Newsflash

Russia's largest oil terminal in occupied Crimea still on fire 2 days after Ukrainian drone strike

A significant fire continues to burn at Russia's largest oil terminal in occupied Crimea, two days after a Ukrainian drone strike. The blaze, which started around midnight, has been raging at the facility in Feodosia, sending a massive plume of smoke visible from over 25 kilometers away. The fire has forced the evacuation of more than 800 people from the area, with toxic smoke and fumes affecting a wide radius. This strike marks the second attack on the facility within a week, highlighting Ukraine's intensified efforts to disrupt Russian oil infrastructure, a crucial financial and logistical resource for Moscow's ongoing war efforts.

The Feodosia oil depot is a vital hub for transshipping oil and oil products between rail tankers, sea vessels, and road transport. Despite being located approximately 250 kilometers from Ukraine-controlled territory, the facility has been a prime target for Ukrainian forces. The repeated attacks have reportedly reduced Russia's oil processing capacity by 21%, leading to fuel shortages and price controls in several Russian regions. As the fire persists, it underscores the strategic importance of Ukraine's campaign against Russian energy infrastructure, aiming to weaken Moscow's war machine and financial stability. 🔥🛢️

Ukraine war latest: Russia's largest oil terminal in occupied Crimea is still on fire

On day 1,329 of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, significant developments continue to unfold on multiple fronts. In occupied Crimea, Russia's largest oil terminal in Feodosia remains ablaze, with a massive column of smoke visible from over 25 kilometers away. The fire, sparked by Ukrainian drone strikes, has led to the evacuation of more than 800 people from the area, and toxic smoke has spread across the region. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces have made strategic advances in the Pokrovsk sector, repelling Russian attacks and clearing an area of 3.4 square kilometers.

The U.S. anticipates substantial NATO spending pledges for Ukrainian weapons purchases, aiming to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities. Concurrently, Ukraine has urged the UN to condemn a Russian attack on a UN aid convoy in Kherson Oblast, which resulted in the destruction of one truck and severe damage to another. The convoy was delivering crucial food and aid to the region.

In other news, a new mobile, ground-based missile launcher capable of carrying Tomahawk cruise missiles has been unveiled by U.S. defense company Oshkosh Defense. This development comes as U.S. President Donald Trump considers sending Tomahawks to Ukraine to pressure Russia into negotiations. However, the launch mechanism for these missiles remains a critical issue, as they are typically deployed from ships or strategic bombers.

Ukraine has also struck an energy facility in central Russia, causing a fire at a power station in the Nizhny Novgorod region. The attack resulted in a short-term power outage, highlighting the ongoing conflict's reach deep into Russian territory. Additionally, a resident of Russia's Belgorod region expressed despair over the frequent Ukrainian drone strikes and power outages, describing life as "simply hopeless."

Despite the introduction of the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), which allows European NATO allies to purchase weapons for Ukraine from the U.S., military aid to Ukraine has seen a surprising decline in recent months. This drop in support raises concerns about the sustainability of Ukraine's defense efforts. 🇺🇦💥

In Kharkiv, a Russian strike damaged a hospital, injuring six people and forcing the evacuation of 57 patients. The attack also left nearly 30,000 residents without power. Across Ukraine, Russian attacks have resulted in at least three deaths and 17 injuries over the past day, with significant damage reported in Kherson, Odesa, Donetsk, and Chernihiv oblasts. Despite these challenges, Ukraine's General Staff reports that Russia has lost approximately 1,125,150 troops since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Russia has tortured Ukrainian POWs for years. Now they're even more vulnerable

Russia has withdrawn from the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture, a move that shields it from international scrutiny and accountability for its systematic torture of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees. This decision, signed into law by President Vladimir Putin, follows a pattern of Russia dismantling its commitments to international law since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The withdrawal is a deliberate attempt to isolate itself from oversight, making it easier to hide ongoing abuses. Over 95% of Ukrainian POWs have reported enduring torture in Russian captivity, with beatings, electrocution, and starvation being common practices.

