Newsflash

Half of Starlink terminals sent to Ukraine found in Russian-occupied areas, US agency says

Nearly half of the active Starlink satellite terminals supplied to Ukraine have been found in territories fully or partially occupied by Russia, sparking concerns about potential misuse. The U.S. Office of Inspector General reported that over 5,000 terminals, provided by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and SpaceX, lacked adequate safeguards, increasing the risk of misuse for military or intelligence operations or theft by Russian forces. Ukraine has relied on Starlink to restore internet access and power to critical infrastructure during widespread blackouts caused by Russian strikes. However, the lack of tracking or usage restrictions allowed Ukrainian authorities to distribute terminals without proper oversight, potentially leading to their use in restricted areas or by unauthorized entities. While the report does not provide direct evidence of Russian use, it highlights significant gaps in monitoring and control. SpaceX has since restricted military use of Starlink, and USAID has agreed to work with Ukrainian authorities to address the issue, but challenges remain in ensuring the secure and appropriate use of these vital communication tools. 📡🇺🇦🇷🇺

Trump, Putin conclude high-stakes summit on Ukraine in Alaska

In a high-stakes summit held in Alaska, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin convened to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The meeting, which took place at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, marked their first face-to-face talks since Trump's second term began and Putin's first visit to U.S. soil in a decade. Despite Ukraine being the primary focus, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was notably absent, raising concerns in Kyiv and Europe about potential agreements unfavorable to Ukraine.

The summit, lasting approximately two-and-a-half hours, included a working breakfast and negotiations in both "three-on-three" and "five-on-five" formats. Key U.S. officials present were Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, while Russia was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and presidential aide Yuri Ushakov. Notably, U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg was excluded from the delegation due to Russia's perception of his strong sympathy for Ukraine.

Trump emphasized that territorial swaps would be discussed but stressed that Ukraine should make the decision. He also hinted that Putin might be using fresh drone strikes to gain leverage in negotiations. Meanwhile, Zelensky expressed hope that the summit would lead to a lasting peace, asserting that Ukraine is making progress on the front lines despite ongoing Russian attacks. The summit also addressed broader issues such as economic cooperation and global security, with both sides acknowledging the importance of the discussions. The outcome of the summit will be closely watched, as it could significantly impact the future of Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

UN, Germany say Israeli settlement plan aimed at ‘burying’ Palestinian state is illegal

The United Nations and Germany have strongly condemned a proposed Israeli plan to approve approximately 3,400 settlement housing units in the West Bank, asserting that it would violate international law. The plan, presented by Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, aims to effectively sever the West Bank from East Jerusalem, thereby undermining the viability of a future Palestinian state. The U.N. human rights office stated that the proposal would fragment the West Bank into isolated enclaves, a move deemed illegal under international law. The U.N. spokesperson emphasized that such actions constitute a war crime, as they involve the transfer of an occupying power's civilian population into the territory it occupies. The international community has expressed deep concern over the potential escalation of tensions and the further entrenchment of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The proposed settlement expansion has sparked widespread criticism and warnings of potential legal and humanitarian repercussions. 🇮🇱🇵🇸🏠

US aims, Russian demands, Ukrainian fears: what each side expects from Trump-Putin summit

As U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin prepare to meet in Alaska, each side has distinct priorities and expectations for the high-stakes summit, which comes amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. For Putin, the summit presents an opportunity to push Russia's stringent demands, including Ukrainian territorial concessions, a halt to military mobilization, and an end to NATO aspirations. Russia also seeks guarantees for Russian-speaking populations, the lifting of Western sanctions, and an end to weapons supplies to Ukraine.

Ukraine, however, insists on its involvement in any peace deal and has called for an unconditional ceasefire, the release of all prisoners of war, and the return of Ukrainian children allegedly kidnapped by Russia. Ukraine also demands security guarantees to prevent future attacks and gradual, conditional lifting of sanctions on Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky views the summit as a personal triumph for Putin but stresses that Ukraine's participation is crucial for any meaningful peace agreement.

