Newsflash

Germany’s Merz preparing for long war in Ukraine

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed his readiness for a prolonged conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing that Germany is not seeking a swift resolution at the expense of Ukraine's sovereignty. In a recent interview, Merz highlighted the significance of Germany's decision to amend its debt rules, enabling substantial investments in defense. He asserted that without this move, the NATO alliance might have faced dissolution by June. Merz's comments underscore Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine and maintaining the strength of the NATO alliance, even as the war's duration remains uncertain. 🇩🇪🇺🇦

Russia says the quiet part out loud — war in Ukraine to continue, more mass bombings of cities

Russia has openly declared its intention to continue the war in Ukraine, with the head of its military, Valery Gerasimov, announcing that offensive operations and mass missile and drone attacks against Ukrainian cities will persist. This statement undermines U.S. President Donald Trump's recent efforts to broker peace, which had set a deadline to assess Russia's sincerity in pursuing a ceasefire. Gerasimov's remarks make it clear that Russia will not halt its aggressive tactics, despite international calls for a halt to the conflict.

Gerasimov claimed that Russia's attacks are targeted solely at military objects and facilities, but recent strikes tell a different story. On August 28, a Russian attack on Kyiv resulted in the deaths of 25 people, including four children, and caused significant damage to residential buildings, a shopping center, and diplomatic missions, including the British Council and the EU mission. The attack also narrowly missed the European Commission's delegation, with two missiles striking within 50 meters in quick succession. Overnight on August 30, further Russian attacks killed at least three civilians and injured 47 more across Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently expressed his willingness to engage in peace talks with Russia, but the Kremlin has rejected calls for an unconditional ceasefire and has instead escalated its attacks on Ukrainian cities. The ongoing conflict has resulted in widespread destruction and civilian casualties, with Russia showing no signs of backing down from its aggressive stance. 🇷🇺💥🏙️

Europe drafting 'precise plans' for troop deployments to Ukraine with US backing, FT reports

European capitals are actively preparing detailed plans for potential troop deployments to Ukraine, backed by the United States, as part of post-war security guarantees. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed that these measures, involving tens of thousands of European-led personnel supported by U.S. command and control systems, intelligence, and surveillance assets, are progressing well. The plans were agreed upon during a meeting in Washington involving President Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and senior European leaders.

Von der Leyen emphasized the urgency and precision of these plans, noting that defense chiefs from the coalition of the willing have already worked out detailed strategies. She praised Trump’s support, highlighting his commitment to maintaining an American presence as part of the backstop. The European Commission President also stressed the need for sustainable financing of the Ukrainian armed forces, with the EU playing a crucial role in providing modern equipment and training. The plans include exploring new funding streams and encouraging member states to use a €150 billion loans-for-arms fund to support Ukraine’s defense industry. The upcoming meeting in Paris, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, will further discuss these security guarantees, with key leaders from Germany, the UK, NATO, and the EU in attendance. The focus remains on reinforcing a strengthened Ukrainian army to form the core of the deterrence force, ensuring long-term security and stability in the region. 🇪🇺🇺🇸🇺🇦

EU chief thanks Poland for helping protect Europe from “predator” Putin on visit to Belarus border

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Poland to express the EU's solidarity with the country as it faces ongoing challenges along its border with Belarus. Accompanied by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, von der Leyen emphasized the need for strong deterrence against Russia, describing President Vladimir Putin as a "predator" who can only be kept in check through robust defense measures. The visit highlighted the urgency of protecting Europe's eastern frontier from hybrid attacks orchestrated by Belarus and Russia, which include migrant smuggling, propaganda, and sabotage.

Tusk echoed von der Leyen's sentiments, asserting that concessions or diplomatic maneuvers will not yield results with Putin. He called for a united and decisive stance from Poland, Europe, NATO, and the United States to counter what he termed the "latest version of the evil empire." The leaders' meeting took place near the anti-migrant fence along the Belarus border, despite security concerns about nearby Belarusian soldiers. Both leaders agreed to proceed with the event to demonstrate European resolve.

Poland has been at the forefront of the migration crisis since 2021, with Belarus facilitating the illegal entry of tens of thousands of migrants into the EU. The Polish interior ministry recently reported an incident where a Molotov cocktail was thrown from the Belarusian side of the border, underscoring the ongoing tensions. Von der Leyen praised Poland's significant defense spending, noting that the country is the largest defense spender in Europe, with plans to increase its budget to 4.8% of GDP next year. She also highlighted the EU's commitment to supporting member states facing border challenges, with funds already allocated for defense and border protection, and more planned in the upcoming EU budget.

