Newsflash

Russia and China’s 'multipolar world' raises nightmare scenario for Europe

The geopolitical landscape is rapidly shifting towards a multipolar world, with Russia and China increasingly asserting their influence, posing significant challenges for Europe. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping recently presented a vision for a new world order, advocating for a multipolar system where superpowers control their own spheres of influence. This scenario would be detrimental to democracies and countries on the periphery of Russia and China, as it would embolden authoritarian regimes to use force to assert their dominance.

The U.S. has played a significant role in this shift due to its "America First" policies and reduced engagement with Europe, which has emboldened Russia and China to take a more assertive stance on the global stage. The multipolar world envisioned by Russia and China would see China dominating the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia, while Russia seeks to control Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and its periphery. This vision is not new; both countries have long advocated for a multipolar world, as outlined in a 1997 letter to the United Nations.

Europe faces immense challenges in this new geopolitical landscape. Already adjusting to a world with less U.S. military support, democratic Europe must now contend with a Russia that has demonstrated its willingness to use massive violence to assert its influence. Without the U.S. nuclear umbrella, Europe would be severely outgunned, despite its collective wealth and military power. To push back against an emboldened Russia, Europe must revamp its defense industry, engage in open conversations about threats, and present a united front. The struggle for Ukraine's independence serves as a forceful rejection of the authoritarian model advocated by Russia and China, and the outcome of Russia's war of aggression will significantly impact the likelihood of future conflicts. 🌍💥

'Cosplay of justice' — Russia sentences 4 Ukrainian POWs to nearly 30 years in prison

Russia has sentenced four Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) to lengthy prison terms, with the longest being 28 years, following a trial that Ukraine and international observers have condemned as a sham. The four Ukrainian servicemen—Lieutenant Colonel Andrii Antonenko, Captain Andrii Kulish, Junior Lieutenant Denis Tkachenko, and Sergeant Oleksii Mazurenko—were accused of conducting sabotage and reconnaissance operations against Russian military and industrial targets. They were captured in Russia's Bryansk Oblast and were convicted of planning and executing terrorist attacks, among other charges.

The sentences imposed were severe: Antonenko received 28 years, Kulish and Mazurenko each received 26 years, and Tkachenko was sentenced to 27 years. The court also fined Antonenko 2 million rubles (approximately $24,695). The Ukrainian soldiers were accused of mining power lines, a railway, and an oil storage facility, as well as planting drones near the Shaykovka military airfield in Russia's Kaluga Oblast. This airfield houses strategic bombers used to strike Ukrainian cities.

In their final statements, the Ukrainian POWs maintained that they were defending their country and following orders from their commanding officers. They emphasized that their operations did not harm any Russian civilians or military personnel. Antonenko, in particular, criticized the trial, describing it as a "cosplay of justice." This case is part of a broader pattern of sham trials conducted by Russia against Ukrainian POWs, with a previous trial in June convicting 184 Ukrainian soldiers captured in Kursk Oblast of acts of terrorism. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Netanyahu bashes Belgium’s ‘weak’ De Wever over pledge to recognize Palestine

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly criticized his Belgian counterpart, Bart De Wever, over Belgium's decision to recognize the state of Palestine. Belgium's Foreign Minister, Maxime Prévot, announced that the country will officially recognize Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly and impose "firm sanctions" on Israel in response to its actions in Gaza. This move follows extensive negotiations among Belgium’s governing parties and is contingent on Hamas releasing all Israeli hostages captured during the October 7, 2023, attack and relinquishing control over the Gaza Strip. The recognition of Palestine by Belgium has sparked diplomatic tensions, with Netanyahu expressing his disapproval of the decision.

Mitsotakis and Erdogan likely to meet this month

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan are anticipated to meet in New York during the upcoming UN General Assembly, marking a potential turning point in the stagnant Greek-Turkish relations that have persisted for over two years. The meeting, confirmed by Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, is expected to address longstanding tensions and recent provocations by Turkey, including the blocking of the Greece-Cyprus electrical interconnection project and efforts to strengthen ties with eastern Libya through a controversial memorandum.

