Newsflash

Trump says he will call Putin after White House meetings

On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump is set to engage in crucial diplomatic discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders at the White House. Following these high-level meetings, Trump announced his intention to call Russian President Vladimir Putin. The U.S. president revealed that he had recently communicated with Putin indirectly and that a direct phone call would occur immediately after the meetings. This diplomatic maneuver comes amidst ongoing tensions and the need for international cooperation in addressing the conflict in Ukraine. 📞🌍

As Zelensky, Trump prepare to talk about peace, most Russian demands are non-starters for Ukraine

As President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump prepare to discuss potential peace agreements, Russia has presented several demands that are largely unacceptable to Ukraine. These demands include a full Ukrainian withdrawal from Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, de jure recognition of the occupied territories as Russian, a special status for the Russian-backed church and language, Kyiv's demilitarization, and a ban on Ukraine's NATO membership. In exchange, Russia offers vague and contradictory statements on potential security guarantees.

Russia's demands for land swaps, where Ukraine would cede control of certain territories in exchange for Russian withdrawals from others, are seen as heavily favoring Russia and strategically unwise for Ukraine. Analysts argue that such concessions would not secure peace but rather encourage further Russian aggression. The idea of recognizing Russian annexations de jure is also a non-starter for Ukraine, as it would contradict Ukrainian public opinion and potentially undermine U.S. and European policies.

Ukraine views NATO accession as crucial for its security, a goal that Trump's administration has made elusive. The demand for Ukraine's demilitarization is likewise rejected, as it would leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attacks. Russia's insistence on special status for the Russian language and church is seen as a tool for imperialist propaganda rather than genuine cultural protection.

The security guarantees proposed by the U.S. are met with skepticism. While an Article 5-style guarantee is discussed, analysts doubt its credibility and enforcement. The most likely outcome is a commitment to supply weapons, intelligence, and training, but this may not be sufficient to secure Ukraine's defensive positions. Russia's historical record of breaking treaties further undermines the value of any guarantees it might offer. The path to a sustainable peace remains fraught with challenges and uncertainties.

Six killed fighting fires in Spain and Portugal as wildfires ravage peninsula

The Iberian Peninsula is facing a severe wildfire crisis, with six firefighters losing their lives in Spain and Portugal as they battled blazes fueled by an intense heatwave and prolonged drought. The fires, exacerbated by climate change, have destroyed over 343,000 hectares in Spain alone, setting a new national record. In Portugal, approximately 216,000 hectares have been devastated.

The fires, now in their second week, are concentrated in northwestern regions, including Galicia, Castile and Leon, and Extremadura in Spain, and have forced thousands of residents to evacuate. Firefighters, supported by military personnel and water-bombing aircraft from several European countries, are working tirelessly to contain the blazes. However, the extreme conditions and intense smoke have made aerial operations challenging.

The heatwave, which saw temperatures soar to 45°C in some areas, is expected to ease, potentially aiding firefighting efforts. Meanwhile, authorities in Turkey and the Balkans have reported progress in controlling their own wildfires, thanks to rain and cooler temperatures. The international community continues to support Spain and Portugal with additional firefighting resources. Despite these efforts, the situation remains critical, with numerous active fires posing significant threats to local populations. 🔥🌳🇪🇸🇵🇹

Spain and Portugal battle wildfires as death toll mounts

Wildfires are raging across Spain and Portugal, marking one of the worst fire seasons in Europe in over two decades. The intense blazes have forced authorities to close sections of the renowned Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, as flames spread to the southern slopes of the Picos de Europa mountain range. The escalating fires have resulted in a mounting death toll, with emergency services stretched thin as they battle to contain the blazes. The unprecedented scale of the wildfires has raised concerns about climate change and its impact on Europe's ability to manage such natural disasters. The situation remains critical, with firefighters and emergency responders working tirelessly to protect lives and property. 🔥🌳

