Newsflash

Ukraine’s president says the world is in `the most destructive arms race in human history’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has sounded the alarm, warning global leaders that the world is currently engaged in "the most destructive arms race in human history." Speaking out against Russia's aggressive actions, Zelenskyy emphasized the urgent need for international intervention to prevent further escalation. He asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to expand his military campaign across Europe, posing a significant threat to regional and global security. Zelenskyy's call to action underscores the critical importance of united efforts to counter Russian aggression and maintain peace. 🌍💥

Ukrainian journalist Roshchyna died in Russian custody in September 2024, investigation finds

Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna died in Russian custody on September 19, 2024, while detained at a pre-trial detention center in Kizel, Perm Krai. Roshchyna vanished in August 2023 while reporting in Russian-occupied territories and was subsequently held in multiple detention facilities for over a year. Her family was officially informed of her death in October 2024.

Roshchyna endured harsh conditions and apparent torture during her captivity. Testimonies from a released Ukrainian soldier and a former female detainee described her as severely exhausted, with visible signs of torture, including knife wounds and evidence of electric shock. Her death certificate, obtained from closed Russian databases, confirmed the date of her death, which was also verified by Ukraine’s Prosecutor General's Office.

The investigation by Ukrainian outlet Slidstvo revealed that Roshchyna was transferred to the Kizel facility just eight days before her death, a journey that took approximately three days. Several senior officials at the detention center, including the acting director and key staff members, may have been involved in her mistreatment and death. Most of these officials remain employed at the facility.

Roshchyna's body was returned to Ukraine in late February 2024, falsely labeled as an "unidentified man." A forensic examination confirmed her identity through DNA testing but found that several organs were missing, suggesting possible attempts to conceal evidence of foul play. The circumstances surrounding her death and the conditions of her detention highlight the severe human rights abuses endured by Ukrainian captives in Russian custody. 🇷🇺📰💔

China to Cut Carbon Emissions by Up to 10 Percent by 2035

China, the world's largest emitter of carbon dioxide, has announced ambitious plans to significantly boost its renewable energy capacity and accelerate its transition to a climate-resilient society. President Xi Jinping declared that the country aims to increase its wind and solar energy production sixfold from 2020 levels and ramp up electric vehicle production. This move comes as China has already achieved its 2030 emissions reduction goal five years ahead of schedule, with preliminary data indicating a 1% decrease in CO2 emissions in the first half of this year.

The decision follows a call from UN Secretary-General António Guterres for a high-level climate meeting to focus on concrete plans to reduce emissions from fossil fuels ahead of the upcoming climate summit in Brazil. Guterres emphasized the urgent need for action, stating that science, law, economics, and public demand all necessitate decisive steps to combat climate change. China's proactive approach, which includes a commitment to "in principle establish a climate-adapted society," underscores the global imperative to address environmental challenges swiftly and effectively. 🌍💨

EU and Russia on the ballot in Moldova’s existential election

Moldova stands at a pivotal moment this Sunday as voters decide the fate of the country's pro-European trajectory. President Maia Sandu's Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) is fighting to maintain its parliamentary majority in a crucial election. The outcome will determine whether Moldova continues its path towards European Union integration or veers back into Russia's sphere of influence, amid allegations of significant Russian interference.

Current polls indicate a challenging battle for PAS, with the possibility of failing to secure a governing majority. This scenario could pave the way for Euroskeptic and pro-Russian parties to gain control in Chișinău, potentially altering Moldova's geopolitical alignment. The stakes are high, as the election will shape the country's future, determining whether it remains committed to democratic reforms and European values or succumbs to external pressures and internal divisions. 🇲🇩🇪🇺

Ukraine struggles to keep hold of its next generation

As Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine persists, the country faces a pressing challenge: the gradual loss of its next generation. The school year in Ukraine begins annually under the threat of Russian missile and drone attacks, creating an uncertain environment for young people who must choose between staying in Ukraine or seeking safety abroad. This dilemma is part of a broader demographic shift, with Ukraine's youth population plummeting from nearly 9 million in early 2022 to around 6 million by 2024, and projections indicating it could fall below 5 million by 2030 if trends continue.