By exiting the convention, Russia has legally barred international monitors from inspecting its detention facilities, further endangering the lives of Ukrainian prisoners. This move fits a broader strategy of reducing accountability and increasing control over human rights abuses. Russia has previously expelled itself from the Council of Europe, refused to implement European Court of Human Rights judgments, and ignored U.N. oversight mechanisms. The Kremlin's actions are driven by a desire to eliminate external checks on its conduct and promote a narrative of Western hostility.

The consequences of this withdrawal are severe. Ukrainian POWs are now even more vulnerable to torture, and the international community faces a challenge in enforcing human rights norms against a major power that rejects oversight. While Russia remains bound by general international law prohibiting torture, enforcement mechanisms are weakened without access and cooperation. The move underscores Russia's defiance of international human rights systems and its willingness to act unchecked, posing a significant challenge to global efforts to prevent torture and uphold human rights. 🇷🇺💥

Trump to Spain: Spend more on defense or face ‘punishment’ tariffs

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Spain for not meeting NATO's defense spending benchmark, threatening economic retaliation in the form of tariffs. Trump expressed his displeasure with Spain's refusal to increase its defense spending to 5% of GDP, a target he claims all other NATO members have met. He described Spain's stance as "unbelievably disrespectful" and a "very bad thing for NATO." The president hinted at imposing trade penalties on Spain, marking his strongest remarks yet on the issue. This move underscores Trump's emphasis on increased defense spending from NATO allies and his willingness to use economic leverage to achieve this goal. 🇺🇸🇪🇸💥

Syria's Interim President Visits Moscow to Seek Assad Extradition

After seizing power in Syria last December, former Islamist leader al-Sharaa is making his inaugural visit to Russia. This trip comes amidst a shift in Syria's political landscape, following the ousting of long-time dictator Bashar al-Assad, who sought refuge in Russia. Al-Sharaa's agenda includes high-level meetings with Russian officials, including President Putin, to discuss potential investments and the future of Russia's two military bases along Syria's Mediterranean coast. Additionally, al-Sharaa is expected to formally request the extradition of the former dictator. Since assuming control, Syria's new leadership has prioritized fostering peaceful relations with Russia, which had previously intervened in the Syrian civil war in support of Assad. 🇷🇺🇸🇾

New book exposes Russia’s ecocide as a war against Ukraine’s land – and memory

Russia's destruction of Ukraine's Kakhovka Hydroelectric Dam in June 2023 unleashed catastrophic floods, causing immediate harm to landscapes, communities, and ecosystems, and threatening to sever Ukrainians' deep-rooted cultural connections to the land. The dam's destruction is part of a broader pattern of environmental devastation orchestrated by Russia, as detailed in the book "Ecocide in Ukraine" by Ukrainian scholar Darya Tsymbalyuk. This ecocide not only reshapes the geographic landscape but also disrupts traditional practices and cultural identities tied to the land, such as mushroom picking and seasonal harvesting.

The ongoing environmental destruction poses a significant threat to global food security, with Ukraine being a leading exporter of wheat, sunflower oil, and oilseeds. Despite the constant threat of wartime violence, Ukraine remains committed to continuing grain exports and participating in humanitarian programs. Russia's actions echo historical atrocities like the Holodomor, a Soviet-engineered famine recognized as genocide by several European countries. The war's environmental impact extends beyond Ukraine's borders, contributing to increased greenhouse gas emissions, global militarization, and a larger carbon footprint from refugee movements and logistics operations.

Tsymbalyuk's work underscores the profound and lasting effects of Russia's ecocide, which goes beyond physical destruction to disrupt cultural practices and traditions. The war's impact on the environment and cultural heritage is a strategy of erasure, aiming to sever Ukrainians' ties to their land and history. The international community must recognize and address the full scope of this destruction, understanding that ecocide is not merely collateral damage but a deliberate tactic of control and erasure. The world must reckon with the cost of this destruction, not just in terms of lost resources but in the severed roots that once connected generations to their homeland. 🌳💔