Why Munich 1938 concessions to Nazi Germany haunt Washington 2025 talks

The White House held crucial meetings Monday, with significant geopolitical implications. A key concern emerged from historical parallels: the potential danger of Ukraine ceding strategic defensive lines to Russia. In 1938, Czechoslovakia's surrender of the Sudetenland, a heavily fortified region, to Nazi Germany severely weakened its defensive capabilities, leading to a swift collapse. Today, there are growing fears in Europe that a similar scenario could unfold if Ukraine, under pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump and influenced by Russian President Vladimir Putin, relinquishes vital defensive positions in the eastern Donbas region. This move could critically undermine Ukraine's ability to resist further Russian aggression. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦🇨🇿

Who will be at Zelensky's side for decisive talks with Trump on Ukraine-Russia war?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is preparing for crucial discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. Zelensky has emphasized that the responsibility to end the invasion lies with Russia. These talks come ahead of a significant meeting in Washington, following a previous summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska that did not result in a ceasefire. The upcoming discussions are expected to be tense, as Trump has been pressuring Ukraine to relinquish Crimea and forgo its NATO aspirations. The outcome of these talks could significantly impact the trajectory of the conflict and Ukraine's future security alliances. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

Zelensky brings Europe's top leaders with him to meet Trump on ending Russia's war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump, accompanied by a significant delegation of European leaders. This hastily arranged meeting at the White House aims to present a united front against Russia's ongoing aggression. The gathering underscores the critical importance of transatlantic solidarity in determining Ukraine's future amidst the escalating conflict. The presence of Europe's top leaders alongside Zelenskyy signals a concerted effort to rally international support and influence Trump's approach to ending the war. 🇺🇸🇪🇺🇷🇺

Turkey’s deepening ties with Italy, Spain

Turkey's defense ties with Spain and Italy are rapidly expanding, raising concerns for Greece as Ankara strengthens its cooperation with two key European nations amid ongoing disputes with EU member-states. Turkey and Spain share a long-standing relationship, highlighted by their joint development of a 300-meter national aircraft carrier, the MUGEM. This project reflects Turkey's shift towards projecting naval power beyond its immediate shores, with the Turkish helicopter carrier Anadolu modeled after Spain's Juan Carlos.

Spain has further bolstered its support by delaying its Eurofighter jet deliveries to facilitate Turkey's acquisition of 40 aircraft, including new models and secondhand jets from Oman and Qatar. Spanish factories also play a crucial role in Turkey's fleet of Airbus transport aircraft, with joint ventures encompassing helicopters, satellites, and training planes. Meanwhile, Italy's defense ties with Turkey are equally robust. In June, Turkey's drone manufacturer Baykar acquired Piaggio Aerospace, gaining access to UAV technology and the European market. Baykar also partnered with Leonardo to develop drones for Europe's growing UAV market. Additional agreements link Turkish firms with Italian companies like Beretta, MES, and Magnaghi Aerospace for small arms, heavy munitions, and aircraft components. Co-production efforts span helicopters, naval patrol planes, and satellites, with Turkey supplying missiles to Italy. Beyond defense, Ankara and Rome collaborate closely in Libya, and Madrid aligns with Turkey on Middle East policy. These deepening ties underscore the strategic importance Spain and Italy place on their relationships with Turkey, despite Ankara's contentious actions towards Greece and Cyprus. 🇹🇷🇮🇹🇪🇸🇬🇷🇨🇾

Zelensky in Washington to discuss acceptable terms for peace deal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in Washington for a crucial meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, accompanied by a significant delegation of European leaders. This gathering aims to present a united front against Russia and discuss potential terms for a peace deal. The meeting comes at a critical juncture, as the future of Ukraine and European security hang in the balance. The high-level delegation underscores the collective resolve to address the ongoing conflict and seek a resolution that aligns with shared democratic values and regional stability. 🇺🇦🇺🇸🇪🇺

EU leaders to hold video conference on Ukraine after Washington talks, Costa says

European Council President Antonio Costa has scheduled a video conference for August 19 to brief EU leaders on the outcomes of crucial meetings in Washington concerning Ukraine. This virtual meeting, set for 13:00 CEST, aims to debrief those not present in Washington, ensuring all EU leaders are aligned on the discussions and decisions made. Key European figures, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, will participate in the Washington talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. The summit follows Trump's recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where no concrete agreements were reached despite some progress on peace efforts.

