Newsflash

Norway and Sweden heatwave 'made 2 degrees hotter' by climate change

A recent heatwave across Europe has had severe and unusual impacts, including fainting at outdoor events, overwhelmed hospitals, wildfires, algae blooms, increased drownings, and even reindeer seeking refuge in urban areas. A group of European researchers attributed the intensity of the heatwave to climate change, stating that it made the event about 2 degrees hotter and at least 10 times more likely. The burning of fossil fuels, which release planet-warming carbon emissions, was identified as a key factor in intensifying the heatwave.

The heatwave has particularly affected Nordic countries, which are not typically vulnerable to high temperatures. The region's infrastructure, designed for cooler climates, struggles with extreme heat, and the aging population is increasingly at risk. Buildings in these countries are often well-insulated but poorly ventilated, exacerbating the issue. The heatwave has also threatened the livelihood of indigenous Sami reindeer herders, as reindeer struggle to find relief from the heat and access food and water. Warmer winters and alternating freeze-thaw cycles create ice layers that prevent reindeer from digging for food.

The Arctic region is warming faster than other parts of the planet, and the likelihood of prolonged heatwaves has nearly doubled since 2018. Researchers emphasize that a rapid transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy is crucial to mitigate and ultimately halt this warming trend. The heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action to protect vulnerable populations and ecosystems. 🌡️🔥

From 'war criminal' to US guest — Trump invites Putin out of isolation

Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to the United States marks a significant shift from his diplomatic isolation following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The trip, facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to push for a ceasefire deal, but experts caution that it may legitimize Putin without securing meaningful concessions. This outreach contrasts with Putin's previous isolation, where he primarily engaged with close allies like China, Iran, and North Korea, avoiding Western capitals.

Trump's invitation to Putin signals a pragmatic, transactional approach to foreign policy, prioritizing trade and business opportunities over ideological alignments. This shift began shortly after Trump's inauguration, with frequent phone calls and diplomatic exchanges between the two leaders. However, experts warn that this strategy could embolden Putin and delay potential regime changes in Russia. It may also send a troubling message to other authoritarian regimes, suggesting that aggression can be rewarded with international legitimacy.

While the U.S. has reopened direct channels with Russia, the European Union remains cautious, tying any engagement with Moscow to Ukraine-related frameworks. The EU's commitment to Ukraine's candidacy and accession talks makes it reluctant to ease sanctions or resume cooperation with Russia prematurely. Meanwhile, individual European leaders like Hungary's Viktor Orban and Slovakia's Robert Fico have maintained unilateral contacts with Moscow, but these do not reflect the EU's official policy.

The outcome of Trump's diplomacy will be closely watched, with the potential to influence global perceptions of U.S. power and resolve. Critics argue that Trump's approach lacks a clear deterrent, emphasizing the need for continued military support to Ukraine rather than relying solely on sanctions. As the international community observes these developments, the stakes are high for both regional stability and global norms of behavior.

Afghans awaiting resettlement to Germany arrested in Pakistan, says report

Pakistani authorities have reportedly arrested hundreds of Afghans in Pakistan who were scheduled to be resettled in Germany. This action follows the suspension of a German government program designed to offer refuge to vulnerable individuals under Taliban rule. Approximately 400 Afghans awaiting resettlement have been detained in recent weeks, with several dozen already deported back to Afghanistan. This development raises serious concerns about the safety and future of vulnerable Afghans seeking protection abroad. 🇩🇪🇦🇫🚨

US sanctions Russian crypto exchange over cybercrime — day before Trump-Putin summit in Alaska

The U.S. Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on the Russian-linked cryptocurrency exchange Garantex Europe OU, accusing it of facilitating over $100 million in illicit transactions since 2019, primarily for ransomware gangs and other cybercriminals. This move comes just a day before the scheduled summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska. The sanctions also target Garantex’s successor, Grinex, along with three top executives and six associated firms in Russia and Kyrgyzstan.