Tusk reflected on the historical significance of the meeting, marking the anniversary of the Solidarity trade union's formation in 1980, which played a pivotal role in dismantling communism in Poland. He stressed that the current border with Belarus is as crucial as the fight for liberation from Soviet domination was in the past. Both leaders called for a united and tough stance against Russian aggression, emphasizing that a secure Poland means a secure Europe. Poland has taken retaliatory actions against Russia, including closing its consulate in Kraków in response to evidence of Moscow's involvement in a fire that destroyed Warsaw's largest shopping center. The visit underscored the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among European nations to safeguard the continent's security. 🇵🇱🇪🇺

Hungary continues to veto Ukraine's accession to EU, negotiations

Hungary, under the leadership of Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto, has firmly opposed the initiation of accession negotiations for Ukraine to join the European Union. Szijjarto, speaking after an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Copenhagen, asserted that Hungary would block the opening of substantive negotiations, citing concerns that Ukraine's accession would harm Hungarian farmers, compromise food security, and enable Ukrainian criminal elements to enter the country. Hungary, known for its pro-Kremlin stance within the EU and NATO, has consistently hindered aid to Ukraine and sanctions against Russia throughout the ongoing conflict.

Ukraine, which applied for EU membership shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, was granted candidate status within months. However, as an EU member, Hungary possesses veto power over further progress in Ukraine's accession process. Szijjarto also criticized Europe's approach to the war, claiming that the continent is not genuinely seeking peace but rather a prolonged conflict. He expressed support for U.S. President Donald Trump's peace efforts, suggesting that a settlement can only be achieved through an agreement between the U.S. and Russia. Furthermore, Hungary has refused to allocate funds from the European Peace Fund to arm and finance the Ukrainian military, and it has opposed sanctions on energy companies crucial to its supply, including those operating the Druzhba oil pipeline. This pipeline, one of the world's largest, remains a vital source of crude oil for Hungary, which continues to import Russian oil under an EU sanctions exemption. 🇭🇺🇷🇺

3,350 ERAM missiles are heading to Ukraine — here's how they can be used against Russia

Ukraine is set to significantly enhance its offensive capabilities with the acquisition of 3,350 Extended-Range Attack Munition (ERAM) missiles, authorized by the U.S. and funded by Europe. These missiles, with a range of approximately 460 kilometers and a fragmentation warhead, will bolster Ukraine's Air Force, providing a low-cost, long-range option for striking Russian targets. The ERAM missiles are expected to be used against stationary military targets such as ammunition depots, command posts, and logistics infrastructure, contingent on U.S. approval for each use.

The ERAM missiles will complement Ukraine's existing arsenal, which includes the French-made AASM Hammer glide bombs and domestically produced drones. Ukraine has also unveiled a modernized version of its Neptune cruise missile, capable of hitting targets up to 1,000 kilometers away, and plans to begin mass production of the Flamingo cruise missile, which can reach up to 3,000 kilometers. Additionally, Ukraine is developing the Sapsan ballistic missile and the hybrid Palianytsia missile-drone, further expanding its indigenous defense capabilities. These advancements are crucial for Ukraine's efforts to counter Russian aggression and protect its sovereignty. 🎯✈️

Paris Hosts High-Level Meeting on Ukraine Security Support

A high-level meeting is scheduled in Paris to discuss how Europe can provide security guarantees to Ukraine in the event of a potential peace agreement with Russia. The gathering, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, will include key European leaders such as Germany's Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Ukraine has sought support from its Western allies, including the deployment of troops on the ground to deter future Russian aggression. While some European countries have been reluctant to commit soldiers, detailed plans for a support force are already in development. Von der Leyen has confirmed that there is a clear plan in place and an agreement with the White House, indicating progress in this collaborative effort. The meeting aims to solidify these plans and ensure Europe's commitment to Ukraine's security. 🇺🇦🇷🇺🇪🇺

Election Material Attacked on Cuyuní River in Guyana

In a tense escalation of regional tensions, Guyana's police and armed forces reported that a Venezuelan vessel fired upon a boat transporting election materials on the Cuyuní River. The incident unfolded in the contentious and oil-rich Essequibo region, a longstanding point of dispute between Venezuela and Guyana. The attack occurred just days before Guyana's scheduled national election on Monday, raising concerns about potential disruptions to the democratic process and regional stability. The Cuyuní River, a vital waterway in the disputed territory, has become a flashpoint in the ongoing border conflict, with both nations asserting their sovereignty over the area. The incident underscores the delicate and volatile nature of the territorial dispute, which has been exacerbated by recent oil discoveries in the region. 🇬🇾🇻🇪💥

