Newsflash

26 countries pledge support for Ukraine’s post-war security, US role to be decided in coming weeks, Macron says

In a significant move to bolster Ukraine's security, 26 countries, including Germany, Italy, and Poland, have pledged support following a summit in Paris. While Italy, Poland, and Romania have ruled out sending troops, they have committed to providing other forms of support. French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted that these countries are ready to contribute to Ukraine's security framework, with details to be finalized in the coming weeks. The summit, attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasized the need for binding security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression. Zelenskyy stressed the importance of protecting Ukrainian civilians from ongoing Russian air strikes and discussed the possibility of a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, he cautioned that such a meeting must yield tangible results, ideally the end of the war. The summit also addressed Ukraine's potential accession to the European Union, which is seen as a crucial economic, political, and geopolitical security guarantee. Zelenskyy reiterated that until peace is achieved, Ukrainians must be shielded from constant Russian attacks. The discussions come amid ongoing efforts to finalize security guarantees for Ukraine, with the U.S. role yet to be decided. The European Union continues to impose sanctions on Russia, despite the U.S. administration's mixed signals on economic pressure. The summit underscored the international community's commitment to supporting Ukraine's security and sovereignty in the face of Russian aggression. 🇺🇦🤝🌍

Russian strike on Danish demining group in Chernihiv Oblast kills 2, injures 8

A Russian missile strike on a Danish humanitarian demining group in Chernihiv Oblast, Ukraine, resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to eight others. The attack, which occurred on September 4, targeted a site where the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) was working to clear landmines and unexploded ordnance, essential for protecting communities and restoring access to vital infrastructure. The strike was condemned as a grave violation of international humanitarian law, with Ukrainian officials and the DRC emphasizing the civilian nature of the demining efforts. Chernihiv Oblast, which borders Russia and Belarus, has been a frequent target of Russian attacks since its liberation in April 2022. The region's extensive mine contamination, covering approximately 139,000 square kilometers, poses a significant threat to civilian safety and recovery efforts. Despite the dangers, the DRC remains committed to its mission, aiming to prevent further casualties and support Ukraine's reconstruction. The attack underscores the ongoing risks faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones and the urgent need for international intervention to protect civilians and uphold humanitarian principles. 💥💔

Europe is struggling to show US it’s ready to provide security guarantees alone

As European leaders convene in Paris, they await confirmation from the U.S. on its role in providing security guarantees for Ukraine. While Europe has developed a comprehensive plan, including strengthening Ukraine's military, deploying a reassurance force, and supporting its defense industry, the strategy hinges on American backing, particularly in logistics, air and missile defense, and intelligence sharing. President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Paris to emphasize the need for binding assurances from allies to end the war and prevent future invasions.

Europe has made significant progress in finalizing its plans, with contributions gathered from various countries. However, the package's success depends on U.S. involvement, and some European capitals have expressed reluctance to commit without clarity on this point. The Paris gathering, co-chaired by France and the U.K., aims to solidify Europe's internal discussions before engaging more directly with Washington. European diplomats seek firmer U.S. commitments, including backing for guarantees and tighter sanctions on Russia.

Despite the progress, cracks are visible within Europe. Early momentum in talks has waned due to Russia's preparations for fresh attacks and the lack of a Putin-Zelensky summit. Concerns remain about deploying a peacekeeping force after a truce, with leaders split into three camps: those willing to deploy, those unwilling, and undecided countries. Additionally, not all European voices are aligned, with disagreements over the European Commission's role in force deployment and the appropriate representation at the Paris meeting. Both European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa have embarked on reassurance tours, insisting their efforts are complementary. 🇪🇺🇺🇸🇺🇦

15 killed, 26 injured in Russian attacks across Ukraine over past day

Over the past 24 hours, Russian strikes across Ukraine resulted in the deaths of at least 15 civilians and injuries to 26 others, according to regional authorities. Ukraine's Air Force reported that Russian forces launched 112 Shahed-type attack and decoy drones overnight, with air defenses successfully intercepting 84 of them. However, 28 drones managed to strike 17 locations, while debris from intercepted drones caused additional damage in five more areas.