The primary driver of this exodus is the war, which raises significant safety concerns and creates legal restrictions, particularly for young men who fear future conscription. Many families act proactively, sending their teenage sons abroad before they reach adulthood. Additionally, educational opportunities abroad have become more accessible and affordable, further incentivizing young Ukrainians to leave. However, the war has also sparked a renewed sense of national identity and purpose among many young people, who aspire to use their education to contribute to Ukraine's future.

The situation is particularly dire for those in occupied territories, where around 600,000 young people are under Russian influence and may never return to Ukraine. This outflow of young people is part of a wider demographic crisis, with mortality rates outpacing birth rates and Ukraine ranking near the bottom globally for fertility. The Ukrainian government is working to address these challenges through strategies aimed at encouraging return and maintaining ties with those who have settled abroad, including a new law on dual citizenship. The hope is that even a small number of returning young Ukrainians can drive progress and help the country advance toward European Union integration. 🇺🇦🎓

Ukraine war latest: Russian Iskander missile strike targets Ukrainian training ground, casualties reported

On September 24, Russian forces launched an attack on a Ukrainian training ground using Iskander ballistic missiles, resulting in casualties among personnel. Despite security measures, a direct hit on a shelter caused significant harm, and emergency services are currently assisting the injured. Ukraine is fortifying its training centers and military infrastructure to better protect against future attacks. This strike is part of a pattern of Russian targeting of Ukrainian training grounds, raising concerns about the safety of personnel and the adequacy of protective measures.

In response, Ukraine conducted strikes on several Russian targets, including oil facilities and a drone production site. The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed hits on the Gazprom Neftekhim Salavat petrochemical plant in Bashkortostan, which processes up to 10 million tons of oil annually and produces liquid rocket fuel. Additionally, Ukraine targeted oil pumping stations and a drone production facility in Belgorod Oblast, causing fires and disrupting operations. These strikes highlight Ukraine's efforts to disrupt Russia's energy and defense sectors.

Meanwhile, Russia is moving towards year-round military conscription with a new bill passed in parliament. This reform aims to ease pressure on enlistment offices and allow for continuous medical exams and psychological screenings. However, reports indicate that conscripts are often pressured into signing contracts and sent to fight in Ukraine, despite official bans on deploying them abroad.

In a disturbing development, Russian troops reportedly shot a family in eastern Ukraine and used their underage daughter as a human shield. The incident occurred in the village of Shandryholove in Donetsk Oblast, with Ukrainian authorities documenting similar cases of abuse and repression. The use of civilians as human shields constitutes a war crime under the Geneva Conventions.

Former Ukrainian military chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi criticized the cost of the 2024 Kursk operation, stating that the gains were not worth the high price paid. The operation, which involved a cross-border incursion into Russia's Kursk Oblast, initially seized significant territory but faced a Russian counter-offensive reinforced by North Korean troops. Zaluzhnyi's assessment contrasts with that of current Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, who has emphasized heavy Russian losses as the primary achievement. The differing views underscore the complex and challenging nature of the ongoing conflict. 🇺🇦🇷🇺💥

Drone incursions and cyberattacks shake European security

Tensions have escalated across Europe following a series of drone incursions and cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure. The recent incidents have raised alarms, although the perpetrators remain unidentified. Moscow has denied any involvement, dismissing allegations as baseless. In response, NATO has issued a stern warning to Russia, asserting that it will defend against any violations of its airspace. The situation underscores the growing unease and potential for conflict in the region. 🛸💻🇷🇺🇪🇺

Ukraine hits oil facilities, drone production site in Russia, General Staff confirms

Ukraine has intensified its strikes on strategic targets within Russia, focusing on key oil refining and drone production facilities. On September 24, Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed successful attacks on multiple sites, including the Gazprom Neftekhim Salavat petrochemical plant in Bashkortostan, which is one of Russia’s largest oil refining and petrochemical complexes. The strike reportedly caused a fire at the facility, which processes up to 10 million tons of oil annually and produces liquid rocket fuel crucial for Russia's military operations.

