Newsflash

'New record of Russian meanness' — Putin waited for bad weather, Middle East developments to assault Kyiv's energy infrastructure, Zelensky says

On October 10, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of exploiting unfavorable weather conditions and international distractions to launch a devastating assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The overnight attack, which involved 465 drones and 32 cruise and ballistic missiles, targeted Ukrainian cities, resulting in the death of a child and injuries to at least 24 people. Ukrainian air defenses managed to intercept 405 drones and 15 missiles, but low visibility and cold temperatures hindered their effectiveness.

Zelensky criticized Russia for timing the attack to coincide with global attention on the Middle East peace process, suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin sought to capitalize on the world's focus elsewhere. The assault is part of Russia's ongoing campaign to disrupt Ukraine's energy infrastructure ahead of winter, with reports indicating that over half of Ukraine's natural gas production capacity has been destroyed. The strikes caused widespread power and water outages across various Ukrainian cities, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

In response to the attack, Zelensky engaged in diplomatic efforts, speaking with the leaders of Finland, Germany, and the United Kingdom. He expressed hope for an upcoming meeting of the "coalition of the willing" and announced that a Ukrainian delegation would travel to Washington to negotiate the purchase of additional air defense systems and HIMARS rocket systems. The ongoing assaults underscore the urgent need for enhanced defensive capabilities as Ukraine braces for further Russian aggression during the winter months. 🌬️💥

Populists win Czech election: Is the EU fractured as Russia asserts itself?

The recent Czech legislative election has brought a significant shift in the political landscape, with populist and Eurosceptic forces gaining ground. Andrej Babiš, a prominent populist and self-proclaimed ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump, secured a victory in the Czech parliamentary vote, mirroring the resurgence of his Slovak counterpart, Robert Fico. Babiš's win is a notable setback for pro-European forces within the EU, as he is a key figure in the Eurosceptic "Patriots for Europe" group in the European Parliament, alongside Hungary's Viktor Orbán.

The outcome raises critical questions about the EU's unity and its ability to maintain a cohesive stance on key issues, particularly its support for Ukraine and its response to an increasingly assertive Russia. With drone incursions and other provocations, Russia is testing Europe's resolve, and the EU's fragmented political landscape may complicate a united response. The victory of populist and Eurosceptic parties in countries like the Czech Republic and Slovakia highlights the growing challenges the EU faces in presenting a united front against external threats and in supporting its allies. 🇪🇺🇷🇺

Ukrainian journalist Roshchyna posthumously named Press Freedom Hero

Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna, who tragically died in Russian captivity, has been posthumously recognized as a "Press Freedom Hero" by the International Press Institute (IPI). Roshchyna's unwavering dedication to journalism and her ultimate sacrifice highlight the severe risks and brutal treatment faced by journalists in conflict zones. Captured and tortured by Russian forces, her death underscores the urgent need for press protection and accountability for attacks on journalists.

Roshchyna's work covered occupied territories in Ukraine, including Crimea, Donetsk, and Mariupol, documenting the destruction and human rights abuses she witnessed. Her disappearance in 2023 and subsequent death in 2024, with evidence of torture on her body, sparked international outrage. The IPI's recognition of Roshchyna, along with other journalists like Georgian media co-founder Mzia Amaglobeli and Palestinian photojournalist Mariam Abu Dagga, serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers journalists face globally.

In addition to the IPI honor, Roshchyna's name was inscribed on a memorial in Bayeux, France, dedicated to journalists killed in the line of duty between June 2024 and June 2025. This memorial, unveiled during the Bayeux-Calvados War Correspondents Awards ceremony, pays special tribute to those who lost their lives reporting on conflicts and human rights abuses worldwide. The memorial serves as a stark reminder that press freedom is not guaranteed but must be fought for and protected. 📰✝️

Ukraine war latest: 'Missiles, one after another' — Kyiv blackouts as Russia strikes Ukraine's energy infrastructure once again

On October 10, Russia launched a significant drone and missile attack on Ukraine, targeting the country's energy infrastructure and causing widespread blackouts in Kyiv. The assault resulted in the death of a 7-year-old boy in Zaporizhzhia and injuries to at least 24 people across multiple regions, including Kyiv and Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. The strikes, part of Russia's ongoing campaign to cripple Ukraine's energy grid ahead of winter, led to emergency power shutdowns and left parts of Kyiv without electricity and water.