Donetsk Oblast bore the brunt of the attacks, with 11 civilians killed and 16 injured, nine of the fatalities occurring in Kostiantynivka. Kherson Oblast saw two civilian deaths and two injuries, with residential areas and critical infrastructure targeted. In Kharkiv Oblast, one person was killed and six injured as the city of Kharkiv and 11 surrounding settlements were hit. Dnipropetrovsk Oblast reported one fatality and one injury, while Sumy Oblast had one injured civilian and recorded 133 strikes on 41 settlements.

These attacks occurred as peace negotiations enter their eighth month without progress. Moscow has refused calls for an unconditional ceasefire, instead escalating its use of drones and missiles against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure. The ongoing violence underscores the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict, as civilian casualties continue to mount. 💥😞

Ukraine war latest: 26 countries pledge support for Ukraine’s post-war security, US role to be decided in coming weeks, Macron says

On September 4, 26 countries pledged support for Ukraine's post-war security, with France's President Emmanuel Macron announcing that these nations are ready to send troops or provide other forms of assistance. The coalition, dubbed the "Coalition of the Willing," includes Germany, Italy, and Poland, with the U.S. role yet to be decided in the coming weeks. The group aims to shield Ukraine from future Russian aggression, with additional sanctions threatened if Russia continues to refuse peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that ceding territory to Russia could lead to further invasions, both within Ukraine and potentially into Europe.

Ukraine's defense company Fire Point unveiled two new ballistic missiles, the FP-7 and FP-9, along with advanced air defense systems. These weapons are designed for medium and long-range strikes, respectively, with the FP-9 reportedly capable of reaching deep into Russian territory. Meanwhile, a Russian missile strike on a Danish demining group in Chernihiv Oblast killed two and injured eight, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by humanitarian workers in the region.

Economically, Russia is experiencing "technical stagnation," with growth nearing zero, according to German Gref, the head of Sberbank. This slowdown is attributed to record defense spending and weak private consumption. Additionally, Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged a gas shortage, partly due to Ukrainian strikes on energy infrastructure, suggesting a switch to coal reserves as a potential solution. The economic and military pressures underscore the complex and evolving dynamics of the conflict. 🌍💥

EU Commission’s Ribera says Israel’s war on Gaza is genocide

A senior European Union official has strongly condemned Israel's actions in Gaza, describing them as genocide. Teresa Ribera, the European Commission’s executive vice president, delivered this stark assessment during a speech at Sciences Po. She highlighted Europe's inability to present a united front in response to the crisis, despite widespread protests across European cities and calls for an immediate ceasefire from 14 UN Security Council members. Ribera's remarks underscore the EU's internal divisions and its struggle to effectively address the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, marked by starvation, displacement, and loss of life. 🇪🇺🇮🇱🇵🇸😢

26 nations pledge post-war security support for Ukraine, Macron says

Twenty-six nations have committed to providing post-war military support to Ukraine, ensuring the country's security following any potential ceasefire with Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron announced this significant pledge after a summit, emphasizing that the deployments are intended to bolster security rather than provoke conflict. The coalition, which includes a mix of European and international allies, aims to deploy troops, naval, and air forces to Ukraine, with the United States expected to finalize its support in the coming days.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed the move as a major breakthrough, marking the first concrete step towards securing Ukraine's future. The alliance's commitment comes amid ongoing tensions and Russia's refusal to agree to a peace deal. In response, European countries, in collaboration with the United States, have prepared new sanctions against Russia should Moscow continue its aggressive stance. This collective effort underscores the international community's determination to support Ukraine and maintain regional stability. 🌍🤝

