Newsflash

SBU records nearly 50,000 Shahed drone launches against Ukraine since 2022

Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has documented nearly 50,000 launches of Iranian-designed Shahed drones by Russian forces. These attacks have resulted in the deaths of 253 civilians and injuries to 1,524 others, with more than 1,600 criminal cases registered for strikes on civilian infrastructure. The drones have primarily targeted non-military sites, causing significant damage to residential buildings and other protected facilities. 🏠💥

A recent drone attack on the city of Dnipro, for instance, killed one person and injured at least 28, including a 10-year-old boy and a 17-year-old girl. Twelve individuals were hospitalized following the strike. Russia's military doctrine initially lacked a clear structure for commanding drone operations, but specific units are now being formed to address this gap.

Ukrainian officials are working with intelligence partners to identify and pursue individuals responsible for these attacks, aiming for accountability under international law. The use of Shahed drones highlights the evolving nature of modern warfare and the urgent need for effective countermeasures and international cooperation to protect civilian populations. 🌍🛡️

Following stunning victory, the real challenge now begins for Moldova’s pro-EU party: Governing

In the wake of a historic election victory for Moldova’s pro-European governing party, the country stands at a pivotal moment in its history. Once overshadowed by larger powers, Moldova now finds itself in the global spotlight, navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of Eastern Europe. The decisive win marks a significant shift in a region often divided along east-west lines, raising questions about the future of European integration and democratic governance.

The victory presents both opportunities and challenges. The pro-European party must now translate its electoral success into effective governance, addressing the deep-seated issues that have long plagued the nation. This includes tackling corruption, fostering economic growth, and strengthening democratic institutions. The path forward is fraught with obstacles, but the potential rewards—a more stable, prosperous, and integrated Moldova—are immense. 🌍🏛️

France investigates oil tanker listed under Russia 'shadow fleet' sanctions

French authorities are investigating a Benin-flagged oil tanker, the Boracay, which is listed under EU and UK sanctions against Russia. The vessel, previously named Kiwala and Pushpa, is suspected of transporting Russian crude oil and engaging in high-risk shipping practices. The investigation was launched after a suspected infraction was reported to the public prosecutor's office in Brest. The tanker is part of Russia's "shadow fleet," a group of aging vessels with obscure ownership and insurance, often used to circumvent sanctions. The Boracay was previously detained in Estonia for sailing without a valid country flag but was released in April. It is currently anchored off France’s Atlantic coast near Saint Nazaire. The vessel's activities are believed to support Russia's oil trade and potentially destabilize Ukraine. 🛢️🚨

Ukraine war latest: Poland detains Ukrainian suspected of Nord Stream sabotage

In recent developments, Poland has detained a Ukrainian citizen, Volodymyr Z., suspected of involvement in the sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines. The suspect, apprehended in Pruszkow, is wanted under a European arrest warrant issued by a German court. Meanwhile, Ukraine's military reported that a Ukrainian FPV drone successfully destroyed a Russian Mi-8 helicopter in Donetsk Oblast, highlighting the ongoing conflict's technological and tactical dimensions. Additionally, Ukraine's intelligence services claimed responsibility for an operation that killed a Russian lieutenant colonel and two other service members in the North Caucasus, demonstrating Ukraine's ability to strike far from the front lines.

The European Union has pledged over $2 billion to support Ukraine's drone capabilities, aiming to enhance regional air defense and deter Russian provocations. This investment is part of broader efforts to strengthen the EU's eastern flank and bolster military support for Ukraine. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his call for a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin to resolve the conflict, although the Kremlin has consistently refused ceasefire calls and escalated attacks on Ukrainian cities. The situation remains tense, with both sides experiencing heavy losses and no immediate diplomatic resolution in sight. 🇺🇦🇷🇺✈️💥

'Classic false-flag operation' — Kyiv denounces Russian allegations of Ukrainian provocations in Poland

Ukraine has strongly refuted recent allegations by Russian intelligence, dismissing claims of planned Ukrainian provocations in Poland as a "classic false-flag operation." The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service had accused Ukraine of preparing a sabotage and reconnaissance group to stage incidents on Polish territory, involving fighters from the "Freedom of Russia Legion" and Belarus's K. Kalinouski Regiment. Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation, however, views these accusations as an attempt by Russia to create an "information alibi" and lay the groundwork for potential future actions.

