Newsflash

Ukraine hits largest oil terminal in Russian-occupied Crimea, General Staff confirms, sparks massive blaze

Ukrainian forces conducted a significant strike on Russian-occupied Crimea overnight, targeting the Feodosia oil terminal, the largest oil storage facility in the region. The attack, confirmed by the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces, resulted in a massive blaze visible from tens of kilometers away. The terminal, capable of holding up to 250,000 tons of fuel, is crucial for supplying Russian military operations. Additionally, Ukrainian drones struck an ammunition depot belonging to Russia's 18th Combined Arms Army, though the extent of the damage is still being assessed.

The strike on the Feodosia terminal is part of Ukraine's broader campaign against Russian energy infrastructure, which has seen intensified efforts in recent months. Fuel shortages have become severe in occupied Crimea and Sevastopol, with around 50% of gas stations halting gasoline sales. This follows a series of Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil refineries, which have significantly disrupted Russia's fuel exports. The strikes have forced Russian diesel exports to their lowest levels since 2020, impacting sixteen of Russia's 38 oil refineries. 🇺🇦⚡️💥

'I want to find out what they're doing with them' — Trump mulls sending Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine

U.S. President Donald Trump is considering whether to supply Ukraine with Tomahawk long-range missiles, a decision that could significantly bolster Ukraine's arsenal and strike capabilities. Trump has expressed a desire to understand how Ukraine would utilize these missiles, particularly their intended targets and deployment locations. While Trump has not explicitly stated his decision, reports suggest that he is leaning against providing the Tomahawks, potentially opting for shorter-range systems or allowing European allies to supply long-range weapons to Ukraine.

The Tomahawk missiles, with their extensive range and advanced capabilities, would enable Ukraine to strike deep into Russian territory, targeting command centers and supply hubs. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that such a move would jeopardize the improving relations between Russia and the U.S. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance has indicated that the final decision rests with Trump, who will act in what he deems best for American interests.

The uncertainty surrounding the Tomahawk supply comes as the U.S. begins providing weapons to Ukraine through a NATO-supported agreement, with the first aid package including Patriot and HIMARS missiles. The potential provision of Tomahawks is a contentious issue, with Russia maintaining a significant missile advantage and regularly striking Ukrainian cities. The outcome of Trump's decision will have substantial implications for the ongoing conflict and the broader geopolitical landscape.

Russia says it downed 251 Ukraine drones overnight, including one heading towards Moscow

Russia's defense ministry reported that its air defense units intercepted and destroyed 251 Ukrainian drones overnight, marking one of Kyiv's largest retaliatory attacks since the war began over three years ago. The majority of the drones were downed over southwestern Russia, with 61 intercepted over the Black Sea and 40 over the annexed Crimea region. Notably, one drone was destroyed as it approached Moscow, prompting the deployment of emergency services to the debris site. The incident highlights the escalating drone warfare between the two nations, with Ukraine increasingly targeting Russian energy infrastructure in response to Russia's relentless attacks on its own energy networks. The ongoing conflict shows no signs of abating, as both sides continue to exchange strikes and bolster their defensive capabilities. 🛸🌉💥

One of Russia's biggest oil refineries halts most productive unit after drone attack, Reuters reports

A significant disruption has occurred at one of Russia's largest oil refineries in Kirishi, Leningrad Oblast, following a Ukrainian drone strike. The attack, confirmed by Ukrainian military sources, targeted the refinery's main crude processing unit, CDU-6, which has a capacity of 160,000 barrels per day, accounting for approximately 40% of the refinery's total output. The strike, which sparked a fire, is expected to require around a month for repairs. Despite the setback, the refinery is working to maintain operations at 70% capacity by maximizing the output of other units.

The Kirishi refinery, opened in 2017, is a critical asset, contributing 6.6% to Russia's total oil refining volumes. This is not the first time the facility has been targeted; previous drone attacks in September and March of this year, as well as March 2024, have also disrupted its operations. In addition to the Kirishi refinery, Ukrainian drones struck the Feodosia oil terminal in Russian-occupied Crimea overnight on October 6.

