Newsflash

Romania scrambles jets, Poland closes airport over Russian drone alerts

On September 13, Romania and Poland swiftly responded to escalating threats from Russian drone activity near their borders with Ukraine, implementing urgent military measures to safeguard their airspace. These actions followed Poland's confirmation that it had shot down Russian drones within its territory during a large-scale aerial assault on Ukraine on September 10, marking the first instance of a NATO member engaging Russian military assets over its own soil since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. Russia denied targeting Polish territory.

Romania's Defense Ministry reported scrambling two F-16 fighter jets after detecting a drone breaching its airspace during a Russian attack on Ukrainian infrastructure near the border. The jets tracked the drone until it disappeared from radar, posing no immediate danger to the population. Romania, a NATO and EU member, has repeatedly reported Russian drone fragments landing on its territory since the start of the conflict. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks, stating that Russia deliberately expands the war through calculated steps.

Romanian Foreign Minister Toiu Oana strongly condemned Russia's actions, describing them as "unacceptable and reckless." She pledged to raise the issue at the United Nations General Assembly and urged strict compliance with international sanctions. Oana also called on the EU to swiftly adopt its 19th package of sanctions against Russia and to implement the full spectrum of measures under the NATO mission Eastern Sentry, launched in response to the violation of Polish airspace. Meanwhile, Polish and allied NATO aircraft were deployed to protect Polish airspace, temporarily closing Lublin Airport as a precaution.

Romania has enacted legislation allowing its military to shoot down unauthorized drones during peacetime, although enforcement rules are still pending. NATO has committed to strengthening defenses along its eastern flank in response to recent airspace violations and Russia's aggressive use of drones in the region. 🛩️🇷🇴🇵🇱

Poland Conducts Air Maneuver After Russian Airspace Violation

Polish authorities have announced a heightened threat of drone attacks in areas near the Ukrainian border, leading to the temporary closure of Lublin Airport in eastern Poland. This precautionary measure follows an incident on Wednesday night when Russian drones allegedly breached Polish airspace. In response, NATO has pledged to bolster its presence in Eastern Europe. Russia has denied any involvement in the airspace violation, but the incident has heightened tensions and raised concerns about potential escalations. 🇵🇱🛬️🚨

Russian drones over Poland: NATO response as it happened through the night

NATO was thrust into its highest state of alert last Tuesday evening after Russian drones infiltrated alliance airspace, marking one of the most severe security breaches in decades. The incident unfolded rapidly, with over two dozen drones penetrating 250 kilometers into NATO territory over Poland. Some of these drones were reportedly heading towards a crucial NATO logistics hub supporting Ukraine.

The alarm was first triggered at 8:17 p.m. at the NATO air surveillance station in Uedem, Germany, near the Dutch border. Soldiers detected a swarm of attack drones originating from Ukraine, setting off a chain of urgent responses across the alliance. The drones' trajectory and proximity to vital NATO infrastructure heightened tensions and underscored the escalating geopolitical risks in the region. 🛸🚨

Russia's Shahed-type attack drones are bigger than you think

Russia's Shahed-type attack drones, notably the Geran-2, represent a significant and growing threat, as evidenced by their recent incursion into Polish airspace. These drones, initially based on Iranian designs but now produced domestically, are far larger and more capable than typical quadcopters. The Geran-2, measuring 3.5 meters in length with a 2.5-meter wingspan, can carry a 90-kilogram warhead and has a range of up to 2,500 kilometers, putting nearly every NATO country in Europe within reach.

