Newsflash

Deadly Russian attack kills 21 in Kyiv

In the early hours of Thursday, a devastating Russian assault on Kyiv resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people, including four children. The attack, which involved missiles and drones, struck residential apartment buildings, causing widespread destruction. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strike, asserting that it demonstrated Russia's disregard for peace negotiations. The brutal assault underscores the ongoing violence and civilian casualties in the conflict, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution. The city of Kyiv is still reeling from the impact, with rescue and recovery efforts underway. 🏙️💥😢

India's Russian oil imports will increase in September, despite US tariffs, Reuters reports

India is set to increase its Russian oil imports by 10-20% in September, despite U.S. tariffs intended to discourage such trade. This move underscores India's strategic decision to maintain economic ties with Russia, which has become a major supplier of oil since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. India now accounts for over a third of Russia's total petroleum exports, providing crucial revenue for Moscow's ongoing military operations.

The expected increase, amounting to 150,000-300,000 barrels per day, follows a period where India initially appeared to reduce Russian oil imports due to U.S. pressure. However, New Delhi's recent defiance comes after the latest round of U.S. tariffs, which now stand at 50% on all Indian goods imported by the U.S. This development highlights India's determination to safeguard its economic interests, even in the face of significant trade pressures from the United States. Meanwhile, Russia's military actions in Ukraine continue unabated, with recent strikes on Kyiv resulting in civilian casualties. 🛢️🇷🇺🇮🇳

Le Gulf Stream “pourrait s’effondrer de notre vivant”, avertit le commissaire chargé du climat

The European Commissioner for Climate, Wopke Hoekstra, has issued a stark warning about the potential collapse of the Gulf Stream within decades, following a study by Dutch scientists that revealed the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is weakening faster than previously anticipated. The AMOC, a crucial component of the Gulf Stream, plays a vital role in regulating Europe's climate by preventing the continent from becoming excessively cold. Researchers from Utrecht University published findings indicating that the AMOC could begin to shut down as early as the 2060s due to climate change. Hoekstra described the study's results as a "wake-up call," emphasizing the urgent need for action to mitigate the impacts of global warming. The potential disruption of the Gulf Stream could have severe consequences for Europe's climate, agriculture, and overall ecological balance. 🌊❄️

Witkoff misunderstood Putin's Ukraine land swap offer, left European leaders 'startled,' Reuters reports

A diplomatic misstep by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff has raised concerns among European leaders and Ukraine regarding a proposed land swap between Ukraine and Russia. During a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Witkoff misinterpreted an offer, reporting to U.S. President Donald Trump that Russia was willing to withdraw from the partially occupied Kherson and Zaporizhzhia oblasts. This miscommunication led to a call with European leaders, who were "startled" by the unexpected proposal. The Kremlin has never publicly backed down from its demands for full control of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia.

Witkoff, a real estate mogul with no prior diplomatic experience, met with Putin without a U.S. State Department notetaker, deviating from standard protocol and leaving no official record of the discussions. He later clarified that Putin was not offering to withdraw from Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Witkoff's actions have drawn criticism, as he is seen as more sympathetic to Russia and has been accused of parroting Russian propaganda. Trump's suggestion of a land swap has alarmed Kyiv and European capitals, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy firmly rejecting any territorial concessions.

The proposed land swap would involve Ukraine ceding full control of Donetsk and Luhansk in exchange for Russian withdrawal from parts of Sumy and Kharkiv. However, Russia's maximalist demands and illegal annexations of Ukrainian territories have complicated peace efforts. Trump's attempts to broker a swift peace deal have stalled, with Russia repeatedly rejecting a ceasefire and pushing for extensive concessions from Ukraine. The situation remains tense, with European leaders and Ukraine wary of Russia's intentions and the potential implications of any land swap agreement. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

US approves $825 million military sale to Ukraine for ERAM missiles

The United States Department of State has approved a significant military sale to Ukraine, valued at approximately $825 million. The package includes up to 3,350 Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) missiles and 3,350 navigation modules designed to counter spoofing. This deal, confirmed by both the U.S. State Department and Ukrainian Presidential Office Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak, aims to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities and enhance regional security.