Ukraine's intensified campaign against Russia's oil industry and military-industrial complex aims to disrupt operations and exacerbate fuel shortages. Kyiv views Russian oil refineries as legitimate military targets, citing their role in funding and sustaining Moscow's ongoing war efforts. The recent attacks underscore Ukraine's strategic efforts to undermine Russia's economic and military capabilities. 🛢️💥

Over 100,000 Western-made parts found in drones, missiles used in Russian recent mass attack, Zelensky says

In a significant revelation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky disclosed that over 100,000 Western-made components were discovered in drones and missiles used by Russia in a recent mass attack on Ukraine. The strike, which occurred on October 5, involved approximately 500 drones and more than 50 missiles, targeting various settlements across the country, including those far from the front lines. The assault resulted in at least six deaths, including a family of four, and left 18 others injured.

The components found in the Russian weapons were manufactured by companies based in the U.S., China, Taiwan, the U.K., Germany, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, and the Netherlands. Specifically, around 1,500 foreign-made parts were identified in Iskander missiles, 192 in Kinzhal ballistic missiles, and 405 in Kalibr cruise missiles. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine's partners have detailed information on every company and product involved, and Kyiv is actively working on new sanctions to target individuals and entities aiding Russia.

Despite Western sanctions, Russia has managed to circumvent restrictions by relying on smuggling networks and other illicit schemes to obtain restricted goods. Zelensky stressed the urgency of shutting down these schemes, stating that "Russia uses each one to keep killing. The world has the power to stop this." The discovery underscores the ongoing challenge of preventing Western technology from ending up in Russian weapons, despite years of sanctions. 💥🛸🚀

Ukraine war latest: Ukraine hits largest oil terminal in Russian-occupied Crimea, Kyiv says

On the night of October 6, Ukrainian forces launched a significant strike on the Feodosia oil terminal in Russian-occupied Crimea, the largest oil storage facility in the region. The attack sparked a massive blaze visible from tens of kilometers away and caused additional explosions near nearby airfields. The terminal, which holds up to 250,000 tons of fuel, is crucial for supplying Russian forces. Ukrainian drones also targeted an ammunition depot in Crimea, though the results are still being assessed. Meanwhile, Ukraine claimed to have struck Russia's Sverdlov Plant, a major producer of explosives and ammunition.

In retaliation, Ukraine struck energy facilities in the Russian city of Belgorod, leaving nearly 40,000 residents without power. The attack caused significant damage across seven municipalities, with emergency crews working to restore electricity. Partial outages continued in 24 settlements, affecting over 5,000 residents.

Ukraine is investigating evidence that Russian forces executed at least 322 Ukrainian prisoners of war, with 263 killed on the battlefield and 59 in the 2022 Olenivka prison explosion. Many Ukrainian POWs held in Russian captivity have reported torture, abuse, and inhumane treatment. To date, 80 criminal proceedings have been opened, with nine Russian servicemen formally charged.

Additionally, up to 5,000 Cuban fighters are reportedly participating in Russia's invasion of Ukraine, making Cuba the largest contributor of foreign troops after North Korea. The U.S. has been circulating details about Cuba's support for Russia's war in Ukraine as part of its campaign against a U.N. resolution calling for the lifting of the U.S. embargo on Cuba. The U.S. State Department is aware of reports that Cuban fighters are serving alongside Russian troops. The conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, with both sides targeting critical infrastructure and reporting significant casualties. 💥🇺🇦🇷🇺

Poland’s booming space industry is helping it emerge as a European player

Poland has reemerged as a significant player in the global space industry, marking a historic milestone with the launch of its first astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS) in nearly half a century. Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski's mission, part of the IGNIS project, underscored Poland's growing capabilities and ambitions in space exploration. During his two-week stay, Uznański conducted 13 scientific experiments designed by Polish researchers, demonstrating the country's evolving role from a participant to a co-creator in global space missions.

Poland's journey to becoming a spacefaring nation gained momentum after joining the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2012. This membership opened doors to international projects and technical expertise, fostering a surge in private investment in space technology. The country's space industry has since transitioned from building components for others to designing and launching its own satellites and rockets. The successful deployment of EagleEye, Poland's largest satellite, in August 2024, marked a historic breakthrough, showcasing the nation's ability to develop and launch entire spacecraft.

The EagleEye mission was followed by several other achievements, including the launch of the Bursztyn rocket and the deployment of the Intuition-1 satellite equipped with an AI-powered processor. These successes have positioned Poland as a leader in Europe's push for technological sovereignty in space. The country's space ambitions are further bolstered by its alignment with the Artemis Accords, a US-led framework for lunar exploration, and its participation in the European Union's initiatives for secure communications and satellite constellations.

