Newsflash

Russia launches another massive attack on Ukraine

Russia launched a massive overnight assault on Ukraine, deploying 619 drones and missiles across the country. The attack, which targeted infrastructure, residential areas, and civilian enterprises, was described by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a "massive attack" aimed at causing widespread destruction and civilian casualties. The Ukrainian air force reported that the onslaught included 579 strike drones, eight ballistic missiles, and 32 cruise missiles. Despite the scale of the assault, Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 583 aerial targets, mitigating some of the potential damage. The attack underscores the ongoing intensity of the conflict and the persistent threat posed by Russian forces to Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. 💥🏙️

Dutch anti-immigration protest turns violent

A large anti-immigration protest in The Hague turned chaotic on Saturday, as thousands of demonstrators gathered in the Malieveld district to demand stricter immigration policies. The situation rapidly deteriorated when protesters began throwing bottles and stones, setting fire to police vehicles, and engaging in violent confrontations with law enforcement officers. The unrest spread to the city center, where protesters vandalized the offices of the liberal D66 party, smashing windows and causing significant damage.

In response to the escalating violence, police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse the rioters and restore order. The clashes highlight the growing tensions surrounding immigration policies in the Netherlands and the potential for public demonstrations to turn destructive. 🇳🇱💥

Oil pumping stations in Volgograd and Samara stop work after Ukrainian drone attack, SBU source says

Ukrainian forces conducted a strategic drone attack on Russian oil infrastructure overnight, targeting key pumping stations in Volgograd and Samara oblasts. The operation, a joint effort by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and Ukraine's Special Operations Forces (SSO), successfully struck stations along the Kuibyshev-Tikhoretsk oil pipeline, which facilitates oil exports through the port of Novorossiysk. The attack resulted in the shutdown of oil pumping operations at the targeted sites.

The SBU emphasized that the strikes are part of a broader campaign to disrupt Russia's oil revenues, which are crucial for funding its ongoing war against Ukraine. By targeting these critical infrastructure points, Ukraine aims to impede the flow of petrodollars that support Russia's military efforts. The attack is the latest in a series of Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, underscoring Ukraine's determination to weaken Russia's economic and military capabilities. 🛢️💥🇷🇺

Foreign Ministry condemns Russian violation of Estonian airspace

The Estonian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned a recent violation of its airspace by Russian fighter jets, describing the incident as a clear breach of international law. The Russian aircraft reportedly intruded into Estonian airspace for 12 minutes, an act deemed "unprecedentedly brazen" by the Estonian government. This incident follows a previous violation where Russian drones entered Polish airspace, some of which were intercepted by NATO jets.

Russia's Defense Ministry denied the accusation, asserting that its jets flew over neutral waters. However, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Estonian officials, including Prime Minister Kristen Michal and Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur, asserted that the violation was deliberate and not accidental. In response, Estonia invoked Article 4 of the NATO treaty, requesting consultations with the alliance. Italian F-35 jets, part of NATO's Baltic Sentry mission, successfully repelled the Russian aircraft. The incident has prompted Estonia to seek enhanced air defenses from its allies, highlighting the ongoing tensions and security concerns in the region. 🛩️🇪🇪🇷🇺

Cyberattack causes delays, disruptions at European airports

A significant cyberattack on Friday evening disrupted operations at major European airports, including Brussels Airport and London’s Heathrow, leading to widespread flight delays and cancellations. The assault targeted the service provider responsible for check-in and boarding systems, forcing airports to rely on manual processes. This shift resulted in substantial disruptions to flight schedules, causing inconvenience for travelers and highlighting the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats. 🛬️💻🚨

Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, killing at least 3 and wounding dozens

Russia escalated its assault on Ukraine, launching a significant drone and missile attack overnight, resulting in the deaths of at least three people and injuring dozens more. This latest aggression comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the upcoming UN General Assembly. Zelensky anticipates strong sanctions from the U.S., following the EU's 19th sanctions package against Russia.

The Russian strikes targeted infrastructure, residential areas, and civilian enterprises across nine Ukrainian regions, including Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, Zaporizhzhia, Poltava, Kyiv, Odesa, Sumy, and Kharkiv. In Dnipro, a missile equipped with cluster munitions struck a multi-story residential building, causing significant damage and casualties. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drones retaliated by striking oil pumping stations in Russia's Volgograd and Samara regions, disrupting oil exports via the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk.

