Newsflash

UN Security Council to Vote on Iran Nuclear Sanctions

Iran remains steadfast in its opposition to the measures demanded by France, the United Kingdom, and Germany to avert the re-imposition of UN sanctions related to its nuclear energy research. This stance was reiterated following a meeting between the foreign ministers of the three European countries and Iranian representatives. The UN Security Council has scheduled a formal vote on the matter for Friday, with French President Emmanuel Macron expressing his belief that sanctions will indeed be reinstated. Macron criticized Iran's recent messages as insincere, indicating a lack of serious intent in their negotiations.

The impending sanctions are a revival of the stringent measures that were in place before the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which collapsed when former U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from the agreement. The situation has been further complicated by Iran's actions following a twelve-day conflict with Israel in June, during which Iran severed ties with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Although Iran has since indicated a willingness to resume cooperation, the three European countries have deemed the offered guarantees insufficient. The international community watches closely as the diplomatic standoff unfolds, with potential repercussions for global security and nuclear non-proliferation efforts. 🇮🇷💣

Zelensky visits troops on frontline positions in eastern Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited frontline troops in the Donetsk region, where Ukrainian forces are actively resisting Russian offensives. During his visit, Zelensky announced that Ukrainian troops had successfully pushed back Russian advances, reclaiming areas near the coal mining town of Dobropillia. Since the start of their counteroffensive, Ukrainian forces have liberated approximately 160 square kilometers and seven settlements. Zelensky emphasized that the counteroffensive is ongoing and that Russia has sustained significant losses.

The conflict in eastern Ukraine, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, has seen intense fighting as Russian forces attempt to seize control of the Donetsk and Lugansk regions. Despite Russia's efforts, Ukraine and its Western allies report that Russian troops are experiencing substantial casualties for minimal territorial gains, often leaving destruction in their path. Earlier on the same day, a Russian air strike on the town of Kostiantynivka resulted in the deaths of five people, although Russia denies targeting civilians. The town, located about 8 kilometers from the front line, is surrounded by Russian troops on three sides, highlighting the ongoing intensity of the conflict. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

Kyiv Independent journalists moderate panels at Ukraine Freedom Summit

The Kyiv Independent team, including business editor Liliane Bivings, front-line reporter Francis Farrell, KI Insights director Jakub Parusinski, and research editor Alex Fynn, recently participated in the Ukraine Freedom Summit in London. Organized by the Borderlands Foundation, the summit convened political, financial, and defense leaders to address Ukraine's immediate wartime needs and long-term recovery strategies. The event emphasized the importance of strengthening connections between Europe and Ukraine, especially amidst the ongoing conflict and its broader impact on the continent.

Key figures such as Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster, former U.S. national security advisor, and Boris Johnson, former U.K. prime minister, were among the guests of honor. The summit featured discussions on joint defense production with Europe, battlefield innovations, and post-war recovery. The Kyiv Independent team moderated several panels, covering topics like accelerating defense industrial cooperation, financing Ukraine’s economic transformation, scaling defense production, and the integration of advanced technologies on the battlefield.

The team highlighted the significance of in-person events like the Ukraine Freedom Summit in reinforcing ties between Europe and Ukraine. They emphasized that Ukraine's defense and future are intrinsically linked to Europe's, and the connections forged at such events are vital for advancing this shared vision. The summit was made possible through the support of the Kyiv Independent's community of members, who enable the team to travel and share Ukraine's message directly with global audiences. 🇺🇦🤝🇪🇺

Ukraine liberates 160 square kilometers in 'counteroffensive operation' in Donetsk Oblast, Zelensky says

Ukrainian forces have made significant gains in their ongoing counteroffensive operation in eastern Donetsk Oblast, liberating approximately 160 square kilometers (60 square miles) of territory. This advancement comes after a month of pushing back Russian troops who had previously advanced 15-20 kilometers (6 miles) towards the strategic Dobropillia–Kramatorsk highway near the embattled city of Pokrovsk. Since late August, Ukrainian units have successfully retaken control of multiple villages in the area, including seven settlements in the Dobropillia and Pokrovsk sectors. Additionally, Ukrainian troops have captured nearly 100 Russian soldiers during these operations.