Despite these advancements, Poland's space sector faces challenges, including the need for a clear national space program and the geopolitical realities highlighted by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The conflict has underscored the importance of sovereign space capabilities for national security and resilience. Poland is responding by investing in projects like MikroGlob and PIAST, which aim to enhance military satellite networks and secure communications. As the country continues to invest in its space industry, it is poised to play a crucial role in the new space race, contributing to lunar exploration and beyond. 🌍🚀

Marine Le Pen smells blood as Macron runs out of options

Marine Le Pen, the far-right leader, has significantly influenced French politics, contributing to the fall of two governments in less than a year. Her impact was evident again as President Emmanuel Macron and his centrist allies struggled to form a stable government, exacerbating France's political and economic turmoil. With Macron's allies in disarray, Le Pen's National Rally party is preparing for an election campaign. Jordan Bardella, the party's president, confidently declared their readiness to govern, urging Macron to call for new parliamentary elections immediately. The political landscape in France remains tense, with the far-right gaining momentum amidst the ongoing crisis. 🇫🇷🏛️

Flotte fantôme russe : des navires continuent de déverser du pétrole dans les eaux européennes, malgré les sanctions

Despite Western sanctions, Russian-linked ships continue to dump oil off European coasts, highlighting the European Union's struggle to control Moscow's "phantom" fleet. Over the past year, at least five Russian tankers, some of which are subject to sanctions, have freely navigated European waters after leaving oil slicks near the continent. This alarming trend was revealed by a joint investigation conducted by the non-profit journalism group SourceMaterial and POLITICO. Notably, two of these vessels had been individually sanctioned by the United Kingdom prior to their oil dumping incidents. This ongoing issue underscores the challenges faced by the EU in enforcing sanctions and maintaining environmental safety in its waters. 🛢️🌊

Deputy minister submits informal document on OPEKEPE to the parliamentary inquiry

Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister, Giorgos Mylonakis, has submitted an informal document to the parliamentary inquiry investigating the scandal-plagued farm subsidy agency, OPEKEPE. The note, provided by former OPEKEPE president Grigoris Varras, outlines the inner workings of the agency's fraudulent scheme. Mylonakis has faced criticism for his inaction despite his knowledge of the case and alleged criminal activities within the organization. Opposition parties have repeatedly demanded his testimony before the committee.

Varras, a key witness, is scheduled to testify on Tuesday. He previously alerted the former Agriculture Minister, Makis Voridis, to irregularities in the subsidy system and initiated legal proceedings before his resignation. In a letter to the committee chairman, Andreas Nikolakopoulos, Mylonakis expressed his willingness to testify and assist the inquiry. He clarified that he received an informal, technical note from a government advisor, which he forwarded to the committee. The note, dated June 6, 2025, was intended for internal use and was sent to Mylonakis' mobile phone on June 15, 2025. The document was authored by Varras, a professor at the University of Ioannina's School of Agriculture. The submission aims to shed light on the agency's operations and the extent of the fraudulent activities. 📜🍃

Prosecutor accepts requests for toxicological tests in Tempe train crash

The Larissa Prosecutor’s Office has ordered the reopening of complaints filed by the families of victims from the Tempe train crash, accepting requests for toxicological tests to determine the cause of death. The prosecutor approved requests from the Ruci, Aslanidis, Karystianou, and Konstantinidis families for these examinations. Additionally, the prosecutor has invited lawyers representing other victims' families to submit further requests for exhumations and toxicological tests. A new case file will be established to document the findings from these investigations, which may be used during the main trial.

The decision comes after Panos Ruci, the father of Tempe crash victim Denis Ruci, staged a hunger strike outside the Greek Parliament for over 20 days. His protest aimed to secure permission to exhume his son’s remains, a request initially denied by the state. The reopening of the case and the acceptance of the families' requests mark a significant development in their quest for answers and justice following the tragic incident. 🏛️🚂💔

Finnish Customs wants to turn back the tide on Temu

Finnish Customs is grappling with an overwhelming influx of low-value parcels, primarily from Chinese shopping app Temu. In 2024, Finland received 28.2 million parcels from outside the EU, a staggering increase from just 850,000 in 2022, with projections indicating over 50 million parcels this year. This trend mirrors a broader European challenge, with 4.6 billion parcels entering the EU in 2023, and 1.1 billion alone destined for the Netherlands. The sheer volume of packages is straining customs officials, who must process each parcel individually, leading to concerns about tax evasion and safety.

