Newsflash

'He's going to take something' — Trump says Putin has 'won' territory in Ukraine

In a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, President Donald Trump has suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin should retain Ukrainian territory seized during the ongoing invasion, framing it as a fait accompli. This stance was revealed in an interview with Fox News, where Trump casually discussed Putin's territorial gains, implying that Ukraine should accept these losses as part of a peace deal. This perspective was echoed in Trump's meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, where he reportedly pressured Ukraine to accept a deal that would cede significant territory to Russia.

Trump's comments and actions have sparked international concern, with European officials and leaders like Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticizing the approach. Tusk emphasized that Ukraine should not be coerced into territorial concessions and that pressure should instead be applied to Russia to end its aggression. The U.S. president's remarks have been seen as aligning with Kremlin propaganda, downplaying the severity of the conflict and suggesting that Russia is economically thriving despite international sanctions.

The proposed deal, as reported by the Washington Post and Financial Times, involves Russia relinquishing parts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts in exchange for full control of Donetsk Oblast. This shift in Putin's stance, while seen as a minor concession, still requires Ukraine to surrender territory that Russia has struggled to fully occupy despite its military advantages. The U.S. delegation's reaction to Trump's suggestions was one of surprise and dismay, highlighting the tense and contentious nature of the discussions. The international community watches closely as these developments unfold, with the future of Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity hanging in the balance. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

No, Russian soldiers in Ukraine are not being forced to fight against their will

The notion that Russian soldiers are coerced into fighting in Ukraine is a misconception, even held by some high-ranking U.S. officials. In reality, most Russian troops fighting in Ukraine are volunteers, driven primarily by financial incentives rather than ideological beliefs. The Kremlin strategically avoids mass mobilization to prevent public backlash and instead relies on a contract army, offering substantial bonuses and benefits to attract recruits. These volunteers often come from economically disadvantaged regions, seeking to alleviate financial struggles or resolve personal legal issues. Additionally, migrants from Central Asia and other countries are sometimes pressured into enlisting through threats of deportation or loss of citizenship. The Russian government also recruits foreign nationals from countries like Cuba, Syria, and Nepal through deceptive job offers that lead to military service.

The Russian strategy involves maintaining a "social contract" with its citizens, where the government avoids broad mobilization and instead pays volunteers to fight. This approach has thus far prevented large-scale protests against the war. The financial incentives are a key factor in sustaining Russia's military efforts in Ukraine, with recruits often motivated by the promise of high salaries and various social benefits. This method allows President Vladimir Putin to pursue his goals in Ukraine while minimizing domestic opposition and maintaining his grip on power. 💸💥

US 'ready' to replace Russian oil, gas supplies to Europe, Zelensky claims

The United States has expressed readiness to supply European countries with the necessary gas and oil to reduce their dependence on Russian energy imports, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This announcement follows recent efforts by European allies to impose stricter measures against Russian energy, particularly after former U.S. President Donald Trump's call for NATO members to halt Russian oil imports. While details of the supply plan remain unclear, the U.S. has engaged with European leaders to encourage a reduction in Russian energy purchases.

The European Union has agreed on a plan to phase out Russian gas and oil by 2028, although Hungary and Slovakia, which heavily rely on Russian energy, have opposed the measure. Zelensky highlighted Ukraine's potential to contribute to Europe's energy independence, proposing the development of gas infrastructure, nuclear generation, and other projects. However, specific details about these initiatives have not been disclosed by either the Ukrainian or U.S. administrations. The discussions come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, including Zelensky's recent meeting with Trump in the White House. Slovakia and Hungary have indicated they will not reduce Russian energy imports without guaranteed alternative supplies. 🇺🇸🇪🇺🛢️