The drones are produced at the Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Tatarstan, with the facility reportedly capable of manufacturing over 5,000 drones per month. Russia's drone arsenal includes not only the Geran-2 but also decoy drones like the Gerbera, which, despite their smaller size and lower cost, pose a substantial threat due to their ability to overwhelm air defenses. The cost of these drones varies widely, with estimates for the Geran-2 ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 per unit, while the Gerbera costs just a few thousand dollars. However, the true measure of Russia's drone capability lies in its production capacity, which allows for rapid replacement of lost drones. The distinctive buzz of these drones, often compared to a moped or chainsaw, serves as a psychological weapon, filling the night air over Ukrainian cities during mass attacks. The range and capabilities of these drones underscore the need for heightened vigilance and defense preparedness across Europe. 🛸💥

Russian Drone Enters Romanian Airspace Amid Ukraine Conflict

Romania recently scrambled two F-16 fighter jets to monitor a Russian drone that briefly entered its airspace in the eastern Tulcea region. The defense department confirmed that the drone did not fly over populated areas and posed no immediate threat to civilians. The incident occurred just days after Russian drones violated Polish airspace, highlighting a pattern of Russian aerial incursions into NATO territory.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the event, stating that the drone was approximately 10 kilometers into Romanian territory and remained in NATO airspace for about 50 minutes. He characterized the incident as an "obvious expansion of the war by Russia." In response, Sweden's Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard expressed solidarity with Romania, reaffirming Sweden's commitment to NATO's deterrence and defense efforts.

Romania, a member of both the EU and NATO, shares a nearly 65-mile border with Ukraine, encompassing both land and water. This is not the first time Romanian airspace has been violated by Russian drones during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions and the need for vigilant defense measures within the NATO alliance. 🛩️🇷🇴🇷🇺

Ukraine hits one of Russia's largest oil refining complexes with explosive drone attack

Ukraine's military intelligence agency confirmed a successful drone strike on one of Russia's largest oil refineries, located approximately 1,400 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. The attack, conducted on a Saturday, resulted in minor damage to the refinery, according to Russian official Radiy Khabirov. The strike underscores Ukraine's ongoing efforts to disrupt Russian infrastructure and supply chains in response to the ongoing conflict. 💥🛢️

NATO bulks up defences on eastern flank after Russian drone incursion

NATO is fortifying its defenses along its eastern border with Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine in response to a recent incursion by Russian drones into Polish airspace. The alliance has launched a new operation, codenamed Eastern Sentry, to bolster its air and ground defenses. This initiative will integrate military equipment from France, Denmark, Germany, and the UK, enhancing NATO's capacity to deter potential Russian aggression. This move underscores the alliance's commitment to maintaining regional security and stability in the face of evolving threats. 🛡️🇷🇺🇵🇱

Russians break into Kupiansk via gas pipeline, watchdog says

Russian forces have infiltrated the town of Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast, employing an unconventional tactic of entering through a gas pipeline from the occupied village of Lyman Pershyi. This maneuver allowed them to bypass the Oskil River and reach the outskirts of Kupiansk, specifically the village of Radkivka, with minimal losses. The troops used specially designed equipment, including wheeled benches and electric scooters, to navigate the pipeline, with rest and supply stops set up along the route. As of the latest reports, Russian forces have established positions within Kupiansk, including setups for drone pilots.

Ukrainian authorities have responded swiftly, with the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces asserting that the situation in Kupiansk and its surroundings is under control. Ukrainian troops have taken control of the pipeline's exit and are conducting a counter-sabotage operation, both within and outside the town. This operation has reportedly resulted in the elimination of 395 Russian soldiers, with 288 confirmed dead. Despite ongoing Russian attacks, including guided bombs, artillery, and drone strikes, Ukrainian forces are actively working to secure the area. The town, which was previously occupied and later liberated, remains a strategic target due to its proximity to Kharkiv, the regional capital. 🏙️🛢️💥

Ukraine's drones strike Russian oil refinery deep behind lines, 1,500 km from border

Ukrainian military intelligence successfully executed a daring drone strike on a major oil refinery in Russia’s Republic of Bashkortostan, located approximately 1,500 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. The target was the Bashneft-Novoyl refinery in Ufa, a critical facility for Russia’s oil processing operations. The attack, carried out by kamikaze drones, resulted in powerful explosions and a significant fire, causing substantial damage to the refinery's infrastructure, including a vital vacuum column used for primary oil processing.