Alina Alieksieieva, deputy head of the center, suggested that Russia aims to test NATO's response, instill fear in European societies, and diminish support for Ukraine. She emphasized that any Russian attempt to use sabotage groups or probe the Polish border would likely strengthen NATO's resolve. The center described the Russian scenario as "doomed to fail," asserting that NATO partners are fully aware of Russia's true intentions behind such provocations.

Recent weeks have seen increased tensions in Europe, with repeated violations of NATO airspace by Russian drones and aircraft. Poland and Romania have both reported incidents, with Poland shooting down Russian drones during a mass strike on Ukraine. Additionally, three Russian MiG-31 jets entered Estonian airspace, prompting Tallinn to invoke NATO consultations under Article 4. These incidents underscore the heightened geopolitical tensions and the ongoing efforts by Russia to destabilize the region. 🛬️🇷🇺🇵🇱

Serbia arrests 11 people for placing pig heads at mosques in France

In a significant operation, Serbian authorities have apprehended 11 individuals suspected of orchestrating a series of provocative and anti-Semitic acts across Europe. The group is accused of placing pig heads outside at least nine mosques in and around Paris, France, as well as targeting Jewish sites with green paint and concrete "skeletons." The incidents, which occurred this month, included vandalism at the Holocaust Museum, several synagogues, and a Jewish restaurant in Paris. Additionally, the group is suspected of placing concrete "skeletons" in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. Investigations suggest that the suspects acted under the direction of a foreign intelligence service, raising concerns about international involvement in these hate crimes. The arrests highlight the ongoing efforts to combat extremism and protect religious and cultural sites across Europe. 🚔🕍

Defense minister presents reform plan for armed forces personnel

Defense Minister Nikos Dendias unveiled a comprehensive reform plan for Greece's armed forces, introducing sweeping changes to ranks, compensation, education, conscription, reserves, and voluntary service for women. The draft law marks a significant shift, allowing women aged 20–26 to enlist voluntarily for a 12-month term, with incentives including recognition of service as professional work experience and priority in public sector hiring.

The reform establishes a new ranking structure and promotion system, along with a revised salary scale featuring higher allowances and average pay increases ranging from 13% to 24%. Conscription will remain at 12 months, with a 9-month option for those serving in strategic locations like Evros, the Aegean islands, and special units. Monthly compensation for conscripts in frontline posts will significantly increase from €8.80 to €100, and training will be modernized to include combat simulators, drone operations, and specialized skills.

Additionally, the plan modernizes the reserve forces, creating an active reserve of 150,000 personnel with service extended up to the age of 60. These reforms aim to enhance the capabilities and attractiveness of Greece's armed forces, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet contemporary security challenges. 🇬🇷🏛️

Ukraine evacuates 57 people from Gaza, ministry says

Ukraine successfully evacuated 57 individuals from the Gaza Strip in a daring operation conducted on September 29-30. The mission, led by the Ukrainian military intelligence, included 48 Ukrainian citizens and nine Palestinians, two of whom were wounded. The evacuation took place amidst ongoing conflict, adding significant challenges to the operation. Ukrainian military medics provided crucial medical assistance during the extraction.

The evacuees were transported to Chisinau, Moldova, where they will continue their journey home. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed gratitude to officials in Israel, Jordan, and Moldova for their support in securing the transit route and resolving logistical issues. This evacuation was carried out under the direct orders of the Ukrainian president, aiming to ensure the safety of Ukrainian citizens in dangerous regions of the Middle East. The operation is part of a series of evacuation missions Ukraine has conducted in the region. 🇺🇦🛬️

Finland to help protect Danish airspace from drones

Finland is set to bolster Denmark's airspace security during crucial European meetings this week. The Finnish Defence Ministry announced that a specialized military unit, capable of identifying and countering drone threats, will be deployed to Denmark. This move comes in response to Denmark's request for assistance amid a series of drone sightings near airports and military targets, which have led to temporary airport closures in both Denmark and Norway.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, who will represent Finland at the meetings, expressed satisfaction with Finland's ability to support Denmark in this time of need. The Finnish unit, consisting of approximately 40 personnel, will have the authority to use force if necessary, although the decision to shoot down drones will ultimately rest with the Danish authorities. Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen emphasized that Finland's participation sends a strong message of support to a fellow Nordic country and NATO ally, highlighting Finland's expertise in countering drone threats. Denmark has temporarily banned civilian drones to enhance security during this period. 🇫🇮🇩🇰🛬️

Czechia bans entry for unaccredited Russian diplomats

The Czech Republic has implemented a significant security measure by banning entry for Russian diplomats and holders of official passports who lack national accreditation from Prague. This decision, announced by Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky, aims to counter the escalating espionage and hybrid operations conducted by Russia and its ally Belarus across Europe. These activities are designed to destabilize Ukraine's supporters within the EU and NATO.