EU seeks to boost powers to board Russian shadow fleet vessels, document shows

The European Union is actively pursuing measures to enhance its ability to inspect vessels within Russia's "shadow fleet," as outlined in a document prepared for a recent meeting of EU foreign ministers. This fleet, comprising ships sailing under various flags to evade EU sanctions, poses significant threats to the bloc. These vessels not only bolster Moscow's war economy but also endanger the environment, navigation safety, and critical infrastructure. Additionally, they are suspected of being used as platforms for hybrid attacks against EU territory, including launching drones to surveil and disrupt civilian airports. The EU aims to address these multifaceted risks by strengthening its inspection capabilities. 🛳️🌍

'Question of self-preservation' — Baltic states move to curb Moscow's sway over their Russian speakers

In response to escalating Russian aggression and hybrid warfare tactics, the Baltic states of Estonia and Latvia are implementing measures to curtail Moscow's influence over their significant Russian-speaking populations. These communities, comprising roughly one-quarter to one-third of the populations in Estonia and Latvia respectively, are seen as potential vulnerabilities that Russia could exploit. The Baltic states, which gained independence from the Soviet Union in the 1990s, are now prioritizing the integration of these minorities and reducing Russian linguistic and cultural influence.

The Baltic states are taking several steps to achieve this, including phasing out Russian as the language of instruction in schools, tightening immigration rules for Russian citizens, and targeting Russian-linked organizations. These actions are driven by both security concerns and the need for greater social cohesion. Russia has long employed propaganda and disinformation campaigns to sway public opinion among Russian speakers in the Baltics, exploiting their often-limited knowledge of local languages and cultures. The Kremlin's efforts have intensified since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with Russia using social media, online portals, and other hybrid operations to promote narratives that undermine Western values and alleging the oppression of Russian speakers.

In response to these threats, Estonia and Latvia have implemented stricter immigration laws, barred non-EU citizens from voting in local elections, and separated their Orthodox churches from the Russian Orthodox Church. However, these measures have drawn criticism, both from Russia and Western organizations like the Council of Europe, which has chastised the countries for their new language laws. Despite the backlash, Baltic authorities maintain that these steps are crucial for safeguarding national security and social cohesion in the face of persistent Russian propaganda and disinformation campaigns. The Baltic states view countering these threats as a matter of self-preservation, especially as tensions with Russia continue to rise. 🇪🇪🇱🇻🇷🇺

Israel renews commitment to ceasefire after Sunday of violence in Gaza

Israel's military has intensified its enforcement of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire in Gaza, accusing Hamas of violating the agreement. The escalation follows an incident where two Israeli soldiers were killed near Rafah, which Hamas denied involvement in. In retaliation, Israel conducted airstrikes and shelling, resulting in the deaths of at least 44 people, including Hamas fighters. The Israeli government also halted aid deliveries into Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces reported that Hamas militants fired an anti-tank missile and engaged in gunfire, prompting the Israeli response. The situation remains tense as both sides exchange accusations and retaliatory actions. 🇮🇱🇵🇸💥

Ukraine’s EU membership bid set for breakthrough in December, says deputy PM

Ukraine is optimistic about advancing its EU membership bid by the end of this year, despite Hungary's opposition. Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka revealed that "creative solutions" are being explored to overcome Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's veto. EU leaders are considering approving the opening of up to six negotiation "clusters," which are legal steps towards EU membership, as early as December. This progress is driven by growing political momentum and increasing pressure on Orbán to lift his veto. Kachka expressed confidence that, with the right political will, all clusters could be reopened by year's end, bringing Ukraine closer to EU accession. 🇺🇦🇪🇺

Ex-CIA officer says Russian 'illegals' in Finland

Finland stands as a critical target in Russia's extensive hybrid warfare operations, according to Sean Wiswesser, a former U.S. intelligence officer who has closely monitored Russian President Vladimir Putin for decades. Wiswesser highlights Russia's strategic use of intelligence and disinformation to exploit divisive issues such as immigration, unemployment, and defense, aiming to sow distrust and weaken Western policymaking. Putin's ultimate goal, Wiswesser argues, is to restore the Soviet Union's influence, viewing its collapse as a catastrophic event that he seeks to reverse.