Germany, France agree to settle long-running nuclear energy dispute

Germany and France have reached a significant agreement to resolve their longstanding differences over nuclear energy. During high-level talks in Toulon, France, both nations agreed to support each other's energy strategies at the European level, aiming for equal treatment of low-emission energy sources, including nuclear power. This marks a shift from their previous stances, with France expanding its nuclear capacities and Germany having shut down its nuclear plants. Under the new framework, Germany will no longer block France's use of nuclear energy in EU legislation, while France will back Germany's development of hydrogen connections and electricity grid integration. This agreement, supported by Chancellor Friedrich Merz and President Emmanuel Macron, indicates a united front in European energy policy, despite internal disagreements within Germany's coalition. The pact paves the way for mutual support and cooperation in achieving sustainable energy goals. 🇫🇷🇩🇪💡

General Staff: Russia has lost 1,082,140 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 significant losses for Russian forces. As of August 31, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported that Russia has lost 1,082,140 troops, including 810 casualties in the past day alone. The extensive toll also encompasses the destruction of 11,151 tanks, 23,212 armored fighting vehicles, 60,305 vehicles and fuel tanks, 32,199 artillery systems, 1,476 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,213 air defense systems, 422 airplanes, 340 helicopters, 55,062 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine. These staggering figures underscore the immense scale and cost of the ongoing conflict. The losses highlight the relentless nature of the war and the substantial military resources that have been depleted. 💥🛢️

Von der Leyen visit spotlights Bulgaria’s uneasy growth as European arms hub

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's visit to Bulgaria's largest state-owned arms producer, VMZ Sopot, highlighted the country's growing role in European defense manufacturing. Accompanied by Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, von der Leyen toured the facilities and discussed European security initiatives. She emphasized the importance of the project, noting that it would create up to 1,000 new jobs in the region while boosting ammunition production. However, the visit sparked protests from nationalist parties, reflecting deep-seated domestic tensions over Bulgaria's expanding arms industry and its alignment with European defense strategies. 🇪🇺🇧🇬💥

Indonesia Reduces Politician Benefits Amid Protests

In Indonesia, widespread protests have erupted, fueled by public outrage over generous housing grants for politicians—amounting to nearly ten times the minimum wage in Jakarta—and the killing of a motorcycle taxi driver by a police vehicle during a demonstration. President Prabowo Subianto has called for peaceful protests while cautioning against actions that could be deemed treasonous or terrorist. The Minister of Defence has warned that the military and police will intervene to prevent looting and attacks on public buildings.

The unrest has escalated, with incidents including the looting of the Finance Minister's home, a town hall being set on fire, and a police station in Surabaya coming under attack. The protests have spread from Jakarta to major cities across Java and Sumatra. Human rights groups are calling for more comprehensive reforms, asserting that the government's current measures are insufficient to address the underlying grievances driving the public's dissatisfaction. 🇮🇩💥

Employment Service Monitors IP Addresses to Combat Benefit Fraud

The Swedish Employment Service has identified approximately 4,000 individuals who have registered as unemployed while appearing to be abroad. To address this issue, the authority has begun flagging logins to its website from foreign IP addresses as suspicious, aiming to prevent incorrect payments. This initiative, implemented in June, targets individuals who are overseas despite being required to seek work or participate in labor market programs within Sweden.

The Employment Service plans to contact these individuals during the autumn, giving them an opportunity to explain their circumstances before any actions are taken. Those found to be in violation may lose their right to compensation. This proactive approach underscores the authority's commitment to ensuring the integrity of its unemployment benefits system and preventing fraudulent activity. 🌐💼

Zelensky Confirms Arrest After Murder of Former Ukrainian Speaker

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that investigations are underway following the assassination of former Ukrainian Parliament Speaker Andriy Parubiy. Parubiy, who was shot and killed in broad daylight in Lviv on Saturday, was a significant figure in Ukrainian politics. He served as the speaker of the Ukrainian parliament from 2016 to 2019 and previously headed Ukraine's National Security Council. Parubiy was also a key player in the 2014 Euromaidan protests, which led to the ousting of pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the swift and coordinated efforts of the investigative teams and noted that the suspect has been interrogated. Parubiy was 54 years old at the time of his death. 🇺🇦🕵️‍♂️

Boom in short-term rentals plugs infrastructure hole

The short-term rental market in Greece has experienced a remarkable boom, with a 123.1% increase from 2018 to 2024, outpacing other major Mediterranean competitors like Croatia, Cyprus, France, Italy, Malta, Portugal, and Spain. This surge in short-term rentals has significantly bolstered Greece's accommodation infrastructure, filling a crucial gap in the market. Over 80% of these short-term stays were by foreign visitors, highlighting the growing appeal of Greece as a tourist destination. The influx of short-term rentals and new hotels has not only met the rising demand for accommodations but also contributed positively to the local economy. 🏠🌴🌊

Finnish Interior Minister warns of rising threat from synthetic drug alpha-PVP

Finland is grappling with a growing threat posed by the synthetic drug alpha-PVP, commonly known as "peukku." The substance, which has largely replaced amphetamine in parts of Helsinki, is highly addictive and can cause violent and erratic behavior. Manufactured in China, Europe, and even Finland, alpha-PVP has seen a sharp increase in detection, raising alarms among health and law enforcement officials. The drug has been linked to several serious crimes and dangerous situations in hospitals, prompting Interior Minister Mari Rantanen to call for urgent action.