Local residents reported hearing explosions and seeing drones overhead before the fire broke out, prompting regional authorities to issue a drone threat alert. Ufa airport temporarily suspended operations, and mobile internet services were temporarily cut off across the city. This strike is part of a broader Ukrainian strategy to target Russia’s energy infrastructure, aiming to exert economic pressure and disrupt Moscow’s ability to sustain its military operations in Ukraine. Recent weeks have seen similar attacks on key Russian fuel infrastructure sites, including the Ilsky oil refinery in Krasnodar Krai and the "8-N" oil pipeline control station in Bryansk Oblast, both of which are crucial for supplying fuel to Russian troops. These strikes highlight Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to undermine Russia’s logistical capabilities and economic stability. 🇺🇦💥

EU to apply 'unique' approach to Ukraine's accession path as Hungary wields veto, official says

The European Union has devised a "unique" strategy to advance Ukraine and Moldova's accession processes despite Hungary's veto. Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka revealed that the EU will allow Kyiv to continue its preparations and set benchmarks for membership without waiting for Budapest's approval. This approach deviates from traditional EU policy, which typically halts progress until all member states agree. Hungary, known for its pro-Kremlin stance, has been blocking Ukraine's accession talks, citing concerns about Hungarian farmers and food security.

Under this new strategy, Ukraine and the EU will collaborate on determining benchmarks and preparing Ukraine's national program for EU law adaptation. Although a formal vote requires unanimous agreement, the EU is exploring ways to adopt certain decisions without Hungary's consent. Nearly all EU member states support opening accession talks with Ukraine, and the bloc has contingency plans if Hungary continues its obstruction. This innovative approach aims to keep Ukraine's accession process moving forward despite Hungary's opposition. 🇪🇺🇺🇦🇭🇺

Romania says a drone breached its airspace during Russian strikes on Ukraine

Romania scrambled two F-16 fighter jets after detecting a drone that breached its airspace during a Russian attack on neighboring Ukraine. The drone, which did not fly over populated areas, was tracked until it disappeared from radar near the village of Chilia Veche. The Romanian Defense Ministry assured that the drone posed no immediate threat to public safety. This incident follows Poland's recent denunciation of Russian drones entering its airspace, highlighting heightened tensions and increased military activity along NATO's eastern flank.

The drone intrusion occurred amidst intensified Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, with Romania experiencing several instances of drone fragments falling on its territory. In response to such incidents, Romania's parliament passed a law in February allowing the country to shoot down drones violating its airspace. This development comes as NATO announced plans to bolster defenses along Europe's eastern border, underscoring the alliance's heightened alertness and readiness to counter potential threats. 🛩️🇷🇴🇺🇦

Zelensky Urges Allies to Halt Excuses and Impose More Sanctions

In a bold statement on X, U.S. President Donald Trump urged all partners to cease finding excuses for not imposing sanctions on Russia. He emphasized that halting the import of Russian oil would significantly diminish Russia's combat capabilities. Trump's message underscores a firm stance against Russia, advocating for unified action to curb its military prowess by targeting its energy exports. This call to action highlights the strategic importance of economic sanctions in weakening Russia's ability to sustain its military operations. The president's words serve as a rallying cry for international cooperation in applying economic pressure on Russia, aiming to curtail its aggressive behavior. 🇷🇺🛢️

Arrivals surge on Crete

In a span of just 24 hours, over 220 migrants arrived on the Greek islands of Crete and Gavdos, originating from Libya. This influx is part of a significant 310% increase in migrant arrivals to Crete this year. Greek authorities intercepted four boats carrying migrants from Egypt and Sudan, with most being transferred to a temporary facility in Agia, Hania. The facility, which has housed 342 migrants since mid-August, is facing overcrowding and harsh conditions, leading to protests by detainees who refused meals.