Russia's intelligence services play a pivotal role in Putin's strategy, employing tactics that include cyber threats, propaganda, and financial leverage rather than direct military action. Finland, with its extensive border with Russia, is particularly vulnerable to these influence operations. Despite not being a NATO member at the time, Finland was already engaged in a "secret war" with Russia, Wiswesser asserts. He warns that Russia's intelligence network, including highly trained "illegals" operating under assumed identities, poses a significant threat. These operatives are embedded across various sectors of Finnish society, making it a challenging adversary for Finland's intelligence services.

Wiswesser emphasizes that Russia's long-term strategic planning, which spans decades, gives it a significant advantage over Western nations, where political cycles are typically measured in years. This long-term perspective allows Russia to bide its time and exploit vulnerabilities patiently. Finland's role in NATO's northern defense is crucial, but its border with Russia presents both a strategic asset and a potential security risk that Russia is well-positioned to exploit. 🇫🇮🇷🇺💻

Turk Cypriot moderate wins vote in major policy shift in conflict

In a significant political shift, the Turkish Cypriot presidential election saw a moderate candidate, Tufan Erhuman, secure a decisive victory with 62.8% of the vote. This outcome marks a potential turning point in the long-stalled reunification talks for the divided island of Cyprus. Erhuman, a center-left politician and lawyer, has pledged to pursue a federal solution, aligning with the United Nations' long-standing proposal to end the nearly 50-year division. This approach contrasts with the hardline stance of his predecessor, Ersin Tatar, who advocated for a two-state policy backed by Turkey. The election results have reignited hopes for renewed peace talks, with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides expressing his commitment to resuming negotiations. The outcome may also influence Turkey's approach to the conflict, as the country's aspirations to join the European Union are intertwined with the Cyprus issue. The election of Erhuman signals a potential softening of Turkish Cypriot positions and a renewed push for a unified Cyprus. 🇨🇾🤝

Three Killed in US Attack on Colombian Drug Smuggling Boat

In a recent covert operation, three alleged drug-smuggling "terrorists" from a Colombian left-wing rebel group were reportedly killed in an attack on October 17 in international waters. The exact location of the incident remains unclear. This strike is part of a series of attacks on suspected drug-smuggling vessels, primarily occurring off the coast of Venezuela, with at least 30 individuals killed in total. The U.S. administration has authorized the CIA to conduct secret operations within Venezuela, escalating tensions in the region.

The situation has further deteriorated with U.S. President Donald Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro trading accusations. Petro has accused the U.S. of violating Colombia's sovereignty in a September attack that reportedly killed an innocent fisherman. In response, Trump labeled Petro a "drug leader," intensifying the diplomatic rift between the two nations. The ongoing conflict highlights the complex interplay of drug trafficking, terrorism, and geopolitical tensions in the region. 🚨🌊

Germany recalls envoy to Georgia amid growing tensions

Germany is recalling its ambassador to Georgia, Peter Fischer, for consultations following months of attacks from the pro-Russia Georgian government. The German Foreign Ministry cited sustained agitation against the EU, Germany, and Ambassador Fischer personally as the reason for the recall. This decision comes amidst escalating tensions in Georgia, where President Mikheil Kavelashvili, a far-right figure and former footballer, took office last December amidst allegations of electoral fraud. The situation in Georgia will be a key topic of discussion at an upcoming meeting of EU foreign affairs ministers. The recall underscores the growing diplomatic strain between Germany and Georgia, with broader implications for EU-Georgia relations. 🇩🇪🇬🇪🗣️

Belarus seeks talks with Kyiv amid efforts to break Western isolation

Belarus' State Security Committee head, Ivan Tertel, has expressed readiness to engage in dialogue with Kyiv to seek a resolution to the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia. This offer comes amidst Belarus' efforts to mitigate its diplomatic isolation and economic sanctions imposed by Western nations for its support of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Tertel emphasized the need for calm negotiations and compromise, stating that the situation's resolution depends significantly on Ukraine's willingness to engage.