Ukraine allies ready to commit to post-war security guarantees

Twenty-six of Ukraine's allies have committed to providing operational and financial support to ensure Kyiv's security post-conflict, pending a peace agreement. This coalition, dubbed the "coalition of the willing," convened under the leadership of French President Emmanuel Macron and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. During their meeting, the allies outlined a comprehensive military plan detailing each country's contributions, aiming to bolster Ukraine's defense and stability once hostilities cease. The group is now urging U.S. President Trump to actively engage and contribute to these security guarantees, emphasizing the importance of a united front in supporting Ukraine's future. 🇺🇦🤝

Europe’s security impacts the US: EU holding on to hope Trump won’t ‘sell Ukraine down the river’

The European Union is actively working to secure Ukraine's future, with French President Emmanuel Macron announcing that 26 countries have committed to supporting Ukraine's security post-ceasefire or peace deal with Russia. Macron emphasized that the United States has expressed a clear willingness to participate in these security guarantees, despite ongoing concerns about potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration. This development comes as Europe seeks to bolster its defenses and ensure regional stability amidst geopolitical uncertainties. The commitment from these nations underscores a collective effort to safeguard Ukraine's sovereignty and deter further Russian aggression. 🌍🤝

Orbán’s favorite Brussels think tank received millions from Budapest, new figures reveal

The European Union's most prominent hard-right pressure group, MCC Brussels, has disclosed receiving over €6 million in financial support last year, primarily from sources linked to Hungary's populist Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. The funding, intended to influence European policymakers on political, socio-economic, and cultural issues, came almost entirely from Mathias Corvinus Collegium Alapítvány, a Budapest-based educational institution controlled by Orbán's political allies. This substantial grant effectively covers the group's entire operating budget, raising concerns about the influence of Orbán's network within EU policy circles. 💸🏛️

US lawmakers urge Rubio to take action over Greek-Cypriots detained in occupied north

U.S. lawmakers from the Congressional Hellenic Caucus have expressed grave concern over the detention of five Greek-Cypriots in the Turkish-occupied northern part of Cyprus. In a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Representatives Dina Titus, Gus Bilirakis, Chris Pappas, and Nicole Malliotakis condemned the arrests as politically motivated and illegal, urging immediate action from the State Department. The five elderly individuals were detained while visiting their ancestral properties in Trikomo, facing charges of illegal entry, espionage, and disturbing the peace. The lawmakers highlighted the harsh prison conditions and questionable legal procedures the detainees have endured, noting that the arrests coincide with the anniversary of the 1974 Turkish invasion and increasing legal actions against illegal property developments in the north.

The lawmakers emphasized that these detentions threaten the long-supported U.S. goal of a bizonal, bicommunal settlement for Cyprus's reunification. They called on the State Department to demand the immediate release of the detainees through U.S. embassies in Nicosia and Ankara and to hold Turkey accountable for its ongoing violations in Cyprus. The lawmakers stressed the urgent need for the U.S. to push for an end to the island's illegal occupation and support the rights of Greek-Cypriots. 🇺🇸🇨🇾🔍

Pro-Palestinian protesters douse Israeli defence firm’s stand with red liquid at Polish arms fair

In Poland, two pro-Palestinian activists were detained after protesting at an arms fair in Kielce, where they targeted the stand of Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems. The demonstrators, a 21-year-old woman and a 26-year-old man, poured a red, foul-smelling but non-harmful liquid over the stand, likening it to the "skunk water" used by Israel against Palestinians. They were arrested by military police for shouting slogans and holding Palestinian flags. The protest was organized by Kolektyw Bas, a group advocating against Israeli actions in Gaza.