The sale is part of a broader initiative to support Ukraine's self-defense and stability in Europe. Funding for this purchase will come from Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, as part of the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative. This program allows NATO allies to procure American weapons for Ukraine, demonstrating international solidarity and commitment to Ukraine's defense against ongoing Russian aggression. Since August, several NATO countries, including Canada, Germany, and Sweden, have pledged funds for PURL packages, underscoring the critical role of international military support in Ukraine's ongoing conflict. 🇺🇸🇺🇦💥

'It is also a strike by Russia against President Trump' — Missile, drone attack on Kyiv undermines peace efforts, Zelensky says

A devastating missile and drone attack on Kyiv, which resulted in the deaths of 23 people, including four children, has significantly undermined ongoing peace efforts led by U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukraine's allies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, stating that it was not only a strike against Ukraine and Europe but also a direct challenge to President Trump and other global actors seeking peace. The assault, which injured 63 people, including 11 children, underscores Russia's continued aggression and disregard for diplomatic efforts.

Zelensky accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of prioritizing war over peace, highlighting the hypocrisy of Putin's supposed willingness to negotiate while simultaneously launching deadly strikes. He called for additional sanctions and tariffs on Russia and its trading partners, emphasizing the need for a strong global response to Russia's actions. The attack comes amid Trump's intensified efforts to broker a peace deal, including a proposed meeting between Zelensky and Putin. However, Zelensky expressed skepticism about Putin's commitment to peace, noting that the Russian leader has consistently broken deadlines and undermined diplomatic opportunities. The international community must respond decisively to Russia's aggression, Zelensky urged, to prevent further escalation and loss of life. 🇺🇦💥

Deadlines, delusions, and ballistic missiles: Trump's theater of peace talks with Putin

The ongoing peace talks between the U.S., Europe, and Russia over Ukraine's security guarantees are widely seen as futile, with no meaningful progress expected. Russian President Vladimir Putin has made it clear that he will not compromise on Ukraine, offering only two stark options: capitulation and Russification or military defeat and annexation. Public opinion in Ukraine firmly rejects recognizing any Russian territorial claims, making a political compromise virtually impossible.

Russia's demands are non-negotiable: Ukraine must accept the illegal annexations of Crimea and other regions, and any security guarantees must be minimal, allowing Russia to maintain a veto. The U.S. and its allies have struggled to present a united front, with President Donald Trump's inconsistent approach and reluctance to impose severe sanctions on Russia further complicating matters. Trump's attempts to mediate have been seen as ineffective, with Russia taking advantage of the situation to continue its aggression.

Experts agree that the only path to a potential ceasefire or peace deal is to impose severe economic pressure on Russia and significantly increase military aid to Ukraine. This approach could force Putin to reconsider his maximalist goals and agree to a compromise, such as freezing the front lines without humiliating conditions for Ukraine. However, the current strategy, marked by Trump's indecisiveness and Russia's procrastination tactics, only prolongs the conflict and allows Russia to continue its military advances. The international community must unite and exert substantial pressure on Russia to end the war and secure a lasting peace.

Lammy, Barrot and Wadephul: Why we’re moving to reimpose UN sanctions on Iran

The international community is increasingly alarmed by Iran's nuclear ambitions, with confidence in Tehran's assurances at an all-time low. Regional tensions are escalating, and a critical United Nations Security Council resolution is nearing expiration. This geopolitical climate has drawn the attention of key European leaders, including David Lammy, the U.K.'s secretary of state for foreign, commonwealth, and development affairs, Johann Wadephul, Germany’s federal minister for foreign affairs, and Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s minister for Europe and foreign affairs. As the resolution's deadline approaches, these officials are likely to play pivotal roles in shaping the international response to Iran's nuclear program, with potential implications for global security and diplomacy. 🌍💣