Belarus, under the leadership of President Alexander Lukashenko, has been navigating a complex diplomatic landscape, balancing its military and economic ties with Russia while attempting to reduce Western sanctions. Lukashenko has previously criticized Ukraine for not negotiating an end to the war, warning of potential consequences for Ukraine's statehood. Minsk has been actively seeking dialogue with European officials and the U.S. to discuss its role in peace efforts and potential sanctions relief.

Recent diplomatic efforts include meetings with European officials and the U.S., where Belarusian representatives suggested the country's involvement in Russia-Ukraine peace talks and broader European security discussions. The U.S. has also engaged in dialogue with Belarus, facilitating the release of political prisoners and lifting sanctions on the state airline, Belavia. These moves are part of a broader strategy to maintain communication channels with Russia and work towards ending the conflict in Ukraine. Despite these efforts, Belarus' close alliance with Russia and recent joint military exercises have raised concerns among NATO countries.

Israel Resumes Ceasefire with Hamas Amid Renewed Tensions

The Israeli military has announced the resumption of ceasefire maintenance following a series of significant raids in response to alleged Hamas violations. This decision comes after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accepted the recommendation from military chief Eyal Zamir to halt emergency aid. The rapid escalation occurred amidst mutual accusations of ceasefire breaches between Hamas and Israel. Earlier on Sunday, two Israeli soldiers were killed, and three others were injured in a grenade attack and sniper fire in Rafah, an area still under Israeli control. Israel retaliated with air strikes. Hamas has denied involvement, asserting its commitment to the ceasefire and lack of knowledge about the incidents. Meanwhile, the Hamas-controlled civil defense in Gaza reported at least 45 fatalities since midnight. The situation remains tense, with both sides accusing the other of violating the fragile ceasefire. 🇮🇱🇵🇸💥

From defense to offense: The body’s ‘special forces’ fight cancer

At the Alexander Fleming Biomedical Sciences Research Center in Vari, near Athens, molecular biologist Dr. Mihalis Verykokakis is leading groundbreaking research on how rare immune cells known as NKT cells can combat liver cancer. These cells, dubbed the "special forces of the immune system," possess unique characteristics that enable them to identify and target infected or cancerous cells. Verykokakis' team has discovered that NKT cells have a dual role in liver cancer: they can exacerbate inflammation and damage in the early stages of the disease but later help inhibit tumor growth.

In experimental models, the transfer of healthy NKT cells has shown promising results, significantly reducing tumor size. This finding opens the door to potential new immunotherapies, with Verykokakis envisioning "off-the-shelf" NKT cell treatments that could be directly administered to patients. However, the future of this promising research is clouded by the uncertainty of limited and unstable funding in Greece, which risks driving talented scientists like Verykokakis to seek opportunities abroad. 🧬🏥

Iran Executes Man for Spying for Israel

The Iranian judiciary has announced the execution of a man convicted of spying for the Israeli intelligence service, Mossad. The execution, carried out in Qom prison on Saturday, followed the Supreme Court's confirmation of the verdict and the rejection of a pardon. The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, is accused of maintaining contact with Israeli intelligence between October 2023 and February 2024. This execution comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, with previous instances of individuals being executed for similar espionage activities. Additionally, Iran has recently executed six people convicted of terrorist activities, underscoring the country's stringent stance on security threats. 🇮🇷🔍

Turkish Cypriots vote for a leader as peace talks hang in balance

Turkish Cypriots headed to the polls to elect a new president, with the outcome poised to significantly influence the future of peace talks aimed at reunifying the divided island. The election pits incumbent leader Ersin Tatar, who advocates for a two-state solution, against main center-left rival Tufan Erhuman, who favors renewed UN-sponsored negotiations for a federal settlement with Greek Cypriots. Tatar's stance on a two-state deal has been met with rejection from Greek Cypriots, and peace talks have been at a standstill since 2017. With seven candidates in the running, polls indicate a close race between Tatar and Erhuman, potentially leading to a runoff on October 26 if no candidate secures an outright majority. The election comes amidst a long-standing division that began in 1974, following a Turkish invasion triggered by a Greek-backed coup. The Turkish-occupied northern Cyprus is only recognized by Turkey, adding complexity to the political landscape. 🇨🇾🗳️

