Newsflash

'Missiles, one after another' — 9 injured, outages in Kyiv amid mass Russian attack on energy infrastructure

In the early hours of October 10, Russia launched a significant drone and missile assault on Kyiv, resulting in widespread damage and disruptions. At least nine people were injured, with five requiring hospitalization. The attack targeted critical infrastructure, leading to power outages and water supply issues, particularly affecting the city's left bank. A residential building in the Pechersk district caught fire due to falling drone debris, while another building in the Holosiivskyi district sustained damage, and nearby vehicles were set ablaze. Additionally, debris from a downed missile landed near a medical clinic in the Desniansky district. Emergency services are actively responding to the situation, and energy workers will assess the damage and begin restoration efforts once it is safe to do so. This latest attack is part of a broader Russian strategy to degrade Ukraine's energy infrastructure ahead of winter, with previous strikes having already destroyed over half of the country's natural gas production capacity. 🏙️💥💦

The EU's ambitious plan for frozen Russian assets, explained

The European Union is advancing an ambitious plan to leverage frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's war effort and economic recovery. With the U.S. potentially reducing its involvement, the EU is stepping up to address Ukraine's significant financing needs, estimated at $65 billion for 2026–2029. The proposal involves tapping into approximately €185 billion of Russian central bank reserves held by Euroclear, a Belgium-based financial institution. The EU aims to secure a debt contract with Euroclear, releasing €185 billion in cash, of which €140 billion would be lent to Ukraine at zero percent interest, repayable only if Ukraine receives reparations from Russia. The remaining €45 billion would repay the G7-led Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration loan to Ukraine. This plan avoids outright confiscation, ensuring that if Russia never pays reparations, no repayments are required. However, the proposal faces challenges, including securing unanimous support from EU member states and determining the exact use of the funds. Some advocate for using the money for Ukraine's military needs, while others suggest allocating it to reconstruction and budgetary support. The plan also requires navigating complex legal and political landscapes, particularly with countries like Hungary and Slovakia threatening to obstruct the process. If successful, this initiative could significantly bolster Ukraine's financial stability and defense capabilities. 💰🇪🇺🇷🇺

EU parliament calls for readiness to down of Russian aircraft, drones over member states' territory

The European Parliament has adopted a resolution condemning Russia's ongoing "escalatory actions," calling for tougher responses to violations of EU airspace, including the potential downing of unauthorized drones and aircraft. This resolution, passed with an overwhelming majority, comes amidst heightened concerns over increased geopolitical tensions and frequent airspace violations involving Russia. Lawmakers placed full responsibility on Russia for recent incidents, particularly in Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Romania, and denounced unauthorized drone incursions over critical infrastructure in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. The parliament accused Russia of engaging in sabotage and hybrid warfare, amounting to "state terrorism."

The resolution advocates for coordinated defense measures, enhanced military cooperation with Ukraine, and stricter sanctions against Russia and its allies, notably China. MEPs expressed support for initiatives like the proposed "drone wall" along the EU's eastern border and the Eastern Flank Watch, aimed at bolstering surveillance and defense capabilities. The parliament also reiterated its backing for a European Defense Union and closer civil-military coordination in protecting EU airspace. This decision follows a series of unexplained drone activities and airspace disruptions across Europe, including incidents at Munich, Oslo, and Copenhagen airports, as well as Russian airspace violations in Poland, Romania, and Estonia. The resolution underscores the EU's resolve to defend its airspace and maintain regional security in the face of escalating threats. 🛬️🚨

When ceremony becomes recognition

The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) convened in Gabala, Azerbaijan, this week, where it effectively rehearsed the recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) as a legitimate state. The event included seating, photographing, and quoting Ersin Tatar, the self-proclaimed "president" of the TRNC, alongside heads of state, culminating in the signing of the "Gabala Declaration." This protocol, which included a family photo and a bilateral meeting with Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev, represents a significant step towards de facto recognition of the TRNC, despite the European Union's and United Nations' long-standing positions against it.

