Newsflash

General Staff: Russia has lost 1,075,160 troops in Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022

Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the conflict has resulted in a staggering loss of 1,075,160 Russian troops, according to the latest report from the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces. This figure includes 840 casualties sustained by Russian forces in the past 24 hours alone. The extensive losses extend beyond personnel, encompassing significant military hardware. Russia has lost 11,129 tanks, 23,164 armored fighting vehicles, 59,512 vehicles and fuel tanks, 31,858 artillery systems, 1,472 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,210 air defense systems, 422 airplanes, 340 helicopters, 52,935 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine. The scale of these losses underscores the intensity and devastation of the ongoing conflict. 💥🛢️

Russian deserter confesses to killing 5 captured Ukrainian soldiers

A disturbing account of war crimes has emerged from a Russian serviceman, who admitted to participating in the execution of five captured Ukrainian soldiers in Donetsk Oblast in May 2024. The incident, reported by the Polish-Belarusian media outlet Vot Tak, involved members of the notorious Somalia Battalion, known for previous allegations of war crimes. The Ukrainian soldiers were reportedly captured in the village of Karlovka, near Avdiivka, stripped of their belongings, and executed while kneeling. The Russian soldier, Ivan Okhlopkov, described the gruesome details in an interview, claiming that the executions were ordered by their commander and that the bodies were left unburied, eventually destroyed by mortar shelling.

Okhlopkov, who is currently in hiding in Russian-occupied Donetsk, expressed no remorse for his actions. His revelations come amid growing concerns over the systematic execution of Ukrainian prisoners of war by Russian forces. Ukraine's prosecutor general has documented at least 273 such cases, with half occurring this year alone. The United Nations has also confirmed increasing incidents of Russian forces killing or maiming surrendering Ukrainian troops, suggesting a deliberate policy of murdering captives. This grim trend underscores the escalating humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international intervention to address these war crimes. 🇷🇺🇺🇦⚰️

Ukraine security guarantees to be ready ‘in coming days,’ says Zelenskyy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that security guarantees for Ukraine are imminent, with collaborative efforts between Ukraine, the United States, and European partners nearing completion. Following a phone call with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Zelenskyy expressed optimism about the potential to end Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine. He emphasized Ukraine's readiness to engage in constructive steps toward achieving a lasting peace, highlighting the real opportunity to bring the conflict to a close. 🤝🕊️

Trump White House takes a $10B stake in Intel

In a significant move, the U.S. government has secured a 10% equity stake in the chipmaker Intel, valued at approximately $10 billion. President Donald Trump announced the deal at the White House, stating that Intel's CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, agreed to the partnership. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the acquisition on the social media platform X, highlighting the strategic importance of the investment in one of America's leading technology companies. This move underscores the U.S. government's commitment to strengthening its position in the global semiconductor industry. 💼💻

Trump renews sanctions threat against Russia over slow progress toward peace

U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with Russia by renewing his threat to impose sanctions if progress towards a peace deal with Ukraine stalls. Trump has given Russian President Vladimir Putin a two-week deadline to demonstrate a genuine commitment to ending the conflict. Thus far, Moscow has not offered any concessions for a truce and continues to demand further territorial concessions from Kyiv. Speaking from the White House, Trump hinted at potential massive sanctions or tariffs, or even a hands-off approach, depending on Russia's response. The situation remains tense as both nations await Putin's next move. 🇺🇸🇷🇺💥

Bosnia's Serbian statelet calls referendum on federal court verdict against leader

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Serbian-dominated region of Republika Srpska has escalated a political crisis by voting to hold a referendum on a federal court decision that barred nationalist leader Milorad Dodik from office. The referendum, scheduled for October 25, seeks to challenge the court's ruling and the authority of the international envoy enforcing the peace deal that ended Bosnia's 1992-1995 war. This move has drawn immediate international condemnation, with the European Union and Britain's ambassador to Bosnia emphasizing the importance of respecting the rule of law and the sovereignty of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Dodik, who was convicted in February for defying decisions by the international envoy, avoided a prison sentence by paying a fine but was banned from political office for six years. The referendum question put forward by Bosnian Serb lawmakers challenges the legitimacy of the court ruling and the electoral commission's decision to revoke Dodik's mandate. The vote in the RS assembly was overwhelmingly in favor, with 50 out of 65 lawmakers supporting the referendum.