In response to Russia's aggression, the U.S. Senate approved a $925 billion defense budget for fiscal year 2026, allocating $500 million for security assistance to Ukraine. This funding, part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, extends support through 2028, reflecting strong congressional backing for Kyiv. Additionally, the German defense company Rheinmetall announced it would supply Ukraine with more Skyranger 35 air defense systems, funded by an EU member state using frozen Russian assets. These systems are crucial for defending against Russia's intensified drone attacks.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna, who died in Russian captivity, was posthumously honored as a "Press Freedom Hero" by the International Press Institute. Roshchyna's death highlighted the brutal treatment of journalists held by Russian authorities and underscored the urgent need for press protection and accountability.

In a significant defense collaboration, Ukraine and the U.K. are negotiating a joint project to produce 2,000 interceptor drones monthly. This initiative, known as Project Octopus, aims to address Ukraine's urgent need for affordable air defense solutions in the face of Russia's escalating drone attacks. The U.K. will lead the production, leveraging its advanced manufacturing capabilities to support Ukraine's defense efforts. 🚨🛡️

Denmark Invests in 16 US Fighter Jets and Arctic Defense Expansion

Denmark has committed to a significant military investment, allocating 29 billion Danish kronor for the acquisition of 43 F-35 fighter aircraft. This strategic move aims to bolster the country's defense capabilities, particularly in the Arctic and North Atlantic regions, in close collaboration with the Faroe Islands and Greenland. The agreement includes the establishment of a new headquarters for the Arctic Command in Nuuk, Greenland, and the installation of an underwater cable connecting Greenland and Denmark. Additionally, Denmark will procure two more Arctic vessels, several drones, and maritime surveillance aircraft. This decision follows a recent incident where unidentified drones breached Danish airspace, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures. Meanwhile, European Union countries are exploring the possibility of replacing American aircraft with European alternatives, adding a layer of geopolitical complexity to Denmark's defense strategy. 🛩️🌍

US Senate approves “Ironclad” security assistance to Estonia

The United States Senate approved a $925 billion defense budget, which includes a strong commitment to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The vote, which concluded a nine-day federal government shutdown, comes amid shifting U.S. policies towards Russia and Ukraine under President Donald Trump. The Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed with a significant majority, 77 to 20, but must now be reconciled with the House version before becoming law.

The NDAA follows a month of legislative stalemate, occurring against the backdrop of Russian military incursions into NATO airspace over Estonia, Poland, and Romania, including a recent violation of Estonian airspace by Russian fighter jets. A pivotal component of the NDAA is the three-year funding authorization for the Baltic Security Initiative (BSI), designed to bolster the defenses of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania against potential Russian aggression. This funding underscores the U.S.'s dedication to supporting its NATO allies in the face of ongoing geopolitical tensions. 🇺🇸🇪🇪🇱🇻🇱🇹

Ukrainian delegation to offer purchase of air defense, HIMARS systems during upcoming US visit, Zelensky says

Ukraine is preparing a significant diplomatic and military push during an upcoming visit to Washington. A high-level Ukrainian delegation, led by Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko and including key officials such as President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, will negotiate the purchase of advanced air defense systems and HIMARS rocket systems as part of a "Mega Deal." This deal, initially valued at up to $90 billion, aims to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities amidst ongoing Russian attacks.

The negotiations come in the wake of a large-scale Russian assault on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, which saw Ukrainian forces intercept 405 drones and 15 missiles, though a child was killed and 24 people injured. Zelensky emphasized the urgency of acquiring air defense systems, particularly American ones, to protect against such attacks. The delegation will also seek modifications to ATACMS missiles and discuss the potential supply of Tomahawk long-range cruise missiles, which Zelensky has been advocating for since last year. Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's warnings of escalation, Zelensky believes that receiving these advanced weapons could pressure Russia to engage in meaningful negotiations. The visit underscores Ukraine's determination to strengthen its defenses and secure international support in the face of continued aggression. 🇺🇦🛡️

Gaza ceasefire has started, Israel announces

A ceasefire in Gaza began at noon local time today, marking the first phase of a peace agreement between Israel and Hamas. The deal includes the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli troops to a predetermined line, concluding over two years of conflict. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have started repositioning their troops along the new deployment lines to prepare for the ceasefire and the return of the hostages. IDF forces in the Southern Command are actively engaged in securing the area and neutralizing any immediate threats. This development brings hope for a reduction in hostilities and a step towards stability in the region. 🕊️🇮🇱🇵🇸