The OTS summit, attended by Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and other Central Asian leaders, underscored the widening gap between the EU's stated positions and the actions of its member states. Orban's engagement with Tatar and the summit's imagery amplified this divide. The OTS has been progressively normalizing the TRNC's statehood through various declarations and admissions, despite the EU's repeated rejections and warnings. The UN Security Council has also been clear in its resolutions, deeming the TRNC's secessionist declaration legally invalid and urging non-recognition.

The EU has legal tools at its disposal, including the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which bind the EU to respect international law and empower it to take restrictive measures. The EU has previously used these tools to protect Cyprus' rights against Turkish drilling and to sanction individuals. Following the Gabala summit, the EU should summon the ambassadors of the OTS member states, issue written protests, and warn of potential listings and sanctions for actions that facilitate or assist the TRNC's statehood projection. Greece and Cyprus have been persistent in raising these issues, and the EU should fully align with them, not just rhetorically but operationally. The UN and host-state authorities also bear responsibility in guarding against the laundering of legitimacy for the TRNC. The EU must act decisively to uphold the integrity of its legal order and the credibility of its security guarantees to its member states. 🇪🇺🇨🇾🇹🇷

What to know about France’s political mess

France is grappling with a deepening political crisis following the abrupt resignation of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu and his cabinet just 14 hours after their appointment. President Emmanuel Macron is expected to announce a replacement for Lecornu on Friday, but the instability raises significant concerns about the country's political future. If the new prime minister also fails, Macron may face stark choices: resigning two years before his term ends, a move he has consistently ruled out, or dissolving parliament to call for snap elections. The latter option could potentially strengthen the far-right's position, further complicating France's political landscape. The situation underscores the fragility of the current government and the challenges ahead for Macron as he navigates this turmoil. 🇫🇷🏛️

Russia-Ukraine peace talks are dead, for now. But were they ever alive?

The prospects for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine appear increasingly bleak, despite U.S. President Donald Trump's initial efforts and public statements. Trump's attempts to broker a peace deal have largely stalled, with Russia showing no genuine interest in halting its aggression. The U.S. president has shifted his rhetoric in favor of Ukraine, even suggesting that Kyiv could "fight and win all of Ukraine back," but these statements have not translated into concrete actions. Russia, emboldened by Trump's delayed sanctions and diplomatic overtures, has continued to escalate its war efforts, launching attacks on Ukraine and violating the airspace of European NATO states.

Experts agree that the peace talks are currently deadlocked, with Moscow prioritizing its military gains over negotiations and Kyiv unwilling to capitulate to Russian demands. Trump's frustration with Russia's intransigence has grown, but his administration has yet to impose significant consequences, such as tariffs on countries buying Russian oil and gas. While the U.S. has considered providing Ukraine with advanced weaponry like Tomahawk missiles, these moves seem more aimed at applying diplomatic pressure than achieving a breakthrough in the conflict. The European Union is considering accelerating its phase-out of Russian energy imports, but this process will be slow and faces resistance from some member states. Meanwhile, Ukraine's long-range strikes on Russian infrastructure have had limited impact due to its lack of advanced missile systems. The path to peace remains uncertain, with both sides digging in their heels and the international community struggling to exert meaningful pressure on Russia. 🇷🇺🇺🇦💥

Ukraine war latest: Russian strikes reportedly cut over half of Ukraine's gas production ahead of winter

In a significant escalation of the Ukraine conflict, Russian strikes have reportedly destroyed over half of Ukraine's natural gas production capacity ahead of winter. This assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, which has been repeatedly targeted since the war began, endangers millions of households that rely on gas for heating. The strikes, which included a massive barrage on October 3, have severely damaged gas facilities in Kharkiv and Poltava oblasts, forcing the halt of operations at key sites.

Ukraine has responded by striking Russian gas and oil facilities in Volgograd Oblast, targeting critical infrastructure to undermine Moscow's state revenues. These retaliatory strikes, carried out by Ukraine's Special Operations Forces, have caused explosions and fires at major Russian energy facilities, including the Korobkovsky Gas Processing Plant and the Yefimovka Linear-Production Dispatch Station.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that a potential Russian mobilization could pose a significant risk of a major war in Europe. He cautioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin might seek to demonstrate military success to bolster his popularity, potentially leading to a broader conflict. Meanwhile, the European Parliament has adopted a resolution calling for tougher responses to Russian airspace violations, including the potential shooting down of unauthorized drones and aircraft. This move comes amid heightened concerns over Russian provocations and hybrid warfare tactics.