Garantex, established in late 2019 and operating from Moscow and St. Petersburg, has been a significant hub for laundering money from ransomware attacks and other criminal activities. The exchange maintained accounts for hundreds of thousands of users, including those linked to notorious ransomware groups like Conti, Black Basta, LockBit, and Ryuk. Despite being sanctioned in April 2022 and losing its Estonian license for anti-money laundering failures, Garantex continued operations by concealing its activities and servicing sanctioned entities.

In March, a joint operation involving U.S., German, and Finnish law enforcement seized Garantex’s web domain and froze over $26 million in cryptocurrency. Following this, Garantex transferred customer funds to Grinex, a newly created exchange designed to evade sanctions and law enforcement actions. Grinex quickly began processing billions in cryptocurrency transactions and partnered with Russian and Kyrgyzstani firms to issue a ruble-backed digital token, aiding customers in recovering funds and resuming transactions. The Treasury Department’s actions aim to disrupt the network of companies and individuals supporting Russian sanctions evasion, underscoring the ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime and financial misconduct. 💸💻

Ukraine war latest: Trump says Putin ready to make a peace deal with Ukraine

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin is prepared to engage in peace talks to end the war in Ukraine, ahead of their upcoming summit in Alaska. This meeting, scheduled for August 15, marks the first face-to-face discussion between the two leaders since Trump's return to office and Putin's first visit to the U.S. in a decade. While the White House frames the talks as part of efforts to broker a ceasefire, Ukrainian and European officials have expressed concerns over Kyiv's exclusion from the summit. Trump has hinted at potential economic incentives for Russia and the possibility of a trilateral meeting involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, though Zelensky will not attend the initial summit. Meanwhile, July saw the highest civilian casualties in Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022, with 1,674 civilians killed or injured, according to the U.N. Human Rights Office.

Russia may also be preparing to test a nuclear-powered missile ahead of the Trump-Putin summit, as indicated by satellite imagery showing activity at a test site in the Arctic. This move could overshadow the discussions in Alaska, where the leaders are expected to address Ukraine, economic cooperation, and global security. Additionally, Ukraine has secured the return of 84 soldiers and civilians from Russian captivity in a recent prisoner swap, including individuals held since 2014. The exchange comes as part of ongoing efforts to facilitate peace talks and prisoner releases, with Ukraine and Russia preparing for a larger exchange of 1,200 prisoners of war.

In a significant military development, Ukrainian forces conducted a drone strike on an oil refinery in Volgograd, Russia, causing substantial fires and disrupting operations. The refinery, a key facility for producing diesel, gasoline, and aviation fuel, has been a frequent target due to its role in supporting Russia's military logistics. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Navy reported the likely downing of a Russian Su-30SM fighter jet near Snake Island, adding to the list of Russian aircraft losses during the conflict. As the war intensifies, Ukraine faces increasing challenges on the eastern front, with Russia making rapid advances and Kyiv's forces dealing with manpower shortages. The situation underscores the urgent need for diplomatic efforts and military support to address the ongoing crisis. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Norway blames Russia for cyberattack on hydropower dam

Norway's intelligence service, the Norwegian Police Security Service (PST), has accused Russia of orchestrating a cyberattack on a hydropower dam in the country's western region. The April attack targeted the Bremanger dam near Svelgen, where a floodgate was opened for four hours, releasing 500 liters of water per second. Fortunately, the dam's water levels were low, preventing any injuries or damage. This incident marks a rare public attribution of a cyberattack to Russia by Norwegian authorities.

PST chief Beate Gangas highlighted a shift in activity from pro-Russian cyber actors, aiming to sow fear and chaos among the population. She emphasized that Russia has become more dangerous, with significant resources dedicated to recruiting contacts in Norway. A pro-Russian cybercriminal group, which has been linked to previous attacks on Western businesses, claimed responsibility for the incident via a video on Telegram.

