Newsflash

Russia is turning occupied Ukraine into a giant military base

Russia is rapidly transforming the occupied regions of Ukraine into a vast military stronghold, with significant implications for both Ukraine and NATO. In eastern Ukraine, particularly in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, Russian forces are repurposing civilian infrastructure to house troops, transport ammunition, and launch drones. The Donetsk International Airport, once a modern hub, now serves as a launchpad for long-range drones, with new structures and shelters built on its foundations. This militarization extends to other captured facilities, such as factories, schools, and former resorts, which are converted into barracks and military bases.

The strategic importance of these occupied territories is underscored by the potential for future Russian aggression. Ukrainian activists and experts warn that these areas are already functioning as staging grounds for potential invasions, with military installations hidden across population centers. The conversion of civilian infrastructure into military bases is not limited to the eastern regions. In Crimea and along the Azov Sea, former resorts have been turned into barracks, and advanced air defense and anti-ship missile systems have been deployed. This militarization poses a direct threat to NATO member states, as Russia's forward bases could be used for offensive operations.

Ukraine's fortified cities in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, such as Pokrovsk, Kupiansk, and Kramatorsk, have managed to withstand continuous Russian attacks due to their defensible terrain. However, any peace deal that involves ceding these territories to Russia would risk handing over Ukraine's strongest fortifications. For the residents of these occupied regions, the militarization exacerbates an already dire humanitarian crisis, as they struggle for basic necessities like water amidst the ongoing conflict. The transformation of Ukraine's occupied territories into a giant military base highlights the urgent need for international attention and support to address the deepening crisis and potential threats to regional security.

Hamas Criticizes Israel's Gaza Plan as Indifferent to Ceasefire Efforts

The militant group Hamas has accused Israel of showing "obvious nonchalance" towards ceasefire negotiations, following Israel's initiation of the first phase of its invasion of Gaza City. This move comes just a day after Hamas agreed to a ceasefire proposal, to which Israel has yet to officially respond. The Israeli military's spokesperson confirmed the commencement of the invasion, signaling a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The situation remains tense, with no immediate signs of de-escalation as Israel presses forward with its military operations in Gaza. 🇮🇱🇵🇸💥

Israel's Responsibilities in Gaza Amid Occupation Debate

Israel is intensifying its military operations in the Gaza Strip, with plans to take control of Gaza City and force approximately one million Palestinians to evacuate. The move comes despite a 2024 ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) declaring Israel's occupation of Palestinian areas illegal. Israel, backed by the USA, argues that Gaza is not occupied due to Hamas' governance, but international law experts contend that Israel's control over Gaza's airspace, sea, and borders constitutes an occupation.

The impending ground invasion, set to begin on the two-year anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel, involves five military divisions aiming to besiege and clear Gaza City of Hamas members. However, this operation raises serious concerns about Israel's compliance with international law, particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention, which mandates the protection of civilians in war zones. Experts argue that Israel has repeatedly failed to meet these obligations, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the population is already suffering from severe shortages of food and medical supplies.

The Israeli military's plan to evacuate Gaza City by October 7 and subsequently invade with ground forces has drawn criticism from international law professors and genocide researchers. They emphasize that civilians who refuse to leave or remain in the city are not legitimate targets and that Israel's actions could constitute further breaches of international law. The ongoing conflict, which began with a Hamas attack in October 2023, has resulted in significant casualties and human rights abuses on both sides, with the ICJ and ICC investigating potential war crimes and crimes against humanity. 🇮🇱🇵🇸⚔️🏠

We finally watched ‘Russians at War’ — it's worse than we thought

The documentary "Russians at War," directed by Anastasia Trofimova, has sparked controversy for its portrayal of Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine. The film, shot over seven months while embedded with Russian troops, presents a troubling narrative that frames the conflict as a matter of personal perspective rather than a clear-cut crisis of international law and state sovereignty. Trofimova's approach, marked by deliberate ambiguity, allows the soldiers' views to dominate, often without challenge or context, creating a sympathetic portrayal that some critics argue serves as pro-Russian propaganda.