In a diplomatic maneuver, Serbia has sent humanitarian aid worth around $6 million to Russia's Kursk Oblast, highlighting Serbia's delicate balancing act between its EU aspirations and historical ties with Russia. The aid, framed as a gesture of "centuries-old brotherhood," comes as Ukraine continues to face Russian aggression and drone attacks on its cities. The conflict in Kursk Oblast, marked by intense fighting and significant casualties, underscores the ongoing volatility in the region. 🏭💥

Belgium says it foiled suspected drone plot to attack prime minister

Belgian authorities have thwarted a suspected jihadist plot targeting Prime Minister Bart De Wever and other political figures. On Thursday, three young men were arrested in Antwerp as part of an investigation into a planned drone attack using explosives. The suspects were found to possess bomb-making materials and a 3D printer, which investigators believe was intended for constructing attack components.

The arrests were made under the suspicion of "attempted terrorist murder and participation in the activities of a terrorist group." Prosecutors indicated that the suspects aimed to build a drone capable of carrying explosives to target political figures. While the prosecutor's office did not name the intended targets, sources confirmed that De Wever was among them. The arrests have been hailed as a significant preventive measure against a potential major terrorist act.

The investigation revealed that the suspects had gathered materials for an improvised explosive device and metal pellets, suggesting a well-planned attack. The arrests come as Belgium continues to strengthen its defenses against evolving terrorist threats, particularly those involving drones. The country has a history of jihadist attacks, including the 2016 Brussels bombings that killed 32 people and injured hundreds. The recent arrests serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat and the need for vigilance. 🇧🇪🛸💥

A ticking bomb

Greece is facing an imminent water crisis, with climate change rapidly depleting its water reserves. The situation is critical, as even a few years of adequate rainfall will not reverse the damage caused by the ongoing climate crisis. The country is on the brink of a water scarcity catastrophe, and immediate, decisive action is necessary to prevent it. However, the path to solutions is fraught with obstacles, as local interests and political maneuvering threaten to impede progress. To safeguard Greece's future, it is crucial to prioritize effective water management strategies and overcome these hindrances, ensuring that the well-being of the population and the environment are not compromised. 🌊💥

Explosions Rock Kyiv Amid Overnight Missile Strikes

The Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, is currently under a significant missile and drone assault, as reported by multiple media outlets. The attack, which began around 1:00 AM local time, has been confirmed by Timur Tkatjenko, the head of Kyiv's military administration, who stated that ballistic missiles are being launched sequentially, with air defenses on high alert. At least five individuals have sustained injuries, according to Kyiv's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, who also warned of potential disruptions to electricity and water supplies due to the ongoing strikes. Ukraine's energy minister has described the attack as a "massive" assault on the country's energy infrastructure, following President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's earlier accusations that Russia is deliberately creating chaos through such strikes. 💥🏙️

Minister says Greece–US cooperation in shipping becoming strategic

Maritime Affairs and Island Policy Minister Vasilis Kikilias has announced that Greece's collaboration with the United States in the realms of shipping and shipyards is set to evolve into a strategic partnership. This enhanced cooperation underscores the growing importance of maritime security and economic ties between the two nations. By deepening their alliance in these critical sectors, Greece and the United States aim to bolster their collective capabilities and address shared challenges in the maritime domain. This strategic shift is expected to strengthen both countries' naval industries and reinforce their commitment to regional stability and global maritime security. 🛳️🇬🇷🇺🇸

3 arrested in suspected terror plot targeting Belgian PM Bart De Wever

Belgian federal authorities have apprehended three young suspects in connection with an alleged plot to carry out a terrorist attack targeting the country’s politicians, including Prime Minister Bart De Wever. The suspects, born in 2001, 2002, and 2007, were detained in Antwerp on Thursday morning. They are accused of attempted terrorist murder and involvement in a terrorist organization. Two of the suspects remain in custody and will face an investigating judge, while the third has been released.

