Newsflash

Russia conducts massive air attack on Kyiv, other Ukrainian regions

Russia launched a significant aerial assault on Ukraine, targeting Kyiv and other regions with drones and missiles. This attack, the largest since the full-scale invasion began, resulted in at least four fatalities and ignited fires in the Ukrainian government's headquarters in the capital. The strike underscores the ongoing intensity of the conflict, with civilian areas and critical infrastructure bearing the brunt of the aggression. 💥🏙️

'This is Putin's response to calls for peace' — European leaders condemn Russia's latest mass attack on Ukraine

In a brazen display of aggression, Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Ukraine, killing at least four people, including a 3-month-old baby, and injuring over 40 others. The assault, one of the most severe in recent months, targeted 33 locations across Ukraine and damaged a major government building in Kyiv for the first time. The attack came amid international efforts to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin into pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the war, with Western allies exploring new sanctions and influence strategies.

Ukraine's air defenses intercepted 747 drones and four cruise missiles, but several others struck their targets, with debris falling in eight additional areas. The attack, involving a record 810 drones and 13 missiles, was seen as a deliberate provocation and a mockery of peace efforts. European leaders swiftly condemned the assault, with Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stating, "This is Putin's response to calls for peace." European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Russia's actions trample international law and indiscriminately kill civilians.

The attack prompted a united response from European leaders, who reiterated their support for Ukraine and commitment to tightening sanctions on Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron, Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, among others, called for increased military aid to Ukraine and stronger pressure on Russia. The assault underscored the urgent need for a robust international response to Russia's ongoing aggression and the importance of standing with Ukraine in its defense against unprovoked attacks. 🇺🇦💥

Russia hits Ukraine with more that 800 drones and decoy drones in biggest-ever aerial barrage

In the largest aerial assault since the conflict began, Russia launched an unprecedented barrage of over 800 drones and decoys against Ukraine, targeting the capital and other regions. The Ukrainian air force reported that they successfully intercepted 747 drones and four missiles, but the attack resulted in four fatalities and significant damage to a key government building. The scale of this aerial onslaught marks a concerning escalation in Russia's military strategy, highlighting the ongoing intensity and brutality of the conflict. The attack underscores the urgent need for continued international support and defense capabilities for Ukraine. 🇺🇦💥

Largest-ever Russian air attack on Ukraine kills four, strikes government offices

On Sunday, Russia launched its most extensive air assault on Ukraine to date, deploying 810 drones and 13 missiles. The barrage resulted in the deaths of at least four people and injuries to dozens more across the country. The attack targeted central Kyiv, setting the main government building ablaze and causing significant damage to several high-rise structures. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strike, emphasizing the need for a robust international response, particularly from the United States. The assault occurred amidst heightened tensions following a failed ceasefire meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The Ukrainian government vowed to rebuild the damaged buildings but highlighted the irreplaceable loss of lives. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a deliberate act of terror. The assault came amid discussions among European countries about deploying troops to Ukraine, a move that Russia has warned would be considered a legitimate target. Despite international efforts to end the conflict, Russia continues to occupy around 20% of Ukrainian territory, with tens of thousands killed and millions displaced in Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. 🇺🇦💥

After TIF

In recent years, inflation has effectively masked the issue of over-indebtedness by eroding the real value of debt and increasing GDP, thereby reducing the debt-to-GDP ratio. This, coupled with the Public Debt Management Agency's (PDMA) effective debt management, led to a sense of complacency, allowing the government to allocate around €60 billion for pandemic and energy crisis relief, primarily through horizontal subsidies. However, the economic landscape is shifting, with rising yields on long-term bonds in major economies signaling increased borrowing costs and potential fiscal strain.

As budget deficits grow and inflation persists, lenders are demanding higher returns, making public debt servicing increasingly burdensome for European nations. This financial pressure is exacerbating social and political tensions, with countries like Germany, France, and Britain grappling with economic challenges and potential austerity measures. The situation is further complicated by the need for increased military spending, which may fuel social unrest.

Despite having access to abundant European funding and favorable international conditions, the government failed to capitalize on these opportunities to boost economic and social development. The EU’s Recovery and Resilience Fund, European Regional Development Fund, and new agricultural policies, combined with private investment, amounted to €100 billion. Yet, these resources were not leveraged effectively for public benefit. Instead, the government exploited the situation for electoral gains, leading to increased corruption and a widening gap in productivity and investment compared to the rest of Europe.