The Washington discussions will cover a range of critical topics, including the status of peace negotiations, security assurances, territorial disputes, ongoing support for Ukraine, and the maintenance of sanctions against Russia. European officials privately express concerns about potential conflicts, recalling a tense encounter in February when Trump and Zelensky clashed over U.S. aid to Ukraine. Despite this, the EU and the U.S. are committed to collaborating on a lasting peace that protects Ukraine's and Europe's security interests. The upcoming video conference underscores the EU's proactive approach to staying informed and engaged in the evolving geopolitical landscape. 🌍📞

PM highlights Finland's own defence amid talk of security guarantees for Kyiv

In a significant diplomatic move, U.S. President Donald Trump will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders, including Finnish President Alexander Stubb, in Washington D.C. The agenda includes discussions on security guarantees for Ukraine, akin to NATO's collective defense pledge. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has indicated that while Finland is focused on defending its own borders, it could potentially contribute to logistics and training efforts. However, Orpo cautioned that sending Finnish troops to Ukraine is a complex issue due to the potential for conflict.

Foreign policy expert Charly Salonius-Pasternak emphasized that mere promises of support will not suffice for Ukraine, which seeks tangible security guarantees. This could involve Western countries committing to send troops to Ukraine, a stance that raises questions about Finland's involvement and the credibility of such commitments. Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen reaffirmed Ukraine's potential future in NATO and stressed the importance of supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. She also expressed skepticism about trusting Russia's commitments, highlighting Finland's historical caution regarding Russian assurances. The discussions underscore the complex geopolitical landscape and the delicate balance between supporting Ukraine and maintaining regional stability. 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇫🇮🇷🇺

Ukraine war latest: 'We'll give them very good protection, very good security' — Trump says in White House meeting with Zelensky

On August 18, President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Zelensky expressed Ukraine's readiness for trilateral talks involving Russia, viewing Trump's openness to such negotiations as a positive sign. Trump assured Ukraine of strong security guarantees, although he did not explicitly confirm the deployment of U.S. troops. The meeting was part of broader discussions involving European leaders, including those from France, Germany, Italy, the UK, and Finland, as well as the European Commission President and NATO Secretary-General.

Following the Washington talks, European Council President Antonio Costa convened a video conference for EU leaders to debrief on the outcomes and continue efforts toward a lasting peace that protects Ukraine's and Europe's security interests. Meanwhile, a Russian missile strike on Zaporizhzhia killed three people and injured 30, prompting Zelensky to accuse Russian President Vladimir Putin of undermining diplomatic efforts. The strike targeted an industrial facility, causing significant damage and casualties.

In military developments, a top Russian commander, Lieutenant General Essedoulla Abatchev, was seriously wounded in a Ukrainian strike near the border. Additionally, a monitoring group reported that Russia has occupied less than 1% of Ukrainian territory since November 2022, despite initial significant gains. The conflict has seen fluctuating territorial control, with Ukraine reclaiming ground in Kharkiv and Kherson oblasts during counteroffensives in 2022. Overall, about 20% of Ukrainian land remains under Russian occupation, including territories seized since the 2014 invasion. 🇺🇦🇷🇺💥

Zelensky meets US Envoy Kellogg ahead of Trump summit

In anticipation of a crucial meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington D.C. on August 18, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a preliminary discussion with Trump's Special Envoy, Keith Kellogg. This meeting occurred just hours before Zelensky's scheduled talks with Trump, following Zelensky's recent diplomatic efforts, including a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15.