Italy seeks over €4B from banks as draft budget gains approval

The Italian government has approved a draft budget aimed at raising up to €4.5 billion from the country's banks and insurers. This funding will support a €18 billion package designed to provide tax cuts and bolster healthcare and salary support measures. Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti highlighted the package's role in addressing significant economic uncertainty, emphasizing its focus on enhancing households' purchasing power, aiding businesses, and meeting social needs while maintaining fiscal sustainability. This strategic move underscores Italy's commitment to balancing immediate economic relief with long-term financial stability. 💰🏥💼

Belarus detains at least 88 over alleged ties to military monitoring group, rights watchdog says

In Belarus, at least 88 individuals have been detained for alleged ties to the military monitoring group Belarusian Hajun, according to the Viasna Human Rights Center. Belarusian Hajun, an open-source intelligence project, tracked Russian and Belarusian troop movements and military activities since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The group's work was crucial for Belarusian, Ukrainian, and international media outlets. However, the project was forced to shut down in February after a hack exposed the personal information of its contributors and supporters. Since then, detentions have continued, with many arrests occurring in the southeastern Gomel Oblast.

The Viasna Human Rights Center has verified at least 88 cases of individuals held in custody, though the actual number is believed to be higher. Many of those detained have been convicted of "promoting extremism" and added to the "list of extremists." Court hearings are ongoing, with defendants receiving both suspended sentences and prison terms. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry has condemned these arrests, stating they are part of a broader effort by Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko's regime to create an "exchange fund" for political leverage.

Belarus under Lukashenko has faced significant international criticism for widespread human rights abuses, including torture, arbitrary detention, and politically motivated prosecutions. Thousands of Belarusians remain imprisoned or in exile. Lukashenko, in power since 1994, permitted Russian forces to launch an offensive against Ukraine from Belarusian territory in 2022. The ongoing repression underscores the regime's systematic violation of human rights and its use of political leverage to maintain control. 🔍🔒

The ‘worker cloning’ phenomenon by employers

In Greece, a disturbing practice known as "worker cloning" is prevalent in various industries, including packing plants, agricultural fields, logistics warehouses, and hotels. This illicit network involves the creation of false identities for illegal immigrants, who are then exploited under a hostage-like regime with forged documents and nonexistent salaries. The scheme operates by taking the legal documents of one immigrant, photocopying them, and selling these copies to others for €50 per set. This allows multiple individuals to work simultaneously under the same identity, often in different locations.

The process is both straightforward and alarmingly effective, exploiting bureaucratic loopholes and the desperate need of immigrants to secure employment. After a week of legal work, employers dismiss the original worker but retain copies of their documents. These copies are then distributed to illegal immigrants, enabling them to work under the same legal identity. As a result, a single set of documents can be used by multiple individuals, with "Omar al-Hasan" potentially representing Raheem from Bangladesh in one job and Ahmed from Sudan in another. This phenomenon highlights the severe exploitation and human rights abuses faced by vulnerable workers in Greece. 😞💼

China Recalls Ambassador to Sweden After Four Years

China's ambassador to Sweden, Cui Aimin, has been recalled after serving for four years, as reported by Expressen. The reasons for his departure have not been officially disclosed by the Chinese embassy. However, it is confirmed that he has had a farewell audience with the King of Sweden, as noted on the royal court's website. Unlike his predecessor, Gui Congyou, Aimin maintained a relatively low profile during his tenure, making fewer public statements. The abrupt recall has sparked speculation about the underlying reasons, although no official explanation has been provided. 🇨🇳🇸🇪

Does Europe need to adjust to a weaker France?

In recent years, President Emmanuel Macron has emerged as one of Europe's most influential leaders, advocating for a stronger, more united Europe. However, his domestic challenges are increasingly impeding his ability to assert France's influence on the global stage. Macron's struggles at home, including contentious pension reforms and social unrest, have weakened his political capital, both domestically and internationally. This shift raises critical questions about France's role in Europe and the continent's ability to address pressing issues such as defense spending and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

As France grapples with internal divisions, Europe must consider how to navigate a potential power vacuum. Macron's vision for a more integrated and strategic Europe has been a driving force in continental politics, but his waning influence could hinder progress on key initiatives. The European Union faces significant challenges, from bolstering defense capabilities to supporting Ukraine amidst Russian aggression. A weakened France may struggle to lead these efforts, necessitating a re-evaluation of Europe's strategic priorities and leadership dynamics.