Sami Rakshit, head of Finnish Customs, advocates for a return to more traditional import practices, suggesting that large shipments processed in customs warehouses are more manageable than individual parcels. He highlights issues with value-added tax (VAT) remittance, noting that some Chinese platforms fail to pass on the full VAT to EU authorities, despite charging consumers the full amount. Rakshit describes the situation as an "online shopping tsunami" and calls for stricter regulations to curb the flow of individual parcels.

In response, Green MP Tiina Elo supports measures to restrict the influx of low-quality goods, citing environmental, climate, and labor rights concerns. An anti-junk initiative, backed by over 50,000 Finns, will be presented to Parliament. This proposal aims to ban the marketing of ultra-fast fashion and low-quality goods, and implement tax policies to curb the growth of this trade. The initiative reflects growing concerns about the sustainability and ethical implications of the current e-commerce boom. 📦🌍

Greek government reaffirms support for Cyprus amid tensions over power cable project

The Greek government has reaffirmed its commitment to the Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection project, emphasizing its importance and the need to address financial and technical concerns. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis stated that the project will proceed only if its sustainability is assured and costs are fairly shared. Recent tensions arose when Cypriot media reported that Greece's Independent Power Transmission Operator (ADMIE) sought €251 million for expenses, leading to a strong response from Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides. ADMIE denied the claims, and a meeting was held to address the issue. Marinakis dismissed suggestions of a rift, asserting that Greece-Cyprus relations remain strong and that the project will move forward if all criteria are met. He also denied any involvement of the Greek side in an investigation by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. The Greek government expressed solidarity with Cyprus, supporting the pursuit of shared interests between the two nations. 🇬🇷🇨🇾🔌

SYRIZA leader Famellos urges leftist unity after Tsipras resignation

In the wake of former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras' resignation from parliament, SYRIZA leader Sokratis Famellos has called for unity among leftist parties in Greece. Famellos described Tsipras' decision as significant and emphasized that despite differing views, they would not be adversaries. He criticized the current Mitsotakis administration, labeling it a "government of scandals, corruption, and injustice," and urged the need to remove it swiftly. Famellos stressed the importance of collaboration among progressive forces, both within and outside parliament, to address the demands of Greek citizens. Meanwhile, speculation surrounds Tsipras' potential plans to form a new center-left party, following his resignation as SYRIZA president last year. Other leftist leaders, such as New Left party chief Alexis Charitsis, have also called for cooperation among progressive groups. The government, however, has dismissed Tsipras' resignation as politically insignificant. 🇬🇷🏛️

Greta Thunberg says she was mistreated during Israeli detention

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, recently released from Israeli detention, spoke out about her mistreatment during her imprisonment. Addressing supporters and media at Athens International Airport, she chose to focus on the broader issue of human rights rather than her personal experiences, stating, "I could talk for a very, very long time about our mistreatment and abuses in our imprisonment. Trust me, but that is not the story."

Thunberg was part of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which included 134 activists, 27 of whom were Greek nationals. They were detained by Israeli authorities before being flown to Athens. Upon her arrival, Thunberg accused Israel of genocide and urged global governments to intervene. "Israel is escalating genocide and mass destruction with genocidal intent, attempting to erase an entire population in front of our eyes," she declared. Thunberg and the other activists were greeted by hundreds of supporters who cheered and chanted as they exited the airport, raising their fists in solidarity. 🌍🤝

ICC Convicts Sudanese Militia Leader for Darfur Crimes Against Humanity

On Monday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands, delivered a guilty verdict against Ali Muhammad Ali Abd al-Rahman, known as Ali Kushayb, for his role in atrocities committed in Sudan's Darfur region. Kushayb, a former commander of the Janjawid militia, was found guilty of 27 charges, including murder, rape, and torture, which were described as acts of "bestial violence." The court determined that Kushayb had encouraged and ordered these crimes, which are classified as both crimes against humanity and war crimes. The unanimous guilty verdict paves the way for a potential life sentence, with the final sentencing to be announced later. Kushayb, dressed in a suit and tie, listened to the verdict without displaying any emotion.