In a separate incident, three Russian military jets violated NATO member Estonia's airspace for 12 minutes, sparking condemnation from NATO and European nations. The Estonian foreign ministry described the incursion as "unprecedentedly brazen," while Russia denied the allegations. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and the need for vigilant surveillance along NATO's eastern flank. 🛸💥

Ukraine continues to invest in its defense industry, particularly in drone production, as it seeks to bolster its counteroffensive efforts in the east. Despite relying on Western allies for weapons, Ukraine is actively developing its own military capabilities to enhance its defense and security. The situation remains fluid, with both sides reporting gains and losses in the ongoing conflict.

Putin feels free to increase attacks on Ukraine without fear of consequences from Trump, Bloomberg reports

Russian President Vladimir Putin has escalated attacks on Ukraine, convinced that U.S. President Donald Trump will not intervene or bolster Ukraine's defenses. This assessment follows a meeting between the two leaders in Alaska, where Putin perceived Trump's lack of interest in engaging in the conflict. Putin plans to intensify strikes on Ukraine's energy and infrastructure, capitalizing on Trump's reluctance to intervene. This year has seen a significant rise in Russian drone and missile strikes, with a record 810 Shahed-type drones launched in a single attack earlier this month. Recent incursions into NATO territory, including Poland and Estonia, have heightened tensions and prompted emergency consultations. Despite Trump's sporadic peace efforts, progress has been minimal, and his recent frustration with Putin has not translated into concrete actions. The situation underscores the complex dynamics of international relations, with Putin exploiting perceived weaknesses in the U.S. stance to advance his agenda. 💥🇷🇺🇺🇸

Cyberattack at major European airports: "Brussels airport is the worst affected"

A significant cyberattack has disrupted operations at major European airports, with Brussels Airport experiencing the most severe impact. Flights have been extensively delayed and canceled, leading to widespread chaos and confusion. Airport authorities are advising travelers to avoid coming to the airport unless they have confirmed that their flight is departing. Passengers are urged to check with their airlines for the latest updates and to exercise patience as the situation unfolds. 🛬️💻🚨

Zelensky to meet Trump on sidelines of UN assembly as Russian strikes persist

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced plans to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the upcoming UN General Assembly, amidst ongoing Russian strikes across Ukraine. The meeting aims to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine and potential new sanctions against Russia. Zelensky emphasized the need for Western-backed security assurances to deter future Russian aggression, a stance that has been met with resistance from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has warned against the presence of Western troops in Ukraine.

Recent Russian attacks have intensified, with a significant aerial barrage involving 40 missiles and 580 drones, resulting in at least three deaths and numerous injuries. The strikes targeted various regions, including Dnipro, where a missile with cluster munitions hit an apartment building, causing extensive damage and casualties. Zelensky shared images of the devastation, highlighting the urgent need for international support.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has retaliated with strikes on Russian territory, reportedly killing four people in the Samara region and targeting strategic oil facilities. The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed hits on key Russian infrastructure, aiming to disrupt the financial resources fueling the war. Russia, in turn, claimed to have intercepted and destroyed numerous Ukrainian drones, maintaining its defensive posture.

The conflict continues to escalate, with intense fighting reported in the Kharkiv region and Russian advances in the Dnipropetrovsk area. Zelensky reiterated his call for joint international efforts to counter Russian aggression, emphasizing the importance of collective defense measures. Despite diplomatic efforts, a resolution to the conflict remains elusive, with both sides holding firm to their positions. 🌍💥

NATO 'must respond accordingly, including militarily' to Russian provocations, Czech president says

Czech President Petr Pavel has called for a united and decisive NATO response to recent Russian provocations, including violations of NATO airspace. Speaking amid heightened tensions, Pavel emphasized the need for firm action, stating that any violations must be met with appropriate military responses. He highlighted recent incidents in Poland, Estonia, and Ukraine, warning that failure to stand united could lead to similar threats against other NATO members.

Pavel condemned Russia's aggressive behavior, which includes not only its war against Ukraine but also provocations against NATO countries. He noted that Russia's actions are designed to test the alliance's resolve and provoke responses that could be used to further its own interests. The Czech president urged Europe to respond decisively to prevent further escalations, stating that verbal responses alone will not deter Russia. He also pointed out that violating airspace can trigger defensive mechanisms, potentially leading to dangerous confrontations.

