Newsflash

Israeli Airstrike in Doha Targets Hamas Leadership; Conflicting Reports on Casualties

An air strike on a Hamas delegation in Qatar's capital, Doha, resulted in heavy smoke and significant casualties. The Israeli military claimed responsibility, stating that the attack targeted Hamas leaders responsible for the October 7 massacre and ongoing hostilities against Israel. Hamas confirmed that five lower-ranking members, including the son of chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, were killed, but the negotiating delegation survived.

The strike occurred during discussions about a potential ceasefire in Gaza, proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office asserted that the operation was solely Israeli, while Trump acknowledged it as Netanyahu's decision. Trump emphasized that Qatar, a U.S. ally, was informed about the attack, although Qatar claimed they were notified only after the strike began. The attack was reportedly a response to a bus bombing in Jerusalem the previous day, which Hamas initially praised before taking responsibility.

Qatar condemned the attack as a "cowardly" and illegal violation of its sovereignty, with its Prime Minister vowing to continue mediation efforts. The United Nations Secretary-General also criticized the strike, highlighting Qatar's role in ceasefire negotiations and hostage releases. The incident has escalated tensions and raised concerns about the future of peace talks in the region. 🇮🇱🇶💥

Poland arrests Belarusian spy, will expel diplomat, Tusk says

Poland has arrested a Belarusian spy and will expel a diplomat accused of aiding Minsk's hostile activities, as announced by Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This action comes amid heightened espionage efforts by Russia and Belarus across Europe, targeting Ukraine's allies in the EU and NATO. The arrested spy was involved in intelligence activities in both Poland and Hungary, and the diplomat's expulsion underscores Poland's strained relations with Belarus due to its alignment with Russia and support for Moscow's war in Ukraine.

The arrest was a result of collaborative efforts between Poland's Internal Security Agency (ABW) and intelligence services from the Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, and Moldova. This international cooperation highlights the growing threat posed by Belarusian intelligence services and the need for unified action among European nations.

In a parallel operation, Romania, Czechia, and Hungary dismantled a Belarusian espionage network operating across Europe. Organized by Belarus's KGB, the network aimed to recruit agents and gather sensitive intelligence. Among those exposed was a former deputy of Moldova's intelligence service, who allegedly shared secret information with Minsk. The network's activities were facilitated by the ease of movement across Europe, and Czech officials expelled a Belarusian embassy employee in response.

Belarus's role as Russia's ally in the Ukraine invasion has strengthened security ties between Moscow and Minsk, leading to increased isolation from the West. This latest wave of espionage activities underscores the ongoing efforts by Russia and Belarus to destabilize Ukraine's supporters and highlights the importance of international cooperation in countering these threats. 🇵🇱🇧🇾🕵️‍♂️

'Huge shift in awareness' in Europe about Ukraine's need for weapons, MP says

A recent Russian strike in eastern Ukraine resulted in the tragic deaths of 24 individuals who were waiting for pension payments in a front-line town. This attack comes as Russian forces are reportedly amassing for a significant offensive in the region. Ukrainian MP Lisa Yasko, speaking on FRANCE 24, highlighted a notable shift in European awareness regarding Ukraine's urgent need for military aid and weapons production. This growing recognition underscores the escalating tensions and the critical importance of international support for Ukraine's defense. The situation on the ground remains volatile, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict. 🇺🇦💥

Estonia summons Russian chargé d’affaires over airspace violation

The Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Russian Embassy’s chargé d’affaires to express strong disapproval and deliver an official protest note following a serious violation of Estonian airspace. On September 7, a Russian MI-8 helicopter entered Estonian airspace near Vaindloo Island, off the northern coast, without authorization and remained there for about four minutes. The aircraft operated without a flight plan, had its transponder turned off, and maintained no radio contact with Estonian air traffic control. This incident marks the third such violation this year, prompting Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna to label it as a grave and regrettable event. The Estonian government is taking this breach of sovereignty seriously, underscoring the need for respect of international airspace regulations. 🛩️🇪🇪🚨