Dodik, who has been in power since 2006, seeks public backing and has threatened further referendums, including one on independence for Republika Srpska. The political turmoil has deepened with the resignation of the RS prime minister and the passage of votes rejecting the authority of the international envoy and demanding Dodik's continuation as president. The international community has warned that these actions undermine Bosnia's fragile sovereignty and constitutional order, which has been maintained by weak central institutions since the 1990s war. 🇧🇦⚖️

Egypt’s efforts to control St Catherine’s Monastery

Egypt is intensifying its efforts to assert control over St. Catherine’s Monastery, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited Christian monasteries. Located at the foot of Mount Sinai, the monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site and holds significant religious and historical importance. The Egyptian government’s actions have raised concerns among international observers and religious communities.

The monastery, founded in the 6th century, is home to a diverse collection of ancient manuscripts, icons, and religious artifacts. It is revered by Christians worldwide and serves as a vital link to early Christian history. However, recent Egyptian initiatives to manage and oversee the monastery have sparked debates about sovereignty, cultural preservation, and religious freedom.

Egyptian authorities argue that increased oversight is necessary to ensure the monastery’s preservation and security. They point to the need for better infrastructure, conservation efforts, and protection against potential threats. However, critics contend that these measures could undermine the monastery’s autonomy and historical integrity. There are fears that the Egyptian government may seek to exert undue influence over the monastery’s operations, potentially restricting access to its religious and cultural treasures.

The situation highlights the delicate balance between national sovereignty and the preservation of global heritage sites. As Egypt navigates its efforts to control St. Catherine’s Monastery, it must address the concerns of the international community and the religious groups that hold the site dear. The outcome of these efforts will have implications for the future of cultural preservation and religious freedom in the region.

Pentagon has quietly barred Ukrainian long-range strikes in Russia with US missiles, WSJ reports

The Pentagon has instituted a covert review process that empowers Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to prohibit Ukrainian long-range strikes within Russia using American missiles, effectively halting such operations for several months. This unpublicized policy, developed by the Pentagon's policy undersecretary, Elbridge Colby, oversees Ukraine's use of U.S.-made and European weapons that depend on American intelligence and components. The review process applies to Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and British Storm Shadow missiles, which rely on U.S. targeting data.

The new policy has led to the denial of at least one planned ATACMS strike within Russian territory. Despite President Donald Trump's recent statements suggesting Ukraine cannot win the war without offensive capabilities, U.S. officials maintain that his remarks do not indicate a shift in policy. Trump has previously expressed disagreement with the Biden administration's decision to allow Ukrainian long-range strikes using U.S. weapons.

Ukraine has proposed a $90 billion weapons purchase from the U.S. as part of broader security guarantees, aiming to secure long-term American commitment and support for its defense needs. This plan, to be financed by European allies, seeks to boost American industry while ensuring Ukraine's security. The review process includes a rating system to assess U.S. weapon stock levels, categorizing them as red, yellow, or green to determine supply eligibility. This strategic move underscores the complex dynamics of international support for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict. 🇺🇸🇺🇦💥

China ready to send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine, German media reports

China has indicated to EU diplomats its willingness to contribute peacekeeping forces to Ukraine, contingent upon a UN mandate and a ceasefire. This development comes amid ongoing discussions about potential peacekeeping operations in Ukraine, as U.S.-mediated talks between Russia and Ukraine face challenges. Ukraine has emphasized the need for robust international security guarantees, citing Russia's history of violating agreements.