European leaders have widely condemned Russia's actions, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledging to respond to provocations with determination and to strengthen the Eastern flank. Estonia, in response to the latest violation, has invoked NATO's Article 4 consultations, seeking discussions with allies to address the security threat posed by Russia's actions. The situation underscores the need for a strong and unified NATO response to maintain regional stability and deter further aggression. 🇪🇺🛩️

Finland condemns "reckless" Russian violation of Estonian airspace

On Friday, three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets breached Estonian airspace over the Gulf of Finland for 12 minutes, prompting a swift and decisive response from NATO. Finnish, Italian, and Swedish jets intercepted the Russian aircraft and escorted them back into Russian airspace. The EU condemned the incident as a "dangerous provocation," while Russia denied any wrongdoing. This violation occurred amidst heightened tensions, with a similar incident reported near a Polish oil rig in the Baltic Sea. President Alexander Stubb of Finland strongly condemned the act, emphasizing the need for a united and robust response from NATO and the EU. Estonia invoked Article 4 of the NATO treaty, leading to consultations with allies to address the threat to its territorial integrity. The incident underscores the growing need for Europe to bolster its defenses and maintain a credible deterrent against Russian aggression. Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen and Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen both stressed the importance of strengthening NATO's air defense capabilities while continuing to support Ukraine. The events highlight Russia's attempts to test Western resolve and unity, as well as its efforts to divert attention from its ongoing war in Ukraine. 🇷🇺✈️🇪🇪🇫🇮🇮🇹🇸🇪

Cyberattack disrupts European airports: Brussels, Berlin, Heathrow among affected

A significant cyberattack has disrupted operations at several major European airports, causing widespread delays and cancellations. Brussels Airport confirmed that the issue was due to a cyberattack, leading to the cancellation of 10 flights and delays exceeding an hour for 17 more. Other affected airports include London’s Heathrow and Berlin’s Brandenburg Airport, all reporting technical difficulties with check-in and boarding systems. The incident highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats, underscoring the need for enhanced security measures. 🛬️💻

The comeback of a Soviet-era tradition: Russia hosts Intervision, Eurovision-rival song contest

A Soviet-era tradition is making a comeback as Russia revives the Intervision Song Contest, a rival to the popular Eurovision event. Originally staged by Moscow during the Soviet era with Eastern European satellite states, the new iteration of Intervision will feature performances from countries that Russia now considers allies. These include Belarus, Cuba, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela. The contest aims to foster cultural ties and showcase musical talent from these nations, reflecting Russia's efforts to strengthen diplomatic and cultural bonds with its international partners. 🎵🌍

Ukraine's security guarantees will require readiness to fight Russia, Finland's Stubb says

Finland's President Alexander Stubb has emphasized that any post-war security guarantees for Ukraine will necessitate a readiness to confront Russia militarily if hostilities resume. In an interview, Stubb clarified that security guarantees inherently serve as a deterrent and must be credible and robust. This stance aligns with ongoing efforts by Ukraine and its allies, particularly a coalition led by France and the U.K., to establish a peacekeeping force to uphold a future ceasefire or peace agreement.

Stubb asserted that Russia's approval is irrelevant to the development of these security guarantees, as they are sovereign decisions made by independent nations. He acknowledged Russia's opposition to foreign peacekeeping troops but stressed that Moscow's stance does not deter the coalition's progress. Stubb also expressed skepticism about Russian President Vladimir Putin's willingness to engage in diplomacy, citing Putin's significant strategic missteps and unwillingness to compromise.

The Kremlin has consistently rejected the deployment of NATO-linked peacekeepers, viewing it as foreign military intervention. Moscow has also presented maximalist demands to Ukraine and avoided leader-level talks, complicating efforts to resolve the conflict. Despite these challenges, the coalition remains committed to developing security guarantees and working towards a peaceful resolution. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

Estonian prime minister: There are limits on shooting down Russian jets

Estonia's Prime Minister, Kristen Michal, has confirmed the country's capability to use proportionate force against Russian aircraft violating its airspace, following a recent incursion by three MiG-31 jets over the island of Vaindloo in the Gulf of Finland. The prime minister emphasized that while NATO's air defenses responded effectively, the prolonged presence of Russian planes in Estonian airspace was a deliberate provocation. Michal has been in contact with the NATO Secretary General, urging the invocation of Article 4, which would trigger political consultations among allies to address the situation. The prime minister also highlighted the importance of NATO's Operation Eastern Sentry, which focuses on Poland and the Baltic states, and stressed the need for heightened vigilance against Russian escalations. The incident underscores Estonia's determination to safeguard its airspace and the broader security concerns facing NATO's eastern flank. 🛬️🇪🇪