The documentary introduces viewers to a Ukrainian man, Illia, who fights alongside Russian forces, presenting his personal story as a microcosm of the broader conflict. Through Illia and other soldiers, the film normalizes misleading statements about the war's origins and Ukraine's political landscape, framing the invasion as a "civil war" and suggesting that Ukrainian nationalists have destroyed shared heritage. This narrative is reinforced through visuals of decaying Soviet-era installations, evoking a sense of shared history and loss.

Trofimova rarely challenges the soldiers on contentious topics, leaving a conspicuous moral void. When asked about war crimes, one soldier dismisses the possibility, and the conversation ends in uneasy silence. The film's observational style, while defended by the filmmakers as a dialogue of perspectives, raises serious concerns about its impact on public perception and the ongoing debate surrounding military aid to Ukraine. The documentary's portrayal of Russian soldiers as compassionate figures, risking their lives for humanitarian aid, contrasts sharply with documented reports of widespread atrocities committed by the Russian military.

The film's implication that peace can only be achieved through Russia's victory is deeply troubling. It presents the conflict as a tragic division between Ukrainians and Russians, sidestepping the darker reality of Russia's aggressive, state-driven campaign to reintegrate Ukraine into its orbit. Scenes of soldiers struggling with post-traumatic stress and questioning the war's purpose invite empathy, but they also obscure the broader context of organized aggression and the machinery of war that enables it. The documentary's failure to confront these issues leaves viewers with a complex emotional response that may inadvertently obscure the true stakes of the conflict. Despite its flaws, "Russians at War" serves as a stark reminder of the power of words and images in shaping public perception and the urgent need for critical engagement with such narratives.

Expert Warns of Long-Term Impact of Israel's Gaza Invasion

Israel has launched an invasion of Gaza City, despite Hamas' acceptance of a ceasefire proposal. Middle East expert Alexander Atarodi asserts that Israel has little interest in a ceasefire, even as it faces significant international and domestic pressure. The Israeli government's plans to evacuate Gaza City's approximately one million residents remain unclear, with discussions of potential relocation to countries like Libya, Somaliland, or Sudan, rather than within Gaza itself. This approach raises serious concerns about the violation of international law and the creation of a massive humanitarian crisis.

The invasion's true objectives are uncertain, with Israel claiming it aims to eliminate Hamas members and transfer control to an unspecified entity. Atarodi suggests that Israel may have a hidden agenda, taking advantage of the global focus on the war in Ukraine. The expert expresses deep concern about the long-term implications of Israel's actions on global security, democracy, and human rights. 🇮🇱🇵🇸💥

Russia wants … Russia to have veto over Western security guarantees for Ukraine

Russia has reiterated its unyielding stance on Ukraine, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stating that Moscow remains steadfast in its demands for what it deems acceptable security guarantees. This assertion follows a recent meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska, which had raised hopes for potential progress in resolving the Ukraine conflict. However, Lavrov's comments underscore that the Kremlin has not deviated from its maximalist positions. Russia insists that Ukraine must become a neutral entity, significantly reduce its military capabilities, and forgo any aspirations of joining NATO. This unwavering stance complicates efforts to achieve a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing war. 🇷🇺🇺🇸🇺🇦

‘Today it’s paper, tomorrow it’s nothing’: the perils of security guarantees for Ukraine

Security guarantees for Ukraine have emerged as a pivotal issue in discussions surrounding a potential peace deal, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasizing their importance. While Western allies, including the UK and France, have formed a coalition to support Ukraine, the effectiveness of such efforts hinges on robust U.S. backing. Recent developments suggest that the U.S. may offer "Article-5-like protection," akin to NATO’s collective defense principle, although the specifics remain uncertain.

Ukraine seeks more than just paper guarantees; it aims for a strong, integrated defense industry within the European security architecture. This approach involves deterrence, long-range capabilities, and joint European defense systems to counter potential Russian aggression. The failure of the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, which promised security but failed to prevent Russian incursions, underscores the need for tangible, integrated defense measures rather than mere agreements.