Rantanen, speaking from a bar in Helsinki's drug-ridden Sörnäinen district, emphasized the severe dangers of alpha-PVP and urged users to seek treatment. She acknowledged that Finland has struggled to address the issue effectively, describing it as a challenge for the entire society. The minister outlined plans to enhance police powers, improve intelligence-sharing, and target organized crime groups involved in the drug trade. However, she also stressed the need for comprehensive treatment options, highlighting the importance of both deterrence and care.

Experts have raised concerns about the stigmatization of drug users, warning that portraying them as inherently dangerous could undermine efforts to reduce stigma. The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) has called for more low-threshold services where individuals can access help even while under the influence. Rantanen, drawing from her personal experiences and professional background, advocated for a balanced approach that combines strict laws with accessible treatment, emphasizing that changing one's life is a difficult but achievable goal. 🇫🇮💊

Zelensky vows to retaliate as Russian strikes leave 60,000 homes without power

Overnight Russian drone strikes targeted energy facilities in Ukraine's Odesa and Chernihiv regions, leaving nearly 60,000 households without power. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed retaliation, ordering further strikes deep into Russian territory. The attacks, part of an escalating exchange of aerial assaults, have intensified as the conflict approaches its third and a half year, with Russia focusing on Ukraine's energy and transport systems, and Ukraine targeting Russian oil infrastructure.

In Odesa, four energy facilities were hit, affecting 29,000 customers, with significant damage reported in the port city of Chornomorsk. Nearby, a civilian ship sustained minor damage from an unexploded device. In Chernihiv, 30,000 households lost power due to drone strikes on energy infrastructure. Ukraine's air defenses intercepted 126 of the 142 drones launched, but ten locations were still struck. Russia claimed to have hit military infrastructure in Kyiv, while Ukraine reported damage to civilian areas. The intensified fighting coincides with international efforts led by U.S. President Donald Trump to broker a ceasefire, which Russia has dismissed, insisting on seeing signs of peace from Kyiv. Meanwhile, Pope Leo called for an end to hostilities and a return to negotiations. 💥🏙️🇺🇦🇷🇺

Israel kills 45 as it intensifies Gaza City strikes ahead of seizure meeting

Over the weekend, Israel intensified its offensive on Gaza City, resulting in the deaths of at least 45 people and the destruction of residential buildings. The assault occurred as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet prepared to discuss potential plans to seize the city. Local health officials reported that 30 people were killed on Sunday alone, including 13 individuals who were attempting to gather food near an aid site in central Gaza and two others in a residential home in Gaza City. A separate strike on Saturday claimed the lives of 15 people, including five children.

The Israeli military acknowledged the reports and stated that it takes measures to minimize civilian casualties while targeting militants. The escalation in violence has raised international concerns and highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The situation remains tense as discussions continue within the Israeli government regarding further military actions. 🇮🇱🇵🇸💥

Drugs, weapons confiscated in major Crete crackdown, 48 arrests so far

A major police operation is underway in Crete, targeting a criminal syndicate involved in drug trafficking, weapons distribution, extortion, and other illicit activities. The crackdown, initiated in the regions of Hania and Rethymno, has resulted in the arrest of 48 individuals, including a police officer and two members of the armed forces—one from the Navy and one from the Air Force. Authorities have seized significant quantities of cannabis and cocaine, along with pistols, assault rifles, and several vehicles. The investigation was sparked by an incident involving an explosive device directed at a police officer. The operation underscores the authorities' commitment to dismantling organized crime networks and maintaining public safety on the island. 🚔🔍

'Greenland is not for sale': French foreign minister visits Arctic territory in show of solidarity

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot visited Greenland's capital, Nuuk, to reaffirm France's and Europe's support for Denmark and Greenland's sovereignty. Barrot emphasized that "Greenland is not for sale," criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump's repeated expressions of interest in acquiring the strategic Arctic territory. During a news conference, Barrot met with Greenland’s prime minister and foreign minister, stressing that imposing control on neighbors and allies does not make a nation great. Instead, he advocated for contributing to global freedom and prosperity.

Barrot's visit, which included a stop at a French military ship in Nuuk, aimed to demonstrate France's solidarity with Denmark and Greenland. He underscored that Europe and France stand firmly with them, both now and in the future. This show of support comes amid reports of covert influence operations in Greenland linked to Trump, prompting Denmark to engage in diplomatic talks with the U.S. The visit serves as a clear message that Greenland's sovereignty and freedom are not up for negotiation. 🇬🇱🇫🇷🇪🇺