Newsflash

'Confirmation of Kremlin state policy' — Ukraine slams Russia's withdrawal from torture prevention convention

Ukraine has strongly condemned Russia's decision to withdraw from the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture, a move that Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets described as a clear indication of the Kremlin's embrace of torture as state policy. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law denouncing the convention and its additional protocols, effectively ending Russia's participation in a critical international mechanism designed to prevent torture and inhuman treatment.

Lubinets asserted that Russia's withdrawal confirms its status as a repressive and murderous state, where torture and inhumane treatment are systemic practices. The decision to denounce the convention comes after Russia lost its representative on the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture in 2023, following its exclusion from the Council of Europe in March 2022. Despite this, Russia had remained a formal party to the convention, providing some legal grounds for international pressure. With the withdrawal, this possibility has been lost, further isolating Russia from international oversight.

The move is seen as a deliberate attempt by Moscow to avoid international scrutiny and to dismantle mechanisms that could address torture in Russian prisons and occupied territories, where Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians are held. Russia's withdrawal is particularly alarming given the well-documented instances of war crimes and torture committed against Ukrainian civilians and troops during the ongoing conflict. The convention had established a preventive mechanism allowing for regular and unannounced visits to detention facilities to assess conditions and treatment of detainees, a mechanism that Russia has consistently undermined by refusing cooperation and barring experts from entering the country. The absence of Red Cross visits to Ukrainian POWs in Russian captivity further underscores the dire conditions faced by detainees, with over 200 Ukrainian soldiers reported to have died in Russian prisons since the start of the full-scale war. 🇷🇺🇺🇦🔍

The Trump Revolution intends to stay

The political landscape in the United States is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by Donald Trump and his allies, who appear intent on establishing a lasting regime rather than operating within the traditional democratic framework. This shift is evident in their approach to the judiciary, institutions, and political norms, all of which seem to be reshaped to cater to Trump's agenda. The Supreme Court, now dominated by six conservative justices appointed during Trump's first term, has made pivotal decisions that align with Trump's interests, such as overturning federal abortion rights and granting the president immunity from prosecution for official acts. This judicial behavior suggests a willingness to undermine democratic checks and balances, indicating a belief that they will never face accountability.

The Trump administration's actions, from prosecuting political adversaries to extrajudicial killings and mass deportations, reflect a system designed to serve the president's whims. The contrast between the meticulous investigations of Trump's past actions and the current administration's swift and unchecked power is stark. With key institutions and political parties either supporting or unable to resist Trump's influence, the path to autocracy becomes clearer. The erosion of democratic norms is gradual but steady, with more individuals rallying to prevent a return to the previous order. Resistance to this trend must occur while credible media and responsible officials are still in place, as delaying action could lead to irreversible changes.

Moldova’s election result bolsters move towards EU and away from Moscow

Moldova's recent parliamentary election has strengthened the country's trajectory towards European integration and away from Russian influence. The ruling Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) secured a significant lead over its pro-Russian rivals, solidifying Moldova's status as an EU candidate nation. The high-stakes vote, held amidst tensions and accusations of Russian interference, saw a series of incidents that underscored the political stakes. With the final results in, Moldova appears poised to deepen its ties with the EU, further distancing itself from Moscow's sphere of influence. This shift is expected to have significant implications for the region, particularly as Moldova shares a border with Ukraine, which is currently engaged in a protracted conflict with Russia. 🇲🇩🇪🇺

Germany to deliver 2 Patriot systems to Ukraine by 2026, Pistorius says

Germany has committed to delivering two additional Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine by the end of 2025, as announced by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius at the Warsaw Security Forum. This move comes in response to Ukraine's repeated requests for advanced air defense capabilities to protect its cities and infrastructure from Russian missile and drone attacks. The recent Russian assault, involving over 580 drones and 40 missiles, highlighted the urgent need for enhanced air defense.

The Patriot system, a U.S.-made air defense battery, is renowned for its ability to intercept ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as aircraft. It comprises radar units, a fire control center, missile launchers, and essential support equipment. Each battery typically includes between four and eight launchers, depending on its configuration. Despite their effectiveness, these advanced systems are in high demand and have long production lead times for some components.

