Newsflash

Ukraine war latest: Ukraine confirms Russia entered Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, reports advance stopped

Ukraine's military confirmed that Russian forces entered Dnipropetrovsk Oblast but reported that their advance has been halted. The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces stated that active fighting continues in the region, with Russia suffering significant casualties. The conflict marks the first large-scale Russian attack in this central-eastern region, which has been a target for months. Despite Russian claims of capturing villages, Ukrainian forces maintain control over key areas.

Meanwhile, a significant explosion damaged a crucial oil pipeline supplying Moscow, temporarily halting petroleum product transportation. The incident, reported by Ukrainian military intelligence, highlights ongoing efforts to disrupt Russian energy infrastructure. Ukrainian forces have repeatedly targeted such facilities to undermine Moscow's revenues and military capabilities.

In recent attacks, Russian forces killed two civilians and injured 29 others across various Ukrainian regions. Drones targeted energy and gas infrastructure in multiple oblasts, causing disruptions and damage. Ukrainian authorities are working to restore services, emphasizing the deliberate nature of these strikes aimed at destabilizing Ukraine ahead of the winter.

On the diplomatic front, top Ukrainian officials are set to meet with a U.S. delegation to discuss security guarantees and potential peace talks. The meeting, involving Presidential Office Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, follows recent high-level discussions between Ukrainian and U.S. leaders. President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated a willingness to engage directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin on territorial issues and security guarantees, although previous invitations for such talks have been rebuffed. The U.S. is pushing for a swift resolution, with President Donald Trump expressing hope for a bilateral meeting within the next two weeks. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

Bayrou: France’s survival is at stake

French Prime Minister François Bayrou has issued a stark warning about the impending collapse of his government, which could occur as early as next month. In a televised interview, Bayrou emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the "life of the nation is at stake." The potential collapse stems from a planned confidence vote on a €43.8 billion budget squeeze aimed at reducing France's substantial budget deficit. Bayrou underscored the significant sacrifices required, noting that the burden would fall heavily on the most vulnerable segments of society, including single mothers, children, and young people. The political turmoil threatens to plunge France into a perilous abyss, with far-reaching consequences for its citizens. 🇫🇷💸

All Suspects in Nord Stream Sabotage Identified by German Investigators

In a development reminiscent of a spy thriller, a complex web of international intrigue surrounds the sabotage of the Nord Stream pipelines. A Ukrainian man was recently arrested in Italy on suspicion of involvement in the 2022 explosions that damaged Nord Stream 1 and 2. German authorities have since issued arrest warrants for five additional Ukrainian citizens, with a seventh individual believed to have perished in the operation. The group, consisting of a leader, divers, an explosives expert, and a seasoned sailor, allegedly rented a sailboat in Rostock under false identities to execute the sabotage.

The suspects reportedly possessed dual fake passports—one Romanian with real personal details and one Ukrainian with fabricated information. Investigations suggest that the group received state assistance from Ukraine, with one member reportedly transported from Poland to Ukraine in a vehicle belonging to Ukraine's military attaché to evade arrest. The explosives used were sophisticated, timed charges weighing between 14 and 27 kilograms, composed of powerful military-grade hexogen and octogen.

The sabotage, which occurred off the coast of Bornholm in September 2022, involved precise planning and execution, with seismic measurements confirming explosions prior to the pipeline leaks. While investigations in Sweden and Denmark have concluded, Germany's probe into the "constitutionally hostile sabotage" remains ongoing. The involvement of Ukrainian military personnel has been a subject of international speculation, with several media outlets reporting that the operation was conducted with their knowledge. 🕵️‍♂️💥

Russian ballistic missiles hit Kyiv in massive attack on Ukraine

In the late hours of August 27, Russia launched a significant aerial assault on Ukrainian cities, targeting Kyiv with ballistic missiles and drones, and striking regions far from the front lines. Air raid sirens echoed across Ukraine, prompting residents to seek shelter as Russia deployed hypersonic missiles and multiple waves of drones throughout the night. At least four MiG-31 aircraft, equipped with Kinzhal missiles, were involved in the attack.

Kyiv experienced multiple explosions as Russia targeted the capital with drones and ballistic missiles, causing damage to homes, offices, and schools. Initial reports confirmed at least one fatality and five injuries, with ongoing assessments of casualties and damage. The first explosions in Kyiv were heard around 9:30 p.m., with air defense units actively engaged. Subsequent waves of drones and missiles continued to strike the city throughout the night.