Wall Street Drops Amid Concerns Over Potential New China Tariffs

The stock market experienced significant declines, driven by geopolitical tensions and mixed corporate earnings reports. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index led the drop, falling by 3.6%, with major players like Apple and Amazon seeing substantial losses of 3.5% and 5.0%, respectively. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also retreated by 1.9%. These declines followed President Donald Trump's announcement on his platform, Truth Social, that he is considering sharply increased tariffs on Chinese imports due to Beijing's export restrictions on rare earth metals.

Levi Strauss & Co. faced one of the most dramatic crashes, with its shares plummeting by 12.6%, despite reporting higher-than-expected profits in its interim report. The drop may be attributed to overly high investor expectations, as the stock had surged by 42% since the beginning of the year. Over the entire past week, the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow Jones indices retreated by 2.4%, 2.5%, and 2.7%, respectively, reflecting broader market volatility and investor caution. 📉💸

Greece seeks to finalize Chevron gas exploration contract this year, says minister

Greece is actively working to finalize a gas exploration contract with Chevron and its Greek partner, Helleniq Energy, by the end of 2025. The US oil giant and Helleniq, Greece's largest oil refiner, have submitted a joint bid to explore for gas in four deep-sea blocks off the Peloponnese peninsula and the island of Crete. Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou emphasized the urgency of meeting the agreed timelines to secure the contract within this year. This initiative aligns with Greece's broader strategy to enhance its energy independence and reduce reliance on Russian gas imports, in line with the European Union's efforts to diversify energy sources following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Once the contract is finalized, it will require approval from a Greek court of auditors and the parliament. Chevron plans to commence seismic research in 2026, with a five-year window to identify potential recoverable gas deposits. Any test drilling is expected to occur between 2030 and 2032. 🇬🇷🛢️

Municipal elections in Kosovo: Serbian minority worried for its future

On October 12, Kosovo will hold its first round of municipal elections, occurring amidst a political stalemate and a lack of a functioning government since February's legislative elections. The outgoing administration, led by nationalist Prime Minister Albin Kurti, has been criticized for policies perceived as oppressive towards the Serbian minority. The elections are unfolding against the backdrop of stalled negotiations between Belgrade and Pristina, primarily due to Kosovo's refusal to establish the "Association of Serb Municipalities," a body designed to safeguard the rights of the Serbian community.

The elections are particularly significant in cities like Gračanica, where there is a possibility of a new Albanian mayor being elected. This shift could further strain relations between the Albanian majority and the Serbian minority, who are increasingly worried about their future in Kosovo. The political climate is tense, with the Serbian community feeling marginalized and uncertain about their representation and rights in the country. The outcome of these elections will be crucial in determining the trajectory of Kosovo's political landscape and the future of its Serbian minority. 🇽🇰🇷🇸

GPS disruptions in Latvian airspace increased 2.6 times in the first nine months

Latvian airspace has experienced a significant increase in GPS disturbances, with 1,060 incidents recorded in the first nine months of the year, marking a 2.6-fold rise compared to the same period last year. September alone saw 91 disruptions, a 3.6 times increase from the previous year. This trend has been escalating, with 820 incidents in 2023, 342 in 2022, and just 26 in 2022. The Latvian air traffic controller, Latvijas Gaisa Satiksme (LGS), attributes these disruptions to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which began around the same time.

The Civil Aviation Agency (CAA) of Latvia is actively monitoring and analyzing these GPS signal disruptions, which, while affecting normal aviation processes, do not pose a direct threat to flight safety. The CAA assures that multiple systems are in place to ensure the safety of aircraft transiting Latvian airspace. Every incident is centrally collected and analyzed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). LGS, a state-owned company, is responsible for providing air navigation services, while the CAA oversees flight safety, aviation security, and environmental compliance. The ongoing GPS disruptions highlight the broader geopolitical tensions affecting air travel in the region. 🛩️📡

Putin blasts Nobel Peace Prize decision, wins thanks from Trump

Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized the Nobel Peace Prize, stating that it had lost credibility due to past awards given to individuals who did not contribute to peace. He made these remarks during a visit to Tajikistan, praising U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts in global peacekeeping. Trump, who had been vying for the Nobel Peace Prize himself, publicly thanked Putin for the endorsement.