The political landscape is fraught with challenges, as both leaders navigate a delicate international environment. Turkey's actions have raised Athens' suspicions, and the broader Eastern Mediterranean region remains a powder keg of geopolitical tensions. Despite Erdogan's historic ties with U.S. President Donald Trump, Turkey's regional influence is tempered by the complex dynamics at play, particularly concerning Israel. The meeting in New York comes amidst a backdrop of heightened regional tensions and shifting global alliances, with Greece and Turkey each seeking to assert their interests in a volatile landscape. Additionally, Mitsotakis is scheduled to meet with leaders from South Korea, India, and Armenia, further underscoring Greece's efforts to strengthen its international alliances. The EU has also weighed in, with High Representative Kaja Kallas reiterating that the Turkish-Libyan memorandum violates the sovereign rights of third states and lacks legal validity. The stage is set for crucial diplomatic engagements that could reshape the Eastern Mediterranean's future. 🌍🤝

Macron says Europe is set to offer Ukraine security guarantees in Paris meeting

French President Emmanuel Macron received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Élysée Palace, announcing that Europe is prepared to offer Ukraine security guarantees once a peace agreement is signed to conclude the ongoing conflict sparked by Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Macron, who is set to host a summit of European leaders, emphasized Europe's readiness to support a robust and lasting peace for Ukraine and its people. The details of these guarantees remain confidential, but they are expected to involve the deployment of European troops, training of a European army, and backup support from the United States. Zelensky, however, expressed skepticism about Russia's intentions, stating that he sees no signs of Moscow seeking an end to the war. The upcoming Paris meeting aims to bolster international efforts to achieve a lasting peace and address the ongoing security concerns in the region. 🇫🇷🇺🇦🇷🇺

113 Killed in Gaza in Last 24 Hours Amid Ongoing Conflict

In Gaza, the humanitarian crisis has reached a critical point, with at least 33 people losing their lives while attempting to access food or other essential aid. On Wednesday, an Israeli strike in the al-Mawasi area, designated as a "safe zone," resulted in the deaths of nine individuals, including five children, who were collecting water. The Gaza Health Authority reports that six more people, including one child, have died from starvation or malnutrition in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of starvation-related deaths since the conflict began to 367.

The situation remains dire, with over 300 people injured in the last day alone. Of these, 141 were hurt while trying to obtain humanitarian aid, highlighting the extreme risks faced by civilians in their desperate search for basic necessities. The escalating violence and dire living conditions in Gaza underscore the urgent need for international intervention and humanitarian assistance. 😢💔

Fears of Russian hit campaign grow as another nationalist politician is murdered in Ukraine

The murder of Ukrainian nationalist politician Andriy Parubiy in Lviv has heightened concerns about a targeted assassination campaign against pro-Western and nationalist figures in Ukraine. Parubiy, a prominent leader in the 2004 Orange Revolution and the 2013-2014 EuroMaidan Revolution, was shot multiple times by a suspect who had reportedly received instructions and assistance from Russia. The suspect confessed to the crime and expressed a desire to be exchanged for Ukrainian prisoners of war, suggesting a Russian connection.

The killing of Parubiy is part of a broader pattern of attacks on Ukrainian nationalists and activists, with evidence pointing to Russian involvement. Kremlin propaganda has consistently demonized Ukrainian nationalists, and Russia has stated its goal of "de-Nazifying" Ukraine, which many interpret as a euphemism for eliminating pro-European and nationalist figures. Former Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk and other political figures have accused Russia of orchestrating these assassinations to destabilize Ukraine and eliminate key leaders.

Other high-profile targets include Serhiy Sternenko, a prominent activist who survived an assassination attempt, and Demyan Hanul, a nationalist blogger and activist who was shot dead in Odesa. Iryna Farion, a controversial linguistics professor and former parliamentarian, was also murdered in Lviv. In each case, investigators have considered Russian involvement as a possible motive. The Russian neo-Nazi group NS/WP claimed responsibility for Farion's murder, although the group's ties to Russian intelligence are unclear.