Trump, who initially promised to end the war swiftly, now aims to broker a deal in person. While he has threatened severe consequences if Russia does not halt its offensive, the White House has tempered expectations, describing the summit as a "listening exercise." Trump has hinted at a potential follow-up meeting involving Zelensky if initial talks go well. Meanwhile, European leaders, despite their support for Ukraine, have been sidelined from the peace talks, with key figures like French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasizing the importance of Ukraine's participation in any negotiations. The summit's outcome could significantly impact the region's security dynamics and the future of Ukraine. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

Trump’s peace plan for Armenia and Azerbaijan

The recent peace agreement signed at the White House between Armenia and Azerbaijan, brokered by the Trump administration, has sparked debate over its implications for regional stability and justice. Critics argue that the deal may be a hasty attempt to secure a diplomatic victory, potentially absolving Azerbaijan of its alleged aggressions, including the ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh and the unlawful detention of Armenian prisoners of war (POWs). The agreement has raised concerns about whether it adequately addresses the root causes of the conflict or merely papers over deep-seated issues.

Aram Hamparian, the executive director of the Armenian National Committee of America, has been vocal in questioning the deal's effectiveness. He and other observers worry that the agreement could embolden Azerbaijan's aggressive stance while failing to ensure the safety and rights of Armenians in the disputed region. The situation is further complicated by the geopolitical dynamics at play, with various international actors having stakes in the outcome. As the region navigates this delicate peace process, the focus remains on whether the agreement will genuinely foster lasting peace and stability or merely serve as a temporary ceasefire that postpones inevitable conflicts. The path to peace in the South Caucasus is fraught with challenges, and the success of this deal will depend on its ability to address the underlying grievances and ensure justice for all parties involved. 🤝🕊️

How past Trump-Putin meetings went — and the clues they hold for Alaska

U.S. President Donald Trump is hosting Russian President Vladimir Putin in the United States, marking their first in-person meeting since Trump's return to the White House and Putin's first visit to the U.S. in a decade. This encounter is the seventh between the two leaders, known for their unconventional dynamics and Trump's desire to strike deals. Trump has repeatedly claimed he could resolve the Russia-Ukraine war swiftly, citing his personal rapport with Putin. Their history dates back to the 2016 U.S. election, with Russia allegedly interfering to support Trump, and includes controversial meetings where Trump met Putin without his own aides present.

Trump has often echoed Putin's denials of election interference, describing their relationship as "very, very good." However, since Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, their relationship has been strained, with Moscow showing no signs of making concessions. Trump has expressed disappointment in Putin but hopes their personal connection could help secure a deal. Ahead of their meeting, Trump suggested it would take him "two minutes" to assess the potential for future talks, which could include a trilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, analysts warn that Putin will likely use the meeting to present Russia's perspective as reasonable, and that meaningful agreements require extensive diplomatic groundwork, which has been lacking in this case. Moreover, any potential peace deal would need Ukraine's agreement, and Ukraine is not part of the summit. 🇷🇺🇺🇸

Putin’s Alaska triumph

In a striking display of camaraderie, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin showcased a notably friendly demeanor during their meeting at a Cold War-era air force base outside Anchorage, Alaska. From the moment they stepped off their planes, the two leaders engaged in a series of warm gestures, including applause, smiles, shoulder pats, and an animated conversation on the red carpet. This public display of friendship stood in stark contrast to the geopolitical tensions that typically characterize U.S.-Russia relations, raising eyebrows and sparking discussions about the potential implications of such a warm rapport between the two powerful figures.

REPLAY: The warm handshake between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin

In a notable display of camaraderie, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin began their Alaska summit with a warm handshake, suggesting a friendly rapport between the two leaders. This gesture set the stage for extensive discussions that could significantly influence the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the broader relationship between Moscow and Washington. The meeting underscores the potential for diplomatic shifts and strategic realignments in global politics. 🤝🌍

Defense minister outlines naval reforms during Dormition celebration on Tinos

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias unveiled significant naval reforms during a ceremony on the island of Tinos, marking the Dormition of the Virgin Mary and the 85th anniversary of the torpedoing of the cruiser Elli. Dendias, representing Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, announced the launch of the "largest reform in the history of the Hellenic Armed Forces," with a strong emphasis on modernizing the navy. He highlighted the upcoming arrival of the Kimon, the first FDI frigate, described as the most advanced frigate globally.