Germany's decision to supply more Patriot systems to Ukraine is supported by Norway and is part of a broader effort to bolster Ukraine's defenses. Pistorius assured that Berlin has secured commitments from the U.S. manufacturer to replenish German stockpiles swiftly, ensuring that Germany can fulfill its NATO obligations while aiding Ukraine. This initiative underscores the international community's ongoing support for Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. 🛡️🇺🇦

Russian attacks kill 3, injure 76 in Ukraine over past day

Russian attacks on Ukraine over the past day resulted in the deaths of at least three civilians and injuries to at least 76 others, according to regional authorities. The assault involved 32 Shahed-type drones and decoys launched from Bryansk, Orel, and Primorsk-Akhtarsk in Russia. Ukraine’s air defenses and electronic warfare systems intercepted 23 drones, but nine managed to reach their targets in eight locations.

In Kharkiv Oblast, a Russian strike in the village of Slatyne killed a 44-year-old man and injured a 41-year-old woman and a 14-year-old girl. Additionally, a 79-year-old man was killed in Borshchova, and a 67-year-old woman was injured in Shevchenkove. In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, a drone attack in the Mezhova community injured a 44-year-old man, and another strike in the village of Mezhova district resulted in the death of a woman.

Zaporizhzhia Oblast saw 49 injuries due to Russian attacks, with 696 strikes targeting 17 localities. Donetsk Oblast reported 11 injuries, including five in Kostiantynivka and five in Oleksiievo-Druzhkivka. Sumy Oblast experienced drone attacks that injured a 42-year-old woman and two men in the Konotop community, three women in Seredyna-Buda, and a 65-year-old woman in Buryn. In Kherson Oblast, Russia targeted 34 settlements, including the regional center of Kherson, resulting in five injuries. The relentless attacks underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international intervention. 💥🏠

Orban says Ukraine 'is not a sovereign country' following alleged Hungarian drone incursion

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban sparked controversy by asserting that Ukraine is not a sovereign state, following allegations that Hungarian drones had violated Ukrainian airspace. Orban's comments came in response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's claim that Hungarian reconnaissance drones had breached Ukraine's border. While Budapest denied the accusations, Orban acknowledged the possibility of drones crossing into Ukrainian territory, dismissing the significance by stating, "Ukraine is not an independent country, not a sovereign country."

Orban's remarks have been met with strong criticism, particularly from Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who accused Orban of being influenced by Russian propaganda. Orban, known for his pro-Russian stance, has consistently opposed sanctions and aid to Ukraine and blocked Kyiv's EU accession efforts. Ukraine has lost approximately 20% of its territory to Russian occupation, including Crimea, parts of the Donbas region, and additional areas seized during the full-scale invasion in 2022.

The dispute highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with Orban's dependence on Russian energy and his alignment with Kremlin interests contrasting sharply with the Western support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. 🇭🇺🇷🇺

Moldova's elections closely watched by Brussels and EU

Moldova's recent elections drew intense scrutiny from the European Union, marked by a series of incidents and allegations of Russian interference. The tense voting process highlighted the geopolitical stakes, with the EU closely monitoring the situation. The elections underscored the delicate balance Moldova must maintain amidst external pressures, as it navigates its path towards greater European integration while contending with geopolitical tensions. The outcome of these elections will significantly influence Moldova's future trajectory, with implications for its security, economic development, and democratic governance. 📢🇪🇺🇲🇩

Ukraine war latest: Russian military-linked factory in Bryansk Oblast hit with Neptune missiles, Kyiv says

Ukrainian forces have intensified their counteroffensive, striking a military-linked factory in Russia’s Bryansk Oblast and destroying a Russian Mi-28N helicopter in Donetsk Oblast. On September 29, Ukrainian missile and artillery forces, in coordination with other military branches, targeted the Elektrodetal factory in Karachev, which produces electrical connectors for both military and industrial use. The strike, conducted using Neptune cruise missiles, caused explosions and a fire, with the full extent of the damage still under assessment. The factory is approximately 240 kilometers from the strike location, demonstrating Ukraine’s extended reach.

In Donetsk Oblast, a Ukrainian FPV drone successfully downed a Russian Mi-28N helicopter near the village of Kotliarivka. This attack highlights the effectiveness of Ukraine’s unmanned systems in targeting Russian military assets. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces have encircled several Russian units near Dobropillia, recapturing significant territory and inflicting heavy casualties on Russian troops. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that Ukrainian forces have liberated 175 square kilometers and cleared an additional 195 square kilometers of sabotage groups, with Russian losses amounting to 3,185 personnel and 969 units of military equipment.