The trial, which began in April 2022, is seen as a significant milestone in seeking justice for the victims of the Darfur conflict. The Janjawid militia, indirectly supported by the government of then-Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir, was responsible for the deaths of around 300,000 people and the displacement of over 2.7 million others during their brutal campaign. The verdict offers a glimmer of hope for the terrorized communities, providing a rare opportunity for justice to be served. However, the situation in Sudan remains dire, with an ongoing civil war between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)—a group partially composed of former Janjawid fighters—resulting in at least 40,000 deaths and displacing millions more. The conflict has also left over 24 million people facing acute food shortages. 🇸🇩💥

Lithuania to require foreign service workers to speak Lithuanian starting in 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, Lithuania will enforce a new regulation requiring all foreign workers who interact directly with customers to communicate in Lithuanian. This mandate, approved by the Seimas in October 2024, aims to facilitate the integration of foreigners into Lithuanian society and address language barriers in the service sector. The measure applies to various professions, including couriers, ride-hailing drivers, beauty specialists, medical staff, and retail workers.

The legislation is supported by a significant portion of the population, with a poll indicating that eight out of ten Lithuanians believe foreign service workers should be proficient in Lithuanian. However, the implementation of this rule raises questions about the availability of language courses and the mechanisms for monitoring compliance. Proponents argue that the requirement will enhance migrants' participation in Lithuanian society and ensure that locals can be served in their native language. Despite these benefits, the practical aspects of enforcing the new rule remain uncertain. 🇱🇹🗣️

Trump: Hamas Agrees to Key Terms in Gaza Peace Talks

Negotiations between Hamas and Israeli representatives, facilitated by Egyptian and Qatari mediators, are progressing towards a potential prisoner exchange deal. The discussions, held under strict security protocols, aim to secure the release of hostages in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons. This diplomatic effort comes amidst heightened tensions, following Israel's recent attempt to eliminate Hamas's chief negotiator in Qatar.

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the talks during a press conference, noting that Hamas has agreed to significant concessions. The White House confirmed that Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law, and Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Middle East envoy, are actively involved in the negotiations. They are working to finalize lists of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners to be released, with the president closely monitoring the progress. The success of these talks could mark a crucial step towards easing tensions in the region. 🇮🇱🇵🇸🇺🇸

Ukraine drone championship: from the frontline to war games

Ukraine is leveraging its expertise in drone technology, honed during the ongoing conflict with Russia, to host a drone championship. This event showcases the country's innovative use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in both military and civilian applications. The championship features a variety of drone types, from small, agile models used for reconnaissance to larger, more robust drones capable of carrying payloads and performing complex missions. Participants include both military personnel and civilian enthusiasts, highlighting Ukraine's integration of cutting-edge technology into its defense strategies and everyday life.

The event serves multiple purposes: it boosts morale among Ukrainian forces, demonstrates the country's technological prowess to the international community, and fosters a sense of unity and innovation. The drones on display have been instrumental in the war effort, providing crucial intelligence, conducting surveillance, and even engaging in combat operations. Beyond the military context, the championship also promotes the peaceful applications of drone technology, such as agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and emergency response.

Ukraine's drone championship is a testament to the country's resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. By transforming the necessities of war into opportunities for innovation, Ukraine is not only defending its territory but also paving the way for future advancements in drone technology. The event underscores the importance of embracing new technologies in both defense and civilian sectors, offering a glimpse into a future where drones play a pivotal role in various aspects of life. 🛸🇺🇦

'French politics has always been baroque, but now it's playing out on the public stage'

French politics, known for its complexity and intrigue, is currently unfolding in a highly public and dramatic manner. The political landscape is marked by intense rivalries, shifting alliances, and a constant struggle for power. This public spectacle has captivated the nation, with key figures and parties vying for influence and control. The stakes are high, as the outcomes will shape France's future trajectory, both domestically and on the global stage.

The political drama is playing out against a backdrop of significant challenges, including economic uncertainty, social tensions, and geopolitical shifts. These issues have fueled passionate debates and protests, further intensifying the public's engagement with politics. The media plays a crucial role in this spectacle, amplifying the voices of political leaders and activists, and providing a platform for public discourse.

One of the most striking aspects of this political theater is the personalization of power struggles. High-profile figures often take center stage, their actions and statements scrutinized by the public and the press. This focus on individual leaders can sometimes overshadow the broader issues at stake, but it also highlights the personal stakes involved in French politics.

The current political climate is characterized by a mix of old and new forces. Established parties and figures grapple with emerging movements and younger leaders, each seeking to reshape the political landscape according to their vision. This dynamic has led to a series of unexpected alliances and confrontations, keeping the public on edge and the political scene in constant flux.

Despite the chaos, there is a sense of urgency and purpose driving these political maneuvers. The future of France hangs in the balance, and the choices made today will have lasting consequences. As the political drama unfolds, the nation watches, hoping for a resolution that will address its pressing challenges and secure a prosperous future. 🇫🇷🎭