Newsflash

'Low key atmosphere' as Ukraine celebrates independence day

Ukraine marked its Independence Day with subdued celebrations, reflecting the ongoing security risks and fading hopes for peace. The day was marked by a series of drone strikes launched by Ukraine on Russian targets, which inadvertently sparked a fire at a nuclear power plant. In Kyiv, the atmosphere was notably low-key, with large public gatherings avoided due to persistent security concerns. The subdued festivities underscore the nation's ongoing struggle and the challenges it faces in the midst of the conflict. 🇺🇦🎇

Canada to send over $700 million in drones and ammunition to Ukraine in September

Canada is set to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities with a significant aid package, valued at over one billion Canadian dollars (approximately $700 million USD), scheduled for delivery in September. Announced by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during Ukraine's Independence Day celebrations in Kyiv, the package includes drones, ammunition, and armored vehicles. This support is part of Canada's broader commitment, pledged earlier at the G7 summit, which also involves two billion Canadian dollars ($1.5 billion USD) in military funding and new sanctions targeting Russia's energy revenues.

In addition to military aid, Canada will allocate tens of millions of dollars for emergency medical assistance, the construction of bomb shelters, support for local democracy, and enhancing Ukraine’s cybersecurity. Carney emphasized Canada's long-standing friendship with Ukraine, noting that Canada was among the first countries to recognize Ukraine's sovereignty in 1991. The prime minister's visit to Kyiv was joined by defense ministers and high-level officials from several other countries, including Sweden, Denmark, Romania, Lithuania, Latvia, the UK, and the U.S.

The timing of these announcements is crucial, as global discussions on long-term security arrangements for Ukraine continue to evolve. Recent meetings between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have sparked concerns in Kyiv and European capitals, particularly Trump's suggestion of territorial swaps and security guarantees. Despite these geopolitical shifts, Canada's commitment to Ukraine remains steadfast, focusing on strengthening Ukraine's defense and resilience. 🇨🇦🇺🇦🛡️

Ukraine's security gurantees top the agenda on its independence day

On Ukraine's Independence Day, the nation's security guarantees took center stage in discussions about a potential peace deal. The focus was on evaluating the past performance of Ukraine's security guarantors and understanding the implications for the country's future security. As Ukraine reflects on its sovereignty, the effectiveness of international commitments to its defense remains a critical concern, shaping the ongoing dialogue about peace and stability in the region. 🇺🇦🔒

Ukraine strikes long-range with own weapons without coordinating with US, Zelensky says

Ukraine has been conducting long-range strikes against Russia using domestically produced weapons, independent of U.S. coordination, as announced by President Volodymyr Zelensky during a press conference on Ukraine’s Independence Day. This development comes amidst reports that the U.S. has implemented a review process to restrict Ukrainian use of American missiles for strikes inside Russia, effectively halting such operations for months. Zelensky clarified that Ukraine's recent strikes have been carried out with its own weapons, without involving the U.S.

The Ukrainian president also revealed plans to commence mass production of the domestically developed Flamingo cruise missile this winter. The Flamingo, described as Ukraine's most successful missile, has a range of up to 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles) and has undergone successful tests. This long-range capability is expected to significantly bolster Ukraine's ability to target Russian military assets deep within enemy territory. The production ramp-up is anticipated to begin by the end of December or in early 2026, marking a crucial step in Ukraine's military strategy. 🇺🇦🚀

Israeli Bulldozers Uproot Olive Trees in West Bank Village

In the West Bank village of al-Mughayyir, olive trees, vital to the local Palestinian economy and culture, have been uprooted, and bulldozers are actively reshaping the landscape. Witnesses report seeing bulldozers with Israeli flags and military vehicles in the vicinity, indicating Israeli involvement. This activity has sparked concerns about Israeli settlers expanding their control over the region, a move that could displace local Palestinians and escalate tensions.