For Europe to effectively tackle these challenges, it may need to look beyond individual nations and foster a more collective approach to decision-making and resource allocation. This could involve strengthening existing European institutions, enhancing cooperation among member states, and promoting a shared vision of European security and prosperity. As France adjusts to its evolving domestic landscape, Europe must adapt as well, ensuring that the continent remains resilient and united in the face of global uncertainties. 🇪🇺🤝

Second general strike this month as unions protest new labor law

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Athens in a second general strike this month, protesting a controversial new labor law proposed by the government. The 24-hour strike, organized by the country's main public and private sector unions, GSEE and ADEDY, disrupted ferry services, public transportation, and train operations, causing significant traffic congestion in the capital.

The draft law aims to increase flexibility in working conditions, allowing private sector employers to extend daily work hours to 13 from the current 8, and to modify rules on short-term hiring and annual leave distribution. The government argues that the bill will create a more efficient labor market, enabling employees to work four days a week, and will protect workers from being fired for refusing overtime. However, labor unions contend that the legislation will expose workers to exploitation and undermine their family and social lives. They are demanding the withdrawal of the bill, a reduction in the workweek to 35 hours, pay increases, and the reinstatement of collective bargaining agreements.

Greece currently has one of the lowest purchasing powers in the EU and the highest share of employees working more than 45 hours per week. Opposition parties have joined the unions in calling for the bill's withdrawal, with some lawmakers denouncing the proposed 13-hour shift as "paid slavery." The contentious legislation is set to be voted on in parliament, with unions and opposition parties pushing for its rejection. 🇬🇷🚫

Decision time at IMO meeting in London

In the coming days, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) will convene in London to decide on a crucial framework aimed at achieving zero net emissions in the maritime sector. The outcome of this meeting is highly anticipated, as it will significantly impact global shipping policies and environmental goals. The United States has taken a notably oppositional stance, while major shipping companies, including prominent Greek interests, are advocating for modifications and adjustments to the proposed framework. The decisions made during this meeting will shape the future of sustainable shipping and set the course for reducing the industry's carbon footprint. 🌍🚢

Top German MPs call to lift weapons export ban on Israel

Two prominent figures in German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government have advocated for the lifting of restrictions on arms exports to Israel, following the recent peace deal. In August, Germany partially suspended weapons exports to Israel, specifically targeting those "clearly usable in Gaza," and has not approved any new exports since then. However, Alexander Hoffmann, parliamentary group leader of the CSU, and Jens Spahn, parliamentary group leader of the CDU, both called for an immediate reversal of these sanctions. Hoffmann asserted that the restrictions should be lifted "immediately," while Spahn noted that the final decision would be made by the Federal Security Council, the government committee advising on national security policy. The push to resume arms exports comes as Israel has halted its offensive, signaling a shift in Germany's stance on defense cooperation with Israel. 🇩🇪🇮🇱

Deputy justice chancellor raps police for unlawfully ending dozens of domestic violence investigations

In Finland, a significant review of domestic violence cases has led to the reopening of 40 criminal investigations. Deputy Justice Chancellor Mikko Puumalainen initiated an examination of 65 domestic violence cases and discovered that 43 had been unlawfully closed due to victims not pressing charges. Domestic violence is classified as a crime subject to prosecution, regardless of the victim's wishes, making the closures illegal. Puumalainen's findings revealed extensive and long-standing issues, with some chief investigators making multiple unlawful decisions. He took action by reminding 29 lead police investigators of prosecutorial guidelines and issuing warnings to two for particularly serious conduct.