Ukraine's Air Force reported drone swarms over central and southern regions, including Zhytomyr, Odesa, and Mykolaiv oblasts, as well as aerial alerts in far-western regions like Ternopil, Lviv, and Ivano-Frankivsk. Ballistic missile carriers were also launched towards central Ukraine. Loud explosions were heard in Kyiv around 3 a.m. and 3:30 a.m., with reports of significant destruction in the Darnytskyi district, where a five-story building collapsed. Fires and damage were reported in various districts, including Dniprovskyi, Shevchenkivskyi, and Solomyanskyi.

Emergency services responded to multiple incidents, with rescue operations underway in affected areas. The attack underscores Russia's intensified aerial assaults on Ukrainian cities since early 2025, with the deadliest strike this year occurring on July 29, resulting in 31 civilian deaths. As the White House advocates for a peace deal, Russia continues to escalate pressure on Kyiv through relentless attacks and ground offensives, rejecting calls for a ceasefire and opposing European efforts to secure Ukraine's future safety. 🇷🇺💥🇺🇦

More than 100,000 Ukrainian homes lose power after Russia targets energy sites

Russia's relentless assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure has left over 100,000 households without power, with strikes targeting facilities in six regions. The overnight attacks, which occurred on Wednesday, also resulted in the deaths of three individuals in the southern Kherson region, including two farm workers and an 81-year-old woman in the regional capital. The Ukrainian energy ministry condemned the strikes as a deliberate attempt to disrupt the heating supply system ahead of the colder autumn months, describing it as a "deliberate policy of destroying Ukraine's civilian infrastructure."

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for increased pressure on Russia, urging the United States to take a firmer stance against Moscow's ongoing aggression. He highlighted the need for real security guarantees to ensure the safety of Ukrainian civilians. The attacks have exacerbated Ukraine's energy crisis, with gas production facilities in Poltava and Kharkiv regions among the targets. The strikes have also affected the Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions, further straining Ukraine's energy supply.

Ukraine has faced a significant gas shortage since earlier Russian missile strikes, which led to a 40% drop in production. The energy ministry reported that energy facilities have been attacked 2,900 times since March 2025. In response, Ukraine has intensified its attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, targeting refineries and oil facilities to disrupt Moscow's operations. Despite Russia's denials of targeting civilians, the ongoing strikes have caused widespread destruction and humanitarian challenges. 💥🏠💨

REPLAY & ANALYSIS - Moldova: EU leaders show support against 'Russian interference'

European Union leaders, including France's Emmanuel Macron, Germany's Friedrich Merz, and Poland's Donald Tusk, visited Moldova to express solidarity and support ahead of the country's upcoming parliamentary elections. The visit comes amidst heightened tensions and allegations of Russian interference in the pro-EU nation, which shares a border with Ukraine. Moldovan President Maia Sandu addressed the press, emphasizing the significance of the EU leaders' presence and the need for international support in maintaining Moldova's democratic process and sovereignty. The election is seen as crucial for Moldova's future, with potential implications for regional stability and EU-Russia relations. 🇪🇺🇲🇩🇷🇺

How Russia is building airports to launch Iranian drones at Ukraine

Russia has significantly escalated its drone strikes on Ukraine using Iranian-made Shahed-136 drones, also known as "Geran-2." These drones, which are cheap, easy to produce, and highly effective in terrorizing civilians, have become a primary threat to Ukrainian cities. To sustain this relentless campaign, Russia has constructed specialized airports and launch sites along its borders with Ukraine, enabling mass drone launches. These sites, equipped with launch pads and protected by anti-missile systems, allow Russia to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses with waves of drones, often coordinated with missile and aerial bomb attacks.

The drones, costing between $20,000 and $50,000 each, are far cheaper than traditional missiles, enabling Russia to produce and launch them in large numbers. Despite Ukrainian efforts to intercept these drones, the sheer volume of attacks strains their defense systems. The drones not only cause physical damage but also inflict psychological stress on the Ukrainian population, with air raid alerts disrupting daily life and sleep.