The olive groves, a significant cultural and economic asset for West Bank Palestinians, have historically been a flashpoint for violent clashes between Palestinian farmers and Israeli settlers. Ghassan Abu Aliya, head of a local agricultural organization, warns that this incident is just the beginning of a broader campaign to assert control and force Palestinians to leave, potentially spreading across the entire West Bank. The situation has been further exacerbated by recent violence, with the Palestinian Authority reporting that an 18-year-old man was killed by the Israeli army, and several arrests made in the village. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have also arrested a man accused of involvement in a terrorist attack in the area. The unfolding events underscore the ongoing conflict and the struggle for control over the West Bank. 🌳🇵🇸🇮🇱

Is Trump’s Ukraine gambit 'sending a signal to the world that America does not stand by its allies'?

On Ukrainian Independence Day, Ukraine launched a series of drone strikes on Russian territory, igniting a fire at a nuclear power plant. This aggressive move comes amidst dwindling hopes for peace, as the brutal, three-and-a-half-year conflict has resulted in a stalemate, with tens of thousands of casualties and recent Russian gains in the eastern Donetsk region. The war, characterized by its attritional nature, has left the international community grappling with the fading prospects of a resolution.

As the conflict persists, questions arise about the United States' commitment to its allies. Some analysts argue that recent U.S. actions may be perceived as a signal that America is not steadfast in its support for Ukraine. To delve deeper into these complexities, Catherine Viette of FRANCE 24 engages in a discussion with Peter Zalmayev, Director of the Eurasian Democracy Initiative, offering an in-depth analysis of the geopolitical landscape and the implications of the ongoing war. The conversation aims to provide a nuanced perspective on the challenges and potential pathways forward in this protracted conflict. 🇺🇦💥

Ukraine and Russia trade drone strikes on Kyiv’s independence day

Ukraine celebrated its 34th Independence Day under the shadow of intense drone strikes, as Russia targeted cities across the country. The Ukrainian air force reported that Russia launched over 70 Shahed drones and a missile overnight, primarily from bases in Kursk, Millerovo, and Primorsko-Akhtarsk. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 48 of the drones, but several others struck targets in at least 10 regions, sparking fires and causing civilian casualties.

In the city of Pavlohrad, a rocket attack ignited a significant blaze, while local officials in the Dnipropetrovsk region reported nine injuries and one fatality. Meanwhile, Ukraine retaliated by striking a Russian nuclear power plant and a major port, escalating the tit-for-tat exchanges. The ongoing conflict underscores the persistent volatility and danger faced by civilians in the region, even as Ukraine marks a significant national milestone. 🎇💥

Spain Endures Record Heat Wave Amid Devastating Wildfires

Spain experienced an unprecedented heatwave between August 3 and 18, with average temperatures soaring 4.6 degrees above the median, surpassing the previous record set in July 2022. The period from August 8 to 17 marked the warmest ten-day stretch in the country in at least 75 years, according to the Spanish meteorological institute AEMET. The extreme heat has been devastating, with over 1,100 deaths attributed to the heatwave, nearly matching the high death toll from July, which saw a 50% increase compared to the same month the previous year.

The scorching temperatures have also fueled widespread wildfires, which have burned over 400,000 hectares of land, setting a new record for the country. The fires have claimed at least four lives and forced thousands of residents to evacuate their homes. However, authorities announced on Saturday that they had largely contained the wildfires, bringing some relief to the affected regions. The intense heat and wildfires have highlighted the urgent need for climate action and preparedness in the face of increasingly frequent and severe weather events. 🔥🌡️

10 books to better understand Ukraine on its Independence Day

Ukraine's Independence Day, celebrated on August 24, is a poignant reminder of the nation's enduring spirit and resilience in the face of adversity, particularly amidst Russia's ongoing full-scale war. To gain a deeper understanding of Ukraine's journey, its cultural memory, and the experiences of its people, exploring literature that delves into the country's past and present is essential. Here are ten books that offer a window into Ukraine's complexities and the unyielding spirit of its people.

"Survival as Victory: Ukrainian Women in the Gulag" by Oksana Kis recounts the harrowing experiences of Ukrainian women in Soviet forced labor camps, highlighting their fight to preserve their cultural identity. "The Voices of Babyn Yar" by Marianna Kiyanovska pays tribute to the victims of one of World War II's most horrific massacres, ensuring their memory endures. "The Gates of Europe: A History of Ukraine" by Serhii Plokhy traces Ukraine's journey from ancient times to the modern era, revealing how the nation's position at the crossroads of empires has shaped its identity. "The Ukrainian Night: An Intimate History of Revolution" by Marci Shore captures the voices of those who participated in the 2013–2014 EuroMaidan Revolution, illuminating their hopes, fears, and the aftermath of their hard-won victory. "Our Others: Stories of Ukrainian Diversity" by Olesya Yaremchuk uncovers Ukraine's rich multicultural heritage, painting a portrait of a nation defined by its diversity and struggles against aggression.