Zelensky expressed gratitude for the meeting and emphasized the importance of the upcoming summit, noting that it marks a significant gathering of European leaders in Washington. The discussions with Kellogg centered on the current battlefield situation, Ukraine's diplomatic initiatives, and the path to achieving peace. Zelensky underscored the necessity of demonstrating strength to compel Russia into negotiations, acknowledging Trump's influence in this regard. He also highlighted the ongoing efforts by Kyiv and its European allies to end the conflict and secure reliable security measures. Additionally, Zelensky condemned recent Russian strikes that resulted in civilian casualties, including the deaths of two children.

The presence of European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, at the Washington summit underscores the collective commitment to supporting Ukraine and addressing the escalating tensions with Russia. This gathering represents a united front in the face of ongoing geopolitical challenges. 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇪🇺

Ukraine proposes $100 billion US weapons deal backed by European allies, FT reports

Ukraine has put forth a bold proposal to purchase $100 billion worth of American weapons, with European allies covering the costs. This strategic move aims to secure U.S. security guarantees and solidify long-term American commitment to Ukraine's defense. By framing the request as an investment opportunity for U.S. industry, Ukraine hopes to align with President Donald Trump's focus on supporting American economic interests.

The proposal, shared with European allies before a meeting with Trump, includes a separate $50 billion agreement for producing drones with Ukrainian companies, leveraging Ukraine's advancements in drone technology since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion. While the specific weapons are not detailed, Ukraine has previously expressed interest in acquiring at least 10 U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems.

The initiative serves as a counterproposal to Trump's recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where Trump seemed to align with Russia's position on ending the war. Ukraine's plan emphasizes the necessity of a ceasefire as the first step towards a comprehensive peace agreement, rejecting any deals that involve territorial concessions to Russia. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of a ceasefire before further negotiations.

Ukraine's document outlines a vision for a lasting peace based on a strong security framework, rather than concessions to Putin. It argues against freezing the front line, as proposed by Russia, citing the risk of further Russian advances. Additionally, Ukraine insists on full compensation for wartime damages, suggesting the use of frozen Russian assets, and ties any sanctions relief to Russia's compliance with a future peace agreement. This proposal underscores Ukraine's determination to secure a just and enduring peace, prioritizing its long-term security and sovereignty. 🇺🇸🇺🇦💥

Trump Prepares Zelensky-Putin Meeting for Peace Talks

In a significant diplomatic development, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on the Truth Social platform that he has initiated preparations for a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This potential summit, tentatively planned within the next two weeks, follows a meeting at the White House involving key European leaders and aims to advance peace efforts in Ukraine. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed that Putin has agreed to the meeting, while Zelenskyy expressed willingness to participate but noted a lack of specific details.

The proposed meeting would be a historic first, with the potential for a subsequent three-party summit including Trump, Zelenskyy, and Putin. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the significance of Putin's agreement to meet Zelenskyy, stating that such a meeting would be unprecedented. The White House gathering also addressed security guarantees for Ukraine, which Zelenskyy expects to be formalized within the next ten days, with details to be decided by international partners.

The meeting at the White House included a broad coalition of European leaders, emphasizing the continent's crucial role in any potential peace agreement. Attendees included EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. This diplomatic effort follows Trump's meeting with Putin in Alaska, underscoring the global stakes and the need for collaborative engagement to resolve the Ukraine conflict. The international community is closely watching these developments, hoping for a breakthrough in the ongoing crisis. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

Heavy taxation of rent-derived income hits investment hard

Greece faces a severe housing crisis due to a limited supply of properties, a problem exacerbated by the government's imposition of some of the highest taxes in Europe on rental income. This heavy taxation has significantly deterred investment in the housing sector, making it an unattractive proposition for potential investors. As a result, the housing shortage persists, and the market remains stagnant. The public eagerly anticipates Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' upcoming announcements, with hopes that he will introduce tax relief measures to stimulate investment and alleviate the housing crisis. 🏠💸