Russia's strategy involves saturating Ukrainian defenses with drones, mapping out their anti-aircraft systems, and using the drones as bait to allow missiles to penetrate more effectively. Ukrainian forces have targeted these launch sites, but Russia continues to build and adapt new infrastructure to maintain its drone offensive. The construction of these launch bases, while making them easier targets, also simplifies the logistical challenges of launching hundreds of drones simultaneously. The proximity of these sites to Ukrainian territory reduces response times, making it harder for Ukrainian defenses to intercept the drones. 🇷🇺🛩️💥

EU leaders open their arms to Moldova, denouncing Putin’s ‘lies’

The leaders of France, Germany, and Poland extended an open invitation to Moldova to join the European Union, emphasizing the country's welcome within the 27-nation bloc. During a press conference at the entrance of Moldova’s National Assembly, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared, "The door to the European Union is open, and you are wholeheartedly welcome in the European Union." This invitation aligns with the sentiments expressed by French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who both asserted that Moldova's future lies within the EU rather than under Moscow's influence.

The leaders urged Moldova to reject Kremlin propaganda and embrace "European values," signaling a strong commitment to the country's integration into the EU. This collective stance underscores the EU's strategic interest in expanding its influence and countering Russian geopolitical ambitions in Eastern Europe. The invitation comes at a crucial time for Moldova, which has been navigating complex political and security challenges amidst regional tensions. 🇪🇺🤝🇲🇩

German weapons-maker Rheinmetall opens Europe's largest munitions plant

Rheinmetall, a prominent German weapons manufacturer, inaugurated Europe's largest munitions plant in Unterluess, northern Germany. The sprawling 30,000-square-meter facility is set to produce 350,000 artillery shells annually by 2027, significantly boosting Western defense capabilities. NATO chief Mark Rutte attended the opening ceremony, emphasizing the plant's importance in bolstering European security and supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions with China and Russia. The plant's rapid construction, completed in just 14 months, underscores Germany's renewed commitment to defense, driven by the need to counter security threats and meet NATO spending targets. The facility will support Germany's ambitious defense spending plans, which aim to triple the pre-Ukraine war budget by 2029, and produce munitions for the Leopard 2 tank, crucial for Ukraine's defense efforts. Additionally, Germany is exploring compulsory military service to bolster its armed forces, with plans to increase troop numbers from 182,000 to 260,000. The plant's inauguration marks a significant step in Europe's efforts to enhance its military readiness and industrial base, aligning with broader NATO goals. 💥🇩🇪🇺🇦

French, German, Polish leaders vow 'support' to Moldova in face of Russia

The leaders of France, Germany, and Poland united to express their strong support for Moldova's aspirations to join the European Union. During a symbolic visit to the former Soviet republic, which shares a border with Ukraine, they condemned Russian "lies" and "hybrid attacks." This show of solidarity comes just before the start of campaigning for Moldova's upcoming parliamentary elections, which are expected to be contentious due to alleged Russian interference in the pro-EU nation. The visit underscores the international backing Moldova is receiving as it navigates its path towards greater integration with the EU, amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. 🇲🇩🇪🇫🇵🇱

Putin rejects European peacekeepers in Ukraine, contradicting Trump

Russia has firmly rejected the possibility of European peacekeeping troops being deployed in Ukraine, contradicting earlier statements by U.S. President Donald Trump. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed a "negative attitude" towards the idea, citing NATO's expansion as a primary cause of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. This stance directly contradicts Trump's earlier claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to the possibility of a European-led peacekeeping mission. During a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in February, Trump had asserted that Putin was open to the idea, raising questions about the accuracy of his statements and the potential for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. The Kremlin's rejection underscores the deepening tensions and the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the ongoing crisis. 🇷🇺🇺🇸🇺🇦

Explosions heard as Ukrainian drones target occupied Crimea, media reports

Ukraine launched a significant drone attack on the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula late on August 27, targeting multiple regions. The assault began around 11 p.m. local time, with explosions reported in the cities of Sevastopol and Yevpatoria, as well as near Cape Lukull, north of Sevastopol. The pro-Ukrainian Telegram channel Crimean Wind cited resident accounts and reported that dozens of Ukrainian drones were en route to the peninsula, with explosions continuing throughout the night. Russian air defenses responded by deploying missiles and activating drone searchlights to engage the incoming threats.