"Vasyl Stus: Life in Creativity" by Dmytro Stus reflects on the life of his father, a leading figure in the Ukrainian dissident movement, and his transformation into a national symbol. "The Museum of Abandoned Secrets" by Oksana Zabuzhko follows three Ukrainian women whose lives are shaped by the shadows of the past, illuminating the intertwining of personal memory and national history. "Earth Gods: Writings from Before the War" by Taras Prokhasko invites readers into a world of Ukrainian literature defined not solely by war, but by the country's cultural reemergence and struggle to preserve its unique qualities. "Stalking the Atomic City: Life Among the Decadent and the Depraved of Chornobyl" by Markiyan Kamysh meditates on the haunting ruins of Chornobyl and the beauty that emerges in the wake of catastrophe. "The City" by Valerian Pidmohylny explores the subtle shifts within the self as a young villager finds himself transformed by the rhythms and contradictions of city life in Kyiv. These books collectively underscore that Ukrainian independence is a deeply human experience, a story of community, memory, and hope. 📚🇺🇦

'Our flags are returning to where they belong' —Ukraine liberates Novomykhailivka in Donetsk Oblast, military intelligence reports

Ukrainian forces successfully liberated the village of Novomykhailivka in Donetsk Oblast, marking a significant victory on the front lines. The operation, conducted by the military intelligence agency's Artan unit and the Third Assault Brigade's 2nd Assault Battalion, caught Russian forces off guard. Ukrainian troops drove out the occupiers, securing the settlement and inflicting notable losses on Russian personnel, who were forced to redeploy reserves from other areas. The successful operation, which involved coordinated efforts from intelligence, assault troops, heavy equipment, and drones, improved Ukraine's tactical position in the region.

The liberation of Novomykhailivka coincided with Ukraine's Independence Day, a poignant moment as the country celebrates its sovereignty amidst ongoing conflict. Additionally, Ukrainian forces reported the liberation of three other villages in Donetsk Oblast: Zelenyi Hai, Mykhailivka, and Volodymyrivka. The recapture of Novomykhailivka is particularly significant, as it had previously been a site of intense fighting and heavy Russian losses. The village's strategic location, just south of Russian-occupied Mariinka, makes it a crucial point in the ongoing conflict.

Russia's continued ground offensives in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Pokrovsk sector, aim to seize key logistics hubs and strengthen Moscow's position in potential peace negotiations. The Kremlin's proposed peace plan involves Ukraine withdrawing all forces from Donetsk Oblast, effectively ceding the region to Russia. As the conflict persists, Ukraine's military successes, such as the liberation of Novomykhailivka, underscore the country's resilience and determination to defend its territory. 🇺🇦🏴

Ukraine war latest: Ukraine, Russia hold prisoner exchange on Independence Day

On August 24, Ukraine celebrated its Independence Day with significant military and diplomatic developments. A prisoner exchange took place, with Ukraine bringing home soldiers and civilians, including journalists and a former mayor, from Russian captivity. The swap involved 146 individuals on each side, marking another step in the ongoing efforts to repatriate prisoners of war. President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the importance of these exchanges, crediting the efforts of Ukrainian soldiers, the coordination team, and international partners.

In a notable shift, Zelensky announced that Ukraine had conducted long-range strikes against Russia using domestically produced weapons, without coordinating with the U.S. This move comes amid reports of U.S. restrictions on Ukrainian use of American missiles for strikes inside Russia. Despite these tensions, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine's sovereignty in defending its territory.

On the battlefield, Ukrainian forces made strategic gains, liberating three villages in Donetsk Oblast: Zelenyi Hai, Mykhailivka, and Volodymyrivka. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that these victories were part of ongoing efforts to counter Russian advances, particularly near the crucial logistics hub of Pokrovsk.