Norway, heavily reliant on hydropower for electricity, has previously warned about threats to its energy infrastructure. The country shares a 198-kilometer border with Russia, including the only open Schengen border crossing at Storskog. The Russian embassy in Oslo has dismissed the PST's statements as "unfounded and politically motivated." The incident underscores the growing cyber threats faced by Norway and the broader implications for European security. 💦💻🇷🇺

UN Warns Russia and Israel May Face War Crimes List for Sexual Violence

The United Nations is poised to include Russia and Israel in its next report on sexual violence in conflict zones, joining entities like Myanmar's military, Sudan's army, and Palestinian Hamas. The UN has identified a troubling pattern of sexual violence perpetrated by Israeli and Russian forces, often occurring in conjunction with detention and imprisonment. In Israel, credible reports detail abuses such as genital violence, enforced nudity, and repeated strip searches aimed at humiliation. Notably, five Israeli soldiers were charged with penetrating a Palestinian prisoner with a sharp object. In Russia, Ukrainian prisoners of war have reported sexual abuse in both official and unofficial detention camps, including electric shocks, genital assaults, and enforced nudity to extract confessions and information. The UN documented 209 cases of war-related sexual abuse in Ukraine in 2024, including rapes.

Israel, while cooperating with the investigation, has denied the report's findings and criticized the UN for not focusing on Hamas's war crimes and the release of hostages. Russia, however, has not engaged with the investigation and has not responded to the report. The international community awaits the UN's next report, which is expected to shed further light on these grave allegations. 🇮🇱🇷🇺🇦😡

Iran Collaborates with China and Russia to Counter Sanctions

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has announced that the country is collaborating with China and Russia to prevent the reimposition of European sanctions related to its nuclear energy program. This joint effort comes in response to a warning from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, which have informed the UN Secretary-General of their readiness to reinstate sanctions if a diplomatic resolution is not achieved by the end of August. Araghchi acknowledged that the reintroduction of sanctions would have negative consequences but asserted that the anticipated economic impacts have been overstated. He also hinted at Iran's preparedness to retaliate if sanctions are imposed, though specific measures were not disclosed. The diplomatic standoff underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with major powers aligning to counter Western pressure on Iran. 🌍💥

Can Trump offer Ukraine's minerals to Putin? Not without unraveling the global legal order, experts warn

The Trump administration is reportedly considering a controversial proposal to offer Russia access to Ukraine’s rich mineral resources in the occupied territories, a move that has sparked outrage and concern among Ukrainian officials and industry experts. This potential deal, which includes sanctions relief and access to Alaskan resources, is being discussed ahead of a planned meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The proposal, if implemented, would violate international law and could set a dangerous precedent for global resource disputes.

Ukraine's mineral-rich regions, including significant deposits of lithium and iron ore, are currently under Russian occupation. Allowing Russia to exploit these resources would not only be illegal but also undermine Washington’s reputation and the global legal order. Economist Volodymyr Landa warned that such a move could lead to a world where international relations are governed by brute force rather than diplomacy, likening it to a deadly game of survival. 💥🌍

Ukrainian officials have strongly opposed the idea, emphasizing that it would require the U.S. to recognize the occupied territories as part of Russia, a step no other country has taken. Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka and President of the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Gennadiy Chyzhykov both expressed their disapproval, highlighting the potential damage to America’s standing on the global stage. Instead of exploiting Ukrainian resources, some experts suggest that offering Russia access to Alaskan resources could be a more palatable option, although it still rewards Russian aggression. 🇺🇸🇷🇺

The Arctic region, rich in oil and gas reserves, is another area of interest for both the U.S. and Russia. Previous attempts at cooperation, such as the deal between ExxonMobil and Rosneft, have been hindered by Western sanctions. Trump’s interest in the Arctic is also driven by China’s growing influence in the region, with the U.S. seeking to maintain its strategic foothold. However, any deal that rewards Russia for its aggressive actions could have far-reaching consequences for global security and stability. 🌍🏞️

Muslim group criticises minister's view on face coverings in schools

The debate surrounding Muslim students' headscarves in Finnish schools has intensified, with political figures and community leaders expressing divergent views. Social Security Minister Sanni Grahn-Laasonen recently stated that face-covering garments like burkas and niqabs are inappropriate in educational settings, citing children's rights and safety concerns. However, Pia Jardi, secretary general of the Muslim Forum of Finland, argues that the discussion is exaggerated and fears it could lead to broader restrictions on religious attire, similar to France's ban on visible religious symbols in schools. The Muslim Forum emphasizes religious freedom and the right to dress according to one's beliefs.