Reactions to China's offer have been mixed. Some view a broader coalition, including non-Western allies, as potentially more acceptable to Russia. However, concerns have been raised about China's motives, with fears that it might prioritize spying on Ukraine or adopt a pro-Russian stance in a conflict. The idea of deploying foreign troops to Ukraine, as part of a "Coalition of the Willing," has been proposed by several European allies, including the UK, France, Lithuania, and Estonia. The U.S. has ruled out sending its own troops but is open to other security guarantees. Russia, however, has firmly rejected the notion of European troops on Ukrainian soil, labeling it as foreign military intervention. 🇨🇳🇺🇦🇷🇺

The dilemmas of the fish taverna

The sustainability of seafood consumption is increasingly under scrutiny due to overfishing and declining fish populations. Experts are urging consumers to be mindful of which species they eat and when, to help mitigate the impacts of overfishing and ecosystem degradation. Several species are facing significant challenges, and their populations have dwindled alarmingly in recent years.

Sardines, once a recommended choice due to their nutritional benefits, are now in decline due to warmer sea temperatures and year-round purse seine fishing. Cod, the most caught fish in the Mediterranean, has seen a 40% decrease in population over the past two decades, with many caught well below the sustainable size. The dusky grouper, already endangered, faces severe overfishing, particularly from spearfishing. Other large species like bluefin tuna, swordfish, and marlin are also overfished, with some restaurants mislabeling protected shark species as marlin.

Small crustaceans like prawns are relatively stable, but lobster and octopus populations are struggling due to overfishing and illegal practices. Lobster fishing is intensive, leading to imports from Brazil, while octopus fishing is allowed only in July and August, with strict size limits. Sea urchins, often found in restaurants, are frequently the result of illegal fishing. Some species, such as date mussels and noble pen shells, are protected but still appear on menus, contributing to ecosystem destruction.

Invasive species, like lionfish, are proliferating in the Mediterranean and Aegean seas. While they can be eaten, careful handling is required due to their venomous spines. Other invasive species, such as the dusky and marbled spinefoot, are also edible and can help control their populations. Consumers are encouraged to choose sustainably sourced seafood and avoid species that are overfished or protected, to support marine conservation efforts. 🐟🌊

Record revenue from tourism in H1

Tourism revenue in the first half of 2025 reached a record high, driven significantly by an influx of high-spending tourists from the UK and, notably, the US. The number of visitors increased modestly to 11.692 million, up from 11.625 million in the same period last year. However, the average spending per visitor surged to €622.70, a notable increase from €565.40 in 2024. This surge in spending was bolstered by a decline in overland travel from lower-spending Balkan countries, such as Bulgaria and North Macedonia, who were deterred by higher accommodation and catering prices.

Overall, tourism revenue for the first half of 2025 amounted to €7.659 billion, marking an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2024. June saw a slight decline in visitor arrivals by 1.7%, totaling 4.602 million, but revenue still rose by 8.8%. Revenue from key European markets also saw significant gains, with Germany up 13.5% to €1.366 billion, France up 2.1% to €455.9 million, and Italy up 9% to €344.7 million. The UK contributed €1.082 billion, a 7.3% increase.

The most substantial gains came from US tourists, with 694,100 visitors marking a 20% increase from the previous year. These tourists spent €704.3 million, a 29.4% rise, averaging €1,014.69 per visitor—63% higher than the overall average. This trend underscores the desire to attract more high-spending US tourists, which could be facilitated by expanding direct flight options from low-cost airlines. Norse Atlantic Airways, for instance, has already established direct routes from New York and Los Angeles to Athens. Industry experts are optimistic that the upward trend in tourism revenue will continue throughout 2025. 🛫💰

Republika Srpska Plans Controversial Referendum on Ousted President

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, a contentious political situation has emerged following the sentencing of Milorad Dodik, the former president of Republika Srpska. Dodik was initially sentenced to prison and barred from holding political offices for six years due to separatist actions. Although a higher court upheld the verdict, it converted the prison sentence to a fine and the federal electoral commission dismissed Dodik from his position. In response, Republika Srpska has planned a referendum for October 25 to challenge the electoral commission's decision, a move that could further undermine the country's central government.