Dendias and Navy Chief Vice Admiral Dimitrios-Eleftherios Katara visited the site where the Elli was sunk, aboard the missile patrol vessel Mykonios. They conducted a memorial service and laid wreaths in honor of the nine sailors who lost their lives in the attack. The minister underscored the historical significance of the Elli incident, noting that it presaged the broader conflicts of World War II. He affirmed the Armed Forces' commitment to honoring Greek history and strengthening the nation's deterrent capabilities responsibly, in accordance with international law. The Virgin Mary was invoked as a spiritual anchor and protector of the Greek Armed Forces. 🇬🇷🛳️

Occupying Gaza would be ‘wrong move’

Eytan Ben David, a former Israeli national security adviser, has strongly opposed the proposal for a full military occupation of Gaza, citing significant risks and complexities. He argues that such a move would endanger Israeli hostages, strain the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), and force Israel to manage the lives of 2 million Palestinians, leading to economic crisis and requiring substantial military resources. Ben David attributes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's consideration of this plan to national security concerns, pressure from extremist allies, and Netanyahu's personal legal troubles.

Ben David also addresses the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, denying allegations of famine and attributing the suffering to Hamas' misappropriation of aid. He asserts that Israel provides significant financial and material support to Gaza but that Hamas confiscates supplies for its own use. He further claims that many images of suffering are fabricated, part of a narrative aimed at discrediting Israel.

Regarding the Israeli chief of staff's public disagreement with the government over the occupation plan, Ben David agrees that a strategic and measured approach is necessary, emphasizing the risks to hostages and the potential for disaster. He also dismisses suggestions of expelling Palestinians from Gaza, stating that such ideas are not supported by the majority of Israelis and are not official government policy.

Ben David criticizes controversial actions by Israeli officials, such as Itamar Ben-Gvir's prayer at the Temple Mount, which provoked international outrage. He expresses concern about anti-Israeli sentiments in Greece, urging the Greek government to maintain security and control over protests to prevent potential harm to Israeli citizens.

Invasive species thrive as Mediterranean Sea temperature hits record high

The Mediterranean Sea is experiencing unprecedented warming, reaching record-high temperatures this year. This rapid warming is driving the "tropicalisation" of the region, as species from the Red Sea, such as the venomous lionfish, migrate through the Suez Canal and disrupt local ecosystems. The eastern Mediterranean, the warmest and fastest-heating part of the sea, is particularly affected, with invasive species outcompeting native ones and contributing to their decline. This trend is expected to spread westward, with potential impacts on the entire Mediterranean basin by the end of the century. The absence of natural predators in the Mediterranean allows invasive species like the lionfish to thrive, posing a significant threat to biodiversity. Conservation efforts must focus on protecting marine areas and managing invasive species to preserve the region's ecological balance. 🌊🐠🌡️

The Ukrainian land occupied by Russia at the heart of the Trump-Putin summit

The upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska is set to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with a contentious proposal on the table: a potential "swapping of territories" to facilitate a ceasefire. However, both Ukraine and Russia have expressed reluctance to cede land, making the outcome uncertain. Ukraine, which has not occupied any Russian territory since March 2024, faces a significant power imbalance, as Russia controls nearly 20% of its territory.

Russia's territorial demands include regions it has claimed since 2014, starting with the annexation of Crimea, followed by Russian-backed separatists taking control of parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. In 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion, seizing large areas in the south and east, including most of Luhansk, parts of Donetsk, and significant portions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Despite international condemnation, Russia organized "referendums" in these regions, claiming victory and annexing them, although this move is not recognized by Ukraine or the international community.

The war has been devastating, with tens of thousands of lives lost and extensive damage inflicted on Ukraine. Despite multiple rounds of peace talks, no agreement has been reached, with Russia accused of making maximalist demands, including Ukraine surrendering Crimea and the occupied regions. A recent Russian proposal to the U.S. suggests that Ukraine could hand over the eastern Donbas region in exchange for a pause in fighting, but this would require Ukraine to surrender land it has fought to protect. Ukraine and its Western allies strongly oppose any cessation of Ukrainian territory, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ruling out any withdrawal of forces from the eastern regions. The summit in Alaska will be crucial in determining the future of Ukraine, but it will occur without Ukrainian representation, despite the overwhelming rejection of Russian demands by the Ukrainian public.

Our readers' questions about the war, answered. Vol. 9

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has raised numerous questions from the public, and experts have provided insights into various aspects of the war. Ukraine does retaliate against Russian attacks on civilian targets by striking military installations, airfields, and arms depots, but the challenge lies in Russia's willingness to commit war crimes, which Ukraine avoids. The fate of people from devastated eastern Ukrainian towns varies, with many fleeing, some dying, and others living under occupation. Internally displaced persons in Ukraine face poor government support, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Russian propaganda claims that Ukraine persecutes Russian-speaking populations in Donbas are refuted by the reality that these populations have been harmed by Russian troops. The objective of Ukrainian victory remains unchanged, but the definition has evolved due to current geopolitical realities. Ukraine's strategy now focuses on effective defense and making the cost of Russian occupation high, rather than immediate territorial gains.