The Nobel Committee had earlier awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, despite Trump's aspirations. Putin's comments came amidst the collapse of U.S.-brokered peace talks aimed at ending Russia's war in Ukraine. Trump's efforts to mediate the conflict have yielded little progress, with Russian attacks on Ukraine intensifying and the Kremlin showing increased resistance to negotiations.

The August summit between Trump and Putin in Alaska failed to produce a ceasefire, and subsequent plans for a trilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky never materialized. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov acknowledged that the momentum for peace talks had "largely exhausted." Meanwhile, Russia has escalated its assaults on Ukrainian cities, focusing on energy infrastructure as winter approaches. Zelensky suggested that if Trump could secure a ceasefire, Ukraine might nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize. 🇷🇺🇺🇸⚔️

Donald Trump deserved the Nobel prize, says … Vladimir Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly defended Donald Trump, asserting that the former U.S. president is "doing a lot" for world peace. Putin's remarks came in response to the Nobel Committee's decision to award its prestigious peace prize to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, rather than Trump, who had openly sought the honor. The Russian leader criticized the Nobel Committee, stating that its credibility has significantly diminished. Putin made these comments during a visit to Tajikistan, where he also expressed his disapproval of the committee's choice, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical tensions and differing perspectives on global leadership. 🌍🏛️

Recycling ambition and despair

The current state of Greek politics is marked by a mix of ambition and despair, as evidenced by the public's interest in potential new parties led by former Prime Ministers Antonis Samaras and Alexis Tsipras, as well as Maria Karystianou, the mother of a victim from the 2023 Tempe rail tragedy. These figures represent different aspects of the political landscape: Samaras and Tsipras embody the lack of fresh ideas and leadership, while Karystianou symbolizes the widespread disillusionment with the political system. The country is in dire need of innovative policies to address issues like justice, accountability, and corruption, but the political environment is stagnant and mediocre.

The absence of young, confident, and credible leaders who can both represent the public's sentiments and drive meaningful change is a significant concern. The political system often stifles capable individuals and initiatives, leading to a cycle of incompetence and corruption. Despite the presence of talented, well-educated young people, both within Greece and the diaspora, the political culture remains mired in opportunism and weak institutions. To break this cycle, it is crucial for these capable individuals to step forward, work diligently, and create a more functional and responsive political system. The future of Greece depends on moving beyond the endless recycling of ambition and despair and embracing genuine progress and reform. 🇬🇷🌱

Cyprus approves transfer of Great Sea Interconnector licenses to Greece’s ADMIE

Cyprus has approved the transfer of ownership and management licenses for the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project to Greece’s ADMIE, marking a significant step forward for the long-delayed initiative. The GSI aims to connect the power grids of Greece, Cyprus, and potentially Israel, fostering energy cooperation and security in the region. The decision, published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Cyprus, transfers control from the previous promoter, EuroAsia Interconnector, to ADMIE, Greece’s power grid operator.

This move addresses a major obstacle in the project's progress, which has faced financial, regulatory, and geopolitical challenges, including opposition from Turkey. Greek and Cypriot energy ministers, Stavros Papastavrou and Giorgos Papanastasiou, recently met to align their efforts and advance the project. The European Commission, a strong supporter of the GSI, is actively involved, with EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen scheduled to discuss progress and next steps with the ministers. The transfer of licenses to ADMIE is expected to revitalize the GSI, bringing the region closer to enhanced energy integration and stability. 🌍🔌

'Symbolic power: What's the point of Macron, or the centre, if they give everything away?'

A growing sense of disillusionment is sweeping through France, particularly among the political center, as the country grapples with the perceived ineffectiveness of President Emmanuel Macron's leadership. Critics argue that Macron's administration has failed to uphold the principles and values traditionally associated with the political center, leading to a loss of symbolic power and influence. This disenchantment is fueled by the perception that Macron's policies have not delivered meaningful change or progress, instead appearing to capitulate to opposing forces. The frustration is palpable, with many questioning the relevance and purpose of the political center if it continually concedes ground to more extreme or populist factions. This sentiment underscores a broader crisis of confidence in the ability of centrist politics to address the pressing challenges facing France today. The political climate is tense, with calls for a more assertive and principled stance from the center to regain its symbolic power and restore public trust. 🇫🇷🤔