The Finnish government has sent mixed signals on the issue. Finance Minister Riikka Purra advocates for a complete ban on burkas, niqabs, and headscarves for young girls, particularly in schools. Meanwhile, Education Minister Anders Adlercreutz is open to discussing face-covering scarves from safety and identification perspectives but does not support legislative action. The National Agency for Education confirms that such headscarves are rare in Finnish schools and that any ban would require legislative changes. Interior Minister Mari Rantanen has announced an investigation into a potential veil ban, expressing hope that it could be implemented during the current government term. The debate highlights the tension between religious freedom and perceived societal norms in Finland. 🧕🏫🇫🇮

It’s merge or perish for small shippers

The European Union's stringent environmental regulations are compelling small and medium-sized Greek ferry companies to adapt or merge to survive. Starting in 2029, passenger shipping firms must participate in the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) and use fuel with a lower sulfur content. These changes impose significant financial burdens, pushing many smaller operators to the brink. Market experts predict a wave of mergers and acquisitions, leading to the formation of a few large companies capable of modernizing their fleets and transitioning to greener operations.

Small and medium-sized shippers face substantial challenges in securing capital due to limited assets and a lack of corporate transparency. Many of these companies do not even adhere to modern accounting standards, making it difficult for them to secure loans or participate in development projects. However, many small shippers rely on "public service contracts" or subsidies to stay afloat, as they operate routes to less-frequented islands, which the state deems essential to connect.

According to XRTC Business Consultants, 57 ships are subsidized to serve 73 routes, primarily between islands, at an annual cost of €150 million. This figure has risen from €90 million in 2019, highlighting the increasing financial strain on both the shippers and the government. The future of these small and medium-sized ferry companies hinges on their ability to adapt to new environmental standards or find suitable merger partners. ⚓️🌍

Poland signs $3.8bn deal with US for modernisation of entire F-16 fleet

Poland has entered into a significant intergovernmental agreement with the United States to modernize its entire fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft, at a cost of $3.8 billion. This upgrade will enhance the capabilities of Poland's 48 F-16s, which were purchased in the 2000s and have since played crucial roles in both domestic and international missions. The modernization will include advanced radar systems, communication upgrades, improved reconnaissance, and better integration with other military assets like the F-35, Abrams tanks, and Apache helicopters. The work will be carried out in Poland, supporting local jobs and the defense industry.

The agreement is part of a broader effort by Poland to bolster its defense capabilities, particularly in response to regional threats. Over the past few years, Poland has significantly increased its defense spending, reaching 4.7% of GDP this year—the highest relative spending in NATO. This investment is part of a larger strategy to position Poland as one of the top three NATO countries in terms of operational capabilities. The modernization of the F-16s is just one of several major defense contracts Poland has signed with the U.S., including purchases of Abrams tanks, F-35 fighters, Apache helicopters, and Patriot air defense systems. Additionally, Poland has secured multi-billion-dollar deals with South Korea for various military equipment, further strengthening its defense infrastructure. 🇵🇱🛡️

Russia, Ukraine exchange 84 prisoners each on the eve of Trump-Putin summit

On the eve of a crucial summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska, Russia and Ukraine conducted a significant prisoner exchange, releasing 84 individuals from each side. This swap, facilitated by the United Arab Emirates, included both military personnel and civilians who had been held captive for years, some since as early as 2014. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the release of "defenders of Mariupol," referring to those who had fought in the besieged city before its fall to Russian forces in 2022. The exchange is part of a series of prisoner swaps this year, with both sides agreeing to larger exchanges in previous talks. The released prisoners are receiving psychological and medical assistance as they reintegrate. This development comes amidst ongoing tensions and efforts towards peace, with prisoner exchanges being one of the few tangible outcomes of recent diplomatic efforts. 🤝🕊️

Souda, Larissa base upgrades on agenda

A delegation from the U.S. House Appropriations Committee visited Greece from August 8 to 12 to discuss upgrades to American military facilities in Souda Bay, Crete, and Larissa, central Greece. Led by Republican Representative Hal Rogers, the delegation toured the Souda Bay Navy base and met with American and Greek officials before proceeding to Athens for further discussions. The visit highlighted the strong cooperation between the U.S. and Greece, with lawmakers praising Greece's economic recovery and the strategic importance of the military bases.