Inflation in the country is running at 50% higher than the European average, further straining the economy. As the true cost of the current situation becomes apparent, it will be clear that individual benefits and tax breaks are insufficient to alleviate the burden. The path forward requires significant reforms to enhance productivity, attract investment, and foster a more equitable and sustainable economic environment. The upcoming assessment will reveal the true extent of the challenges ahead and the need for decisive action. 💸📉

Record Russian drone attack pounds Ukraine, damaging government building

In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine's capital on a recent Sunday. This assault marked the largest aerial strike since the war began, resulting in at least two fatalities. The strike caused substantial damage, with smoke billowing from the roof of a crucial government building. The intense bombardment highlights the persistent and escalating nature of the conflict, as Russia continues to target key infrastructure and civilian areas. 🇺🇦💥

Ukraine retook 5 times more territory than it lost near Pokrovsk in August, Syrskyi says

In the Pokrovsk sector of Donetsk Oblast, Ukrainian forces successfully reclaimed 26 square kilometers of territory in August, despite losing 5 square kilometers, according to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. This strategic gain represents a significant counteroffensive against Russian advances, which had briefly infiltrated the city of Pokrovsk and the town of Dobropillia using sabotage and reconnaissance tactics. The Pokrovsk axis remains a critical and heavily contested area, with Ukrainian units repelling approximately 350 enemy attacks in the past week alone. 💥

Ukraine's Assault Forces, a newly established branch of the military, have been instrumental in these counterattacks, clearing two villages near Pokrovsk in early September. Russia's intensified ground offensives in the region aim to capture the key logistics hub of Pokrovsk, bolstering Moscow's position in potential peace negotiations. The Kremlin's proposed peace agreement reportedly involves Ukraine withdrawing from Donetsk Oblast entirely, a demand that underscores the high stakes of the ongoing conflict. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

Ukraine war latest: Record Russian drone, missile attack kills at least 4, injures 44 across Ukraine, hits government building for first time

In a significant escalation, Russia launched a record-breaking drone and missile attack across Ukraine overnight, resulting in at least four deaths and 44 injuries. The assault, involving 810 Shahed-type drones and 13 cruise and ballistic missiles, targeted multiple regions, including Kyiv, where a woman and her newborn child were killed, and a government building was struck for the first time. The attack caused widespread damage to residential buildings and civilian infrastructure, leading to power outages in some areas. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strikes, emphasizing the need for diplomatic efforts and stronger defenses.

Ukraine retaliated by striking strategically important oil infrastructure in Russia, including the Ilsky oil refinery and the "8-N" oil pipeline control station. These attacks, conducted by Ukrainian forces, aimed to disrupt Russia's fuel supply to its troops and put economic pressure on Moscow. Meanwhile, Ukrainian military officials reported that Russian forces are preparing a "decisive breakthrough" near Pokrovsk, attempting to expand their control and sever supply routes.

On the domestic front, Zelensky highlighted that nearly 60% of Ukraine's weapons are now domestically produced, showcasing the country's growing defense industry. Despite this progress, over 2,500 Ukrainian soldiers remain in Russian captivity, with reports of severe human rights violations and war crimes. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) is set to publish a report detailing Russia's abuses and breaches of international law.

In diplomatic developments, U.S. President Donald Trump signaled support for security guarantees for Ukraine, stressing Europe's leading role in the effort. However, Trump's attempts to broker peace have so far yielded no tangible progress. The situation remains tense, with both sides intensifying their military and diplomatic efforts amidst the ongoing conflict. 🇺🇦💥🏛️

General Staff: Russia has lost 1,088,150 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. According to the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces, Russia has lost 1,088,150 troops, with 970 casualties reported in the past day alone. The extensive toll also includes 11,163 tanks, 23,254 armored fighting vehicles, 61,054 vehicles and fuel tanks, 32,516 artillery systems, 1,481 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,217 air defense systems, 422 airplanes, 341 helicopters, 56,817 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine. The sheer scale of these losses underscores the intensity and devastation of the ongoing conflict. 💥🇷🇺🇺🇦

Russia's mass attack shows Kremlin not interested in ending war diplomatically, Trump's Ukraine envoy says

Russia's recent massive drone and missile assault on Ukraine, involving over 800 Shahed-type drones, has raised serious concerns about the Kremlin's intentions. The attack, which injured over 40 people and struck the Cabinet of Ministers building in central Kyiv, is seen as a clear escalation rather than a move towards diplomatic resolution. U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, emphasized that the strike indicates Russia's unwillingness to end the war through negotiations. The Trump administration has been attempting to broker a peace deal since taking office, but efforts have yielded minimal results, with no ceasefire in sight despite set deadlines and summits.