Meanwhile, Ukraine launched drone strikes on Russian infrastructure, targeting a gas terminal in Leningrad Oblast and an oil refinery in Samara Oblast. These attacks, confirmed by Ukrainian Military Intelligence and the Security Service (SBU), aimed to disrupt Russia's energy supply and reduce its war-fighting capabilities. The strikes caused fires and temporarily suspended operations at several Russian airports.

Russia retaliated with a massive drone and missile assault on Ukraine, launching 72 drones and a ballistic missile. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 48 drones, but the remaining projectiles struck ten locations, causing casualties and damage. Throughout the day, Russian forces continued targeting Ukrainian cities, resulting in deaths and injuries in Donetsk, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, Zaporizhzhia, and Kharkiv oblasts. The relentless attacks underscore the ongoing intensity of the conflict, with both sides engaging in strategic maneuvers and retaliatory strikes. 🇺🇦💥

Support for Ukraine aligns with national interest, Mitsotakis says

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized Greece's unwavering support for Ukraine, asserting that it is in the nation's best interest. In a recent social media post, Mitsotakis highlighted that Greece's stance is driven by its geopolitical position and the challenges it faces. He firmly rejected the notion of altering borders through force, drawing a parallel between Ukraine's situation and the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. Mitsotakis argued that supporting Ukraine is consistent with Greece's historical stance against territorial aggression and the recognition of sovereign rights. He expressed optimism for recent diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict and underscored the importance of standing against unlawful claims and invasions. 🇬🇷🤝

Wall Street faces a reckoning in Washington as crypto influence grows

The financial sector in Washington is on the brink of a significant lobbying battle as cryptocurrency companies and traditional banks clash over new digital asset regulations. This conflict is set to intensify when Congress reconvenes after the August recess, with both sides vying for influence over upcoming legislative efforts.

The crypto industry has recently secured several lobbying victories, including a major overhaul of digital asset regulations following President Donald Trump's return to office. However, as Republicans in Congress prepare to advance a second, more comprehensive bill to support the crypto market, Wall Street firms are pushing back. These firms argue that certain crypto-friendly reforms could disrupt their operations and pose risks to financial stability. The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown between these powerful lobbying groups, each seeking to shape the future of digital asset regulation in the United States. 💥🏦💻

Canada’s Carney makes surprise visit to Kyiv

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney made a surprise visit to Kyiv on a Sunday to join President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day. This visit underscores Canada's commitment to the "coalition of the willing," a group of European-led nations providing military support to Ukraine. The visit also resonates with Canada's significant Ukrainian diaspora, which numbers around 1.3 million, the second-largest in the world. During his visit, Carney reaffirmed Canada's steadfast support for Ukraine, stating, "Canada’s support for Ukraine is unwavering. We are with you every step of the way, in your fight to defend your sovereignty, and to realize your dreams for your country." This gesture highlights Canada's dedication to Ukraine's sovereignty and its role in the broader international effort to support the nation. 🇨🇦🇺🇦

EU hinders worker mobility

The European Union faces a significant challenge in worker mobility, with less than 4% of its productive population working outside their home countries. This low mobility hinders EU economic growth and competitiveness, as it limits access to a broader talent pool. Greece, despite its severe demographic issues and low foreign direct investment, is particularly struggling to attract foreign workers, with only 2% of its workforce being foreign EU citizens. The country lags behind the eurozone average and is among the least attractive destinations for European workers, alongside Bulgaria, Hungary, Latvia, and Romania.

Several factors contribute to this low mobility, including cultural and linguistic barriers, limited recognition of skills, inadequate coordination of social security systems, difficulties in transferring pensionable working years, and limited access to affordable housing. Additionally, some countries impose high fees, require excessive documentation, or conduct arbitrary checks for the recognition of academic titles, further hindering mobility. The International Monetary Fund emphasizes the need for a consistent and optimized system of qualification recognition to foster economic integration and personal career development.