In addition to the Bashkortostan refinery, Ukrainian forces targeted the Kuzmichi-1 and Zenzevatka oil pumping stations, which are vital for transporting crude oil to Russia’s southern regions. Furthermore, a drone production facility in Valuyki, Belgorod Oblast, was struck, resulting in a fire at the site. Earlier, on September 22, a long-range strike forced a partial shutdown of the Astrakhan gas processing plant, a major producer of sulfur used in explosives and a key player in Russia’s energy sector.

These attacks are part of a broader strategy by Ukraine to disrupt Russia's military capabilities and economic infrastructure, which are seen as essential for funding Moscow's ongoing war efforts. The strikes have reportedly caused operational suspensions and exacerbated fuel shortages within Russia, highlighting the strategic importance of these targets. 💥🛢️

Ukraine’s message to Europe: You are under threat from Russia. We can help

As Russia intensifies its hybrid warfare tactics across Europe, Ukraine is urging European nations to recognize the shared threat and collaborate more closely for mutual defense. Recent drone incursions into Poland and Estonia, along with suspected Russian involvement in arson attacks and sabotage in Poland, Lithuania, and the Baltic Sea, underscore the escalating danger. Ukrainian officials emphasize that while a formal state of war may not yet exist between NATO and Russia, a hybrid war is already underway.

Ukraine, with its extensive experience in countering Russian aggression, offers valuable expertise and technology to help protect European allies. The surge in foreign investment in Ukrainian defense technology highlights the growing recognition of Ukraine's battlefield knowledge. Ukrainian lawmaker Oleksandr Merezhko stresses that Ukraine can assist NATO countries, particularly in intercepting Russian drones, thereby preventing threats from reaching NATO airspace.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has advocated for NATO assistance in shooting down Russian missiles and drones over Ukrainian territory, arguing that controlling the airspace is crucial for halting ground warfare. Ukrainian defense experts propose integrating NATO's aviation and air defense systems with Ukraine's, allowing for the interception of threats before they reach NATO territory. This collaboration would provide mutual benefits, with NATO countries gaining enhanced protection and Ukraine securing additional defense for its western regions.

However, while there is a growing consensus in Europe about the Russian threat, responses vary among nations. Nordic and Baltic states are more receptive to arming Ukraine, viewing it as a means to weaken Russian capabilities. In contrast, larger economies like France and Italy have differing priorities. Ukraine continues to emphasize the ongoing Russian advances and the need for a unified European response to counter the persistent threat. The message is clear: Russia's aggression in Ukraine is a precursor to broader European conflict, and cooperation is essential for collective security.

Global responsibility: From Ukraine to Mideast, Macron steps into void once filled by US presidents

French President Emmanuel Macron is increasingly stepping into the global leadership void left by the United States, particularly in the wake of the Ukraine conflict and escalating tensions in the Middle East. In a recent interview, Macron highlighted the delicate balancing act required to navigate these complex geopolitical challenges, describing the current situation as "almost impossible." He emphasized the need for diplomatic consensus, noting that leaders like Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu are increasingly isolated on the global stage.

Macron's diplomatic efforts come as NATO members remain on high alert due to Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine, and hopes for peace in the Middle East seem increasingly elusive. The French president is actively working to forge new alliances and influence global dynamics, challenging the traditional spheres of influence shaped by the U.S. This strategic shift is crucial as the world grapples with evolving power structures and the need for collective security and stability. Macron's approach underscores the importance of diplomacy and multilateralism in addressing pressing global issues. 🌍🤝

Emmanuel Macron to France 24: We must show ‘we know how to protect Ukraine’

French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the urgent need for Europe to demonstrate its commitment to protecting Ukraine. In an interview with France 24 and RFI, Macron underscored the importance of Europe showing resolve and capability in safeguarding Ukraine amidst ongoing Russian aggression. He stressed that Europe must stand united and take decisive actions to ensure the security and sovereignty of Ukraine, highlighting the critical role of collective defense and support. Macron's remarks come at a pivotal moment, as Europe faces mounting geopolitical challenges and the need to bolster its defense capabilities. 🇫🇷🇺🇦