President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine is disrupting Russia’s plans to destroy the state, emphasizing the importance of continued military aid and tightened sanctions to pressure Russia into peace negotiations. The counteroffensive has resulted in substantial Russian losses, with over 2,500 casualties reported in the Pokrovsk direction alone, including more than 1,300 deaths. Despite these successes, Ukraine faces ongoing challenges, as Russian forces have intensified their offensive operations across the front line, occupying a significant amount of territory over the summer.

Zelensky also warned of potential major Russian offensive operations planned for the fall, though he noted that sustained losses in personnel and equipment may limit Moscow’s capabilities. The liberation of key villages, such as Zarichne, Novoekonomichne, and Udachne, underscores Ukraine’s strategic efforts to regain control of its territory and defend against Russian aggression. 🇺🇦💪

UN sanctions on Iran likely to be reimposed by month's end, Macron says

European powers are poised to reinstate United Nations sanctions on Iran by the end of the month, following what French President Emmanuel Macron described as "not serious" negotiations with Tehran. Macron's remarks, made during an interview with Israeli television, underscore the growing frustration with Iran's stance on its nuclear program and regional activities.

The decision to reimpose sanctions comes after Britain, France, and Germany—all signatories to the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran—activated a mechanism to "snapback" the UN sanctions. Macron emphasized France's consistent and demanding approach to the Iranian issue, highlighting concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile capabilities, and regional destabilization. The move reflects a united European position, with France, Germany, and Britain collaborating to address the perceived threats posed by Iran. The reinstatement of sanctions is expected to significantly impact Iran's struggling economy. 🇮🇷💥

Ukraine war latest: Ukraine liberates 160 square kilometers in 'counteroffensive operation' in Donetsk Oblast, Zelensky says

Ukrainian forces have made significant gains in their ongoing counteroffensive in eastern Donetsk Oblast, liberating 160 square kilometers of territory. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian troops have retaken seven settlements and captured nearly 100 Russian soldiers. The operation, which has been underway for several weeks, aims to disrupt Russian plans and defend strategic positions near the embattled city of Pokrovsk. Zelensky reported that Russian losses in the Pokrovsk direction exceed 2,500, with over 1,300 soldiers killed.

In response to a recent Russian aerial incursion, Poland and Ukraine have agreed to form a joint drone task force. This initiative, announced by Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal, will focus on developing joint initiatives and training programs to enhance the protection of critical infrastructure. The agreement comes after 21 Russian drones crossed into Polish airspace, marking the first time a NATO member downed Moscow's military assets over its territory.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones struck key Russian oil facilities in Bashkortostan and Volgograd Oblast. The attacks targeted the Gazprom Neftekhim Salavat petrochemical plant and an oil refinery, both crucial for supplying fuel to the Russian military. The strikes highlight Ukraine's ability to conduct long-range operations deep within Russian territory.

In the south, a sabotage attack reportedly killed 18 Russian officers in the occupied part of Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The attack involved setting fire to dry grass near a Russian command post, leading to a fatal incident due to heavy smoke and carbon monoxide. Ukrainian forces and partisan groups have repeatedly targeted Russian military infrastructure and personnel in occupied territories.

Additionally, Ukraine has repatriated 1,000 bodies from Russia, which Moscow claims are fallen Ukrainian soldiers. The repatriation is part of ongoing efforts to identify and return the remains of Ukrainian soldiers, following agreements made during peace talks in Istanbul. Ukraine has accused Russia of attempting to pass off the bodies of its own soldiers as Ukrainian to hide the scale of its losses. 🇺🇦💥

1st batch of military equipment under NATO’s PURL program arrives in Ukraine, media reports

The first shipment of military aid under NATO’s Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program has reached Ukraine. This delivery follows the July agreement between the U.S. and NATO, which facilitates the transfer of American weapons to Ukraine, funded by European nations. The PURL program has already secured funding for four aid packages, with additional shipments en route. Several European countries have pledged significant financial support, including Denmark ($90 million), Sweden ($275 million), Norway ($135 million), the Netherlands ($590 million), and Germany ($500 million). This coordinated effort underscores the international commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid ongoing conflicts. 🇺🇦💪