G7 needs ‘decisive’ action to end Ukraine war, Canadian finance chief says

The G7 nations are shifting their strategy from incremental to decisive actions to halt Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, who is leading the G7 finance ministers' discussions, emphasized the group's unified ambition and urgency in addressing the conflict. A key focus of these talks is the contentious proposal to utilize frozen Russian central bank assets abroad to support Ukraine's war efforts. This strategic pivot underscores the G7's commitment to taking bold steps to end the war and bolster Ukraine's defense. 🌍💪

Yermak, Rubio discuss security guarantees, military cooperation ahead of Zelensky-Trump meeting

Ukraine's Presidential Office head, Andriy Yermak, held a strategic phone call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss security guarantees and military cooperation ahead of an upcoming meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump. The conversation focused on preparing security assurances for Ukraine and expanding collaboration in military, defense, and economic sectors. This dialogue occurs as Zelensky leads Ukraine's delegation to the UN General Assembly, a significant gathering of global leaders.

Trump has expressed a willingness to provide security guarantees to Ukraine but has emphasized that Europe should take the lead in this effort. The U.S. has already approved its first weapons aid packages for Ukraine, financed by NATO allies, with the initial shipment of military equipment under the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program having already arrived. Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine will receive Patriot and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) missiles as part of this aid, although the exact timeline for their delivery remains unclear.

The upcoming meeting between Zelensky and Trump will be their first in-person conversation since Zelensky's visit to the White House in August, just days after Trump's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelensky has indicated that the meeting will cover a wide range of topics, including business, technology, defense, and economic cooperation. This encounter is expected to be a pivotal moment in strengthening bilateral relations and addressing Ukraine's security needs amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. 🇺🇦🇺🇸🔒

Trump Warns Venezuela of Severe Consequences Over Migrant Issue

Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have escalated dramatically, with President Donald Trump demanding the immediate deportation of Venezuelan prisoners and individuals from mental hospitals who have been forcibly brought to the U.S. Trump's inflammatory rhetoric, posted on Truth Social, described these individuals as "monsters" responsible for serious injuries and deaths, threatening Venezuela with severe consequences if they fail to comply. This demand comes amidst a series of U.S. naval operations in the Caribbean, where American warships and F-35 fighter jets have been deployed, raising fears of an imminent attack on Venezuelan territory.

Venezuela has accused the U.S. of waging an "undeclared war" in the region, citing the killing of over a dozen alleged drug smugglers on boats in recent weeks. The U.S. has not provided concrete evidence to support these actions, fueling debate over the legality and justification of the strikes. In response to the escalating tensions, Venezuela organized military training for civilians in the capital, Caracas, focusing on weapon handling, camouflage, and basic first aid as part of their "revolutionary resistance" efforts. The situation remains volatile, with both nations exchanging accusations and preparing for potential conflict. 🚢💥

Moody’s maintains Greece’s Baa3 rating

Moody’s, a leading international credit rating agency, has affirmed Greece’s Baa3 rating with a stable outlook in its latest six-month report. This decision comes just months after Moody’s upgraded Greece to investment grade in March, recognizing the country’s significant progress in institutional reforms, improved governance, and a robust banking sector. The agency highlighted Greece’s strong absorption of European Union funds and substantial private investments, which are expected to drive economic development in the coming years.

Despite a notable reduction in public debt, Greece’s debt-to-GDP ratio remains high. However, Moody’s noted that the debt’s favorable structure and ample liquidity margins mitigate this concern. The agency also acknowledged that ongoing reforms will help Greece raise its potential growth rate, partially counterbalancing the negative impacts of unfavorable demographic trends. Overall, Moody’s assessment reflects a positive outlook for Greece’s economic trajectory, underpinned by continued structural improvements and strategic investments. 📈🇬🇷

LATEST: Flights disrupted across Europe after 'cyber-related disruption'

A significant cyber-related disruption has struck multiple airports across Europe, affecting check-in and baggage drop systems. The issue stems from a problem with Collins Aerospace's MUSE software, which is used for electronic customer check-in and baggage handling. While the impact is limited to these automated systems, the disruption has led to delays and cancellations at several major airports.

In Brussels, at least nine flights have been canceled, affecting approximately 35,000 passengers. The airport has resorted to manual check-in and boarding procedures, advising travelers to verify their flight status before heading to the airport. Berlin Airport has also experienced longer waiting times due to the technical issue. Meanwhile, Münster/Osnabrück Airport reported only indirect effects, swiftly redirecting to internal IT infrastructure to maintain smooth operations. London Heathrow, Europe's busiest airport, has also been impacted, with potential delays for departing passengers. Collins Aerospace is actively working to resolve the issue and restore full functionality. Passengers are advised to stay informed about their flight status and expect possible delays. 🛬️💻