The destruction of the Kerch Bridge, while symbolically important, has diminished logistical significance due to Russia's increased use of ferries. The Ukrainian parliament's role in war outcomes is limited, as it is not an independent institution. The Ukrainian military faces a persistent shortage of soldiers, particularly in infantry roles. Civilian losses are difficult to calculate due to ongoing occupation and undocumented casualties, with conservative estimates placing the number under 100,000.

Kyiv's air defense is insufficient, facing challenges from increased Russian ballistic missile attacks and a shortage of interceptors. Ukraine's interceptor drones show promise but face logistical and deployment challenges. NATO's involvement in the war is unlikely unless Russia attacks a NATO member or uses nuclear weapons, though European countries are increasing military aid and defense spending. The EU's reluctance to act unilaterally on sanctions is driven by a desire for unity. If the U.S. reduces support, Europe may step in, but leadership and autonomy remain challenges.

Americans can help Ukraine by donating to trusted organizations like Come Back Alive, the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation, and Razom for Ukraine. These efforts support Ukraine's defense and humanitarian needs, providing crucial aid during the conflict.

The Ukrainian voices left out of Trump-Putin meeting

Ukrainians living in the front-line city of Kramatorsk, Donetsk Oblast, express their concerns and opinions about potential land swaps between Ukraine and Russia ahead of a pivotal meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The residents' voices highlight the human impact of geopolitical decisions, as they grapple with the prospect of territorial concessions that could directly affect their lives.

The documentary "Can You Hear Me? The Invisible Battles of Ukrainian Military Medics" offers a poignant look into the lives of Ukrainian military medics. The Kyiv Independent's journalists Francis Farrell and Olena Zashko accompanied these medics from the intense frontlines of war-torn Ukraine to a peaceful retreat in the serene forests of Sweden. The film sheds light on the mental health struggles of these medical professionals, who face the daunting task of providing care in the midst of conflict. The stark contrast between the chaos of war and the tranquility of their retreat underscores the emotional and psychological toll of their service, emphasizing the often-overlooked battles they fight beyond the physical wounds they tend to. 🇺🇦🩹

Lithuania’s FCIS detains ex-Prime Minister Paluckas’s brother in Palanga

In a significant development, Lithuania’s Financial Crime Investigation Service (FCIS) has detained Danas Paluckas, the brother of former Lithuanian Social Democratic Party leader Gintautas Paluckas. The detention occurred in Palanga, with neither the FCIS nor the European-delegated prosecutors commenting on the specifics of the case.

The investigation revolves around Dankora, a company owned by Danas Paluckas’ wife, Virginija Paluckienė, who serves as the director of the Palanga Resort Museum. Dankora recently launched a tender for battery systems, which was won by Garnis, a company 49% owned by Gintautas Paluckas. This tender has raised eyebrows due to the apparent conflicts of interest and potential fraud.

Earlier, Dankora’s CEO, Kostas Mikalajūnas, was detained as part of a pre-trial investigation into credit fraud. The company is suspected of fraudulently obtaining over €136,000 in EU financial support. Mikalajūnas initially owned Dankora but later sold his shares to Paluckienė, maintaining that all procurement procedures were transparent and that Gintautas Paluckas was not involved. However, Dankora announced it would return the EU funding, citing the importance of family peace over financial gains.

The investigation also extends to a suspected €200,000 soft loan from the national development bank INVEGA to Garnis, which may have been misused in the operations of Emus, another company co-owned by Gintautas Paluckas. Law enforcement authorities have described the pre-trial investigation as "very active," hinting at potential further arrests and suspects.

Amidst mounting questions about his business ties and past actions, Gintautas Paluckas resigned as the leader of the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party in early August. The ongoing investigation underscores the complex web of financial and political connections under scrutiny. 💸🕵️‍♂️

Turkish authorities widen crackdown on opposition

Turkish authorities have escalated their crackdown on the country's opposition by detaining the mayor of Istanbul's Beyoğlu district, İnan Güney, and approximately 40 other officials. The arrests, which occurred on a Friday, are part of an investigation into alleged corruption. Güney, a member of Turkey’s main opposition party, the secular Republican People’s Party (CHP), was taken into custody alongside several close aides, including his bodyguard and advisers. This move follows the imprisonment of Ekrem İmamoğlu, the popular opposition mayor of Istanbul, who was jailed five months prior on similar corruption charges. The detentions underscore the intensifying pressure on political dissent within Turkey. 🇹🇷🔍