More Ukrainians plan to make Finland home

A recent report by Finland's Interior Ministry reveals a significant shift in the intentions of Ukrainians residing in the country. As the war in Ukraine continues, only 6% of respondents now plan to return home once the conflict ends, a stark contrast to the 51% who expressed this intention in the autumn of 2023. The primary concern cited by those wishing to stay is the ongoing insecurity in their home regions. 🇺🇦🇫🇮

The proportion of Ukrainians intending to remain in Finland has surged to 66%, with an additional 26% still undecided about their future plans. Nearly half of the respondents are considering applying for a residence permit based on work, study, or family ties. While many have actively sought employment, fewer than a third have successfully secured jobs. Language barriers, the state of the labor market, and health and social reasons are among the challenges hindering their job search. Encouragingly, the number of Ukrainians able to work in Finnish has increased significantly, with 38% reporting proficiency in the language.

The survey, conducted between July and August, gathered responses from over 2,000 individuals, predominantly from eastern Ukraine. As their temporary protection status in Finland is set to expire in March 2027, these Ukrainians face an uncertain future, with many seeking long-term integration into Finnish society.

Polish court rules asylum ban at Belarus border justified and lawful

In a significant legal development, a Polish court has upheld the government's suspension of certain asylum rights, deeming the measure justified and lawful. The ruling came in response to a complaint filed by a Sudanese man who was denied the right to claim international protection after entering Poland irregularly from Belarus. The court, citing Poland's constitutional duty to safeguard its borders, agreed with the government's argument that the asylum ban is necessary to counter the "instrumentalisation of migration" by hostile states, notably Belarus.

The court's decision, welcomed by the deputy interior minister responsible for migration policy, Maciej Duszczyk, underscores Poland's stance on controlling its borders amidst a migration crisis engineered by Belarus. The ruling emphasizes that while foreigners retain the right to seek protection, Poland has the right to manage its borders and decide who can enter the country. The court noted that the Sudanese man did not fall under exempted categories, such as minors or pregnant women, and that migrants often choose routes involving Belarus or Russia, thereby cooperating with countries that use migration for destabilization.

The asylum suspension, introduced in March and renewed three times since, has led to a significant decrease in attempted border crossings and asylum applications. The court argued that the restrictions are limited in time and place, applying only to specific groups and not abolishing the right to seek protection entirely. However, human rights groups, including the Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights, have criticized the measures, arguing they violate international law and Poland's constitution. The foundation contends that the government's use of regulations to limit asylum rights is unconstitutional.

The court's ruling is part of a broader strategy by Poland to address what it calls a "hybrid attack" by Belarus, which has been encouraging migrants to cross the border. Poland has responded with physical and electronic barriers along the border and a tougher migration strategy. The number of asylum applications in Poland reached a record high in 2024, with significant increases from Ukrainians, Ethiopians, Eritreans, and Somalis. The court's decision allows for appeals, and the Sudanese man's case is one of several brought before the court in Białystok. Those who exhaust legal remedies in Poland can appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. 🇵🇱🏛️

'Something is wrong with us' in France: Ex-EU commissioner Thierry Breton

In a candid assessment of France's current political and economic landscape, former EU Commissioner for the Internal Market, Thierry Breton, highlights the nation's significant challenges. Despite facing similar issues as Germany, such as subprime crises, debt problems, and the impact of COVID-19, France's debt-to-GDP ratio stands at 116%, more than double Germany's 62%. Breton emphasizes the need for France to address its fiscal imbalances and reduce social spending, acknowledging that the country's political deadlock and mounting debt have weakened its standing in the European Union. As a founding member, France must lead by example and recommit to its EU obligations, he argues.

Breton also discusses the complexities of European defense integration, stressing that while defense remains a sovereign matter for member states, the EU can play a crucial role in enhancing the continent's defense industry. He points to the success of the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) in increasing ammunition production for Ukraine as a model for future cooperation. However, he cautions against overly ambitious projects like a "drone wall," suggesting instead a focus on the four contested spaces outlined in the EU's Strategic Compass: airspace, space, cyberspace, and maritime domains. France, with its nuclear capabilities, remains a key player in European defense, but must work collaboratively with its partners to strengthen the continent's security. 🇫🇷🛡️