Moscow expands censorship as Ukrainian strikes reach deeper into Russia

Moscow has intensified its censorship efforts in response to deepening Ukrainian strikes within Russian territory. Recent Ukrainian attacks, such as the September 8 strike on factories-turned-command centers in Donetsk and Makiivka, have showcased advanced weaponry and strategic targets. However, Russian authorities are increasingly restricting the dissemination of footage from these attacks, aiming to prevent public panic and maintain the narrative of state omnipotence. Governors like Vyacheslav Gladkov of Belgorod Oblast have imposed strict bans on unofficial media, allowing only government-approved information to circulate. This censorship is part of a broader trend, with 33 Russian regions now prohibiting the sharing of drone strike footage. The move complicates the work of Ukrainian open-source intelligence (OSINT) analysts, who rely on social media for real-time data. Despite these restrictions, Ukrainian strikes on Russian infrastructure are reportedly increasing significantly, challenging Russia's control over the information landscape and potentially eroding public trust in the government's capabilities. 📵💥

Greece to buy fourth Belharra frigate from France

Greece is set to bolster its naval capabilities by acquiring a fourth Belharra frigate from France, a move approved by the country's security council, KYSEA. This decision comes amidst ongoing maritime disputes with Turkey, a NATO ally, and follows Ankara's announcement of planned scientific research activities in the Aegean Sea. The purchase is part of Greece's broader €25 billion, 10-year defense modernization plan, which includes acquiring advanced military assets such as F-35 fighter jets, submarines, drones, and an anti-aircraft system dubbed the "Achilles Shield."

The Belharra frigate, equipped with ballistic missiles, will replace aging vessels that have been in service for over three decades. Greece initially agreed to purchase three of these advanced frigates in 2021, with an option for an additional unit. The latest approval by KYSEA paves the way for the fourth frigate, with parliamentary committee approval expected in the coming days. This strategic investment underscores Greece's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities in response to regional security challenges. 🇬🇷🚢💥

Poland hits back at Zelensky’s claim it can’t protect its people from mass Russian drone attack

Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz strongly refuted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent comments suggesting that Poland would be unable to defend its population from a large-scale Russian drone attack. During an interview with Sky News, Zelenskyy had remarked that Poland, not being at war, might struggle to handle a massive drone assault, contrasting it with Ukraine's experience of shooting down over 700 out of 810 Russian drones during a recent attack. Kosiniak-Kamysz dismissed these statements as "unnecessary and untrue," asserting confidence in Poland's capabilities to protect its airspace.

The minister acknowledged that Poland is not in a state of war but emphasized that the country is prepared to use its weapons if necessary. Last week, Poland and its NATO allies responded to Russian drone incursions by scrambling aircraft and using missiles to shoot down some of the drones. However, it was later revealed that a house damaged in eastern Poland was hit by a Polish F-16 missile fired at a Russian drone, not by the drone itself. Despite this, Polish authorities maintain that Russia is responsible for the incident.

In response to the drone incursions, NATO launched the Eastern Sentry mission to strengthen air defenses in Poland. Allies such as France, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and the Czech Republic have committed additional equipment and personnel to support this effort. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy offered Ukraine's expertise in drone defense to help Poland and other allies improve their capabilities. Polish Defense Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz is in Kyiv for talks with his Ukrainian counterpart, Denys Shmyhal, where they will sign an agreement that includes acquiring skills in drone operations and developing joint industrial initiatives. 🇵🇱🛸🛸

Greece must revise farm subsidy plan or risk EU payment suspension

Greece faces a critical deadline to revise its agricultural subsidy plan or risk the suspension of EU payments. The European Commission has given Greece until October 2 to submit a revised proposal that addresses key deficiencies and complies with EU rules. Failure to meet this deadline could result in the suspension of monthly and interim payments, including crucial agricultural subsidies. The Commission's warning underscores the need for Greece to align its subsidy plan with EU regulations to ensure continued funding.

Greek Agriculture Minister Kostas Tsiaras has reassured farmers that the deadline pertains to submitting a new plan, which will be integrated into the existing Action Plan. He emphasized that there is no immediate risk of losing European funds. The minister highlighted ongoing reforms at the payments agency OPEKEPE, which is being integrated into Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). This integration aims to enhance the verification of property records and cross-checks before payments, moving away from reliance on sample checks. Tsiaras assured farmers that those awaiting subsidies will receive their payments.

Additionally, Tsiaras addressed concerns about livestock diseases, noting that no EU-approved vaccine exists for certain animal illnesses. He cautioned that vaccination could pose export problems for Greek dairy products, particularly feta, due to incomplete immunity and verification challenges. The minister's statements reflect Greece's commitment to addressing regulatory issues and ensuring the smooth administration of agricultural subsidies.