The U.S. has invested millions in these facilities, with $42 million allocated to Souda Bay alone. The upgrades support various U.S. aircraft and drones and benefit nearby Hellenic Navy installations. The visit comes amid negotiations over amendments to the Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement, including the addition of new sites like the Petrochori firing range in Xanthi and resolving damage at the Stefanovikeio facility. As the U.S. prepares for new congressional deliberations on global military investments in 2026, Greece aims to secure projects that also benefit its own armed forces. The strategic environment in the Eastern Mediterranean underscores the value of these bases for both nations. 🇬🇷🇺🇸🛬️

Serbia's police intervene as ruling party supporters face off against anti-government protesters

In Serbia, tensions escalated on Wednesday night as riot police intervened to separate rival demonstrations between anti-government protesters and supporters of President Aleksandar Vucic. The clashes in Novi Sad marked a significant escalation in the nine-month-long protests, which began after the deadly collapse of a subway station canopy, highlighting widespread government corruption. Supporters of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) threw flares and firecrackers at anti-government protesters, leading to injuries on both sides.

President Vucic, flanked by Interior Minister Ivica Dacic, accused unnamed foreign powers of orchestrating the riots and pledged arrests for those involved in the violence. Footage showed anti-government protesters with bloody faces, alleging attacks by Vucic's supporters using sticks and truncheons. The opposition Move-Change movement condemned the attacks, stating that the use of pyrotechnic devices violated protesters' rights to life and assembly. In Belgrade, police in riot gear blocked anti-government protesters from approaching areas where Vucic's supporters were camped, and clashes erupted near local SNS offices.

The protests, led by students and opposition groups, demand early elections to remove Vucic and his party from power after 13 years. Accusations of corruption, organized crime ties, and curbed media freedoms have fueled the protests, with demonstrators calling for accountability and change. The situation remains tense, with ongoing calls for protests in major cities across Serbia. 🇷🇸💥

Why Poland is clinging onto coal, despite the economic and environmental costs

Poland's energy landscape is undergoing significant shifts, with coal, once the backbone of the economy, facing an uncertain future. The state-owned energy giant PGE's initial plan to phase out coal by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 sparked political backlash, particularly in the coal-dependent region of Silesia. The ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party, fearing electoral repercussions, reversed PGE's decision, but the subsequent change in government brought new promises of accelerating the energy transition.

Despite these promises, progress has been slow, with key reforms like easing wind turbine construction laws facing delays and potential vetoes. Poland's deep-rooted reliance on coal, stemming from historical, economic, and cultural factors, makes the transition challenging. The coal industry, though economically uncompetitive and heavily subsidized, retains strong political and symbolic influence.

The country's energy future is fraught with political tensions, as evidenced by the ongoing debate over the EU's Green Deal and the upcoming ETS2 carbon pricing scheme. The government's handling of these issues will be crucial in shaping Poland's energy landscape and its competitiveness in the global market. While the latest draft of Poland's National Energy and Climate Plan signals a commitment to phasing out coal, the path forward remains uncertain, with political and economic hurdles to overcome. The share of renewables in Poland's energy mix is gradually increasing, but the journey towards a coal-free future is far from complete.