Viral video of Russian vehicle waving US flag and attacking Ukraine sparks fury in Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's most senior adviser strongly condemned a viral video that surfaced, showing a Russian combat vehicle flying both Russian and American flags as it moved through a village in Zaporizhzhia, eastern Ukraine. The footage, aired by Russian state-controlled broadcaster RT, depicts an M113 armored personnel carrier, a U.S.-manufactured vehicle captured by Russian forces. The adviser criticized the provocative display, which appears to be a deliberate attempt to sow confusion and undermine international support for Ukraine. The authenticity of the video could not be independently verified. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions and propaganda efforts in the conflict, as Russia seeks to exploit symbols of Western support for its own gains. 🇷🇺🇺🇸💥

Low interest in EU loans for projects

The European Union's Recovery and Resilience Fund, designed to stimulate economic growth and innovation, is facing significant challenges in securing interest for its loan component. Despite the EU's eagerness to prioritize sectors like digital transformation and artificial intelligence, many projects in these areas remain unattractive to potential investors. In July, the request for the sixth installment of fund money included only subsidies, excluding loans, highlighting the persistent issue. According to the fund's guidelines, €9 billion worth of funding contracts should have been signed, but the actual amount was just over €7.5 billion.

Government officials attribute the lack of loan agreements to the insufficient digital maturity and AI integration of proposed projects. Eurostat data reveals that only 13.5% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the EU, and a mere 9.8% in Greece, utilize AI technologies. This digital gap underscores the need for enhanced investment in cutting-edge technologies and digital infrastructure to foster innovation and economic growth. The current landscape indicates a pressing need for targeted initiatives to boost digital maturity and AI adoption among SMEs, ensuring they can effectively leverage EU funds and drive forward the continent's technological advancement. 💻📈

Putin, the winner on the geopolitical chessboard

Vladimir Putin has emerged as a significant geopolitical winner, transforming Russia from a post-Soviet, diminished state into a formidable global player. Despite Western missteps and underestimations, Putin has successfully reasserted Russia's influence on the international stage. The West's liberal governance model, once used to assert its dominance, has faltered, with Brexit, the rise of ultraconservative governments in Europe, and the election of Donald Trump in the U.S. all contributing to its decline. Trump's admiration for Putin and the shared ideologies of Trumpism and Putinism further bolster Russia's standing. However, this snapshot of Putin's success does not negate Russia's economic and technological lag, its dependence on China, or its struggles to support key allies like Syria and Iran. Nevertheless, Putin's strategic maneuvers have positioned Russia as a major power, commanding respect and influence in global affairs. 🌍🃏

Overhead power lines under scrutiny after wildfires

Recent wildfires in Greece have prompted investigations into the country's aging electrical infrastructure as a potential cause. In Keratea, a deadly blaze that killed a 76-year-old man and scorched 1,580.8 hectares is suspected to have originated from an electrical pole. Firefighters found a severed medium-voltage cable with signs of poor maintenance, such as green oxidation and rusted components. Similar incidents occurred in Varnava in August 2024, where a fire near a wooden electrical column burned over 10,000 hectares and claimed a life.

Greece's extensive electrical network, spanning 262,000 kilometers, is predominantly overhead and vulnerable to weather-related damage. The country aims to upgrade or underground 3,900 kilometers of overhead lines by mid-2026, with the complete undergrounding estimated to cost 35 billion euros. Efforts to expand the underground network have accelerated, with 1,800 kilometers added in 2024, including 500 kilometers in forested areas.

Investigations into multiple recent fires, including those in Achaia and Palaia Fokaia, are ongoing. Civil Protection Minister Giannis Kefalogiannis has stated that a DEDDIE cable sparked the June fire in Palaia Fokaia. The electricity distribution operator, DEDDIE, maintains that the network is not connected to the Keratea fire, pending final investigation results. 🔥💥