Newsflash

NATO plans 'drone wall' to counter threats

NATO is planning to establish a "drone wall" to counter the increasing threats posed by unmanned aerial vehicles. This initiative comes in response to a series of incidents where rogue drones have targeted European borders and airports, disrupting operations and raising security concerns. While Russia has been accused of orchestrating some of these incidents, it has consistently denied any involvement or malicious intent. The proposed drone wall aims to enhance Europe's defenses against such threats, ensuring the safety and security of its airspace. 🛡️🛩️

General Staff: Russia has lost 1,107,400 troops in Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022

Since the onset of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Russia has sustained significant losses, with the Ukrainian General Staff reporting a total of approximately 1,107,400 troops lost. This figure includes 970 casualties incurred over the past day alone. The extensive losses also encompass a wide range of military equipment, including 11,204 tanks, 23,288 armored fighting vehicles, 62,909 vehicles and fuel tanks, 33,186 artillery systems, 1,502 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,223 air defense systems, 427 airplanes, 345 helicopters, 63,931 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine. These substantial losses underscore the intense and prolonged nature of the conflict. 💥🛢️🛳️

Moldova to vote in parliamentary elections amid claims of Russian interference

Moldova is set to vote in crucial parliamentary elections that will determine the country's geopolitical trajectory, with a stark choice between aligning with the European Union or returning to Russia's sphere of influence. The pro-Western Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), which has led the country since 2021, faces several Russia-friendly opponents in a high-stakes election. Prime Minister Dorin Recean has accused Russia of spending hundreds of millions of euros to interfere in the election, aiming to "seize power in Chisinau." Alleged interference tactics include vote-buying, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns. Moldova's authorities have conducted raids and detentions to counter these efforts, while Moscow denies any involvement.

The election comes amid economic challenges, including high inflation and poverty rates, which may have eroded support for the pro-Western government. The EU is providing significant financial aid to Moldova to support its EU integration path. The Russia-friendly Patriotic Electoral Bloc (BEP) and other pro-Russian parties are key opponents, with some facing legal restrictions due to allegations of voter bribery and illegal financing. The large Moldovan diaspora is expected to play a crucial role in the election, with many favoring the pro-Western candidate in the previous presidential vote. The outcome of the election will significantly impact Moldova's future, with Russia viewing it as a decisive battle for the country's alignment. 🇲🇩🗳️

Trump Approves Military Deployment to Portland

In a recent post on his platform Truth Social, former President Donald Trump announced that he has directed the Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to deploy necessary forces to protect Portland. Trump claimed this decision was made at the request of Kristi Noem, the minister for homeland security, and in response to alleged attacks on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities by Antifa and other domestic terrorists. This move follows the September murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which Trump has used to justify increased actions against what he describes as the "radical left," whom he blames for political violence in the country.

Trump has previously threatened to send military forces to Portland, Chicago, and Baltimore to combat crime. He has also deployed the National Guard in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., and recently announced plans to do the same in Memphis. This escalation in rhetoric and action underscores Trump's hardline stance on domestic unrest and his willingness to use military force to address perceived threats to public safety. 🇺🇸💥

Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant off-grid for days as Moscow and Kyiv trade blame

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe's largest, has been off the grid for four consecutive days, marking its longest blackout since Russia seized the facility in 2022. Both Ukrainian and Russian authorities blame each other for the power outage, which has raised concerns about the plant's safety and the potential for a nuclear incident. The plant's reactors are currently shut down, but they require a steady power supply to maintain crucial cooling and safety systems. The extended blackout has prompted experts to warn of increased risks, as the plant relies on backup diesel generators, a last-resort measure typically used only in extreme circumstances.

The plant has faced numerous safety threats since the start of the war, including frequent shelling, power cuts, and staff shortages. Located near the front line in Enerhodar, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) is a critical point of contention between Moscow and Kyiv, with both sides accusing the other of endangering the site. The head of the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, recently visited Moscow to discuss safety measures at the plant. The ongoing blackout underscores the urgent need for a resolution to prevent a potential nuclear disaster. 💥💥

Nato Boosts Baltic Sea Surveillance After Drone Alarms in Denmark

In response to escalating security concerns, NATO has announced plans to deploy at least one frigate with advanced air defense capabilities to the Baltic Sea region. This decision follows a meeting of NATO's military committee in Latvia, where members discussed recent airspace violations and hybrid warfare tactics employed by Russia. Several European countries, including Denmark and Estonia, have reported incidents involving drones and Russian military aircraft intruding into their airspace. Denmark, in particular, has experienced multiple drone-related incidents at its defense facilities and airports, leading Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen to declare that her country is facing a "hybrid war." In addition to the frigate, NATO will also deploy platforms for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance to bolster regional security. 🛳️🛸