Federal prosecutor Ann Fransen revealed that the plot was believed to be inspired by jihadist ideology, aimed at politicians. The investigation involved extensive measures, including four house searches conducted with the support of bomb squads and federal police units. The arrests underscore the ongoing threat of extremist violence and the vigilance required to protect political leaders and public safety. 🚔🔍

Why diamonds are a computer chip’s new best friend

As the demand for data centers housing AI-driven servers surges, so does the energy consumption and heat generation from these facilities. A significant portion of this energy is lost as heat, reducing chip efficiency and lifespan. To combat this, engineers are turning to an unexpected solution: diamonds. Diamonds, known for their hardness, also possess exceptional heat-conducting properties, making them ideal for dissipating heat in electronic devices.

Companies like Diamond Foundry are developing thin layers of synthetic diamond to attach to the back of silicon wafers, effectively cooling chips and eliminating hot spots. This innovation could dramatically lower thermal resistance and improve chip performance. Element Six, a subsidiary of De Beers, is also exploring diamond-based solutions, including a copper-diamond composite for better heat management in advanced computing devices. These advancements could lead to faster, more efficient chips and reduced cooling costs for data centers.

However, challenges remain in manufacturing and integrating diamond layers with silicon-based chips. Researchers are working on overcoming these obstacles to unlock new computing capabilities driven by AI. The race is on to harness the power of diamonds in creating more efficient and powerful electronic devices, addressing the growing heat management problem in the tech industry. 💎💻

Venezuela Calls for UN Crisis Meeting Over US Actions in Caribbean

Venezuela has expressed grave concerns over what it perceives as an escalating threat from the United States, which has deployed warships to the Caribbean under the guise of combating narcotics trafficking. The Venezuelan government, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has accused the U.S. of conducting unlawful attacks in international waters, resulting in the deaths of at least 21 people in recent weeks. These incidents have heightened tensions in the region, with Venezuela's government condemning the U.S. actions as "extrajudicial murders" and harassment of fishermen.

The U.S. has conducted several strikes against vessels near Venezuela's coast, with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth publicly endorsing an attack that claimed four lives. Hegseth asserted that the targeted individuals were involved in drug trafficking, aiming to transport narcotics to the U.S. In response, Venezuela has formally requested a meeting with Russia's UN ambassador to address these concerns and seek international support. The situation underscores the growing diplomatic and military tensions between the two nations. 🚢🌊

Trump suggests booting ‘laggard’ Spain from NATO over defense spending

During a bilateral meeting with Finland’s President Alexander Stubb, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that NATO should consider expelling Spain from the alliance due to its insufficient defense spending. Trump criticized Spain for being a "laggard" in meeting the alliance's financial commitments, despite the country's overall economic progress. At a recent NATO summit, member states agreed to allocate 5% of their GDP to defense spending, with Spain notably refusing to commit to this benchmark.

Trump's remarks underscore the ongoing tensions within NATO regarding defense spending, with the U.S. pushing for increased contributions from its European allies. The proposal to expel Spain, however, is likely to face significant resistance, as NATO has traditionally prioritized unity and collective defense over punitive measures against member states. The situation highlights the broader challenges in maintaining alliance cohesion amidst differing national priorities and economic capacities. 🇪🇸🇺🇸💸

Greece to boost defense presence at US showcase

Greece is set to elevate its global defense profile by participating in the 2025 Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting and Exposition, a leading defense and security event scheduled for October 13-15 in Washington, D.C. The Hellenic Pavilion, organized by the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce (AmCham Greece) with support from Enterprise Greece, will showcase Greece's defense capabilities under the auspices of the Ministry of National Defense and the General Directorate for Defense Investments and Armaments. This initiative aims to bolster Greece's international defense visibility and promote its defense industry's outward orientation.