Russian military losses near 300,000 in 2025, Syrskyi says

In a stark revelation, Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that Russia has suffered nearly 300,000 troop losses in 2025 alone, bringing the total casualties since the start of the full-scale invasion to over one million. Ukrainian officials estimate that Russian losses are approximately three times higher than their own, a figure largely supported by Western intelligence agencies. Despite these heavy losses and minimal territorial gains, Russia remains steadfast in its maximalist demands, seeking full control of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts. President Vladimir Putin has reportedly communicated his intention to occupy Ukraine's eastern Donbas region by the end of the year, even though Russian forces have secured less than 1% of Ukraine's territory since November 2022. The ongoing conflict underscores the significant human cost and the entrenched positions of both sides. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Poland Deploys Fighter Jets After Reports of Russian Drones

Poland has activated its air force to monitor its airspace following reports from Ukraine of Russian drones in the region. While Ukraine's air force initially claimed that Russian drones had violated Polish airspace, that post was later removed. The Polish defense ministry confirmed that Polish and allied aircraft are currently patrolling the country's airspace, with air defenses on high alert. Although Poland has not officially confirmed any breach of its airspace, Chopin Airport in Warsaw has been temporarily closed due to "unplanned military activity." 🛬️🛬️🇵🇱✈️

'Pure terrorism' — At least 24 killed in Russian air strike on Ukrainian village during pension payouts

On September 9, a Russian air strike on the Ukrainian village of Yarova in Donetsk Oblast resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people and injured 19 others. The attack occurred around 11 a.m. while local residents were lining up to receive their pensions, with casualties including elderly pensioners and employees of Ukraine's national post service, Ukrposhta. Governor Vadym Filashkin condemned the strike as "pure terrorism," emphasizing the deliberate targeting of civilians. The village, located near the front line and just 9 kilometers from Russian-held areas, has been a frequent target of Russian forces.

President Volodymyr Zelensky called for a strong international response, stating that such attacks must not go unanswered. He highlighted the deliberate nature of the strike, asserting that Russian forces knew they were targeting civilians. The attack is part of a broader pattern of Russian strikes on civilian areas, including major cities and front-line communities, resulting in thousands of civilian casualties since the start of the full-scale war.

European officials have strongly condemned the attack, with Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna labeling it a "shocking display of inhumanity." European Council President Antonio Costa questioned Russia's commitment to peace, asking when Russia would stop killing civilians and engage in meaningful peace talks. The international community is urged to respond decisively to such acts of aggression. 💥🇺🇦

Ukraine war latest: 'Pure terrorism' — Russian air strike kills 24 pensioners, postal service employees

In a recent escalation of the Ukraine war, a Russian air strike on the village of Yarova in Donetsk Oblast resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people and injured 19 others. The attack occurred around 11 a.m. while residents were lining up to receive pensions, with casualties including local pensioners and postal service employees. Governor Vadym Filashkin condemned the strike as "pure terrorism." The village, located near the front line, has been a frequent target due to its proximity to Russian-held areas.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian military intelligence reported that explosions had disrupted three Russian oil and gas pipelines, including a major oil pipeline in Penza. These incidents are part of an ongoing Ukrainian campaign targeting Russian energy infrastructure, which has led to fuel shortages in Russia. The explosions occurred amid planned exercises by Russia's state-owned pipeline operator, which authorities used to downplay the events.

Ukraine's military intelligence also claimed responsibility for striking two Russian radar stations in occupied Crimea, disabling key components of Russia's air defense system. The strikes targeted a low-altitude radar and a module from the Nebo-M air defense complex, significantly impairing Russia's ability to track incoming threats.

Internationally, the United Kingdom announced plans to fund thousands of long-range, one-way attack drones for Ukraine, with delivery expected within the next 12 months. The UK's Defense Minister, John Healey, emphasized the importance of continued support for Ukraine's defense efforts. Additionally, Germany delivered the first launch vehicles for two Patriot air defense systems pledged to Ukraine and initiated a new "deep strike" initiative to bolster Ukraine's drone production capabilities.