Trump and Putin Discuss Ukraine War in Productive Meeting

In a significant diplomatic encounter, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump held their longest physical meeting to date in Alaska. The approximately three-hour meeting was described by Putin as "constructive and mutually respectful," with both leaders acknowledging each other's national interests. Following the closed-door session, Putin and Trump addressed the press briefly, with Putin speaking for over eight minutes and Trump for just over three, neither taking questions from journalists. Putin warned Ukraine and Europe against hindering peace efforts, while Trump hinted at potential future meetings, including a possible visit to Moscow, despite anticipating criticism.

The meeting, held at the Elmendorf-Richardson military base, deviated from initial plans for a private discussion with only interpreters present. Instead, both leaders were accompanied by their respective delegations, including foreign ministers and advisors. Notably absent was Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has been actively seeking European support for Ukraine's position in the ongoing conflict. The gathering marked the first in-person meeting between the two presidents since 2019. 🇷🇺🇺🇸🤝

Zelenskyj Relieved After Trump-Putin Meeting Yields No Major Deal

In a nearly three-hour meeting held in Alaska, the presidents of the United States and Russia convened, followed by a press conference where no substantial details were shared. Despite the lack of concrete outcomes, experts suggest that the meeting could have ended worse, with the potential for a detrimental agreement being struck without Ukraine's input. The meeting is seen as a diplomatic victory for Russia, as President Putin was welcomed on American soil, breaking his isolation.

Analysts believe that Putin may not genuinely seek peace, instead using the meeting to buy time and maintain the appearance of diplomatic engagement while continuing his military campaign. Although President Trump has previously threatened severe economic sanctions if Putin does not agree to a ceasefire, experts anticipate that any new sanctions will not significantly impede Russia's war efforts. The coming months are expected to mirror the recent past, with Russia continuing its aggression while feigning readiness for negotiations. The meeting, while yielding no immediate breakthroughs, has shifted the diplomatic landscape, with both leaders navigating complex geopolitical dynamics. 🇷🇺🇺🇸🤝

Today in Norway: A roundup of the latest news on Friday

Norway is experiencing significant political and economic developments ahead of its September 2025 general election. Advance voting has surged, with 139,292 ballots cast in the first three days, reflecting a 32.5% increase compared to the same period in 2021. This early voting trend indicates heightened civic engagement as the election approaches. The advance voting window remains open until September 5th, providing ample time for voters to participate before the official election day on September 8th.

Meanwhile, Norway faces international scrutiny over its activities in the Arctic. Russia has accused Norway of violating the 1920 Svalbard Treaty by allegedly increasing military activities on the archipelago. The Russian Foreign Ministry claims that Norway's actions are "absolutely unacceptable" and demonstrate a disregard for the treaty, which prohibits the establishment of naval bases or fortifications on the islands. This diplomatic tension underscores the geopolitical significance of the Arctic region.

Domestically, Norway is grappling with a steep rise in food and beverage prices. The Minister of Trade and Industry, Cecilie Myrseth, has called for urgent meetings with major grocery chains and suppliers to address the issue. The recent price hikes, described as "unacceptable," have seen a 5.9% annual increase, with July alone experiencing a 4.4% spike. Myrseth has demanded clear explanations from industry leaders and warned of potential further government action if the situation does not improve.

In academic news, five Norwegian universities have been featured in the 2025 Shanghai Ranking. The University of Oslo leads the national list, despite a slight drop in global ranking, while the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, the University of Bergen, and UiT - The Arctic University of Norway maintain their positions from the previous year. This recognition highlights Norway's ongoing commitment to academic excellence and research. 📈📚

Live: Trump leaves Alaska after Putin talks, without a deal on ending Ukraine war

In a high-stakes diplomatic encounter, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Alaska to discuss the ongoing Ukraine war. The summit began with a warm handshake between the two leaders, setting a seemingly cordial tone. Trump described the talks as "extremely productive," but provided no concrete details on how the meeting would impact the conflict in Ukraine. The lack of a clear agreement or specific outcomes has left the future of the war uncertain. The summit underscores the complex and delicate nature of international diplomacy, as global powers navigate their interests and alliances amid a protracted and devastating conflict. The world watches closely as these discussions unfold, hoping for a resolution that could bring peace to the region.