EU vows to deliver delayed 2035 climate target before COP30

European Union leaders are set to attend a crucial global climate summit next week with a non-specific commitment to soon unveil a new emissions reduction target. The United Nations has urged world leaders to present their climate plans for 2035 at the upcoming meeting in New York, as mandated by the 2015 Paris Agreement. However, EU member states have faced challenges in reaching a consensus on their collective plan, known as a Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). After acknowledging they would miss the end-of-September deadline for submitting new targets, EU governments brokered a compromise to save face. This agreement allows them to attend the summit with a pledge to deliver a more ambitious climate plan in the near future, despite the ongoing internal disagreements. The EU's delay in finalizing its NDC raises concerns about its commitment to global climate action and its ability to meet the urgent demands of the Paris Agreement. 🌍🔥

Further cooperation with China

Greece and China are exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation, as evidenced by a recent meeting between Greek Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis and Chinese official Li Xi, a member of the Communist Party of China's Politburo Standing Committee. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties in several key areas. Both nations aim to boost Greek exports to the Chinese market, increase tourist exchanges by leveraging a new direct flight route between Athens and Chengdu, and foster cultural exchanges, including the establishment of a Chinese School of Classical Studies in Athens.

In addition to economic and cultural initiatives, Hatzidakis expressed gratitude for China's steadfast support on critical issues such as the Cyprus problem and Greece's efforts to repatriate the Parthenon Sculptures. This meeting underscores the mutual interest in deepening diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. 🇬🇷🇨🇳

Italian MEP fears Hungarian ‘revenge’ ahead of immunity vote

Italian Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Ilaria Salis, who spent over a year in detention in Hungary, is facing a critical vote that could strip her of political immunity and reopen a criminal case against her. The Parliament’s Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI) will decide on this matter, with Salis expressing concerns that Budapest may seek "political revenge." Salis, elected to the European Parliament despite her detention, maintains that the vote is about defending fundamental rights, not just her personal situation.

Salis, 40, was arrested in February 2023 during a far-right rally in Budapest. She was charged with attempted assault on a far-right activist and accused of being part of an extreme left-wing organization. Additionally, she was accused of brandishing a hammer during the alleged attack, a claim she has consistently denied. The outcome of the upcoming vote will determine whether Salis can continue her work in the European Parliament or face renewed legal proceedings in Hungary. 🇮🇹🇭🇺🏛️

Israel Labels Thunberg's Gaza Flotilla a Jihad Initiative

A fleet of ships, known as the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF), is en route to Gaza with the declared mission of breaking Israel's blockade and establishing a humanitarian corridor to the war-torn and famine-stricken region. Notable participants include climate activist Greta Thunberg, Swedish MP Lorena Delgado Varas, and French-Palestinian EU parliamentarian Rima Hassan. However, the initiative has drawn controversy, with Israel accusing the flotilla of being linked to terrorism. The Israeli Foreign Ministry alleges that the GSF serves the agenda of Hamas, citing photographs of GSF representatives with members of Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP). These groups are designated as terrorist organizations by the U.S. and EU.

Political scientist Anders Persson notes that such images fuel Israel's allegations, although the meetings occurred in countries where these groups are seen as legitimate actors. The GSF has previously faced incidents, including suspected drone attacks and Israeli naval interventions. In past attempts, Israeli forces have boarded and seized ships, often in international waters, leading to arrests and deportations. The most recent attempt in June 2025 saw the ship Madleen, carrying Greta Thunberg among others, boarded and its crew deported. The flotilla's actions and Israel's responses highlight the ongoing tensions and legal disputes surrounding humanitarian aid efforts to Gaza. 🚢💥

Minister: No reason for full closure of Estonia-Russia border at present

Estonia's Minister of the Interior, Igor Taro, has asserted that there is currently no security-related justification for closing the country's eastern border with Russia. This statement comes in response to a bill proposed by the opposition party Isamaa, which aims to fully close the border due to ongoing security concerns and Russian provocations. Isamaa's chair, Urmas Reinsalu, cited Finland's complete closure of its border with Russia and similar discussions in Latvia and Lithuania as examples.