These attacks are seen as part of a broader Russian strategy to undermine Ukrainian sovereignty and promote fear and instability. The Ukrainian government and international observers have expressed grave concerns about the ongoing campaign of violence against nationalist and pro-Western figures, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures and international support to protect Ukraine's democratic leadership. 🇺🇦🔍

Trump pledges not to pull US troops out of Poland

In a significant shift from previous administration warnings, U.S. President Donald Trump has pledged to maintain American troops in Poland and even potentially increase their presence. During a meeting with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, Trump stated, "We’ll put more there if they want. They’ll be staying in Poland." This announcement comes amidst earlier indications from top officials that U.S. troops might be withdrawn from Europe, which would have disrupted the established transatlantic security framework. Trump's commitment to bolstering the U.S. military presence in Poland underscores a renewed focus on strengthening alliances and ensuring regional stability. This decision is likely to be welcomed by Poland and other NATO allies who have expressed concerns about potential reductions in American military support. 🇺🇸🇵🇱🛡️

Trump says 'you'll see things happen' if unhappy with Putin response

In a recent statement, U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of imposing new sanctions on Russia if it does not cease its military operations in Ukraine. Trump's remarks, made during a public address, suggested that if he is unsatisfied with President Vladimir Putin's response to ongoing diplomatic efforts, the U.S. could take further punitive measures. The comments come amidst heightened tensions and ongoing conflict in the region, with Europe closely monitoring the situation. The potential for additional sanctions underscores the U.S.'s commitment to pressuring Russia to end its aggression, although the specifics of these measures remain unclear. The international community continues to advocate for a peaceful resolution, with human rights organizations and analysts weighing in on the potential impacts of such actions. 🌍💥

Russian drone and missile strikes leave thousands without power in Ukraine

Russia launched a massive aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying over 500 drones and missiles, primarily targeting western regions and causing significant power outages and injuries. The strikes occurred as UK Defence Secretary John Healey visited Ukraine for security talks, coinciding with Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to China. The barrage resulted in explosions heard across Kyiv, with air defense systems actively engaging Russian drones.

In the northern Chernihiv region, drone strikes on civilian infrastructure left 30,000 people without electricity. Ukraine's air force reported that three missiles and 69 strike drones hit 14 locations, with debris from downed projectiles falling in another 14 areas. In the Kirovograd region, four railway workers were injured, and more than a dozen residential buildings were damaged. The relentless attacks, which have become a near-nightly occurrence since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, continue to inflict severe harm on Ukraine's civilian population and infrastructure. 💥🏙️

Cyprus’ LNG dreams hit another snag

Cyprus' ambitious plans to develop a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at Vasilikos have encountered another significant setback, adding to a list of delayed or unfinished infrastructure projects in the country. Energy Minister Giorgos Papanastasiou recently revealed that ETYFA, the state-owned company managing the Vasilikos site, is uncertain whether the half-completed terminal can be finished. This admission has sparked criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the government of mismanaging the project and engaging in misleading communications.

Beyond the delays, there are growing concerns about the terminal's safety. Both Papanastasiou and veteran politician Averof Neofytou have raised alarms about potential safety issues, particularly regarding the quality of materials used by the Chinese contractor awarded the project. The European Public Prosecutor’s Office is investigating these allegations, and the outcome could impact the EU funding allocated to the terminal. To address these concerns, ETYFA has engaged French firm Technip to conduct a comprehensive review of the work completed thus far. The results of this study, expected soon, will be crucial in determining whether the terminal meets necessary safety standards. 🛢️🇨🇾

Airborne Emergency Aid to Gaza Halted Due to Israeli Obstacles

For nearly a month, an international coalition led by Jordan has been conducting aerial drops of emergency aid over the war-torn Gaza Strip, where the UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has confirmed the presence of full-blown famine in some areas. However, these crucial aid operations have been halted, with both Jordan and Egypt reportedly initiating the pause. The cessation of air drops coincides with Israel's escalated military offensive in Gaza City, aiming to seize full control of the densely populated urban area.