Ukrainians in Poland face legal limbo as permits expire

Ukrainians residing in Poland are facing a legal crisis as the law governing their protected status is set to expire. President Karol Nawrocki has yet to sign a bill to renew this legislation, leaving up to a million individuals in a precarious situation. This inaction threatens to push these Ukrainians into a legal limbo, creating uncertainty about their future in Poland. The delay in renewing the law has sparked concerns about the potential impact on the lives of these individuals, many of whom have fled conflict and seek stability in their host country. 🇺🇦🇵🇱⏳

Lavrov warns of ‘decisive response’ to ‘aggression’ as NATO boosts vigilance after drone incidents

Tensions between Russia and NATO are escalating as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned of a "decisive response" to any perceived aggression against Russia. This statement comes amid increased NATO vigilance following several Russian drone and aircraft incursions into the airspace of multiple European countries. Lavrov's remarks at the UN General Assembly emphasized that Russia has no intentions of attacking NATO or EU countries but will retaliate if provoked.

NATO is considering more aggressive responses, including potentially shooting down Russian aircraft that violate its airspace. This move would significantly escalate tensions, as NATO views an attack on one member state as an attack on all. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed support for downing Russian planes, despite previously maintaining warm ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Trump has recently shown frustration with Putin and has not imposed new economic sanctions on Russia.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has received its first US-made Patriot missile defense system from Israel, aiming to bolster its air defenses against daily Russian drone and missile attacks. This development comes as Ukraine continues to face intense Russian offensives, particularly in the eastern regions. The conflict has also led to the prolonged outage of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe's largest, which has been off the grid for four consecutive days due to ongoing attacks and counter-attacks. The situation remains volatile, with both sides accusing the other of disrupting the plant's operations. 💥🏭

Ukraine condemns IAEA chief's visit to Russia, Rosatom meeting

Ukraine has strongly criticized the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for participating in Russia's World Atomic Week forum, accusing the agency of being exploited for Russian propaganda. The IAEA's director general, Rafael Grossi, attended the event in Moscow, which marked the 80th anniversary of Russia's nuclear industry, and met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Rosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev to discuss nuclear safety at the occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Ukraine condemned the forum, stating that it risks "whitewashing" Russia's crimes in nuclear safety and that the IAEA should remain an impartial instrument for preventing nuclear risks. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry highlighted Rosatom's role in the military-industrial complex and its involvement in the occupation of Ukrainian nuclear facilities, particularly the Zaporizhzhia plant, which is now a critical safety concern due to Russian interference and recent power line disruptions. The situation at the plant, Europe's largest nuclear facility, poses a direct threat to nuclear safety in Ukraine and beyond, according to Ukrainian officials and environmental groups. 💥🇷🇺🇺🇦

Belarus proposes building nuclear plant to supply electricity to occupied Ukraine

Belarus has proposed constructing a new nuclear power plant to supply electricity to Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine, as announced by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Lukashenko stated that if a decision is made, construction would commence immediately, with financing secured by a consumer willing to pay the required tariff. The proposed plant could be built either as a third unit at the existing Ostrovets station or in eastern Belarus, with discussions ongoing to determine the final location.

Despite not being directly involved in Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Belarus has provided significant support to Russian military operations. At the start of the conflict, Belarus allowed its territory to be used as a staging ground for Russia's attempted seizure of Kyiv from the south. The proposed nuclear plant underscores the deepening military and economic cooperation between Belarus and Russia, raising concerns about the escalating conflict and its implications for regional stability. 💣🏭

More drones spotted near Danish military bases

Denmark has reported fresh drone sightings over key defense sites, including Skrydstrup Air Base and the Jutland Dragoon Regiment, following a week of widespread drone activity that disrupted major airports. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has described the situation as part of a broader "hybrid war" targeting Europe, with an unidentified "professional actor" suspected to be behind the incidents. The Danish defense ministry has accepted Sweden's offer to provide military anti-drone capabilities ahead of an upcoming EU leaders' meeting in Copenhagen.