Lipavsky emphasized that the ban applies at international airports and is a response to the increasing threat of sabotage operations. He stated that Czechia will not tolerate agents operating under diplomatic cover and aims to set an example for other countries, particularly within the Schengen Area. This move underscores Czechia's commitment to defending its national security and sovereignty.

The Czech action follows similar measures taken by other European nations. On September 9, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced the arrest of a Belarusian spy and the expulsion of a Belarusian diplomat accused of aiding hostile activities against Poland. Additionally, Estonia expelled a senior Russian diplomat in August for allegedly attempting to undermine the country's constitutional order and legal system. These incidents highlight the broader trend of European countries expelling Russian and Belarusian officials suspected of subversive activities or espionage since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. 🇷🇺🕵️‍♂️🚫

Solution to Gaza conflict “within reach,” says Germany’s Wadephul

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, at a meeting with his Polish, French, and Ukrainian counterparts in Warsaw, expressed optimism that a resolution to the war in Gaza is "within reach" thanks to ongoing U.S. efforts. He urged both Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas to embrace U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan, emphasizing the need for all parties to show courage and take decisive steps towards peace. Wadephul stressed the importance of ending the conflict and securing the release of hostages held by Hamas. The German government has been actively working towards this goal, advocating for a negotiated two-state solution and asserting that Hamas should not be involved in governing Gaza. President Trump is expected to present a plan to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later in the day, with final consultations underway. The international community is hopeful that this initiative will pave the way for lasting peace in the region. 🕊️🇮🇱🇵🇸

Concerns over power rates

Europe's electricity market is facing significant challenges as it heads into the winter season, with analysts warning of potential price fluctuations and instability. The decline in sunshine hours and renewable energy production, coupled with rising demand for heating, is driving up electricity prices. Natural gas prices, while stable at 30-32 euros per megawatt-hour, remain vulnerable to geopolitical shocks. Lower LNG deliveries from French terminals due to strikes and reduced gas storage levels across Europe further exacerbate the situation, raising concerns about energy security, especially if the winter is harsh.

Recent data from European markets highlight the growing pressure on electricity prices. Germany saw a 37% increase in the average price per megawatt-hour in a single day, reaching €122.72, and further rising to €136.17 the following day. Similar trends were observed in Austria, Hungary, and Romania, with prices soaring to €140.74, €150.35, and €151.51 per megawatt-hour, respectively. Greece also experienced a significant price increase, with September closing at nearly 25% higher than the previous month's average.

The escalating electricity prices pose a substantial burden on households and businesses, making it crucial for governments to implement measures to reduce energy costs. While some price discounts are expected in October, the overall trend indicates a challenging winter ahead. The largest private energy provider, Protergia, has taken a step to reduce its green Value Special tariff, but it remains uncertain whether other providers will follow suit. The coming months will test the resilience of both consumers and the energy market as a whole. 🏡💡📈

Warm words, hard realities: Trump and Erdogan’s fragile reset

In a highly anticipated summit, U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the White House, marking a significant shift in U.S.-Turkey relations. The meeting was characterized by unusual warmth and camaraderie, with Trump praising Erdogan's influence and respect in Turkey and Europe. The summit focused on improving bilateral ties, with discussions centering on defense cooperation, energy, and religious matters.

Erdogan, who had been snubbed by the previous U.S. administration, sought to elevate U.S.-Turkey relations, mentioning key defense topics like the F-35 and F-16 fighter jets, and surprisingly, the reopening of the Theological School of Halki. Trump, known for his affinity for religious issues, seized on the Halki matter, likely influenced by Greek-American lobbying.

The core of the talks revolved around arms and energy. Erdogan aims to modernize Turkey's air force, but the F-35 program remains contentious due to Turkey's purchase of Russia's S-400 missile defense system. Trump hinted at a possible deal, but congressional approval remains a significant hurdle. Erdogan, meanwhile, secured a multi-billion-dollar order for Boeing aircraft and a strategic cooperation agreement in civil nuclear energy.