In response to its ongoing military challenges, Russia has announced plans to draft 135,000 men during the autumn conscription, which will run from October 1 to December 31. While officials assure that conscripts will serve only within Russian territory, independent reports suggest that many face pressure to sign contracts leading to deployment in Ukraine. This conscription drive underscores the escalating tensions and the significant resources both sides are committing to the conflict. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

Eurosystem ready to gear up for digital euro

The Eurosystem, the monetary authority overseeing the euro area, is poised to expedite the launch of a digital euro once approved and the necessary legislation is enacted. Bank of Greece Governor Yannis Stournaras announced this readiness at the Cryptocurrency Research Conference at the University of Athens, highlighting that the European Union is nearing the end of its political discussions on the digital euro's legislative package.

The digital euro aims to provide universal access to retail payments, fostering social inclusion and offering a secure, reliable alternative for everyday transactions. Operating under strict, transparent public supervision, it will ensure availability even during crises or geopolitical disruptions, maintaining the continuity of financial transactions. Additionally, the digital euro is expected to spur innovation among banks and payment institutions, presenting new opportunities for the financial sector. As central banks monitor the use of cryptocurrencies in payments, they also recognize the importance of embracing new technologies to offer consumers more attractive and secure solutions. 💳💻

Face à la menace de Poutine, les dirigeants européens poussent pour remodeler l’UE

The escalating provocations from Vladimir Putin and the limited attention from Donald Trump are compelling the European Union to undergo a profound transformation. This shift will be evident during the upcoming summit of European leaders, where the EU's future direction will be a central focus. The threats looming over the Copenhagen summit are particularly alarming. Russian fighter jets have breached NATO airspace, prompting public statements from Trump and European leaders about the possibility of shooting them down. Additionally, Copenhagen's airport, where numerous leaders and officials will convene, experienced significant disruptions last week due to mysterious drones, which Denmark classified as a "hybrid attack."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, a former German defense minister, is advocating for an unprecedented discussion on the EU's military capabilities during the summit, extending beyond traditional topics like international trade, competition, and economics. Proposed initiatives include the establishment of a "drone wall" to detect, track, and neutralize drones, as well as projects to swiftly counter unauthorized aircraft entering European airspace. This strategic pivot underscores the EU's urgent need to bolster its defense mechanisms in response to evolving security challenges. 🛡️🇪🇺

Marketing in the age of AI search: why citations beat clicks

The landscape of search and digital marketing is undergoing a seismic shift with the rise of generative AI, which is transforming how users find information and how brands gain visibility. Traditional SEO and click-based metrics are becoming obsolete as AI-driven platforms like Google’s AI Overviews, ChatGPT, and Perplexity provide users with direct answers, often without the need for further clicks. This shift means brands must now focus on being cited within AI-generated responses to remain relevant.

The impact is significant: click-through rates for top organic search results can plummet when AI Overviews are present, and a growing number of users rely on AI assistants for their searches. Brands that are not mentioned in these AI responses risk being overlooked entirely. Salesforce and HOKA exemplify successful strategies: Salesforce’s extensive digital footprint across trusted sources and HOKA’s cultivation of reviews and media coverage have made them prominent in AI-generated answers.

To thrive in this new environment, brands must adapt their marketing and PR strategies. This involves ensuring that AI crawlers can access their content, auditing their current AI visibility, and publishing content on high-authority platforms where AI models frequently source information. Structuring content for machine readability, with clear headings and extractable facts, is also crucial. Traditional SEO practices remain important, as they continue to feed into AI visibility.

Measuring success in this new paradigm requires new metrics, such as Share of AI Voice, AI Visibility Score, and tracking AI referral traffic. These metrics help quantify a brand’s presence in AI-generated responses and assess the quality and sentiment of those mentions. As AI search usage continues to grow, brands that adapt early will establish themselves as default answers, making it challenging for competitors to dislodge their names from AI-generated responses. In this era of generative search, the ultimate goal for brands is to secure citations within AI-generated content, ensuring they remain visible and relevant in the eyes of users. 📈🤖

'A large defeat' for Moscow: Moldovan pro-EU party victorious despite Russian attempts to sway vote