Earlier in the evening, Russia's Defense Ministry claimed to have shot down two drones over the Black Sea region near Crimea and one over the peninsula itself. However, the Kyiv Independent could not immediately verify these reports or the claims made by Russian officials. Crimea has been under Russian occupation since its illegal annexation in 2014, and Ukraine has intensified strikes on the peninsula's military infrastructure since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. The peninsula is a strategic stronghold for Russian military bases and weapons used in the ongoing conflict. Most recently, Ukraine's navy reported striking a Russian drone base in occupied Sevastopol on August 22. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing developments expected. 🇺🇦💥🛸

Russia Launches Major Night Attack on Kyiv

On Wednesday evening, Kyiv experienced a series of explosions as Russian forces launched ballistic missiles at the city. The air defense system was activated, and the attack continued throughout the night, causing damage to buildings in multiple districts. At least four people were injured in the capital, according to reports. Residents sought shelter under bridges and in subway stations as the city came under fire. Drones were also spotted in various locations across the country, adding to the ongoing threat. 💥🏙️🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️

Stolen Ukrainian housing being re-sold in occupied Donetsk Oblast

In occupied Donetsk Oblast, Russian-installed authorities are seizing homes from Ukrainian owners and planning to resell them illegally, according to the Center of National Resistance (CNR). This move is part of a broader pattern of international law violations and human rights abuses in Ukraine's occupied territories, where residents face increasing pressure to obtain Russian citizenship. The CNR has condemned these actions, stating that all property deals conducted under occupation are legally null and void, and that those involved will be held accountable.

The Russian authorities have previously announced plans to profit from stolen housing and enterprises, labeling it as "job creation" while effectively legalizing looting. This systematic seizure of Ukrainian property highlights Russia's disregard for international protections and norms. 🏠💔

In addition to property seizures, Russian forces have been involved in severe human rights abuses. Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna disappeared in August 2023 and was later found dead in February 2024, after enduring torture in Russian captivity. Her body was returned to Ukraine with missing organs, underscoring the brutal treatment of civilians under Russian occupation. Former Kherson Mayor Volodymyr Mykolaienko was detained by Russian forces in April 2022 for his pro-Ukrainian views and refused to cooperate with occupation authorities. Furthermore, a Russian serviceman admitted to participating in the killing of five captured Ukrainian soldiers in Donetsk Oblast in May 2024, revealing the ongoing violence and atrocities committed by Russian forces. 😞💔

Finland to reintroduce landmines in January

Finland is set to reintroduce anti-personnel mines starting January 2026, following its withdrawal from the Ottawa Anti-Personnel Landmines Convention. The decision, announced by Colonel Riku Mikkonen, aims to bolster Finland's defense capabilities along its extensive 1,340 km border with Russia. The Finnish Defence Forces plan to quickly deploy existing mines and explore acquiring advanced, long-range, and remotely controlled mines in the future. This move is part of a broader defense reform, driven by lessons from Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Finland's military modernization includes significant investments in unmanned systems, both land-based and aerial, in collaboration with Ukraine and other allies. The army is also upgrading individual soldier's protective gear, modernizing infantry fighting vehicles, and extending the service life of heavy rocket launchers. Additionally, Finland is acquiring more K9 self-propelled howitzers and plans a substantial procurement of new infantry fighting vehicles to replace aging Soviet-era models. These enhancements underscore Finland's commitment to strengthening its defense infrastructure in response to evolving security threats. 🇫🇮💥🚜

Ukraine developing 'careful' policy on sharing 'priceless' wartime data, minister tells Reuters

Ukraine is strategically leveraging its extensive wartime data to strengthen alliances and secure support from international partners. Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov highlighted the value of this "priceless" data, which includes millions of hours of combat footage, in an interview. Ukraine is developing a cautious policy for sharing this information, recognizing its potential to enhance relations with allies and advance technological capabilities, such as autonomous drone operations. The data is crucial for training AI models and could significantly boost Ukraine's defense and intelligence efforts.

As Ukraine navigates the complexities of the ongoing conflict with Russia, it is also working on securing strong security guarantees and establishing a just peace. This includes discussions with key allies, such as the United States, to ensure that Ukraine's interests are protected in any potential peace negotiations. Meanwhile, Ukrainian startups like the Fourth Law are making strides in developing autonomous drone technology, aiming to demonstrate full autonomy by the end of the year. These advancements underscore Ukraine's commitment to leveraging its wartime experiences to build a more secure and technologically advanced future. 🛸🌐

Asylum freeze shows results, Plevris tells Parliament

Migration Minister Thanos Plevris recently addressed Parliament to defend Greece's three-month suspension of asylum applications for migrants entering the country illegally by sea from North Africa. The measure, implemented on July 9, has already shown significant results in reducing irregular arrivals. Data presented by Plevris revealed a marked decrease in illegal entries following the suspension. In the first half of 2025, over 10,000 migrants arrived in Crete from Libya. In the week preceding the suspension, 2,642 people entered Greece irregularly. However, after the measure took effect, arrivals dropped to 913 in the remainder of July and further decreased to fewer than 500 in the first 27 days of August.