UN Reports 20 Staff Detained in Yemen Raid

On Saturday, Huthi movement security forces conducted an unauthorized raid on United Nations premises in Yemen, detaining 20 individuals, including five Yemeni citizens and 15 foreign employees. The UN confirmed that all staff members are unharmed. This incident follows a similar raid on August 31, during which the Huthi movement detained at least eleven UN personnel, accusing them of spying for the U.S. and Israel.

The UN has strongly condemned the arrests, with spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric labeling them "dangerous and unacceptable." The organization is demanding an end to these arbitrary detentions. Yemen has been engulfed in a protracted civil war, with the Huthi movement controlling significant portions of the country for years. The repeated targeting of UN personnel underscores the volatile and precarious situation in Yemen. 🇾🇪💥

Trump told Zelenskyy he’d try to end the war ‘on the current line’ in difficult White House meeting

During a recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, U.S. President Donald Trump revisited the contentious idea of Ukraine ceding territory to Russia. However, he ultimately agreed to "try to end this on the current line," according to informed sources. Zelenskyy had hoped to secure a commitment for the supply of Tomahawk missiles to aid Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression, but he left the White House dissatisfied with the outcome. Trump, who had previously engaged in a lengthy conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressed his belief that Putin desires an end to the conflict. The meeting underscored the ongoing diplomatic tensions and the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the Ukraine-Russia war.

Europe's Erasmus founder Sofia Corradi dies, aged 91

Professor Sofia Corradi, affectionately known as "Mamma Erasmus," has passed away, leaving behind a profound legacy in the realm of international education. Born in Rome, Corradi's academic journey began with a prestigious Fulbright scholarship that took her to Columbia University in New York, where she earned a master's degree in law. Upon returning to Italy, she faced challenges in getting her exams recognized, which sparked the idea for an exchange program that would eventually become the renowned Erasmus program.

Launched in 1987, the Erasmus program has since facilitated the educational and cultural exchange of approximately 16 million students across Europe. Managed by the European Union, the program fosters cooperation between universities and higher education institutions, promoting a deeper understanding and unity among European nations. Corradi viewed the program as her personal pacifist mission, born during the Cold War, aimed at bridging divides and fostering mutual understanding.

Corradi's contributions extended beyond the Erasmus program. She conducted significant research on the right to education for esteemed institutions such as the United Nations' Human Rights Commission, The Hague Academy of International Law, and the London School of Economics. Her work has inspired countless young people to embrace different cultures and has been instrumental in shaping what is now known as "Generation Europe." 🌍🎓

Tributes poured in from notable figures, including Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who praised Corradi for inspiring millions of young individuals to travel, study, and embrace diverse cultures. Similarly, France's minister delegate for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, expressed gratitude on behalf of generations of young Europeans who have benefited from her visionary work.

Trump Confirms Gaza Ceasefire Remains in Effect

Tensions escalated in the Gaza Strip following a series of Israeli attacks, with both Hamas and Israel accusing each other of violating a recent ceasefire. The Israeli military reported that two soldiers were killed and three injured in separate incidents within an area still under Israeli control. U.S. President Donald Trump attributed the ceasefire breach to "rebels within" Hamas, rather than the leadership, and assured that the situation would be managed appropriately. Hamas, however, denied any involvement in the incidents.

In response to the violence, Israel initially suspended emergency aid to Gaza but later decided to resume maintaining the ceasefire. The conflicting narratives and actions from both sides underscore the fragile and volatile nature of the ceasefire, with each party blaming the other for the breakdown in peace efforts. The situation remains tense, with both sides digging in their heels and accusing the other of ceasefire violations. 🇮🇱🇵🇸💥