The European Union delegation in Bosnia has expressed strong opposition to the referendum, stating that putting a court ruling to a public vote undermines the rule of law and judicial independence. The EU delegation urged Republika Srpska to de-escalate the situation and respect the federal verdict. Similarly, the UK ambassador to Bosnia, Julian Reilly, has labeled the planned referendum as "illegal," highlighting the international community's concern over the potential destabilization of the region. The outcome of the referendum could have significant implications for Bosnia's political stability and its relationship with international allies. 🇧🇦🏛️

Greek American appointed to Homeland Security role

Aris Kourkoumelis, a Greek-American, has been appointed as the assistant secretary for trade and economic security at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In this role, Kourkoumelis will spearhead initiatives to address national security threats related to strategic competition, forced labor, supply chain vulnerabilities, foreign investment, and illicit trade. He will also serve as the department's representative on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) and Team Telecom.

Kourkoumelis brings a wealth of experience in administrative law, trade, and national security policy. He previously held the position of senior counsel in the Department of Commerce’s Office of General Counsel, where he played a key role in implementing Section 232 tariffs and other strategic trade initiatives. Prior to this, he was a managing partner at a law firm, focusing on regulatory and litigation matters, and earlier practiced international trade law at a multinational firm. Kourkoumelis began his legal career as a law clerk for Chief Judge Timothy C. Stanceu of the U.S. Court of International Trade. He holds an LL.M. from Columbia Law School and a J.D. from New York Law School. Kourkoumelis traces his roots to the Greek island of Kefalonia. 🇬🇷🇺🇸💼

Zelensky signs decrees imposing sanctions on Putin’s relatives, Kremlin allies

President Volodymyr Zelensky has imposed new sanctions on individuals and entities connected to Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine. These measures, approved by Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, target key figures in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s inner circle and companies supporting the Kremlin’s military efforts.

The first decree aligns Ukraine’s sanctions with those imposed by Canada, targeting 139 individuals and entities. This list includes members of Putin’s family and close associates, such as his former wife Lyudmila Ocheretnaya, her current husband Artur Ocheretny, Putin’s cousin Mikhail Putin, his nephew Mikhail Shelomov, and Russian ballet master Igor Zelensky, the former husband of Putin’s daughter. Additionally, the decree sanctions businessmen and other Kremlin-linked figures involved in financing the war.

The second decree imposes restrictions on 28 foreign nationals accused of aiding Russia’s occupation authorities in temporarily seized Ukrainian territories. These individuals are deemed complicit in maintaining the occupation regime and sponsoring the Russian state. The sanctions include a ten-year freeze on assets, travel bans, trade and transit restrictions, and prohibitions on participating in privatization and public procurement.

Several Russian companies were also sanctioned, including cosmetics producer Arnest Group, brewing giant Baltika, energy firm Unipro, and logistics company Oteko. These firms face asset freezes, bans on technology transfers, and restrictions on participating in joint projects. Zelensky emphasized that these sanctions aim to hold accountable those who support Russia’s war and occupation, ensuring they face consequences for their actions against Ukraine and its people. 🇺🇦🔒

Young Man Shot in Stockholm; Child Under 15 Suspected of Attempted Murder

On Saturday evening, authorities responded to multiple explosions in a specific area shortly after 7 pm. Upon arrival, police found bystanders providing critical first aid to an injured man, who was conscious at the time. Medical teams took over and transported the man to the hospital via ambulance helicopter. A significant search operation was launched, leading to the temporary suspension of subway services at Bredäng station.