Trump also pressed Erdogan to decouple Turkey's energy sector from Russia, demanding an end to oil imports from Moscow. However, Turkey's deep energy ties with Russia pose a substantial challenge to this demand. The summit avoided public disputes, with both leaders glossing over contentious issues like Gaza. Erdogan described the meeting as a step towards mutual respect and substantial progress, though the true test of the summit's success lies in the coming months. 🇺🇸🇹🇷🛢️

Tuesday's papers: 'Alarming' unemployment, 15-minute electricity prices, and a children's home tries to recruit men

Finland is grappling with a significant rise in long-term unemployment, with the number of individuals out of work for over a year reaching a record high of 129,209, a stark increase from 85,878 in January 2023. This surge brings the total to just 13,800 fewer than the peak seen during Finland's severe economic depression in the 1990s. The proportion of long-term unemployed among all jobless people now stands at 41%, indicating a severe lack of job openings. This trend challenges the stereotypes that long-term unemployed individuals are poorly educated or have health issues, as the group now includes a growing number of people with higher education. The overall unemployment rate is nearing 10%, putting Finland at risk of having one of Europe's highest unemployment levels. 📉💼

Starting October 1, Finland and the rest of Europe will adopt a new electricity pricing model, with spot prices changing every 15 minutes instead of hourly. This shift, driven by the increasing use of renewable energy sources, aims to better reflect the real-time availability and cost of electricity. While this change may seem frequent, it is not expected to significantly impact household electricity prices or consumption patterns. Consumers will still be able to plan their energy use based on the next day's prices, allowing them to optimize the use of power-hungry appliances and other energy-intensive activities. 🔋💡

In an effort to promote gender balance and provide diverse role models for children, a child protection unit in Paimio, near Turku, has been actively recruiting men for a counsellor position. The facility, currently staffed almost entirely by women, aims to include male employees to better reflect the diverse backgrounds of the children they support. However, the job advertisement's emphasis on seeking male applicants has sparked debate, with some arguing that it may inadvertently discourage female applicants in a sector already facing high unemployment. The facility's manager has acknowledged the need to revise the job posting to avoid any perceived bias and plans to remove the reference to seeking male applicants. Despite the outreach, the position has yet to receive any applications. 👨‍👩‍👦🏠

Ukrainian Latvian discussion taking place this week

A significant discussion on the strategic partnership between Ukraine, Latvia, and the Baltic states will take place at the EU House in Riga. The event, scheduled for October 2nd from 3 to 5 p.m., will focus on the humanitarian aspects of this alliance, highlighting the shared challenges and responsibilities in the face of regional geopolitical tensions. The panel will feature distinguished speakers, including Anatolii Kutsevol, Ukraine's Ambassador to Latvia, and Juris Poikāns, former Ambassador of Latvia to Ukraine. Additionally, Laura Skrodele, Director of the Entrepreneurs for Peace Foundation, will contribute her insights. Dr. Artis Pabriks, a prominent Latvian politician and political scientist, will moderate the discussion. The event aims to explore how these nations, standing at the forefront of European civilization, are addressing the imperial ambitions of their eastern neighbor. The discussion will be conducted in English, fostering an inclusive dialogue on these critical issues. 🇺🇦🇱🇻🇪🇺

Britain’s Labour Party decides to let Keir be Keir — whoever that may be

The British Labour Party, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, faces internal uncertainty about his ability to lead effectively. Despite successfully navigating his annual party conference and quelling immediate calls for his removal, doubts persist about his capacity to counter the rising threat posed by Nigel Farage and the Reform UK party. Starmer's keynote address, which emphasized "hope" after a "hard road," was met with enthusiasm from party members, but his image remains divided among supporters.

Starmer and his allies are now signaling a strategic shift towards a more assertive approach. This change was evident during the fringes of the recent conference in Liverpool, where the party sought to redefine its stance and address internal and external challenges. The ongoing debate within the Labour Party highlights the delicate balance Starmer must strike to maintain unity and present a strong front against political adversaries.

Norway offers renowned work-life balance, so why are so many suffering burnouts?

In Norway, mental health-related sick leave, including cases of burnout, has surged by 28% between 2018 and 2023, reaching its highest level in 15 years. This trend has sparked conversations about the pressures faced by employees in the country. One international worker in Norway shared her experience of reaching a breaking point due to an imbalance between work and private life, disrespect at work, and unrealistic expectations. She eventually took sick leave and made significant lifestyle changes to recover. The worker's story highlights the complex factors contributing to mental health struggles in the workplace.