Greek defense and security companies will present cutting-edge technologies, products, and services, while parallel promotional events will highlight the country's defense ecosystem. The primary objective is to enhance Greece's international recognition and establish it as a trusted partner in the global defense industry. This strategic move underscores Greece's commitment to strengthening its defense sector and fostering international collaborations. 🇬🇷🛡️

US Agrees on $20 Billion Rescue Package for Argentina's Economy

The United States has announced significant financial support for Argentina, addressing the country's acute liquidity issues. After four days of negotiations in Buenos Aires, U.S. Finance Minister Scott Bessent declared that the U.S. would swiftly back the purchase of the Argentine peso, a move crucial for stabilizing the nation's economy. This decision underscores the U.S.'s role as a rapid responder in global financial crises, complementing the support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the international community.

Argentine President Javier Milei, a libertarian and self-proclaimed "anarcho-capitalist," expressed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump, highlighting the strong alliance between their nations. Milei's extensive economic cuts have garnered favor with the IMF, which has approved 23 loans to Argentina over the years. The president emphasized the shared goal of leading the hemisphere towards economic freedom and prosperity, reflecting a joint commitment to fostering financial stability and growth. 🇦🇷💸

Top French union leader says entire pensions system should be rebuilt

France's pension system is once again under scrutiny, as Marylise Léon, the leader of one of the country's largest labor unions, the CFDT, has called for a significant overhaul. Speaking at the POLITICO’s Competitiveness Summit in Paris, Léon emphasized that the current pension system is outdated and does not address the evolving challenges of the modern workplace. The debate surrounding pensions has been a contentious issue in French politics since President Emmanuel Macron implemented a 2023 reform, raising the minimum retirement age to 64. This change faced strong opposition from the public and unions, who unanimously rejected the move. As the political crisis deepens, the future of France's pension system remains uncertain, with calls for reform gaining momentum. 🇫🇷💼

Over 680,000 Haitian Children Displaced Amid Escalating Violence

In Haiti, the humanitarian crisis has reached alarming proportions, with over 6.6 million children now in need of assistance, double the number estimated just a year ago. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) reports that more than 3.3 million of these children are struggling daily to survive amidst a crumbling civil society and widespread criminal control. The country's political collapse has left vast areas under the grip of criminal networks, with nearly 2.7 million people living in gang-controlled regions.

The severity of the situation is starkly illustrated by the statistics: in 2024 alone, over 2,200 serious abuses against children were reported, including 213 fatalities, 400 cases of child rape, and 160 instances of gang rapes of minors. UNICEF's regional chief, Roberto Benes, emphasizes that Haiti stands at a critical juncture, warning that the current generation cannot afford to wait any longer for help. The ongoing violence and exploitation threaten to leave an entire generation traumatized and exposed to constant danger. Immediate action is crucial to re-establish protective authorities and safeguard the future of Haiti's children. 🇭🇹😢

Polish justice ministry outlines new plan to resolve status of illegitimately appointed judges

Poland's justice ministry has proposed a plan to address the status of approximately 2,500 judges appointed under the controversial judicial reforms implemented by the former Law and Justice (PiS) government. The reforms, which involved the National Council of the Judiciary (KRS), were deemed illegitimate by both Polish and European courts, raising concerns about the independence and impartiality of the judiciary.

Under the new proposal, judges appointed by the illegitimate KRS would face varying consequences based on their roles and promotions. Judges who took their first positions after graduating from the National School of Judiciary and Public Prosecution would retain their jobs, while those who received promotions would be demoted but allowed to complete ongoing cases over a two-year period. Judges appointed to the Supreme Court would be barred entirely. The ministry aims to restore the legitimacy of the judiciary and ensure legal stability for citizens, while also abolishing the Supreme Court’s chamber of extraordinary review and public affairs, created by PiS and deemed illegitimate.

The proposed measures have sparked controversy, with PiS politicians accusing the justice ministry of political motivation and unlawful actions. PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński and former deputy justice minister Sebastian Kaleta have criticized the bill, suggesting it could lead to purges and revenge. The legislation faces potential obstacles, including a veto from PiS-aligned President Karol Nawrocki, who has previously opposed questioning the status of judges appointed after PiS’s reforms. Despite these challenges, the justice ministry is determined to restore the proper functioning of Poland's justice system and address the ongoing rule-of-law crisis. 🇵🇱⚖️