Moreover, around 5,400 professions, accounting for 22% of the EU workforce, are regulated in all member states, discouraging mobility and often forcing workers to take on lower-skilled roles. To address these challenges, the EU must streamline recognition processes, enhance coordination among social security systems, and promote affordable housing solutions to facilitate worker mobility and drive economic growth. 🌍💼

Finland marks Ukrainian independence on Sunday

On Sunday, Ukraine marks its fourth Independence Day since Russia's full-scale invasion, with celebrations and solidarity events taking place around the world, including in Helsinki. The Finnish capital will honor Ukraine with flag displays at the Senate Square and the Foreign Ministry's Merikasarmi headquarters, which will be illuminated in Ukraine's blue-and-yellow colors in the evening. A public gathering at the Senate Square, starting at 3 PM, will feature an address by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and performances of Ukrainian music. The event, organized by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Helsinki, the Ukrainian Association in Finland, and Mothersforpeace, along with other partners, invites attendees to bring sunflowers to create a floral display. Prime Minister Orpo reaffirmed Finland's commitment to supporting Ukraine, stating that the West's shared goal is to achieve a just peace and that Finland stands with Ukraine for as long as necessary. 🇺🇦🇫🇮🌻

Moscow and Beijing would have cheered EU-US trade war, von der Leyen says

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has staunchly defended the EU's recently finalized trade accord with the United States, emphasizing the strategic importance of the agreement in maintaining global stability. In an op-ed published in El Mundo, von der Leyen argued that failing to reach a deal would have been detrimental, benefiting only Europe's rivals, notably Moscow and Beijing. She framed the agreement as a conscious choice for stability and predictability, aiming to avoid a trade war between the two largest democratic economies. The four-page framework agreement, concluded last week, is seen as a crucial step in fostering cooperation and preventing escalation. 🇪🇺🇺🇸🤝

Sweden and Ukraine to Collaborate on Defense Equipment Production

The Swedish and Ukrainian governments have taken a significant step towards collaborative defense production. On a recent visit to Kyiv, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson and his Ukrainian counterpart, Denys Shmyhal, signed a statement of intent to jointly produce defense equipment in Sweden. This partnership aims to leverage Sweden’s industrial base, Ukraine’s battlefield experience, and innovative capabilities to strengthen both nations’ defense industries. Several other countries, such as Romania, Poland, and Denmark, are already engaged in similar collaborations with Ukrainian defense companies, highlighting the growing trend of international cooperation in defense manufacturing. 🇺🇦🇸🇪🤝

UK promises to improve 'broken' asylum system amid wave of anti-migrant protests

In response to a wave of anti-migrant protests across the UK, the government has pledged to overhaul its asylum system. The protests, which targeted hotels housing asylum seekers, were triggered by a sexual assault case involving a hotel resident. The government aims to expedite the asylum appeals process, reduce the backlog, and phase out the use of hotels for accommodation, which has become a contentious issue.

The current system, inherited from the previous administration, faces significant challenges, including a record number of asylum applications and a substantial backlog of cases awaiting decisions. The average wait time for an appeal is 53 weeks, contributing to the strain on the asylum accommodation system. To address these issues, the government plans to establish an independent body to handle appeals more efficiently, drawing lessons from other European countries.

Interior Minister Yvette Cooper acknowledged the "complete chaos" of the existing system and emphasized the need to reduce delays and the number of people in the asylum system. The government is under pressure to find a solution, particularly from the hard-right Reform UK party, which advocates for more stringent measures, including withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights and mass deportations. The protests, which occurred in multiple cities, highlighted the urgency of reforming the asylum system to address both the backlog and public concerns. 🏨🇬🇧

Downed Ukrainian drone causes short-lived fire at Russian nuclear power plant

A Ukrainian drone, intercepted by Russian air defense systems, caused a brief fire at the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant in Russia. The explosion from the downed drone damaged an auxiliary transformer, temporarily reducing the plant's capacity to 50% and sparking a fire that was quickly extinguished. The plant's press service and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that radiation levels remained normal and posed no threat to public safety.

The incident occurred as part of a larger wave of Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Russian energy infrastructure. In addition to the Kursk plant, Ukrainian drones were reported over the port of Ust-Luga in Russia's Leningrad region, where debris from downed drones sparked a fire at a major fuel export terminal. Russian authorities reported downing a total of 95 Ukrainian drones across 13 regions overnight, including the annexed Crimean Peninsula. The attacks are part of Ukraine's response to ongoing Russian strikes on its own energy grid since the full-scale invasion in 2022. 💥🏭🌡️