The reasons for the suspension remain unclear, with Jordan citing "Israeli obstacles" and Israeli media reporting that the pause is temporary and at the initiative of Jordan and Egypt. This development follows Israel's announcement in late August that it plans to reduce or entirely halt emergency aid to northern Gaza, including the aerial drops over Gaza City. The situation underscores the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and the political complexities surrounding aid delivery. 🛬️🏙️

Unions sharply criticise budget decisions but corporate and taxpayers' groups are pleased

Finland's major business and industry groups have largely endorsed the government's recent budget proposal, praising its focus on economic growth and spending cuts over increased taxation. The Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK) and the Federation of Finnish Enterprises (Suomen Yrittäjät) both commended the government's commitment to previously agreed growth measures and spending adjustments. However, the entrepreneurs' association criticized reductions in research and development (R&D) funding. The Finnish Taxpayers' Association also supported the tax policies, highlighting the reduction in earned income taxes and the highest marginal tax rates as beneficial for economic recovery.

In contrast, Finland's largest labor groups have strongly criticized the budget proposal, deeming it unfair and detrimental to workers. The Central Organisation of Finnish Trade Unions (SAK) and the Finnish Confederation of Professionals (STTK) both expressed concern over cuts to subsidized housing loans, union membership fee tax deductions, and the state pension fund. They argue that the budget disproportionately favors companies and high-income earners while burdening the broader population. Additionally, they warn that cuts to housing construction subsidies and R&D funding could further weaken the economy. The labor groups represent a combined total of over 1.2 million workers. The budget proposal has thus sparked a contentious debate between business interests and labor advocates. 💼🏢🤝

Ukraine plans to roll out enhanced military contracts for soldiers over 24, official says

Ukraine is considering expanding its enhanced military contracts, initially designed for recruits aged 18-24, to include older age groups and potentially existing soldiers. This move comes as the country grapples with personnel shortages amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. The "18-24" contracts, introduced in early 2025, offer a one-million-hryvnia ($24,000) bonus for a one-year service commitment, paid in three installments, with an upfront payment of Hr 200,000 ($5,000). Deputy Chief of Staff Pavlo Palisa announced that, following expert reviews, these benefits could be extended to other age groups and current servicemembers, providing clearer terms of service and benefits.

The decision comes amidst criticism from frontline soldiers who questioned the disparity in benefits between new recruits and existing troops. Ukraine's military has faced significant challenges in maintaining troop numbers, despite a major draft reform bill passed in April. Russian forces, despite sustaining heavy losses, have been able to advance rapidly in eastern Ukraine due to their numerical superiority. This expansion of military contracts aims to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities by incentivizing both new and existing soldiers to commit to longer service terms. 🇺🇦💪

Current year 5th worse fire season of past two decades

Greece is experiencing one of its most devastating wildfire seasons in recent history, with 47,393 hectares burned from January to August 2025. This places the current year as the fifth worst in the past two decades, according to data from the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) and analysis by the National Observatory of Athens. The intense wildfires, particularly during the summer months, have caused significant damage to forests and farmlands across the country.

Several regions have been severely affected, including Arta, Achaia, Zakynthos, Kythira, Feneos in Corinthia, Keratea near Athens, and the island of Chios. These areas alone account for over 26,000 hectares of burned land, more than half of the total affected area in Greece this year. On Chios, nearly 15% of the island's territory has been scorched, and in Feneos, Corinthia, fires have destroyed parts of pristine virgin forests. The ongoing wildfires pose a significant threat to Greece's natural environment and agricultural lands, highlighting the urgent need for effective fire management and prevention strategies. 🔥🌳🌾

Zelensky arrives in Paris, meets Macron ahead of security guarantees summit with 'Coalition of the Willing'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Paris on September 3, ahead of a crucial summit with the "Coalition of the Willing" to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine. The high-level meeting, scheduled for September 4, will be co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and will be held in a hybrid format. Before the broader talks, Zelensky held a bilateral meeting with Macron, where they discussed security guarantees, defense support, and sanctions against Russia. Macron reaffirmed Europe's commitment to supporting Ukraine, while Zelensky expressed confidence that the alliance with Europe and the U.S. would help pressure Russia towards a diplomatic solution. The leaders also addressed using frozen Russian assets and Ukraine's EU integration path. This visit marks Zelensky's eighth trip to Paris since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. The U.S. and European allies are coordinating to develop a new security guarantee framework for Ukraine, focusing on bolstering Ukrainian forces and deterring future Russian aggression. However, the commitments will not involve deploying American troops to Ukraine. 🇺🇦🇫🇷🇬🇧