Over 400,000 Syrians Return Home from Turkey

Since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December, over 410,000 Syrians who had fled to Turkey have returned to their home country, according to Turkey’s government. This number has surged in recent weeks, with 140,000 returnees recorded since mid-June alone. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reports that approximately 600,000 Syrians have returned home from neighboring countries. However, around 2.5 million Syrian refugees still reside in Turkey, down from a peak of 3.7 million in 2021. The increasing number of returnees suggests a growing sense of stability and safety in Syria, prompting refugees to consider going back home. 🏠🇸🇾🇹🇷

Orbán’s rival accuses Russia of election meddling in Hungary

Hungarian opposition leader Péter Magyar has accused Russia of meddling in his country's politics, alleging that Moscow is attempting to sway Hungarian voters and influence the upcoming parliamentary election. Magyar, who leads the center-right Respect and Freedom Party, currently holds a significant lead over longtime Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in the polls. He claims that Russia's actions mirror those of the Soviet era, employing tactics such as disinformation, threats, and smear campaigns.

Magyar's accusations come in response to a statement from Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), which accused the European Commission of plotting to change the "regime in Budapest." The SVR statement specifically mentioned Magyar as a potential candidate backed by "globalist elites" to replace Orbán. This narrative echoes Orbán's own accusations from last year, when he claimed that the EU was attempting to establish a "puppet government" in Hungary.

Magyar has called for an explanation from Russia's ambassador to Hungary, Yevgeny Stanislavov, demanding to know the purpose behind Moscow's interference. The political tension escalates as Magyar's party threatens Orbán's long-standing rule, with polls indicating a growing support base for the opposition leader. The upcoming election is poised to be a pivotal moment for Hungary's political future. 🇭🇺🏛️

Pension system under threat

Greece is grappling with a severe demographic crisis, marked by a shrinking productive population and a rapidly aging society. Since 2008, Greece's population has decreased by over 720,000, with the most significant decline occurring in the 30-44 age bracket, primarily due to an exodus of skilled professionals during the financial crisis of the 2010s. The number of individuals aged 25-29 has also dropped significantly, while the population of those aged 65 and over has increased by 405,000. This demographic shift poses a substantial threat to Greece's pension system, as the ratio of economically active individuals to pensioners is already critically low at 1.7 to 1 and continues to decline.

The age dependency ratio, which measures the number of retirees per 100 employed persons, is projected to rise to 46% by 2030, compared to an EU average of 42%. This means that for every 100 employed individuals, there will be 46 financially dependent retirees. By 2030, Greece is expected to have 6.5 million people aged 15-64 and about 3 million aged 65 and over, placing a heavy burden on the working population to support pensions, healthcare, and welfare provisions. The pay-as-you-go social security system, once known for its early retirement ages, is under significant strain.

The decline in births has also been stark, with a 40% decrease from 2000 to 2023, compared to a 21.5% decline in the EU. Despite a net positive migration rate, the influx of migrants has sparked backlash and challenges similar to those seen in other countries. The demographic trends underscore the urgent need for policy interventions to address the aging population and ensure the sustainability of Greece's social security system. 📉🧑‍🦳

Opposition leader slams government over Palestine: "Finland is in danger of being on the wrong side of history"

The leader of Finland's largest opposition party, the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has issued a stern ultimatum to the government, demanding clarity on the recognition of a Palestinian state by early September. SDP chair Antti Lindtman, speaking at the party's summer meeting in Vaasa, called for immediate and concrete actions to pressure Israel and clarify Finland's stance on Palestinian statehood. He criticized the government's inaction and the public disagreement between President Alexander Stubb, who supports recognition, and the Foreign Minister, who has signaled similar intentions, but faces opposition from coalition partners, notably the Christian Democrats.

Lindtman condemned Israel's actions in Gaza, describing them as violations of international law and humanitarian principles. He urged Finland and the EU to impose sanctions on Israeli leaders and suspend the EU-Israel trade deal due to human rights violations. Additionally, he called for increased pressure on Hamas to release hostages and exclude them from future Gaza administration. Lindtman argued that Finland risks being on the "wrong side of history" due to the government's indecision and the influence of parties opposed to Palestinian rights. He warned that if the government does not present a clear position to Parliament by early September, the SDP will initiate a vote of no confidence. The current government holds a majority that could be jeopardized if the Christian Democrats withdraw their support. 🇫🇮🇮🇱🇵🇸