The European Union reported that it has delivered 80% of the promised 2 million artillery shells to Ukraine, with a goal of reaching 100% by October. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas highlighted the importance of sustaining Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression, noting that EU members have provided nearly €169 billion in overall aid since February 2022. The EU's continued support is crucial for Ukraine's efforts to defend its territory and push back against Russian advances.

UK to fund 'thousands' of long-range attack drones for Ukraine, defense minister says

The United Kingdom has committed to funding the production of thousands of long-range, one-way attack drones for Ukraine, as announced by UK Defense Minister John Healey at the 30th meeting of the Ramstein Ukraine Defense Contact Group in London. These drones, to be manufactured in the UK, will be delivered to Ukraine within the next year, reinforcing the UK's ongoing support for Ukraine's defense efforts. Healey emphasized that achieving peace requires strength, echoing sentiments shared by other allies.

Germany also made significant announcements at the meeting. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius revealed that the first launch vehicles of two promised Patriot air defense systems had been delivered to Ukraine. Additionally, Germany will initiate a "deep strike" program and bolster support for Ukraine's drone production, with contracts worth €300 million ($351.6 million) signed for the supply of several thousand long-range drones.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal attended the meeting, stressing the need for uninterrupted military and financial support, enhanced air defense, and joint defense production with partners. He highlighted the urgency of securing additional Patriot systems and various missiles to counter expected Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy and infrastructure. Shmyhal called for a clear financing schedule, regular arms deliveries, and a significant allocation of $60 billion in allied defense budgets for 2026 to safeguard Europe and Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of collective effort in ensuring peace and victory for Ukraine. 🇬🇧🇩🇪🇺🇦

SAFE loans taken by 19 countries says European Commission

The European Union’s €150 billion Security Action For Europe (SAFE) loan scheme, designed to bolster defense capabilities and address critical security gaps, has been fully subscribed by 19 member states. This joint borrowing initiative, backed by the EU budget, aims to enhance the bloc’s preparedness against potential military threats from Russia or Belarus. Among the participating countries, Poland has secured the largest share of the loans. Other nations taking part include Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Slovakia, and Spain. The scheme underscores the EU’s commitment to strengthening its collective defense in response to evolving geopolitical challenges. 🇪🇺🛡️

France, Spain, UK condemn Israel’s attack in Qatar

Israel's airstrikes on Hamas officials in Doha, Qatar, have sparked international condemnation and raised tensions in the Middle East. This unprecedented attack, targeting figures involved in ceasefire negotiations, has been met with strong disapproval from France, Spain, and the United Kingdom. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have both expressed concern, warning of potential further escalation in the region. Qatar, which has been mediating the indirect talks between Israel and Hamas, now finds itself at the center of this heightened unrest. The strike marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, with global implications for peace and stability in the Middle East. 🇮🇱🇶💥

Poland allocated largest share of new EU defence programme, with €44bn in loans

The European Commission has allocated Poland €43.7 billion under the EU’s new Security Action for Europe (SAFE) programme, making it the largest beneficiary of the €150 billion fund aimed at bolstering defence spending across the continent. The SAFE programme, approved by EU member states in May, offers competitively priced, long-duration loans to support defence investments, with repayments stretching until 2070. Nineteen EU countries have subscribed to the programme, with Poland, Romania, France, and Hungary receiving the largest allocations. Poland’s defence minister, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, hailed the allocation as a significant success, emphasizing its role in strengthening Poland’s defence capabilities and industry.

Poland plans to prioritize investments in air and missile defence, artillery systems, ammunition, drones, and anti-drone systems, as well as critical infrastructure and military mobility. The loans will also support projects like the East Shield programme, aimed at fortifying Poland’s borders with Russia and Belarus. Poland’s defence spending has surged in recent years, reaching 4.5% of GDP this year and set to increase to 4.8% in 2026, the highest in NATO. The EU’s budget commissioner, Piotr Serafin, highlighted Poland’s crucial role in protecting the EU and NATO’s eastern flank from threats, particularly from Russia. The SAFE programme underscores Europe’s commitment to enhancing its security and defence capabilities in response to evolving geopolitical challenges. 🇪🇺🛡️