The surge in arrivals comes as Greece tightens its migration policies. A new directive from Migration Minister Thanos Plevris introduces stricter measures, including the use of the term "illegal migration" in official documents, mandatory detention for rejected asylum seekers, and prison sentences for those staying illegally. The new laws also mandate that all new arrivals, including asylum applicants, be placed in closed facilities and barred from filing claims for a month. Greek officials emphasize voluntary return as the only way to avoid imprisonment. 🇬🇷🛳️

Up to 150,000 people attend massive anti-immigration march in London, police say

A massive anti-immigration rally, organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, drew between 110,000 and 150,000 protesters through central London. The event, marked by tensions and clashes with police, resulted in 25 arrests and injuries to 26 officers, four of whom were seriously hurt. Protesters, many waving British and English flags, chanted anti-immigration slogans and criticized Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The rally was met by a smaller counter-protest, "Stand Up to Racism," with around 5,000 participants.

Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, addressed the crowd, declaring the event a "spark of a cultural revolution." He was joined virtually by Elon Musk and other far-right figures from Europe and the U.S., who echoed anti-immigration sentiments and conspiracy theories. The protest comes amid heightened tensions over immigration in Britain, with record numbers of asylum seekers arriving via the Channel. The government has faced criticism for its handling of immigration and free speech issues, including the controversial proscription of Palestine Action as a terrorist group and the arrest of a comedian for alleged online insults. The event highlighted the growing polarization and nationalist sentiments in the UK. 🇬🇧🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Another Turkish opposition politician taken into custody

The mayor of Istanbul’s Bayrampaşa district, Hasan Mutlu, was arrested early Saturday on charges of bribery, embezzlement, and fraud. This move is part of a broader crackdown by Turkish authorities targeting the country’s opposition. The detention was ordered as part of a corruption investigation into the Bayrampaşa municipality, involving 48 individuals. Istanbul police conducted raids on 72 locations, detaining Mutlu and several of his deputies. The mayor, a member of the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), denied the allegations, describing them as "political operations and baseless slander." The ongoing crackdown underscores the intense political tensions in Turkey, where opposition figures face increasing scrutiny and legal pressures. 🏛️🔍

Opposition leader Androulakis promises wholesale reforms, if elected

Opposition leader Nikos Androulakis, head of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), has outlined a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at transforming Greece if elected. His vision, dubbed the "New European Convergence," focuses on five key priorities: stabilizing the population, boosting productivity, raising living standards, reducing inequalities, and ensuring decent work for all. Androulakis criticized the ruling conservative New Democracy party, accusing it of leading the country to "dead ends" marked by inequality, missed opportunities, and corruption.

To address Greece's demographic challenges, Androulakis proposed measures such as creating more full-day nurseries, establishing regional fertility centers, and implementing tax cuts for large families. He also vowed to tackle energy security issues, including the mismanagement of renewable energy sources and the neglect of the power grid. In the agricultural sector, he emphasized the need for an immigration policy that addresses the shortage of farm workers.

Androulakis criticized the government's economic policies, arguing that tax bracket changes are insufficient and that VAT cuts on basic goods are necessary. He proposed breaking up major oligopolies in banking, energy, food, and health sectors, and implementing legislative initiatives to protect consumers and workers. His plan also includes reinstating the "13th salary" for civil servants, a bonus eliminated during the 2010s financial crisis. Androulakis stressed that his program is not a collection of poll-driven measures but a society-driven plan with measurable goals to improve the quality of life for all Greeks. 🇬🇷🏛️

Lawyers slam Michaloliakos’ release

The release of Nikos Michaloliakos, the convicted leader of the neo-Nazi Golden Dawn party, has sparked outrage among legal representatives of victims impacted by the party's violent activities. Michaloliakos, sentenced for leading a criminal organization, was freed on health grounds and placed under house arrest by a Lamia judicial council. This decision was met with strong criticism from lawyers representing the family of Pavlos Fyssas, an anti-fascist rapper murdered by a Golden Dawn supporter in 2013, and Egyptian fishermen previously targeted by the party. They condemned the ruling as "scandalous" and indicative of leniency towards far-right crimes, expressing concern that it undermines the collective memory of a democratic society.