'A speech calculated to appeal to Trump and the Global South'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's speech at the United Nations General Assembly was strategically crafted to resonate with both U.S. President Donald Trump and the Global South. Zelenskyy aimed to highlight the broader implications of the war in Ukraine, emphasizing how it could pose threats to nations far beyond Europe. By appealing to these diverse audiences, Zelenskyy sought to garner international support and underscore the global significance of the conflict. His address was designed to bridge geographical and political divides, fostering a broader understanding of the war's far-reaching consequences. 🌍🗣️

Drones Disrupt Aalborg Airport Traffic but Pose No Danger

Denmark has experienced a series of drone incidents that disrupted air traffic and raised security concerns. On Wednesday evening, multiple drones were spotted near Aalborg Airport, leading to the closure of the airspace and the diversion of four flights. The airspace was reopened shortly after 3 AM when the drones disappeared. Similar drone sightings were reported at the military airbase in Skrydstrup and the airports in Esbjerg and Sønderborg during the night, but these facilities remained open as they had no scheduled flights.

The incidents involved a coordinated effort by the police, security police, and defense forces to ground the drones and investigate their origin. National Police Commissioner Torkild Fogde suggested that Denmark should consider raising its national preparedness level, currently at the lowest tier. The police have received numerous tips following the earlier drone disruptions at Copenhagen and Oslo airports but have not been able to verify many of them. Authorities believe the incidents are likely the work of a "capable actor," rather than private individuals, and have urged all drone operators to avoid flying in the coming days. The ongoing investigations aim to identify the source of these disruptions and enhance security measures to prevent future incidents. 🛩️🛸

Is the ‘Greek Dream’ still alive?

The "Greek Dream," once a beacon of hope for social and economic advancement, now faces significant challenges, particularly among younger generations. Rising prices, inflation, and stagnant wages have created a sense of pessimism, making it difficult for many to secure housing, start families, or achieve financial stability. While the government has implemented some measures, such as tax breaks, many efforts are seen as insufficient or ineffective in addressing the root causes of the economic struggles.

The disconnect between societal expectations and the realities of the job market is stark. The dream of securing a stable public sector job has faded, and while a university degree is still valued, it often does not translate into well-paying employment. Greece's reliance on tourism is evident, yet the country lacks top-tier training programs for related professions. Many high-paying specialties and trades do not require a university diploma, further complicating the educational landscape.

The "Greek Dream" of owning a home and achieving financial security has become elusive for many. This predicament is not unique to Greece but reflects broader European and Western trends. The country's past reliance on EU funds is coming to an end, and neighboring Balkan countries are now investing in Greek property, highlighting the shifting economic dynamics.

The critical question remains: What steps are being taken to address these issues? The risk of deepening despair and anti-establishment sentiment is real, and the window of opportunity for meaningful change is closing. Urgent action is needed to prevent further instability and ensure a brighter future for Greece. 🏠💸

PM floats social media ban for under-16s at UN event

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece has proposed considering a ban on social media use for children under 16, emphasizing the need for global cooperation to address the risks posed by unregulated digital platforms. Speaking at a UN event in New York, titled “Protecting Children in the Digital Age,” Mitsotakis warned that the current lack of oversight amounts to an unprecedented experiment on children's minds, with potentially harmful consequences. He highlighted Greece's existing measures, such as the prohibition of mobile phones in schools and the launch of the parco.gov.gr platform, which offers age verification and parental control tools. The prime minister stressed that international collaboration is crucial for implementing effective policies to safeguard children in the digital age. 🌐📵

Israeli Attack on Gaza Residential Building Kills at Least 11

In the central Gaza Strip, an Israeli attack on a residential building has resulted in at least eleven fatalities, according to the Hamas-controlled civil defense. The victims were seeking refuge in the building when it was struck. Among the deceased are several children, with additional injuries reported and many individuals still unaccounted for. The incident underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the devastating impact of the conflict on civilian populations in the region. 😢🏠

Ocean Acidification Exceeds Safe Limits, Threatening Marine Life

The ocean's increasing acidification, driven by the absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, poses a significant threat to marine life and, ultimately, to life on land. Since the Industrial Revolution, ocean surface water acidity has surged by 30-40%, jeopardizing the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. This phenomenon has already weakened the shells of small sea snails and mussels, which are crucial to the food chain and the foundation of marine ecosystems. The decline of these species can have cascading effects, impacting larger animals and, in the long term, the fishing industry and global food production.