Ukraine advocates for a multi-layered European defense system, including missile defense and a joint nuclear doctrine, to safeguard against future threats. The U.S. role is crucial but should be part of a broader, joint European effort to avoid dependence on fluctuating U.S. policies. The ultimate goal is to create a robust, integrated defense structure that can effectively deter and respond to potential Russian aggression, ensuring Ukraine's long-term security. 🇺🇦🛡️

Poland blames Russia for drone crash

Early Wednesday, a Russian military drone crashed in eastern Poland, near the village of Osiny, approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Warsaw. The drone struck a cornfield, creating a 6-meter-wide crater and causing a loud explosion that shattered windows in nearby homes. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz condemned the incident, accusing Russia of provoking NATO states. Warsaw promptly informed its NATO allies about the event, which has raised tensions on NATO’s eastern flank amid delicate peace negotiations with Moscow over the Ukraine conflict. 🇵🇱💥

Russian missiles, drones rain on Ukrainian cities far from front line, despite peace talks

On August 21, Russia launched a barrage of missiles and drones targeting multiple Ukrainian cities, including those far from the front lines. This assault occurred despite ongoing peace talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, which began just six days prior. Explosions were reported in Rivne Oblast, a region in western Ukraine approximately 304 kilometers west of Kyiv, as Russian MiG-31 fighter jets capable of launching Kinzhal ballistic missiles were spotted in the area. Simultaneously, air raid alerts were issued across Ukraine, with drones approaching Kyiv and air defenses activated in the capital. Reports indicated that dozens of Russian drones were heading towards western Ukrainian oblasts, including Lviv, Ternopil, and Khmelnytskyi. Explosions were also heard in Lviv, Lutsk, and Mukachevo, with air defenses operating in Lviv Oblast. Additionally, cruise missiles were reported flying over Sumy and Poltava oblasts, moving further west. This latest attack underscores the ongoing violence and civilian casualties in Ukraine, with at least 31 civilians killed and 145 injured in Russian strikes since the Trump-Putin meeting in Anchorage on August 15. 💥🏙️

'Russia once again provokes NATO countries' —Poland says Russian drone crashes near its village

A Russian drone crashed in a rural area of eastern Poland, near the village of Osiny in Lublin Voivodeship, which borders Ukraine and Belarus. Polish officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, described the incident as a deliberate provocation by Russia, occurring amidst international discussions on ending the war in Ukraine. This is not an isolated event, as similar drone incidents have previously occurred in other NATO countries like Romania, Lithuania, and Latvia. The Polish government has informed its allies and plans to issue a diplomatic protest, with Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski confirming the violation of Polish airspace. The drone, identified as a decoy with a Chinese-made engine, likely flew low to evade radar and carried minimal explosives. Poland, a NATO member, has repeatedly accused Russia of testing its defenses and attempting regional destabilization through such incidents. This event coincides with ongoing peace talks involving Ukraine, the U.S., and European leaders. 🇵🇱🛸

Desperate leaders in desperate times

The current geopolitical landscape presents a stark and uncertain future, with the West at a critical juncture. U.S. President Donald Trump's disdain for Europe and his dominance over American institutions have left European leaders scrambling for influence, fearing the consequences of defying him. Without U.S. support, Europe lacks significant geopolitical leverage, and its leaders are desperate to maintain some semblance of control. This dynamic has pushed Europe to consider unprecedented measures, such as deploying troops to Ukraine to bolster any peace deal, despite their operational limitations. The hope is that Putin will reject this idea, as it challenges the ideological foundations of his invasion. Meanwhile, Trump, buoyed by his perceived power, believes he can outmaneuver historical precedents and drive a wedge between Moscow and Beijing. However, this bravado risks alienating crucial allies, potentially weakening the U.S. in a future showdown with China. The outcome remains uncertain, but the stakes are high, and the West stands at a pivotal crossroads. 🌍🤝

5 days of diplomacy, 5 days of deadly Russian attacks on Ukraine

Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts involving the U.S., Russia, Ukraine, and European nations to end the war in Ukraine, Russian forces have relentlessly continued their attacks on Ukrainian civilians over the past five days. Since U.S. President Donald Trump's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15, at least 31 civilians have been killed and 145 injured in Russian strikes across Ukraine. These attacks have targeted various regions, including Kherson, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia, causing significant civilian casualties and widespread fear.