Cyprus must clarify position on power link, Greek deputy PM says

Greek Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis has defended the Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection project, emphasizing its significance within the broader European energy strategy. He stressed that the project is not merely a national initiative for Greece but a priority for the entire European Union. The interconnection aims to end Cyprus' energy isolation, providing substantial benefits to the island nation.

Hatzidakis highlighted Greece's commitment to the project, noting that the country has already taken concrete steps through various ministries and agencies. He urged Cyprus to clarify its position following recent remarks by Cyprus' finance minister, who described the project as "unsustainable." The deputy prime minister emphasized the importance of Cyprus' participation, as the interconnection would significantly enhance the island's energy security and integration into the European energy network. The project is seen as a crucial step towards achieving a more resilient and interconnected European energy infrastructure. 🇬🇷🇨🇾🔌

Weapons sold on Viber in Crete mafia case

In a significant development, authorities in Crete have uncovered a sophisticated weapons trafficking operation allegedly conducted by members of the so-called Crete mafia. The group reportedly used the Viber messaging app to facilitate the buying and selling of firearms, believing the platform's encryption would shield their communications from law enforcement. However, investigators successfully recovered encrypted chats and photos detailing the sales, catalogs, and prices of various weapons.

The illicit market featured a range of firearms, with small handguns listed between €1,700 and €2,000, larger pistols priced from €3,300 to €4,000, and Kalashnikov-style rifles available for approximately €5,000. The inventory included USP pistols, .357 revolvers, .38s, .765s, and even discreet pen-shaped guns priced at €500. The most expensive item in the cache was a military rifle valued at €5,500. The investigation highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in combating organized crime in the digital age, as criminals exploit encrypted communication platforms to evade detection. 🔍🔒🔫

Ignitis buyback, taxes, and fuel excise: critics scrutinise new coalition’s economic goals

Lithuania's incoming government is facing scrutiny over a proposed plan to repurchase private investors' shares in Ignitis Group, the nation's largest energy company. Designated Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė has sought to assuage concerns by emphasizing that any buyback would be gradual. She argues that full state ownership of such a strategic company is crucial during a period of geopolitical tension. However, critics have raised significant concerns about the potential costs, which could reach up to half a billion euros, and the lengthy repayment period of up to two decades. Additionally, the necessity and benefits of the buyback remain unclear, with President Gitanas Nausėda's office also questioning the lack of compelling arguments for the move.

The buyback plan was notably absent from the coalition agreement signed by the Social Democrats, the Nemunas Dawn party, and the Farmers and Greens Union. Economists reviewing the agreement have highlighted several new policy directions, including an additional tax on banks, the dissolution of the Food Council established to monitor prices, increased excise taxes on alcohol and tobacco, and a freeze on fuel excise hikes. The proposed changes signal a shift in economic policy, but the buyback of Ignitis shares remains a contentious issue, with critics urging the government to provide more transparent justifications for the costly endeavor. 💸🏭

Farage compares UK to North Korea in front of US congress

Nigel Farage, a prominent British political figure, testified before the U.S. Congress, asserting that the United Kingdom has adopted an authoritarian approach to free speech, akin to North Korea. Farage, who was wearing a GB News badge, argued that the UK has descended into an "awful authoritarian situation." He cited the cases of Lucy Connolly and Graham Linehan to support his claims. Connolly was imprisoned for a social media post in which she called for migrant hotels to be set on fire during the Southport Riots last summer. Farage described her post as "intemperate," suggesting that the punishment was disproportionate to the offense. His testimony underscores growing concerns about the erosion of free speech in the UK. 🇬🇧🗣️