Norwegian GP and researcher Cathrine Abrahamsen notes that worker overload is often multifaceted, involving both personal and professional challenges. Norway's generous welfare system, which allows for up to a year of sick leave with full pay, also influences this trend. Abrahamsen prefers the term "overload" over "burnout," as it better captures the underlying issues. She developed the Individual Challenge Inventory Tool (ICIT) to help GPs address these problems more effectively, with promising results in improving patients' daily functioning and reducing sick leave.

Associate Professor Renzo Bianchi of NTNU suggests that while working conditions in Norway have not objectively worsened, increasing expectations may contribute to feelings of disappointment and frustration. He also notes that the pandemic years may have influenced the recent trends in mental health-related sick leave. Both experts emphasize the importance of recognizing early symptoms of work-related distress, which can range from mild to severe, and addressing them proactively. 🇳🇴🧠

Athens confronts its empty apartments

Greece is tackling its severe housing shortage, particularly in Athens, by addressing the issue of vacant apartments. The Association of Realtors of Athens and Attica estimates that around 5,000 apartments in the capital remain closed, many of which are part of bequests managed by foundations. The Finance Ministry is actively cataloging institutions, their assets, and unclaimed inheritances, suspecting that valuable properties may be hidden among the 450,000 inheritance renunciations recorded between 2013 and 2018. The government has already identified 2,000 inactive institutions and 7,000 unclaimed inheritances, highlighting the need for better asset management.

To address this, the government plans to establish a central supervisory body to manage foundation assets under a single authority. Some institutions, like the Asylum for the Incurable, control vast but underused property portfolios, with many assets remaining shuttered for years. Authorities are investigating management practices, including allegations of below-value sales and leases at token amounts.

In addition to supervisory reforms, the government is offering tax incentives to encourage owners to rent out vacant properties. New legislation exempts owners from income tax on rents for three years, even if tenants break contracts early, provided a new tenant is found within three months. Special provisions allow shorter rental contracts for public servants like teachers and doctors without losing tax benefits. Families with more than two children will receive tax relief for progressively larger properties. The government has also extended the gradual abolition of the ENFIA property tax to Nea Vyssa in Evros and plans to launch an online tool to help taxpayers understand their gains under the new tax brackets. 🏠📉

The ReBrain generation: ‘That’s why we came back’

The Greek government's ReBrain initiative aims to attract young professionals who left the country during the economic crisis, encouraging them to return and contribute to Greece's recovery. This program, led by Minister Niki Kerameus, offers significant financial incentives, such as a 50% reduction in income tax for seven years, and works to streamline bureaucratic processes that hinder repatriation. Since 2024, four events have been held, with 120 businesses participating and covering all costs. The next event is scheduled for December 7 in New York.

The initiative has already yielded success stories, including individuals who secured jobs close to their families and companies that found highly skilled professionals. Participants like Augusta Stanitsa, who was initially hesitant due to her pregnancy, found encouraging responses from potential employers, highlighting a shift in attitudes. Evi Kalogeropoulou and Panagiotis Kerasiotis, who attended an event in Amsterdam, were motivated by the desire to return home and the professional opportunities presented. The ReBrain program not only addresses the economic benefits but also the emotional and practical challenges of returning, making it a comprehensive effort to reverse the brain drain and foster Greece's economic growth. 🇬🇷💼

Survey: 59% of Latvia’s residents worry about money matters several times a month

Financial anxiety is on the rise in Latvia, with 59% of residents worrying about money several times a month, an increase of seven percentage points since 2020. This growing concern is particularly acute among young adults aged 18-29, those with lower education and income levels, and individuals with underage children. Only a small fraction, 13%, report never worrying about their financial situation.

The past six months have seen a significant uptick in financial stress, with 34% of respondents struggling to save for long-term goals, 31% feeling guilty about spending on non-essentials, and 28% experiencing discomfort living paycheck to paycheck. Money evokes a mix of emotions, with 45% feeling motivated and interested, while an equal percentage feels anxious. Sadness and fear are also common, reflecting worries about financial insecurity and an uncertain future.

To alleviate financial anxiety, Latvians are taking practical steps such as budgeting carefully, seeking additional income, and building savings. Others find relief in hobbies, music, exercise, or learning new skills. When asked about priorities to reduce financial stress, 42% want to earn more, while 33% aim to improve money management skills. Saving, investing, and controlling expenses are also key areas of focus.

The 2025 Swedbank Institute of Finance Survey, conducted with Snapshots, polled 1,005 Latvian residents aged 18 to 74, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the nation's financial concerns and coping strategies. 💸😟