Residents in affected areas, such as Kherson, describe a constant threat, with shelling and drone attacks making daily life unpredictable and dangerous. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned these attacks, accusing Russia of using them to exert pressure and undermine diplomatic efforts. The most devastating incident occurred on August 18, with 24 people injured and seven killed in Kharkiv, including a one-and-a-half-year-old girl. The following day, a missile attack in central Ukraine resulted in further casualties, including a family with wounded children as young as five months old.

The United Nations has reported a record number of civilian casualties in Ukraine, with at least 286 killed and 1,388 injured in July alone. Long-range weapons and short-range drones have been the primary causes of these casualties, highlighting Russia's continued use of indiscriminate and deadly force against civilian populations. 🇺🇦⚠️💥

Police: Bolsonaro Sought Asylum in Argentina

Brazilian authorities have uncovered messages on former President Jair Bolsonaro's phone indicating his intention to seek political asylum in Argentina with President Javier Milei. This revelation comes amid ongoing legal proceedings where Bolsonaro and one of his sons face formal charges of obstructing justice. The accusations stem from allegations that Bolsonaro attempted to orchestrate a coup following his defeat in the 2022 presidential election, a claim he vehemently denies. The unfolding legal drama highlights the deep political tensions and legal scrutiny surrounding Bolsonaro's actions and his post-presidential activities. 📲🇧🇷🇦🇷

Libyan coast guard officers complete training on Crete

Greece has successfully concluded the initial phase of training for 25 Libyan coast guard officers, a collaborative effort aimed at reducing irregular migration across the Mediterranean. The month-long program, conducted at the Hellenic Navy’s Maritime Interdiction Training Center in Marathi, Crete, focused on essential skills such as patrols, search and rescue, and ship inspections. This initiative follows a July meeting between Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis and Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar, prompted by a surge in migrant arrivals on Gavdos and southern Crete. In addition to training, Libya has sought Greece’s assistance in maintaining patrol boats and vehicles along its borders with Egypt and Sudan, where millions of displaced individuals are seeking routes to Europe. The training culminates with Coast Guard Chief Tryfon Kontizas awarding diplomas to the Libyan officers and engaging with local port authorities. A second training cycle, concentrating on vessel maintenance, is scheduled for September in Athens or Thessaloniki. 🇬🇷🇱🇾🛳️

Security worries delay Finns' plans to start families

A recent survey by the Finnish National Youth Council and Youth Sector (FYCS) reveals that a majority of young Finns anticipate a deterioration in their country's security situation over the next five years. This concern is so profound that one in three young people have either postponed or abandoned plans to have children due to worries about global instability. This trend is reflected in Finland's declining birth rate, which hit a historic low in 2024, marking the third consecutive year of decline, according to Statistics Finland.

The survey, conducted by Norstat Finland with over 1,000 respondents aged 15 to 30, also highlights differing views on how to address these security concerns. While women predominantly advocate for increased diplomacy and peace efforts, men tend to favor strengthening the European Union's common defense. This generational anxiety underscores the broader unease felt by many Finns, who increasingly view life as too uncertain to start a family. 🇫🇮📉

Norway’s postal service temporarily halts package deliveries to the US

Norwegian postal service Posten will temporarily halt small package deliveries to the United States starting this Saturday. This decision comes in response to new U.S. customs regulations that have suspended the "de minimis" rule, which previously allowed low-value goods to enter the country duty-free. The change means that customs duties must now be paid on all goods, except for gifts under $100 sent by private individuals. This suspension will affect packages valued at less than 8,000 Norwegian kroner (approximately $740 USD), impacting both postal services and small online retailers.