Russian strikes kill at least 20 people in eastern Ukraine, says Zelensky

A Russian airstrike on the village of Yarova in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region resulted in the deaths of at least 20 people, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The attack occurred as civilians were receiving pension payments, with amateur footage showing the grim aftermath, including corpses and a destroyed minivan near a playground. The governor of Donetsk reported that 21 people were killed and an equal number were injured. Zelensky condemned the strike as "brutally savage" and urged international allies, including the United States, Europe, and the G20, to respond decisively. The attack occurred amidst ongoing Russian advances in the region, with Moscow claiming the territory despite not having full control. Ukrainian authorities have been urging civilians to evacuate the area due to the intense fighting and significant Russian troop presence. The strike follows a recent missile attack on the Ukrainian government headquarters in Kyiv, highlighting the escalating violence in Europe's deadliest conflict since World War II. 💥🇺🇦

Poland to close Belarus border amid Russian Zapad military exercises

Poland has announced the closure of its border crossings with Belarus starting midnight on Thursday, citing national security concerns amid upcoming joint Russian-Belarusian military exercises. Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted the aggressive nature of these exercises, which will take place near the Polish border. He also noted a rising number of provocations from Moscow and Minsk, including arson, propaganda, espionage, and a recent incident where a Polish monk was arrested in Belarus on spurious charges.

In response to these tensions, Poland has taken several measures to bolster its security. The Internal Security Agency (ABW) detained a Belarusian agent, and a Belarusian diplomat supporting aggressive actions against Poland will be expelled. The Zapad 2025 exercises, scheduled from September 12 to 16, are expected to involve significantly more troops than officially stated, with a focus on the strategically vital Suwałki Gap. Poland and its NATO allies, including the US and Portugal, are conducting military exercises to defend this region, demonstrating a united front against potential threats. 🇵🇱🇷🇺🇸🇧🇾

Russia struck Kyiv govt building with Iskander ballistic missile, Ukraine says

On Sunday, Russia launched a significant attack on a Ukrainian government building in Kyiv using an Iskander ballistic missile, marking the first such strike on a government facility since the war began in February 2022. The missile, which did not fully detonate, left a substantial "gaping hole" in the building and resulted in several fatalities. The attack was part of Russia's largest wave of drones and missiles since the conflict started, causing extensive damage and a rapidly spreading fire.

Ukrainian officials, including the head of the presidential administration, Andriy Yermak, and the head of the State Emergency Service, Andriy Danyk, reported the severity of the damage, which affected an area of 800 to 900 square meters. The European Union’s ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Mathernova, also visited the site, noting the significant impact and the potential for even greater destruction if the missile had fully detonated. In response to the attack, Kyiv urged its allies to impose new economic sanctions on Moscow and discussed strengthening sanctions and security guarantees with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The strike underscores the escalating intensity of the conflict and the urgent need for international intervention. 🇺🇦💥

Is the EU a strategic powerhouse or an ineffectual player?

European political leaders face a challenging landscape as they seek to assert the EU's strategic influence on the global stage. Recent developments, including Russian military advances in eastern Ukraine and a contentious summit between Russian and American presidents, have heightened tensions and raised concerns in Kyiv and across the EU. Additionally, a trade deal with the U.S. has left European governments grappling with a 15% tariff ceiling on most EU products entering the U.S., further complicating the EU's efforts to enhance its competitiveness and strategic weight.

The EU's ability to navigate these challenges is under scrutiny, as leaders strive to balance internal cohesion with external pressures. The bloc's response to geopolitical shifts and trade disputes will be crucial in determining whether it emerges as a strategic powerhouse or remains an ineffectual player on the world stage. As European leaders contemplate these issues, the need for a unified and assertive approach to foreign policy and economic strategy becomes increasingly apparent. The EU's future role in global affairs hangs in the balance, shaped by its ability to adapt and respond to the complex dynamics of the international arena. 🌍🏛️

Greta Thunberg's Convoy Attacked by Suspected Drone for Second Night

A convoy organized by the Global Solidarity Forum (GSF) faced a dramatic incident in Tunisian waters, with reports of a drone attack. The organization confirmed that an object, suspected to be a drone, struck one of the boats, causing a fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the convoy remains in Tunisian waters. Passengers, including Leila Hegazy, described the harrowing experience, with some shouting "drone!" and quickly donning life jackets.