Meanwhile, German authorities reported drone sightings in Schleswig-Holstein, near the Danish border, raising suspicions of espionage. The recent events underscore the growing threat of drone-related security breaches in Europe, prompting increased cooperation and defensive measures among neighboring countries. 🛸🛬️

UN Sanctions on Iran Reinstated After a Decade

The United Nations has reinstated sanctions against Iran, freezing its foreign assets and halting arms trade with Tehran. These sanctions were initially suspended in 2015 as part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which included international scrutiny of Iran's nuclear energy research. The reinstatement of sanctions was primarily advocated by France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, who have been engaged in diplomatic efforts to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions. The three countries have warned Iran against escalating actions and emphasized that the reinstatement of sanctions does not signal the end of diplomatic efforts.

The move comes after failed negotiations with Iran on a new agreement to monitor its nuclear energy program. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged UN member states to enforce the sanctions immediately to pressure Iran's leadership into complying with international security standards. Russia and China previously attempted to extend the pause on sanctions but were outvoted by nine of the Security Council's 15 member states. Iran has strongly opposed the reinstatement, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi labeling the sanctions "legally invalid" and President Masoud Pezeshkian describing them as "dishonest, unfair, and illegal." The international community remains divided on the best approach to address Iran's nuclear activities and ensure global security. 🌍🔒

UN sanctions on Iran set to resume after push for delay fails

Starting Sunday, Iran will face the reimposition of United Nations sanctions due to its nuclear program, following the failure of a last-minute effort to delay these measures. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom have spearheaded the push to reinstate the sanctions, which were originally lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal that subsequently collapsed when the U.S. withdrew three years later. In response, Iran has recalled its ambassadors from Berlin, Paris, and London.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has strongly condemned the renewal of these sweeping economic and military sanctions, labeling them as "unfair, unjust, and illegal." He has accused foreign powers of seeking to destabilize the region, highlighting the escalating tensions between Iran and Western nations. The reinstatement of these sanctions is expected to have significant economic and political repercussions for Iran and the broader Middle East. 🇮🇷💥

Russian attacks kill 2, injure 36 in Ukraine over past day

In the past 24 hours, Russian attacks across various Ukrainian regions resulted in the deaths of at least two civilians and injuries to at least 36 others, according to regional authorities. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 97 out of 115 drones launched by Russia, including Shahed and Gerbera types, as well as decoy drones. Despite these efforts, 17 drones struck six locations, and debris fell in two additional areas.

In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, six people, including an 86-year-old woman and an 88-year-old man, were injured in the Nikopol district. Donetsk Oblast saw one fatality and nine injuries, with incidents reported in Kostiantynivka, Druzhkivka, Siversk, and Serhiivka. Kharkiv Oblast experienced injuries to six women, with damage to 12 houses, a store, a business, a car, a bus, and power lines. In Kherson Oblast, one person was killed, and 12 were injured, with extensive damage to residential buildings, stores, and vehicles.

Sumy Oblast reported two injuries from 64 Russian attacks on 29 settlements. Zaporizhzhia Oblast had one injury, while Vinnytsia Oblast suffered damage to critical infrastructure from an overnight strike. The relentless attacks underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international support to protect Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. 💥🏙️🇺🇦

Unidentified drones reportedly spotted in Denmark, Lithuania, Finland

Over the past week, several NATO member states have reported incursions by unidentified drones into their airspace, heightening tensions and prompting a robust response from the alliance. Denmark, Lithuania, and Finland have all detected suspicious drone activity near critical infrastructure and military facilities. In Denmark, drones were spotted near key air force bases, leading to the deployment of several military units. Lithuania experienced delays at Vilnius Airport due to drones flying nearby, while Finland reported a drone over a power plant in Rovaniemi.

These incidents follow a pattern of increased Russian military activity near NATO borders, with recent violations reported in Estonia, Poland, and Romania. Denmark, in particular, has faced multiple drone-related disruptions, including the temporary closure of Aalborg Airport and Copenhagen Airport. Danish authorities have not yet determined the origin of the drones but have not ruled out a potential Russian connection.

In response to these provocations, NATO has announced plans to enhance its Baltic Sea operations. The alliance will deploy additional military assets, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms, as well as at least one air-defense frigate. This escalation comes amid a backdrop of heightened Russian military activity, including incursions by Russian jets and drones into allied airspace. The alliance has reinforced its Eastern Sentry mission to counter these growing threats, demonstrating its commitment to defending member states and maintaining regional stability. 🛩️🌐

Russia loses bid for UN aviation authority council seat

Russia's bid to regain its seat on the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) governing council failed due to strong opposition from the European Union. The EU's stance was driven by Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine and its past actions, including the illegal seizure of leased aircraft and the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, which resulted in 298 fatalities. The ICAO Council had previously removed Russia from its 36-member council in 2022 due to these violations.