Plevris emphasized that the suspension was necessary to counter smuggling networks that had been directing migrants toward Greece instead of Italy. He argued that Greece had to strengthen its legislation to address this issue. However, opposition parties have criticized the measure. PASOK contends that the legislation is ineffective and aimed primarily at garnering domestic support, while SYRIZA claims it violates the Constitution and the rule of law. The debate highlights the complex challenges Greece faces in managing migration while balancing legal and humanitarian considerations. 🇬🇷🌊

Czechia wants election front-runner Babiš to repay over €200M in subsidies

The Czech government is demanding that Agrofert, a business conglomerate owned by former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, repay over €208 million in farm subsidies. This sum includes €172 million in EU direct payments and €35 million in national subsidies. The decision comes after a series of court rulings that found Babiš maintained control over Agrofert, despite transferring it to trusts, making the company ineligible for the subsidies.

Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný stated that the government will proceed with reclaiming the payments, citing a Supreme Administrative Court decision confirmed by the Constitutional Court. Babiš, however, accused the center-right government of pursuing a political vendetta ahead of the October elections, where his populist ANO party is currently leading in polls with 33% support. The main opposition, the Spolu coalition, trails at 20%, hindered by unpopular policies and internal strife.

In a related development, Prague’s High Court overturned an earlier acquittal of Babiš in a €2 million EU subsidy fraud case, ordering a lower court to re-evaluate the evidence. If Babiš's party wins the election, the court will need parliamentary approval to proceed with his case due to his potential immunity as a leader. Both Babiš and his former adviser, Jana Nagyová, have denied wrongdoing, claiming political motivation behind the charges. 🏛️💸

‘Gray zone’ emerges as second-largest voting bloc

In Greece, the so-called "gray zone" voters, who are undecided or uncertain about their voting intentions, have become the second-largest voting bloc, comprising 15% of the electorate. This group, characterized by political volatility, could significantly influence the outcome of the next general election and the accuracy of opinion polls. The "gray zone" is diverse, with four in ten having abstained from voting in the 2023 election, three in ten previously supporting the ruling New Democracy party, and one in ten coming from the leftist SYRIZA party.

Young and middle-aged voters, as well as women, dominate this undecided category. Political parties are actively courting these voters, with New Democracy focusing on economic issues to win back past supporters. Opposition parties, meanwhile, are leveraging controversies such as the Tempe train disaster and corruption allegations to attract undecided voters. The potential emergence of new parties led by former prime ministers Antonis Samaras or Alexis Tsipras further complicates the landscape, keeping some voters on the fence.

The "gray zone" voters could ultimately return to their previous political allegiances, decide at the ballot box, or choose to abstain. Winning over this bloc is crucial for both the government and opposition to secure a decisive victory in the upcoming election. The battle for these undecided voters underscores the political uncertainty and volatility in Greece ahead of the next general election. 🗳️🤔

Tenant reliability profile on the cards

The Greek government is set to introduce a tenant creditworthiness certificate, leveraging the upcoming national Private Debt Registry to tackle unpaid rents and encourage property owners to reopen vacant homes. Funded by the EU’s Recovery Fund and expected to launch by May 2026, the registry will enable anonymous debt management and financial reliability verification for both public authorities and private creditors. Prospective tenants can present a certificate of solvency to reassure landlords, potentially easing the housing market's supply constraints.

Unpaid rents and utility bills, amounting to €40 million between 2022 and 2024, have led many owners to keep properties off the market. Additionally, damages often surpass deposits, prompting landlords to demand substantial rent guarantees, creating barriers for tenants. Rising housing costs further exacerbate the issue, with fears of increased unpaid rent due to financial strain rather than intentional non-payment. Landlords advocate for stronger safeguards to reopen properties, but tenant groups express concerns about potential stigmatization and unfair treatment.

The Panhellenic Association for the Protection of Tenants opposes the measure, arguing that Greek law already permits rent withholding in specific cases, such as property defects or financial hardship. They warn that an unfounded "blot" on a tenant's record could have severe consequences. Market analysts also highlight slow judicial procedures for compensation as a significant deterrent for landlords. To succeed, the new system must strike a balance, protecting landlords' interests while avoiding penalization of tenants facing genuine difficulties. 🏠💸