Despite the incident, GSF plans to continue its journey as scheduled, weather permitting. Saif Abukeshek, a board member, emphasized that the participants are civilians and not trained for such situations, but they have expressed a strong desire to proceed. The organization released a video documenting the event, showing a bright light striking the deck and igniting a fire. The Tunisian National Guard dismissed the claims of a drone attack as "completely unfounded." GSF's mission is to establish a humanitarian corridor to the Gaza Strip, aiming to challenge the ongoing blockade. 🛳️🚨

Corruption concerns drive urban planning overhaul

In a significant move to combat corruption, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has announced plans to transfer urban planning departments from local municipalities to the state-controlled Hellenic Cadastre. This overhaul aims to streamline planning processes and eliminate favoritism and corruption that have plagued municipal planning departments. The Technical Chamber of Greece has expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the cadastre's nationwide structure as a key advantage.

However, the proposal has faced strong opposition from the Central Union of Greek Municipalities, which views it as retaliatory and driven by municipalities' resistance to new building code incentives. Municipal officials have raised legal concerns, arguing that the transfer lacks a solid legal foundation and could face significant challenges. They also estimate that implementation would take 1-2 years, pending the completion of cadastre digitization. The debate underscores the tension between national efforts to curb corruption and local autonomy in urban planning. 🏙️📜

Worrying spreads in salaries

In Greece, significant disparities in wages persist, posing challenges to addressing the economic struggles of households, including inflation and housing costs. Official data reveals that a majority (62%) of private-sector employees earn less than €1,000 net per month, with over 500,000 citizens employed part-time. The wage gap between large and small businesses exceeds 30%, and there are notable regional and gender inequalities.

The average full-time salary in Greece was €1,385 in December 2024, but this figure drops to €1,188 when part-time employment is included, resulting in a net income of approximately €948 after taxes and social security contributions. Large companies with more than 10 employees offer an average full-time salary of €1,477, while small family businesses with fewer than 10 employees pay around €1,038. Geographically, Attica leads with an average salary of €1,319.8, while regions like Epirus, Thessaly, and the North Aegean lag significantly, with averages below €1,000. Moreover, the gender pay gap remains substantial, with men earning an average of €1,289 compared to women's €1,078, highlighting a 20% disparity. These wage inequalities underscore the need for targeted policies to address regional, gender, and business-size disparities in the Greek labor market. 💸📉

Ethiopia's New Dam Powers Electric Car Transition

Ethiopia celebrated the grand opening of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a massive hydroelectric project on the Blue Nile tributary, with an estimated capacity of 5 gigawatts, equivalent to five nuclear reactors. The event drew regional leaders and the African Union chair, highlighting the dam's potential to revolutionize Ethiopia's electricity supply. Despite the dam's promise, it has sparked controversy, particularly with Egypt, which fears the dam will alter the region's water dynamics. Egyptian President Abd al-Fattah al-Sisi has asserted that Egypt will not ignore its water rights.

Ethiopia, home to 130 million people, aims to address its significant electricity shortages with the GERD. Nearly half of the population lacks access to the power grid, and frequent outages plague even the capital, Addis Ababa. In a parallel effort to secure energy independence, Ethiopia became the first country to ban new petrol and diesel cars, promoting electric vehicles instead. This shift is driven by environmental concerns and strategic security, as Ethiopia relies on imports through the volatile Djibouti corridor.

The transition to electric vehicles is already underway, with bus traffic in Addis Ababa already electrified and Chinese manufacturers investing in the passenger car market. While the ban on new petrol and diesel cars is in effect, the transition is gradual, with electric vehicles currently making up only 7% of the fleet. The goal is to increase this figure to at least 30% within a decade, as outlined by Bareo Hassen Bareo of Ethiopia's transport department. The shift to electric vehicles is not just about environmental sustainability but also about economic savings and time efficiency for consumers like Kemeriya Mehammed Abduraheman, who has already made the switch to an electric car. 🚗💨