The EU's position was clear: it is unacceptable for a state that endangers air passenger safety and violates international rules to hold a seat on the organization's governing body. Despite falling short of the required support, a Russian official immediately called for a repeat round of voting, underscoring the contentious nature of the situation. The failed attempt highlights the ongoing diplomatic tensions and the international community's efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions. 🛬️🇷🇺

Tallinn supports innovative education projects in Ukraine

Yesterday, Tallinn Mayor Jevgeni Ossinovski met with Halyna Shymanska, Acting Mayor of Zhytomyr, and Valentyn Arendarchuk, Head of Zhytomyr’s Department of Education, to discuss educational cooperation between the two cities. The meeting highlighted the importance of supporting Ukrainian youth's education during crises, with Tallinn emphasizing long-term and diverse cooperation. Tallinn has already provided material assistance to Ukraine and is committed to sharing ideas, experiences, and expertise.

One key initiative is the EDUHUB education innovation project, launching this summer, which will establish a methodology center in the Zhytomyr region to enhance early childhood education, support teacher development, and foster children’s creative and scientific thinking, as well as first aid skills. Additionally, the kood/Zhytomyr project brings Estonia’s renowned IT education model to Ukraine, supporting adult retraining and digital skill development. Tallinn contributed computers to this project, delivered to Zhytomyr Polytechnic University in June.

Tallinn is also exploring expanded cooperation with other Ukrainian cities, particularly in civil protection practices, sustainable urban management, and EU integration. The city has supported Ukraine since 2022 and launched a dedicated Ukraine program this year, combining humanitarian aid and development cooperation to aid post-war recovery and EU integration. 🇪🇺🇺🇦

Moody’s: Greece’s bad-loan front remains open

Greece's credit conditions, while improved in recent years, remain a concern for its economic prospects and banking sector, according to Moody's. The rating agency highlights that although nonperforming exposures (NPEs) have significantly decreased, they still pose challenges. Banks have offloaded €41.2 billion in NPEs since 2020, reducing them to €6 billion or 3.8% of total loans. However, approximately €78.3 billion in nonperforming loans remain with servicers, impacting the overall credit assessment.

Despite these improvements, Moody's maintains a negative outlook on Greece's credit conditions due to the untested nature of new loans issued during the economic recovery. While banks have started granting new loans, amounting to around €12.6 billion between June 2024 and June 2025, these loans have not yet been evaluated through a complete economic cycle. This uncertainty contributes to the negative assessment. Nevertheless, Moody's expects that the resilience of the business sector and loans related to Recovery Fund projects will help mitigate risks and support the growth of banks' performing loan portfolios. The economic recovery and positive effects of the Recovery Fund are seen as key factors in offsetting potential vulnerabilities. 📉🏦

Abuse of state positions

Civil servants entrusted with managing public infrastructure must not exploit their positions to advance personal or unionist agendas, particularly when public safety is at stake. This principle is especially crucial for the Civil Aviation Service, where the integrity of operations directly impacts public safety. The country has previously suffered significant consequences due to such misconduct, and it is imperative to prevent a recurrence of these antisocial behaviors. Upholding the integrity of public service roles is essential to maintain trust and ensure the well-being of all citizens. 🛬️🚨

Ukraine to begin search and exhumation in Poland at suspected mass grave of WWII soldiers

Poland and Ukraine have taken a significant step in addressing their shared historical traumas by agreeing to allow exhumation work at suspected mass grave sites. Starting September 30, a Ukrainian research team will begin excavations in the Polish village of Jureczkowa, near the Ukrainian border, to search for the remains of approximately 20 members of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) who were killed resisting forced deportation at the end of World War II.

This development follows a diplomatic breakthrough earlier this year, which saw Ukraine lift a ban on exhuming ethnic Poles massacred by the UPA during the war. The agreement marks a new phase in Ukrainian-Polish relations, focusing on historical memory and mutual respect. Ukraine has identified 13 potential exhumation sites in Poland, with two already approved for excavation. One of these sites is the former village of Puzhnyky, where the remains of at least 42 people have been found and reburied in a ceremony attended by officials from both countries.

The UPA's role in the Volhynia massacres, which resulted in the deaths of around 100,000 ethnic Poles, has long been a contentious issue between the two nations. Despite this history, both countries have shown a commitment to addressing these painful chapters through cooperation and dialogue. The upcoming expedition to Jureczkowa, funded by Ukraine, is a testament to this ongoing effort to heal old wounds and foster a stronger, more understanding relationship between Poland and Ukraine. 🇵🇱🇺🇦