Climate change made wildfires in Greece, Cyprus and Turkey fiercer, study finds

Intense wildfires that ravaged Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey this summer were significantly exacerbated by climate change, according to a recent study by World Weather Attribution (WWA). The blazes, which resulted in 20 deaths, the evacuation of 80,000 people, and the destruction of over 1 million hectares, were 22% more severe than in previous years, marking Europe's worst wildfire season on record. The fires were fueled by extreme temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), severe drought, and powerful winds, all of which are increasingly influenced by climate change.

The study highlights a stark decrease in winter rainfall, down by about 14% since the pre-industrial era, and a 13-fold increase in the likelihood of prolonged dry, hot periods that prime vegetation for combustion. Additionally, the intensity of high-pressure systems driving strong Etesian winds, which fan the flames, has also risen. These changes have pushed firefighters to their limits, as they can no longer rely on previous patterns of wind behavior to control the fires.

Researchers warn that without a rapid transition away from fossil fuels, temperatures could rise by up to 3°C this century, further intensifying wildfire conditions. The findings underscore the urgent need for climate action to mitigate the increasing risks posed by extreme weather events in the Mediterranean region. 🌳🔥

Evacuation ordered for Greek Orthodox church compound in Gaza

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have ordered the evacuation of the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Porphyrius and its surrounding compound in Gaza City ahead of a major offensive against Hamas. The compound falls within a designated red zone, as indicated on an IDF evacuation map. Meanwhile, the nearby Catholic Church of the Holy Family has not received an evacuation order, although the Anglican St. Philip’s Church within the Al-Ahli Arab Anglican Hospital compound is also situated in an evacuation zone.

Hundreds of civilians, including elderly residents, women, children, and individuals with disabilities, are currently seeking refuge in these church compounds. The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem have strongly condemned the escalating conflict, with clergy and nuns insisting on remaining in Gaza City, as fleeing south is deemed a "death sentence." The Protecting Holy Land Christians group has highlighted the constant bombings near the churches, emphasizing the grave danger to civilians even before the evacuation orders were issued. The situation underscores the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, with innocent lives at stake. 🇵🇸🏛️

After Kyiv assault, EU ambassador wants US help to compel Moscow to end war

The European Union's ambassador to Ukraine, Katarína Mathernová, has called for immediate and decisive action from the EU and the United States to compel Russia to engage in peace talks. This appeal comes in the wake of a devastating overnight missile and drone attack on Kyiv, which resulted in at least a dozen fatalities and significant damage to residential and office buildings, including those housing the EU and British delegations. Fortunately, no EU staff were harmed. Mathernová condemned the assault, stating that it contradicts Russia's claims of being open to negotiations to end the conflict, which began over three years ago. The ambassador's statement underscores the urgent need for tough transatlantic sanctions to pressure Russia into meaningful diplomatic engagement. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Greece’s woodlands in the grips of a silent crisis

Greece’s woodlands are facing a severe crisis, with widespread tree die-offs accelerating due to a combination of heat, drought, and pest infestations. This phenomenon, exacerbated by climate change, is making forests more susceptible to insect infestations and wildfires. Reports of extensive die-offs began this spring, particularly in central and southern Greece, with areas that underwent artificial reforestation being especially vulnerable. The Ministry of Environment has dispatched research institutes to inspect the affected areas, revealing severe damage to fir forests in regions like the Peloponnese and Central Greece.