The lawyers argued that Michaloliakos has enjoyed privileged treatment, citing frequent hospital stays and time at a rehabilitation center, which they claim has effectively rendered him a free man for the past three years. They accused authorities of showing favoritism towards Michaloliakos compared to other inmates. The release comes ahead of an appeals court ruling in the Golden Dawn case and amid prosecutorial appeals seeking tougher sentences for party leaders. Michaloliakos has served approximately half of his 13-year sentence, but prosecutors' appeals could extend his imprisonment. The lawyers urged prosecutors to challenge the release and called for public participation in upcoming anti-fascist demonstrations to counter the ongoing threat posed by Golden Dawn and its successor groups. 🚨🏛️

Sudan Government Rejects Peace Plan Excluding Warring Parties

On Friday, the United States, alongside three other countries, called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, urging a resolution to the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The proposal also included a nine-month transition to civilian rule, aiming to stabilize the country and address the severe humanitarian crisis. Sudan's Foreign Ministry acknowledged the international efforts but criticized the proposed power transfer, asserting that it would not accept any form of interference that undermines the nation's sovereignty or its right to defend its people.

The conflict in Sudan has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, displaced millions of people, and created one of the world's most dire humanitarian crises, according to the United Nations. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt have aligned with the U.S. in supporting the ceasefire proposal, highlighting the international community's concerted effort to bring an end to the violence and facilitate a peaceful transition. The situation remains tense, with the Sudanese government insisting on its right to defend its territory and people amidst the proposed interventions. 🇸🇩💥

Israeli Military Storms Oscar Winner Basel Adra's Home in West Bank

Basel Adra, an acclaimed journalist and filmmaker, found himself in a harrowing situation after Israeli settlers attacked his village in the occupied West Bank, injuring two of his brothers and a cousin. Adra, who recently won an Oscar for his documentary "No Other Land," was in the hospital when he learned that Israeli soldiers had raided his home, detained his uncle, and searched his wife's phone. The military had also blocked all entrances to his village, leaving him fearful of returning home.

"No Other Land," co-directed by Adra and Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham, highlights the devastating impact of Israeli settlement policies on the West Bank. The documentary focuses on the Masafer Yatta area, depicting the destruction of a village and the enduring friendship between Adra and Abraham. Another co-director, Hamdan Ballal, also faced violence from Israeli settlers. The military justified their actions by citing reports of stone-throwing by "terrorists" against Israeli civilians, but the incident underscores the systemic oppression and fear experienced by Palestinians in the region. 🎬🏠🇮🇱🇵🇸

New highway code brings heavier fines, longer suspensions for repeat offenders

Greece has implemented a stricter highway code, effective immediately, which introduces harsher penalties for traffic violations and cumulative punishment for repeat offenders. Under the new law, each infraction is recorded, and penalties escalate with subsequent offenses, including hefty fines, extended license suspensions, and potential criminal prosecution. The code targets high-risk behaviors with severe consequences.

Using a mobile phone while driving now incurs a €350 fine and a 30-day license suspension, with fines escalating to €4,000 and suspensions up to eight years for repeat offenders. Running a stop sign resulting in an accident can lead to a €4,000 fine and an eight-year suspension. Drunk driving fines range from €350 to €1,200, with mandatory vehicle impoundment, license removal, and jail terms of up to five years for blood alcohol levels over 1.10 g/l. Speeding by 50 km/h results in a €700 fine and a two-month suspension, while street racing can lead to fines up to €8,000 and four-year suspensions.

The law also enhances penalties for blocking public transport lanes, parking in disabled spots, and driving without a license. Additionally, new speed limits based on road type and signage will take effect in January 2026. This comprehensive overhaul aims to improve road safety and deter dangerous driving behaviors. 🚘🚔