The U.S. legislative change, effective from August 29th, will affect international postal services and online retailers alike. Posten and other European postal companies are collaborating to clarify requirements and develop compliant solutions. Danish and Swedish postal service PostNord has also announced a similar suspension of small package services to the U.S. The temporary halt in services is expected to significantly impact small online retailers who rely on affordable international shipping options. 📦🇺🇸

Sudan Conflict: International Call for Ceasefire to Prevent Famine

The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is worsening, with millions of people facing severe malnutrition and starvation. A joint statement expresses deep concern over the deteriorating situation, urging both government forces and the rebel group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to facilitate humanitarian pauses. These pauses are crucial for delivering life-saving supplies and enabling civilians to escape the ongoing conflict. The war, which began in 2023, erupted from a power struggle between Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, representing the country's army, and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leading the RSF, following a joint military coup. The United Nations estimates that 25 million people in Sudan are currently suffering from severe hunger, with hundreds of children reportedly dying from starvation this year alone. The urgent need for humanitarian access and a cessation of hostilities is paramount to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese population. 😢🍽️

Donald Tusk trashes Budapest as possible Ukraine talks venue

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has expressed skepticism about the potential use of Budapest as a venue for peace talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Tusk reminded that in 1994, Ukraine received assurances of territorial integrity from the U.S., Russia, and the UK in Budapest, but these guarantees proved ineffective in preventing Russia's subsequent annexation of Crimea and ongoing aggression in Eastern Ukraine. He suggested that choosing a different location for the talks might be more auspicious. The White House is reportedly considering a trilateral meeting in the Hungarian capital, involving U.S. President Donald Trump, but Tusk's comments highlight the historical significance and potential pitfalls of using Budapest as a negotiating site. 🇭🇺🤝

Foreign investors’ acquisition of Greek bonds rise significantly

Foreign investors have shown a significant increase in their acquisition of Greek bonds, purchasing €7.5 billion in Greek treasuries during the first half of 2025, compared to €10 billion for the entire year of 2024. The Bank of Greece attributes this surge to a strong vote of confidence in the Greek treasuries market, driven by the country's improving fiscal profile and a shift in investor preference away from the U.S. treasuries market due to President Donald Trump's unpredictable policies. This trend is part of a broader increase in preference for European debt, with inflows into eurozone bonds from outside the zone reaching an 11-year high.

In addition to bonds, there has been considerable investment in Greek stocks. The investment portfolio deficit, which measures the difference between foreign investments in Greek assets and Greek investments in foreign assets, reached €9.67 billion in the first half of 2025, up from €3.04 billion in the same period last year. Overall, non-resident foreigners invested €7.5 billion in debt paper and €1.4 billion in stocks in the first half of 2025. Even in April, a challenging month for global markets, net flows into Greece remained positive. This investor confidence was bolstered by the inclusion of Greek bonds in international indices early in 2024, following the Greek debt's achievement of investment grade in the summer of 2023. France is an exception, facing net outflows in eurozone debt since February. 📈🇬🇷

State Department: The US position regarding Turkey’s acquisition of F-35s remains unchanged

The U.S. State Department has reaffirmed its stance on Turkey’s acquisition of F-35 fighter jets, emphasizing adherence to U.S. law and the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). In a letter to Senator Marco Rubio, the State Department clarified that Turkey’s procurement of the Russian S-400 missile system complicates its access to F-35 aircraft, as per U.S. laws and policies. The letter, signed by Senior Bureau Official Paul D. Guaglianone, underscores the Trump administration’s commitment to safeguarding U.S. defense and intelligence assets and complying with relevant legislation.

The response came after 40 lawmakers, led by Representative Chris Pappas, urged the U.S. government to prevent Turkey from violating U.S. national security laws and policies. The State Department reiterated that Turkey’s possession of the S-400 system remains a contentious issue, with clear implications for its F-35 acquisition. The letter also highlighted the importance of the U.S.-Turkey relationship, acknowledging Turkey’s role as a NATO ally and its contributions to alliance missions. However, it stressed the need for Turkey to address the S-400 issue to avoid potential CAATSA sanctions and to maintain strong defense cooperation.

The initiative to send the letter was backed by various organizations, including the Hellenic Caucus, the Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance, and Greek-American, American Jewish, and Armenian groups, reflecting a broad coalition of stakeholders concerned about regional security and U.S. foreign policy. 🇺🇸🇹🇷🛬️