Scientists attribute the die-offs to prolonged heat and drought, with insect and fungal infestations playing a secondary role. The problem extends beyond firs, affecting pines and other species in various regions, including Attica, Thessaloniki, and the Pindus range. The rapid shift towards hotter, drier conditions is pushing certain plant species and ecosystems beyond their adaptive limits, leading to widespread die-offs. This crisis underscores the urgent need for strengthened forestry services and proactive management to prevent further degradation and ensure the survival of Greece’s woodlands. 🌳🔥🌡️

Finnish Air Force plans to remove swastikas from unit flags

The Finnish Air Force is considering the removal of swastikas from the flags of its units, a move driven by external pressures and the desire to avoid awkward situations when collaborating with international partners, particularly the United States. The initiative is part of a broader flag reform within the Air Force, spearheaded by the new commander of the Karelia Air Wing, Colonel Tomi Böhm. The swastika, adopted by the Finnish Air Force in 1918, predates its infamous use by the German Nazi Party but has since become a symbol of hatred and discrimination worldwide.

The Finnish Air Force has already discontinued the use of the swastika in its headquarters, and Colonel Böhm hopes to see the symbol removed from unit flags during his tenure. This shift is not a response to political pressure but rather a recognition of the changing global context and the need to align with contemporary sensitivities. The discussion around the Air Force’s use of the swastika has gained traction recently, partly due to the publication of the book "History of the Swastika" by Professor Teivo Teivainen. Additionally, Finland's government has explored legislation to ban the swastika as part of broader efforts to combat racism and discrimination. The potential removal of the swastika from Air Force flags reflects a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment, both domestically and internationally. 🇫🇮🛬️

Greece condemns latest Russian airstrikes on Ukraine

In the early hours of Thursday, Greece strongly condemned Russia’s latest airstrikes on Ukraine, which resulted in significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern over the attacks, which targeted residential areas and diplomatic missions, including the premises of the EU Delegation in Kyiv. Athens reiterated its unwavering support for Ukraine, offering condolences to the families of the victims and denouncing the strikes as a clear violation of international law.

The intense airstrikes, among the most severe in recent weeks, claimed the lives of at least 18 people, including four children, and injured 45 others. Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia employed 598 drones and 31 missiles in the offensive, causing extensive damage to public infrastructure and residential buildings across Kyiv and other cities. Greece stands firmly in solidarity with Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of upholding international law and protecting civilian lives. 🇬🇷🇺🇦💥

How close is Norway’s parliamentary election going to be?

A recent "super poll" conducted by Norstat for broadcaster NRK reveals a highly uncertain political landscape in Norway ahead of the September 8th election. The poll, which surveyed 15,200 voters across all electoral districts, indicates a razor-thin margin between the left-leaning "red-green bloc" and the conservative opposition. The red-green bloc, led by Jonas Gahr Støre and the Labour Party, holds a slender 88-81 seat majority, contingent on the support of the Red Party and the Green Party (MDG), both of which have policies differing significantly from Labour.

The outcome hinges on several critical factors, including the Green Party's ability to meet the 4% parliamentary threshold, as the red-green lead amounts to fewer than 100,000 votes, roughly 3% of the electorate. Regional differences also play a significant role, with southern and western Norway favoring a change in government, while eastern districts show stronger support for the current coalition. The far-right Progress Party is outperforming the Conservative Party in most districts, except for Oslo, sparking debate over the conservative candidate for prime minister. Small shifts in voter preferences could ultimately determine the next government, making this election a nail-biter. 🇳🇴🗳️

State energy giant Orlen announces agreement to build Poland’s first small nuclear reactor

Polish state energy giant Orlen has partnered with Synthos Green Energy (SGE), owned by Poland’s wealthiest individual, to construct the country’s first small modular nuclear reactor (SMR). This project, utilizing technology from GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy, aims to establish Europe’s first BWRX-300 reactor. The SMR will be situated in Włocławek, central Poland, and is seen as a swift and economical method to enhance nuclear capacity. Despite previous disagreements over technology rights, the new agreement grants both Orlen and SGE equal stakes in their joint venture, OSGE, and full access to the BWRX-300 technology. This development aligns with Poland’s ambitious nuclear energy plans, which include generating 23% of the country’s electricity from nuclear sources by 2040. The project has garnered significant public support, with nearly 60% of Poles backing the construction of SMRs, although local acceptance varies. The initiative is part of Orlen’s broader strategy to diversify its energy portfolio, moving beyond traditional oil and gas towards nuclear, hydrogen, and wind power. 🇵🇱⚡️