Moldova's ruling pro-European Union party celebrated a significant election victory, securing the country's continued alignment with the EU despite substantial interference from Russia. The government and its allies asserted that Moscow had made extensive efforts to influence the election outcome. Boris Najman, an Associate Professor of Economy at University Paris EST Créteil and a former advisor to the Ukrainian Government, described the result as a major setback for Russia. This victory underscores Moldova's commitment to its pro-EU trajectory, despite external pressures. 🇲🇩🇷🇺

‘So what?’ Orbán says spy drone incursion into Ukraine was no big deal.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán of Hungary has publicly challenged Ukraine's sovereignty and downplayed allegations that Hungarian reconnaissance drones violated Ukrainian airspace. In a recent podcast produced by his Fidesz party, Orbán dismissed the significance of the drones' alleged incursions, stating, "Let’s suppose they flew a few meters in there [Ukraine], and so what?" He went on to assert that Ukraine is not truly independent or sovereign, suggesting that Western financial support is the sole factor keeping the country afloat. Orbán's remarks have sparked controversy and raised concerns about Hungary's stance on Ukraine's territorial integrity and independence. 🇭🇺🇺🇦

Erdogan, the world, and us

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's transformation from a neighborhood politician to a powerful leader has significantly shaped his international relations, particularly with Greece. His time in the opulent Turkish Presidential Palace has altered his worldview, leading him to see himself as an equal to global leaders like Trump, Putin, and Xi. Erdogan's Turkey has expanded its geopolitical influence into Africa and the Middle East, and he perceives himself as having complete control over his country, facing no significant opposition.

This shift has created a stark asymmetry between Turkey and Greece, with Erdogan viewing Greek islands in the Aegean as part of Turkey's rightful territory. This perspective, which includes claims to a "cluster" of Greek islands east of the so-called median line, is seen as logical within the Turkish elite's mindset. Understanding Erdogan's worldview is crucial for grasping his actions and the growing asymmetry between the two nations. This dynamic is likely to persist unless Turkey's ambitions lead to overreach and potential collapse. 🌍🇹🇷🇬🇷

Estonia pledges support for Moldova’s EU path after election

Estonia's top politicians have expressed strong support for Moldova following the decisive victory of the pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) in the country's parliamentary elections. Led by President Maia Sandu, PAS secured an overwhelming 50% of the vote, significantly outpacing the pro-Russian Patriotic Electoral Bloc, which garnered less than 25% of the ballots. Sandu had previously warned of "massive Russian interference" and emphasized the critical nature of the election for Moldova's future. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas hailed the result as a "convincing victory," underscoring that Moldovans have "clearly chosen their European future." This outcome signals a significant step towards European integration for Moldova, bolstered by the backing of key European allies. 🇪🇪🇲🇩🇪🇺

Ukrainian journalist who was jailed by Russia wins Vaclav Havel rights prize

Ukrainian journalist and human rights activist Maksym Butkevych has been honored with the 2025 Václav Havel Human Rights Prize. Butkevych, co-founder of the independent Hromadske radio station and the ZMINA human rights center in Kyiv, was imprisoned by Russian forces for over a year. He was captured in June 2022 while serving in the Ukrainian army and was subsequently convicted of war crimes in Russian-controlled eastern Ukraine, receiving a 13-year prison sentence. Butkevych was released during a prisoner exchange in October 2024.

The Council of Europe presented the award, recognizing Butkevych's courage and advocacy for human rights amidst the ongoing conflict. Theodoros Rousopoulos, head of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, highlighted the increasing dangers faced by journalists, noting that 171 journalists were detained in Europe at the start of the year, including at least 26 Ukrainians held by Russian forces. The Václav Havel Prize, named after the late Czech dissident and playwright, celebrates individuals who champion human rights and democracy. Previous recipients include Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado and Russian activist Vladimir Kara-Murza. Butkevych's award underscores the critical role of journalists in promoting freedom and human rights, even in the face of severe adversity. 🏆📰

Tsipras political memoir imminent amid talk of comeback

Former Greek Prime Minister and ex-leader of the leftist SYRIZA party, Alexis Tsipras, is set to publish a political memoir by early December. The book, completed recently, offers an insider's perspective on Greece's tumultuous political and economic landscape during his tenure from 2015 to 2019. Tsipras delves into behind-the-scenes details of the Greek debt-crisis negotiations, previously undisclosed conversations with foreign leaders, and the contentious decisions that shaped his time in office, including the 2015 bailout referendum and Greece's exit from the bailout-linked memoranda in 2018.