Ocean acidification also undermines the ocean's role as a carbon sink, which absorbs about a quarter of all emitted carbon dioxide. To mitigate these issues, immediate and substantial reductions in fossil fuel emissions are essential. Additionally, protecting and restoring both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, along with investing in sustainable systems for food, water, and other natural resources, are crucial steps. The current state of planetary boundaries, with seven out of nine exceeded, underscores the urgency of these actions. However, successful international efforts, such as the Montreal Protocol, demonstrate that global politics can reverse negative trends when there is a collective will to do so. The future of our planet depends on decisive action and sustained commitment to environmental stewardship. 🌊💨

Defense minister unveils frigate upgrade plan for Greek fleet

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias has proposed a significant upgrade to the country's naval capabilities, aiming to bolster the Greek Navy's strength and technological prowess. The plan involves acquiring a new Belharra Standard 2++ frigate and upgrading three existing vessels to this advanced standard. The Standard 2++ is touted as the most sophisticated frigate currently available, featuring ten key improvements, including the capability to deploy the new-generation ELSA cruise missile with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers. Dendias is optimistic that the Parliament’s National Defense and Foreign Affairs Committee will endorse the proposal, marking a substantial enhancement to Greece's maritime defense infrastructure. 🚢🇬🇷

Former OPEKEPE president says European Prosecutors abusing power

In a heated exchange before the Parliament’s Investigative Committee, former OPEKEPE president Nikos Salatas accused the European Public Prosecutor’s Office of abusing its power and conducting selective investigations related to agricultural subsidies. Salatas specifically targeted Paraskevi Tycheropoulou, an OPEKEPE employee and associate of the European Prosecutor’s Office, alleging she committed 20 offenses and improperly influenced ongoing investigations. He claimed her appointment was politically motivated and that she was "planted" within the agency to obstruct justice.

Salatas asserted that Tycheropoulou, backed by European prosecutors, redirected investigations to avoid scrutiny of crucial subsidy periods, constituting a clear abuse of power. He also accused current and former government officials, including ex-Justice Minister Kostas Tsiaras and current Justice Minister Giorgos Floridis, of irregular appointments and political interference. Salatas claimed he was removed from his position due to his refusal to hinder the European Prosecutor’s investigation.

In response, Tycheropoulou’s lawyer dismissed the allegations as "slanderous paranoia," stating that Salatas’ remarks were part of a pattern of personal attacks during his brief tenure. The controversy comes amid Parliament’s ongoing investigation into OPEKEPE’s management of billions in EU agricultural funds. The dispute highlights deep-seated tensions and accusations of political manipulation within the agency. 💸🏛️

Business Finland: Foreign investments up, but more needed

Finland saw a significant boost in foreign direct investments (FDI) last year, with an increase of €2.4 billion, bringing the total to €83.5 billion. However, despite this positive trend, Finland still lags behind neighboring Sweden, where FDI accounts for 74% of GDP, compared to Finland's 30%. The majority of Finland's FDI comes from Sweden, followed by the UK, the US, Denmark, and Norway.

Invest in Finland, a division of Business Finland, emphasizes the need for continued investment, noting that many large projects, such as data centers and green transition initiatives, are in the pipeline but not yet reflected in official figures due to the lengthy investment processes. Kaija Laitinen, a senior market intelligence advisor at Invest in Finland, stresses the importance of maintaining a stable and predictable operating environment to ensure the realization of these investment projects. The current government, led by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, is expected to remain in office until spring 2027, providing a degree of political stability.

In the first eight months of this year, the number of foreign companies investing in Finland increased by 62, rising from 238 to 300 compared to the same period in 2024. This year's investments have primarily focused on business services, health and care services, retail, digitalization, and cleantech, reflecting Finland's strategic priorities. 📈💸