Finland's foreign population rents, but wants to own

In Finland, immigrants are significantly more likely to rent their homes compared to native Finns, even when their income levels suggest they could afford to own. This trend persists across various socioeconomic groups, with affluent foreign-language speakers renting far more frequently than their Finnish-born counterparts. Among the middle class, while most Finnish speakers own their homes, only one in five foreign-language speakers do. Even among high earners, a notable portion of immigrants remain in rented apartments, often in urban outskirts.

The study by consultancy MDI and mortgage lender Hypo reveals that despite a strong desire for homeownership, immigrants face substantial barriers. These obstacles include financial constraints, job insecurity, and restrictive immigration policies. Many immigrants express dissatisfaction with their rental situations, viewing it as a temporary necessity rather than a long-term preference. The three-month protection period for non-EU residents, after which they risk deportation if unemployed, is seen as particularly discouraging.

Most immigrants prefer urban living over rural areas or small towns, a preference more common among them than in the general population. This trend is crucial for Finland's major cities, which rely heavily on foreign-language speakers for demographic growth. As the immigrant population continues to grow, the housing market in these urban centers is expected to shift increasingly towards rental properties. The study, which included both statistical analysis and qualitative surveys, highlights the need for policies that support homeownership aspirations among immigrants, ensuring a more inclusive and stable housing market. 🏠🌆

Political developments point to a coalition government

In the face of declining poll numbers, Greece's ruling New Democracy party is strategizing to maintain its grip on power, with coalition governance emerging as a likely scenario. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has ruled out altering the electoral law to secure a majority, despite calls to increase bonus seats and raise the parliamentary threshold. Instead, the focus should shift towards policies that foster coalition-building, as a one-party government with a low vote share may be neither socially acceptable nor practically feasible.

The political landscape is complex, with potential coalition partners ranging from centrist to right-wing parties. New Democracy must decide whether to seek support from the center or the right, a choice that will shape its pre-election strategy and policy direction. However, personal animosities may complicate matters, as key figures like PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis and former premier Antonis Samaras are unlikely to back Mitsotakis' government.

Raising the parliamentary threshold could theoretically weaken extremist voices and facilitate compromise, but the political chessboard is further complicated by the potential entry of a new party led by former SYRIZA prime minister Alexis Tsipras. His participation could dramatically reshape the political dynamics, requiring all parties to reassess their strategies. As the electoral landscape evolves, the path to forming a stable coalition government remains uncertain. 🇬🇷🏛️

EU leaders urge Moldova to steer clear of Russia

European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz, and Donald Tusk, visited Moldova this Wednesday to encourage the country to maintain its pro-European trajectory ahead of its upcoming parliamentary elections. The visit, which coincided with Moldova's Independence Day celebrations, aimed to bolster support for President Maia Sandu and her pro-Western government amid growing concerns about Russian interference. The leaders met with Sandu to discuss Moldova's future and reaffirm their commitment to the country's European integration, emphasizing the importance of steering clear of Russian influence. This diplomatic effort underscores the broader geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe, where countries like Moldova are navigating complex political landscapes shaped by both Western and Russian interests. 🇪🇺🇲🇩

Putin-Zelenskyy summit won’t happen, says Germany’s Merz

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has dismissed the possibility of direct talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, despite ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to broker a peace deal. Speaking to reporters ahead of a dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron, Merz clarified that such a meeting, previously discussed between Trump and Putin, is not forthcoming. This statement comes amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics, with the U.S. pushing for diplomatic solutions while European leaders express caution and skepticism about the prospects for immediate high-level negotiations. The uncertainty surrounding these talks underscores the complex and delicate nature of the ongoing conflict and the challenges in achieving a resolution. 🇩🇪🇷🇺🇺🇦