted certain sanctions on Russian transactions to facilitate upcoming peace talks between the U.S. and Russia in Alaska. This move, announced by the U.S. Treasury Department, allows for specific transactions that are typically prohibited under existing sanctions, aiming to support the organization of the bilateral summit. The authorization, set to expire on August 20, covers transactions sanctioned under the Russian Harmful Foreign Activities Sanctions Regulations and the Ukraine-/Russia-Related Sanctions Regulations.

President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, on August 15, to discuss a potential path to ending the war in Ukraine. The White House has framed the meeting as a "listening exercise," acknowledging that immediate results may not be forthcoming. However, the summit is seen as a significant step in the peace process. Additionally, Trump plans to present economic incentives to encourage Russia to agree to a ceasefire, including access to Alaska's natural resources, lifting sanctions on Russia's aviation sector, and granting Moscow access to rare earth minerals in Ukrainian territories under Russian control. The talks may also involve Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other European leaders, further emphasizing the international stakes of the negotiations. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

High fire risk issued for Thursday as crews battle blazes across Greece

Greece is facing a severe wildfire crisis, with multiple blazes raging across the country and high fire risk warnings issued for several regions, including the Athens area, Fthiotida, Viotia, the northeast Peloponnese, Evia, Thrace, and the North Aegean islands. Firefighters are battling strong winds to contain fires that erupted on Tuesday in Achaia, Chios, Preveza, and Zakynthos, which have destroyed homes, farmland, factories, and forced thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate. Dozens of people have been hospitalized due to smoke inhalation, and the Karamandaneio Children’s Hospital in Achaia is being evacuated as a precaution. In Patras, residents of four districts have been ordered to evacuate due to an advancing fire. The wildfires have caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including the power network in Chios, leaving villages without electricity for several days. At least 10,000 hectares of land have burned in the past couple of days, with Chios being the hardest hit, followed by Achaia, Filippiada, and Zakynthos. 🔥🏡💨