By approximately 8:30 pm, police announced the detention of an individual under the age of 15. Due to their age, the person was taken into care rather than arrested. The investigation is ongoing, and it remains unclear if additional suspects are involved. Police have deployed substantial resources to the scene and are working diligently to maintain the investigation's momentum. 🚨🚑🚇

Legal migration

To sustain economic growth and meet immediate labor demands, the country must prioritize attracting foreign workers through a well-structured and transparent legal migration pathway. While domestic demographic policies may not address immediate workforce needs, establishing a clear and efficient system for legal migration is crucial. This approach ensures that sectors requiring additional labor can access the necessary human resources, fostering economic stability and growth. Transparency and careful planning are essential for the success of such a scheme, ensuring that it benefits both the country and the workers it attracts. 🌍🤝

Nigel Farage backs ‘mass deportations’ in new immigration proposal

The leader of Reform UK, Nigel Farage, is set to advocate for stringent measures against asylum seekers in an upcoming Illegal Migration Bill expected on August 26. In a recent interview, Farage proposed that migrants arriving in Britain via small boats should be arrested upon arrival, detained in Royal Air Force bases, and denied the right to asylum. His plan calls for the swift deportation of these individuals within 30 days. Farage argues that such measures are necessary to address what he describes as a "massive crisis" in Britain, which he claims poses significant national security threats and fuels public anger. His party, currently leading in the polls, is pushing for these drastic actions to curb illegal migration and maintain public order. 🛳️🚔

North Korea Conducts Air Defense Missile Tests

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un has overseen the testing of the country's new air defense missiles, according to state media reports. The tests reportedly demonstrated the missiles' "superior combat capability," although the location of these tests remains undisclosed. This development follows a tense incident at the heavily fortified border between North and South Korea. South Korean forces fired warning shots at North Korean soldiers who had crossed the border while conducting maintenance work. North Korean officials have dismissed the incident, claiming that the shots were deliberately provocative and premeditated. The latest missile tests and border incident underscore the ongoing military tensions and strategic posturing between the two nations. 🚨🇰🇵🇰🇷

Gantz Urges Netanyahu to Form New Coalition for Hostage Release

In Israel, the fate of several dozen hostages, believed to be still alive in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, remains a pressing concern. The current Netanyahu-led coalition government, reliant on far-right parties that oppose any agreement with Hamas, has stalled efforts to secure their release. Benny Gantz, leader of the centrist Blue and White alliance, has proposed forming a temporary coalition to bypass the far right and expedite a hostage agreement. Gantz has appealed to opposition leaders Yair Lapid and Avigdor Lieberman, urging them to join his initiative, despite their previous reluctance to support a Netanyahu-led government.

Gantz's proposal comes amidst growing tensions within the current coalition, which risks collapse after the summer break due to the loss of support from two ultra-orthodox parties. The dispute revolves around the issue of military service for ultra-orthodox men, with the coalition losing its Knesset majority as a result. Gantz, who previously served in Netanyahu's government and war cabinet, parted ways in June 2024, citing a lack of a post-war plan. His call to action is driven by a desire to prioritize the hostages' plight and address the concerns of soldiers who feel unheard by the current government. 🇮🇱🤝

IL: Most Finns favour security guarantees for Ukraine

A recent poll conducted by Taloustutkimus and published by Iltalehti reveals strong Finnish public support for providing security guarantees to Ukraine. A significant 67% of respondents favor offering such assurances, while only 10% oppose the idea, and nearly a quarter remain undecided. However, enthusiasm wanes when it comes to deeper military involvement, with fewer than 20% backing the deployment of Finnish troops to fight in Ukraine.

The survey, conducted in August, gathered responses from over 1,370 individuals, with a margin of error of approximately 2.7 percentage points. Finnish political leaders, including Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, have emphasized the importance of bolstering Finland's own defense capabilities amidst discussions about extending security guarantees to Kyiv. This poll underscores the Finnish public's willingness to support Ukraine while maintaining a cautious approach to direct military engagement. 🇫🇮🤝