The protest highlighted the controversial participation of Israeli companies at the International Defence Industry Exhibition (MSPO), Poland's largest arms fair. Elbit Systems, Israel's largest military manufacturer, has faced criticism for its role in the Gaza conflict, including the use of its drones in an attack that killed a Polish aid worker. Despite calls for their exclusion, Polish officials have maintained that rejecting Israeli companies would undermine the country's military capabilities. The incident has sparked debates about Poland's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict and the ethical implications of hosting Israeli defense firms at major arms fairs. 🇮🇱🇵🇱💥

Venezuelan Jets Fly Over US Ship Amid Tensions

Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have escalated following a recent maritime incident. On Thursday, an unidentified ship from Venezuela was reportedly sunk by the U.S. fleet, resulting in the deaths of 11 individuals. President Donald Trump asserted that the vessel was linked to the Tren de Aragua drug cartel, alleging that the criminal group is under the control of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. However, these claims remain unconfirmed by independent sources.

Maduro has accused the U.S. of aggressive actions, stating that American warships equipped with "1,200 rockets" have approached Venezuela's coast. The strained relations between the two countries have been further exacerbated by Trump's deployment of U.S. ships to the waters off Venezuela, ostensibly to combat drug trafficking. The exact role of the USS Jason Dunham in the recent incident remains unclear, but the situation underscores the heightened military tensions in the region. 🇺🇸🇻🇪💥

European Commission set to launch restructure within months

The European Commission is accelerating plans to overhaul its executive arm, with a significant restructuring expected by early next year. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is spearheading this initiative to streamline the bureaucracy, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs. The Commission’s budget and public administration chief, Piotr Serafin, has been assigned to lead a comprehensive review of the organization and its operations, including an external benchmarking exercise.

The goal is to create a modern, agile public administration capable of addressing political priorities and managing ongoing volatility. The restructuring aims to simplify the complex structure, cut unnecessary expenses, and ensure the Commission can effectively respond to the evolving challenges facing the EU. This initiative underscores the Commission’s commitment to improving its operational efficiency and adaptability in an ever-changing political and economic landscape. 🇪🇺🏢

Number of cyber incidents in Latvia up 28% in Q2

In the second quarter of 2025, Latvia experienced a notable surge in cyber incidents, with 709 cases reported—an increase of 12% compared to the first quarter of 2025 and 28% higher than the same period in 2024. This rise is attributed to several factors, including human error, increased reliance on digital technologies, device vulnerabilities, and the malicious use of generative artificial intelligence. Fraudulent activities, particularly those impersonating government institutions and well-known companies, have seen a significant uptick. New attack methods, such as smart TV exploitation, voice spoofing, and double extortion, along with a rise in business email compromise and ransomware, are contributing to the escalating threat landscape.

Additionally, large-scale login data leaks from major platforms like Google, Facebook, and Apple have heightened the risk of cyberattacks in Latvia. While Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks remained intense, particularly around holidays and politically significant events, most were effectively mitigated. Importantly, no cyber incidents were detected that could indicate attempts to influence Latvia’s elections, highlighting the success of existing preventive cybersecurity measures.

The overall intensity and complexity of cyber threats in Latvia are on the rise, posing significant risks to the public, businesses, and institutions. These attacks are increasingly impacting financial assets and eroding public trust in digital services. Cert.lv, operating under the Institute of Mathematics and Informatics at the University of Latvia, plays a crucial role in monitoring and mitigating these threats, ensuring the security of Latvia’s electronic information space. 💻🔒

Straight talk

Cyprus must clarify its objectives regarding the electricity interconnection project with Greece, as conflicting messages are hindering progress on this crucial and sensitive issue. Effective communication is vital, as past failures in cooperation and political maneuvering have proven costly for both nations. It is imperative that this matter, which holds significant national importance, be guided by strategic interests rather than commercial or personal agendas. Open and honest dialogue between Cyprus and Greece is essential to navigate this complex project successfully and to avoid repeating past mistakes. 🇨🇾🇬🇷

Le Parlement européen envisage de réclamer 4 millions d’euros à l’extrême droite

The far-right Identity and Democracy (ID) group in the European Parliament has been found to have violated spending rules, misappropriating at least €4.3 million, according to a confidential report obtained by POLITICO. The group, which included members from Marine Le Pen's National Rally and the Alternative for Germany, breached procurement rules and made irregular donations between 2019 and 2024.