This development comes amid a rising trend in domestic violence reports, with approximately 13,000 cases filed with Finnish police last year. The reopening of these cases underscores the importance of adhering to legal protocols in handling domestic violence, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and victims receive justice. 🚨🏠

Trump threatens to disarm Hamas ‘quickly, and perhaps violently’ as ceasefire wobbles

The U.S.-brokered ceasefire in Gaza faced significant challenges on Tuesday, as tensions escalated on multiple fronts. Israel's military actions resulted in several injuries, while Hamas appeared reluctant to fulfill its commitments under the agreement. U.S. President Donald Trump further complicated the situation by threatening Hamas, stating that if the group did not disarm, the U.S. would intervene, potentially through violent means.

Meanwhile, Hamas forces reasserted their presence in areas of Gaza previously occupied by Israeli troops. They engaged in clashes with other armed groups and targeted alleged criminals, according to reports. The volatile situation in Gaza underscores the fragility of the ceasefire and the ongoing power struggles within the region. The international community watches closely as the prospects for lasting peace remain uncertain. 🇮🇱🇵🇸💥

Universities Tackle AI Cheating with On-Site Exams and Digital Tools

The Swedish government has raised concerns about declining reading abilities among both school and college students, exacerbated by the rise of AI and digital tools, which increase the risk of academic dishonesty. In response, the government tasked the Swedish Higher Education Authority (UKÄ) with investigating how educational institutions are addressing AI-driven cheating, particularly during remote learning, which saw a surge in cheating incidents during the coronavirus pandemic.

The UKÄ's report reveals that institutions are implementing several strategies to mitigate cheating. The most common approach is reducing home exams in favor of on-site, proctored exams. Many institutions also employ specialized digital assessment platforms that restrict students' software use, detect plagiarism or AI-generated content, and monitor response times. Additionally, some institutions are replacing written exams with oral assessments.

While some institutions permit AI use during exams, they require students to disclose when and how AI tools were employed. To further combat cheating, institutions are offering support to help students complete tasks independently, such as courses in academic writing. There is also a growing need for teacher training on AI detection methods and integrating AI into teaching practices. Some institutions are even providing teachers with generative AI tools to assist in creating exam questions, demonstrating a proactive approach to leveraging AI in education. 📚💻🤖

Somalia Stops Forced Deportations of Citizens

The Swedish government has temporarily halted deportations to Somalia, citing the sensitivity of the situation. Minister for Migration Johan Forssell, from the Moderate Party, acknowledged that practical issues can arise in such procedures but assured that ongoing dialogues with Somali authorities are in place. He expressed confidence that deportations would resume, deferring further details to the police. Earlier reports revealed that Swedish aid to Somalia had been redirected to projects near the Somali prime minister's office in exchange for Somalia's agreement to accept forcibly deported Swedish citizens. This development highlights the complex diplomatic and humanitarian considerations involved in migration policies. 🇸🇴🇸🇪🛬️

Police clash with protesters as huge strike rocks Brussels

In Brussels, police clashed with protesters during a significant national strike, deploying tear gas and water cannons against demonstrators on Boulevard Pachéco. Dozens of individuals were arrested, and several were injured in the confrontation, leaving some visibly shaken and others angry with the authorities. The protests, organized by Belgium’s trade unions, target austerity measures imposed by the right-wing government coalition led by Flemish nationalist Bart De Wever. The key issue driving the unrest is a pensions reform that aims to increase the retirement age from 65 to 67 by 2030. The strike is poised to be one of the largest in Belgium in over a decade, reflecting widespread discontent with the government's economic policies. 🇧🇪💥

Visas Revoked for Six After Comments on Charlie Kirk Murder

The U.S. Department of State has announced that it will expel several foreign diplomats from the United States for their social media posts and videos criticizing conservative political commentator Charlie Kirk, who was killed in Utah over a month ago. The diplomats, hailing from Argentina, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, Paraguay, and South Africa, are accused of violating diplomatic norms by engaging in political commentary. Kirk, a prominent figure known for shifting the U.S. political debate to the right and his staunch support for Donald Trump, was shot while addressing a university audience. The expulsion has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it represents a form of "cancel culture" reminiscent of the Trump administration's policies. The move has led to job losses for various U.S. citizens, including journalists, teachers, and military personnel, who have publicly criticized Kirk following his death. The situation underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding free speech and political expression in the United States. 🇺🇸🗣️