However, Taro argued that such a measure is unnecessary for Estonia. He explained that border checkpoints are operating normally, and Estonia has already implemented significant restrictions on migration and trade with Russia, including full customs control. According to Taro, closing the border would be an extreme response to specific activities and is not warranted under current circumstances. The debate highlights the differing views within Estonia on how to manage its relationship with Russia amidst regional security concerns. 🇪🇪🛂

Ukraine and Poland sign agreement to cooperate on drone warfare

Ukraine and Poland have formalized a strategic partnership in drone warfare, signing an agreement to establish a joint working group. This collaboration comes in response to recent Russian drone incursions into Polish airspace, highlighting the shared security concerns between the two nations. The working group aims to exchange operational expertise, develop and test unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS measures, and strengthen interoperability between the Polish and Ukrainian armed forces, ensuring compatibility with NATO standards.

During a visit to Kyiv, Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz praised Ukraine's advancements in drone and anti-drone capabilities, stating that Poland seeks to learn from Ukraine's experiences. The memorandum of understanding was signed by Kosiniak-Kamysz and his Ukrainian counterpart, Denys Shmyhal, who emphasized the importance of joint training programs in reinforcing regional security. The agreement also includes plans to enhance bilateral military cooperation and further develop the NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis Training and Education Centre (JATEC) established in Poland. Despite some political shifts in Poland, the country remains committed to supporting Ukraine's path towards European Union and NATO integration. 🇵🇱🇺🇦🛸

Parties concentrating on nationwide issues these local elections

The first "Valimisstuudio" local elections debate, broadcasted on ETV, highlighted widespread discontent with government decisions, setting the tone for this year's elections. Representatives from all major parties, including Signe Riisalo (Reform Party), Lauri Laats (Center Party), Siim Pohlak (EKRE), Lauri Läänemets (Social Democrats), Helir-Valdor Seeder (Isamaa), Andres Kaarmann (Parempoolsed), Irja Lutsar (Eesti 200), and Evelyn Sepp (Greens), participated in the discussion. The debate was marked by criticism of the government's choices, with a focus on local issues and the limitations of municipal power.

Reform Party's Signe Riisalo emphasized the need to prioritize local concerns and avoid discussing matters beyond municipalities' control. She dismissed the notion that the elections would be driven by a desire for revenge against her party, asserting that all parties would enter the competition with their best ideas and candidates. The debate underscored the importance of addressing local issues and the need for parties to present practical solutions tailored to their communities. The upcoming elections are expected to be shaped by voters' dissatisfaction with national policies and a strong focus on local governance.

Anti-austerity strikes and protests rock France, pressure Macron

Massive anti-austerity protests and labor strikes swept across France, with organizers reporting one million participants and authorities estimating around 500,000. The demonstrations targeted President Emmanuel Macron's austerity policies, with teachers, train drivers, pharmacists, and hospital staff among those striking. Protesters demanded the scrapping of budget cuts, increased public spending, higher taxes on the wealthy, and the reversal of pension reforms that extend the working age. The CGT union, led by Sophie Binet, emphasized the immense anger and determination of the protesters, calling for the streets to decide the budget. Despite some clashes, the overall level of violence was lower than anticipated, with Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau noting that most marches occurred peacefully.

The protests put significant pressure on Macron and his new Prime Minister, Sebastien Lecornu, who is tasked with assembling a new budget and government. Lecornu acknowledged the union demands and promised further consultations. The government faces a delicate balancing act, with protesters and left-wing parties opposing budget cuts and investors concerned about the deficit. The protests disrupted schools, trains, and highways, with police intervening in some instances to maintain order. Over 180 arrests were made, and 80,000 police and gendarmes were deployed nationwide. The budget deficit, nearly double the EU's 3% ceiling, adds to the political and economic challenges facing the government. 🇫🇷💥

US Vetoes UN Resolution on Gaza Ceasefire

The United States has once again vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The resolution, supported by the other 14 council members, described the situation in Gaza as "catastrophic" and demanded that Israel immediately facilitate aid deliveries to the 2.1 million Palestinians in the region. The draft resolution, proposed by the council's elected members, emphasized the worsening suffering of civilians and called for urgent humanitarian action.

The U.S. veto was justified by Morgan Ortagus, U.S. UN ambassador and deputy ambassador to the Middle East, who argued that Hamas should have released all hostages long ago and should immediately surrender. This stance aligns with previous U.S. positions, which have often linked ceasefire efforts to the release of hostages held by Hamas, a group the U.S. designates as a terrorist organization. The U.S. veto underscores its continued support for Israel and its approach to the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with civilians bearing the brunt of the ongoing strife. 🇺🇸🇮🇱🇵🇸⚠️