The attack underscores the ongoing aggression from Russia, which continues to target Ukrainian cities despite international calls for peace. While European allies work on postwar security frameworks, Russia's relentless bombardments and President Vladimir Putin's refusal to engage with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlight the deepening rift. The U.S. has expressed readiness to intensify pressure on Russia, with potential new sanctions and expanded tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil. However, the Trump administration's approach has thus far involved limited consequences for Russia, focusing more on suspended or reduced military aid to Ukraine. The situation leaves Ukraine hoping for a strong reaction from the U.S. to counter Russia's aggressive tactics. 💥🇷🇺🇺🇸

Ukraine’s main government building hit as Russia ramps up attacks

In a significant escalation of its ongoing conflict, Russia launched over 800 drones and missiles at Ukrainian targets overnight, with a notable strike directly hitting the Ukrainian government's main building in Kyiv. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed the damage, stating that the roof and upper floors of the government building were affected for the first time. Images circulating online showed a fire on the top floor, which was being extinguished by emergency responders. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the attack as a "serious escalation," underscoring the heightened intensity of Russia's military campaign against Ukraine. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

PM says Athens, Cairo ‘close to a deal’ for Saint Catherine’s Monastery

Greece and Egypt are on the brink of resolving a long-standing dispute over the historic Monastery of Saint Catherine in Sinai. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that the two countries are "close to signing an agreement" that would preserve the monastery's Greek Orthodox character. Tensions escalated last year when an Egyptian court ruled that the 6th-century site, the world's oldest continuously used Christian monastery, lies on state land, granting the monastery only usage rights. This ruling sparked internal conflicts among the monks, with some accusing Archbishop Damianos of mismanagement and calling for his removal.

Mitsotakis' statement came during the 89th Thessaloniki International Fair, where he highlighted the de-escalation of tensions, partly attributed to Archbishop Damianos' decision to begin the process of choosing his successor. This move follows indications from Athens and the Ecumenical Patriarchate that their support for Damianos was not unconditional. Despite the internal strife, Egyptian authorities have assured that the monastery will remain open and under the care of its Greek Orthodox monks, following diplomatic pressure from Greece. The impending agreement aims to secure the monastery's future while addressing the concerns of both nations. 🇬🇷🇪🇬🏰

Bark Beetles Warming Swedish Forests, Study Reveals

The spruce bark beetle infestation in Sweden, exacerbated by the unusually dry summer of 2018, has devastated the country's forests, with an estimated 34 million cubic meters of spruce trees killed in the southern and central regions. Beyond the immediate loss of trees, the beetle's impact extends to the forest's microclimate, significantly altering conditions beneath the tree canopies. Research from Stockholm University reveals that temperatures among dead trees in affected areas can be over two degrees Celsius warmer than among living trees on sunny days. This warming effect can have cascading consequences on the forest's biodiversity, the survival of young tree seedlings, and even human health during heatwaves.

The study highlights that forests with a higher proportion of deciduous trees exhibit a less pronounced warming effect, suggesting a potential strategy for mitigating the beetle's impact. Caroline Greiser, a landscape ecologist at Stockholm University and the lead author of the study, emphasizes the importance of diversifying forests. Mixed stands with more deciduous trees are not only more resilient to spruce bark beetle attacks but also help maintain cooler temperatures post-infestation, thereby promoting a healthier forest ecosystem. 🌳🐞🌡️

Homeless and hungry, Palestinians fear a repeat of 1948 history

The Abu Samra family in Gaza is grappling with the harsh realities of displacement and hunger, echoing the traumas of the 1948 Nakba, when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were forced from their homes. As the current conflict in Gaza intensifies, the family fears a repeat of history, with Israel's military actions and displacement orders raising concerns about ethnic cleansing and permanent demographic shifts. The family's patriarch, Abdallah Abu Samra, who was displaced as a child, now finds himself once again separated from his family and living in dire conditions. The conflict has destroyed homes and infrastructure, leaving nearly 2 million people displaced within Gaza. The international community and human rights experts have criticized Israel's actions, accusing them of violating international law and potentially committing war crimes. The Abu Samra family's story highlights the enduring impact of the Nakba on Palestinian identity and the ongoing struggle for return and justice. Despite the hardships, the family holds onto the keys to their former homes, symbols of their hope and resilience. 🏠🔑

Comment vont se dérouler les dernières heures du gouvernement Bayrou

In a historic and tense political moment, French Prime Minister François Bayrou is set to deliver what is expected to be his final address to the National Assembly. The session, scheduled for Monday, will be a pivotal confrontation between the executive and legislative branches, as deputies prepare to vote on a motion of no confidence. The prime minister has expedited the parliamentary recess to September 8, seeking to address the assembly before a crucial vote on his general policy statement.

The upcoming session is anticipated to be charged with high drama and significance. Bayrou's address will mark a critical juncture in French politics, as the assembly members weigh the future of his government. The prime minister's decision to accelerate the parliamentary recess underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation. As the nation watches, the assembly will decide the fate of Bayrou's leadership, shaping the political landscape for the foreseeable future. 🇫🇷🏛️

Russians still moving to Finland despite border closure

Despite the closure of the eastern border, Russians continue to find ways to enter Finland for work and study. As of July, 355 Russians have been granted residence permits for study purposes, and an additional 300 for work, according to the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri). However, the number of applications has significantly decreased compared to 2019, with study-based applications halving and work-based applications falling by nearly the same margin.