The memoir, titled "My Compass," provides a critical and self-reflective evaluation of Tsipras's key choices and the aftermath of his resignation following two electoral defeats in 2019. It also addresses the internal party crisis that ensued and outlines his vision for the future of the Left, the progressive movement, and Greece. The book is expected to be a significant contribution to the political discourse, offering insights into one of the most turbulent periods in post-dictatorship Greek history. Tsipras's political comeback is widely anticipated, adding further intrigue to the forthcoming publication. 📚🇬🇷

White House Unveils 20-Point Plan for Gaza Peace

A comprehensive peace proposal for Gaza aims to transform the region into a deradicalized, terror-free zone that benefits its residents and ensures security for neighboring countries. Key points include an immediate ceasefire upon agreement from both Israel and Hamas, with Israeli forces withdrawing to a designated line pending the release of hostages. Within 72 hours of Israel's public acceptance, all living and deceased hostages will be returned, followed by the release of Palestinian prisoners.

The agreement outlines the establishment of a temporary, apolitical transitional government in Gaza, overseen by a peace council led by President Donald Trump and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. This government will focus on rebuilding infrastructure, distributing aid, and fostering economic development. A security guarantee will be provided by regional partners, and the U.S. will cooperate with international allies to deploy a stabilization force in Gaza. This force will oversee security, train a Palestinian police force, and strengthen border areas.

The proposal emphasizes the demilitarization of Gaza, with the destruction of offensive military infrastructure and the commitment of new leaders to peaceful coexistence. An inter-religious dialogue will be established to promote tolerance and peaceful narratives. As reconstruction progresses and reforms are implemented, the conditions may be set for Palestinian self-determination and the establishment of a recognized Palestinian state. The ultimate goal is to create a stable, prosperous Gaza that contributes to regional peace and security. 🤝🏙️

Netanyahu Apologizes to Qatar for Attack, Faces Criticism from Smotrich

Israel's recent attack on a Hamas negotiating delegation in Doha has sparked controversy and condemnation. The strike, which resulted in the deaths of five individuals, was directed at Hamas representatives and has been widely criticized internationally. Until now, Israel has staunchly defended its actions, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu even threatening further strikes against countries that harbor terrorists. In a defiant speech, Netanyahu declared that nations must expel or prosecute terrorist groups, warning that Israel would take action if they failed to do so.

However, the Israeli government's stance has been challenged from within, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich publicly criticizing an apology issued by the government. Smotrich, known for his more extreme views, labeled the apology a "shame" in a post on X, highlighting the internal divisions within the Israeli cabinet. The incident has further complicated the delicate diplomatic landscape in the region, with Israel's actions and rhetoric drawing sharp rebukes from various international actors. 🇮🇱💥

Police bust long-running smuggling ring using tourist buses

Greek authorities have dismantled a sophisticated smuggling operation that has been active since 2012, resulting in the arrest of 10 individuals in Thessaloniki. The criminal ring was responsible for smuggling alcoholic beverages and illegal pesticides into Greece, causing annual state losses exceeding €150,000 due to unpaid taxes and duties. The investigation began after reports of illegal plant protection products being promoted to agricultural supply stores nationwide.

The smugglers employed a clever tactic, utilizing hidden compartments in foreign-registered tourist buses to transport their illicit goods undetected through customs and border controls. Upon entering Greece, the contraband was collected by members in Thessaloniki and Athens, stored at secret locations, and sold at an average price of €10 per bottle. To avoid detection, the group used coded language in their communications, referring to alcoholic beverages with terms like "water," "goat," and color-coded words related to bottle colors.

The operation involved a 60-year-old alleged leader who coordinated activities despite previous legal restrictions, several drivers responsible for transporting and unloading goods, and a foreign company owner who provided the buses. Other associates assisted in storage, sales, and logistics, while a foreign travel agency employee aided in delivering products to drivers. Police searches led to the seizure of a significant amount of alcohol, counterfeit plant protection products, cash, firearms, ammunition, knives, drones, fireworks, electronic devices, and handwritten notes.

The suspects have been handed over to the Thessaloniki Criminal Courts prosecutor for further investigation. The Chemical Service of Central Macedonia and the Regional Center for Plant Protection, Quality, and Phytosanitary Control of Thessaloniki have been tasked with analyzing the seized goods. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and protect national borders. 🚨🚔🚍