The situation is complicated by the fact that the ID group disbanded after the 2024 European elections, with most of its members and staff joining the new Patriots for Europe group. The European Parliament's Budgetary Control Committee is now investigating whether the new group can be held accountable for the financial misconduct. Parliamentarians are exploring ways to recover the misused funds, highlighting the ongoing challenges in maintaining financial integrity within political groups. 💸🏛️

Norway experiments with electric plane in real-life test

Norway is making strides in the realm of electric aviation with a successful test flight of an electric aircraft between Stavanger and Bergen. The Alia, built by US manufacturer Beta, completed the 160-kilometer route in 55 minutes, marking the first electric flight along this commercial air corridor. The test, conducted by Bristow's Norwegian affiliate and overseen by Avinor, the state-owned airport and air traffic control operator, aims to evaluate the integration of electric aircraft into existing air traffic and infrastructure.

The test flight, which relied on visual navigation, is part of a broader evaluation that began in August and will continue until January 2026. The Norwegian regulatory authorities are closely involved to ensure that electric flights can commence commercially as soon as the technology is ready, anticipated between 2028 and 2030. The electric plane's battery life supports journeys up to 400 kilometers, sufficient for a round trip between Stavanger and Bergen. Pilot Jeremy Degagne emphasized the importance of adhering to the aircraft's energy limitations, ensuring safe and reliable operations.

Norway, a pioneer in electric cars and boats, is now setting its sights on revolutionizing the aviation industry with low- or zero-emission air travel. The aviation sector, responsible for nearly 3% of global carbon dioxide emissions, presents a significant challenge for decarbonization, and Norway's initiatives could pave the way for a more sustainable future in air transportation. 🛩️🔋

Erdogan’s flirt with Xi Jinping and China

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been strengthening ties with China, a shift that has significant implications for global politics and U.S. interests. This alignment was evident at the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, which was dubbed "Xi Jinping’s anti-American party" by The Economist. The SCO summit brought together world leaders, including Erdogan, to discuss cooperation and mutual interests, often in opposition to U.S. influence.

Erdogan's growing closeness with China is part of a broader strategy to diversify Turkey's international alliances and reduce dependence on Western powers. This move comes amid strained relations between Turkey and the United States, particularly over issues like Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defense systems and differing views on Syria. By aligning with China, Erdogan aims to secure economic benefits, technological advancements, and geopolitical support.

The deepening Turkey-China relationship raises concerns for the U.S., as it could undermine NATO cohesion and strengthen anti-Western blocs. Turkey, a key NATO member, plays a crucial role in regional security, and its alignment with China could complicate U.S. efforts to maintain influence in the Middle East and beyond. Additionally, China's growing presence in Turkey could lead to increased investment and infrastructure development, further solidifying the economic ties between the two nations. However, this alignment also poses risks, as China's authoritarian model and human rights record may influence Turkey's domestic policies, potentially eroding democratic institutions and freedoms. 🌏🤝

European prosecutors probe east Med cable project

European prosecutors are investigating potential criminal offenses related to a €1.9 billion EU-funded project aimed at constructing a subsea electric cable connecting Europe to the eastern Mediterranean. The Great Sea Interconnector, a joint venture between Cyprus and Greece, is designed to link European and Cypriot transmission networks, with plans to extend the connection to Israel. The project, managed by the Greek power grid operator ADMIE, has faced significant delays and financial scrutiny.

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides announced that the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has opened an inquiry into possible criminal activities associated with the project. The EPPO confirmed the ongoing investigation but declined to provide further details to avoid compromising the probe. Greece, a key supporter of the project, has not received any advisory on the investigation, and the Greek operator, ADMIE, declined to comment. The project, once completed, is set to be the world’s longest and deepest high-voltage cable, stretching 1,240 kilometers and reaching depths of 3,000 meters. 🇪🇺🔌