The Finnish government began closing the eastern border in late 2023, ultimately shutting down all checkpoints by December. This decision was driven by suspicions that Russia was deliberately sending migrants to the border to exert pressure on Finnish authorities. Despite these measures, Russians are still managing to secure permits and enter the country. 🇷🇺🇫🇮🔒

Productivity and its link with the cost of living

The high cost of living in Greece is often attributed to low wages, which should ideally be tied to increased productivity. However, addressing the pricing of essential goods requires a structural rather than restrictive approach, involving a thorough examination of the entire supply chain. This includes scrutinizing purchases, sales, profit margins, and adherence to procedures to ensure fair competition and enforce the law where necessary.

Increasing productivity is crucial for boosting wages and overall economic growth. This requires dynamic policies to attract investments, particularly in new technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics, which can minimize production time and enhance yields. Digitalization, reskilling and upskilling of human resources, and process optimization are also vital for improving productivity. Additionally, fostering innovation through collaboration with research centers and universities, creating a positive work environment, and adopting export-promoting policies can drive economic growth and achieve economies of scale.

Greece currently faces significant productivity challenges, with a 12% decline despite increased working hours. This decline is attributed to chronic disinvestment, wage compression, and a lack of strategic direction in the economy's production model. The country's products often have low added value due to the use of unskilled labor. To address these issues, combined state interventions are essential, focusing on technology, innovation, and human productivity. These efforts can make investments more beneficial and efficient, contributing to increased productivity and facilitating discussions on wage increases. 📈💼

EU electric carmakers urge Brussels to uphold 2035 zero-emission goal

Over 150 executives from Europe's electric vehicle (EV) sector, including Volvo Cars and Polestar, have urged the European Union to maintain its 2035 zero-emission target for cars and vans. In a joint letter, they cautioned that any delay in implementing this goal would hinder Europe's EV market growth, give a competitive edge to foreign rivals, and diminish investor confidence. This call comes amid increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers and potential U.S. tariffs, which pose significant threats to the European automotive industry.

The executives emphasized that weakening the 2035 target would undermine Europe's climate commitments and its ability to compete globally. Michael Lohscheller, CEO of Polestar, highlighted that backing down now would send a negative signal to the world, while Michiel Langzaal, CEO of EU charging company Fastned, pointed out that substantial investments have already been made in charging infrastructure and software development, which rely on achieving the 2035 goal. Meanwhile, a report by transport research group T&E indicated that all European carmakers, except Mercedes-Benz, are on track to meet CO₂ regulations for the 2025-2027 period. Mercedes-Benz, however, may need to collaborate with Volvo Cars and Polestar to avoid fines for missing the targets. The future of Europe's automotive sector hangs in the balance as industry leaders and policymakers navigate these challenges. 🚗🔋🌍

Fresh research points to troubling levels of racism in schools

Racism is pervasive in Finnish lower secondary schools and is often not addressed systematically, according to a recent study by the University of Helsinki. The research, funded by the Academy of Finland, revealed that four out of five non-white students have encountered racism, and many felt they received inadequate emotional support afterward. Among teachers, two-thirds acknowledged the presence of structural racism in schools, and four in five reported witnessing direct racist incidents.

The study highlighted that responses to racism vary significantly between schools, with both students and teachers often left to handle racist behavior individually rather than through institutional support. Many teachers expressed a need for clear guidelines on addressing racist bullying and other forms of discrimination. The researchers emphasized the urgent need to study how students and teachers perceive and react to racism within the school context, as it reflects broader societal issues.

This research comes amid controversial public remarks by politicians about immigration. Notably, a Finns Party MP and deputy chair recently claimed that immigrants are transforming Finland into a "developing country, a pigsty, and a massacre." The study underscores the pressing need for comprehensive anti-racism policies and support systems in Finnish schools to foster inclusive and safe learning environments. 🏫🌍🤝

Cyprus must prove it wants the undersea cable, PM says

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece has emphasized the need for Cyprus to demonstrate its commitment to the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI), a planned subsea power cable designed to link Greece and Cyprus. Speaking at the 89th Thessaloniki International Fair, Mitsotakis underscored that while Greece is eager to advance the project, Cyprus must also show tangible support. He noted that Cyprus stands to gain significantly from the GSI, as it would alleviate the island’s energy isolation. However, Mitsotakis clarified that Greece has other interconnection priorities, such as the planned link with Egypt. He expressed confidence that Cyprus’s intentions regarding the GSI will soon become clear, highlighting the importance of mutual cooperation and commitment to move the project forward. 🇬🇷🇨🇾🔌