Newsflash

Russian ‘sabotage’ unit that killed civilians in Pokrovsk later eliminated, Ukrainian military says

A Russian sabotage unit infiltrated the embattled city of Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast, killing several unarmed civilians in a violation of international humanitarian law. The incident, reported by Ukrainian volunteer Denys Khrystov and later confirmed by the 7th Corps of Ukraine's Air Assault Forces, involved the shooting of civilians on Mostovyi Lane, near the city's central railway line. The exact number of casualties remains undetermined, but footage shared by Khrystov showed at least two civilians lifeless and a third injured.

The Ukrainian military reported that the Russian soldiers responsible for the attack were later eliminated while hiding in a railway station building. However, the situation in Pokrovsk remains tense, with Russian forces gaining significant territory in the southern neighborhoods. The city's defense has deteriorated in recent days, and humanitarian evacuations have become nearly impossible due to the extreme danger posed by Russian drone strikes.

The incident highlights the ongoing brutality of the conflict, with Russian troops frequently targeting civilians despite clear evidence of their non-combatant status. Similar atrocities have been documented elsewhere along the front line, including the use of civilians as human shields and targeted killings in contested urban areas. The situation in Pokrovsk underscores the urgent need for international intervention and support for Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. 💔🏙️

Europe moves to end all Russian gas imports

Nearly four years into Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, European Union energy ministers have agreed to support a plan to ban Russian gas imports starting January 1, 2028. This decision comes in response to Moscow's "weaponization" of gas supplies, which has significantly impacted the European energy market. The EU, while largely independent of Russian oil, remains the largest importer of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), purchasing nearly €5 billion in the first half of 2025 alone.

The ban will be phased in, beginning January 1, 2026, with a grace period for existing contracts. Short-term contracts concluded before June 17, 2025, can run until June 17, 2026, while long-term contracts will be honored until January 1, 2028. The proposed regulation, part of the EU's REPowerEU roadmap, aims to end dependency on Russian energy and bolster Europe's security and resilience. The text will now be sent to the European Parliament for approval.

The move is welcomed by many European nations, as it will significantly reduce Russia's energy revenues, which fund its ongoing attacks on Ukraine. However, Hungary and Slovakia have opposed the bill, citing difficulties in finding alternative gas imports due to their landlocked status. The proposed regulation includes provisions for these countries to adjust their current gas contracts with Russia and submit diversification strategies. Additional checks and scrutiny will be implemented during the transitional period to prevent Russian gas from being transited through Europe to other markets. 🇪🇺💨

Macron hosted Sarkozy at Elysée before former French president heads to prison

French President Emmanuel Macron has invited his predecessor, Nicolas Sarkozy, to the Élysée Palace ahead of Sarkozy's imminent imprisonment. Last month, Sarkozy was sentenced to five years in prison for his role in a scandal involving alleged financial backing from Libya's Moammar Gadhafi regime during his 2007 presidential campaign. Sarkozy's collaborators were accused of seeking economic and diplomatic favors in exchange for financial support. Sarkozy has indicated that he will begin serving his sentence on Tuesday, marking a historic moment as the first former French head of state to be incarcerated in modern history. 🇫🇷🏛️

Ukraine war latest: Russia is preparing 'an active winter campaign,' HUR says

Ukraine faces a challenging winter as Russian forces prepare for an intensified campaign, despite ongoing peace negotiations. Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of Ukraine's Main Directorate of Intelligence, warned that Russia is actively preparing for a winter offensive and potential conflicts with Europe, particularly NATO. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces struck a Russian radar system in Crimea, continuing their efforts to demilitarize the peninsula.

In recent developments, a Russian assault group was eliminated after killing civilians in Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast. The Ukrainian military reported that the situation remains tense. Additionally, European officials are exploring new measures to curb Russia's fossil fuel exports, which fund its war efforts. A draft proposal aims to give European authorities the right to inspect vessels suspected of transporting Russian oil and gas, aiming to phase out remaining imports by 2028.

Ukraine is also preparing to bolster its air defenses, with President Volodymyr Zelensky announcing plans to secure 25 Patriot missile systems. This acquisition is crucial for defending against Russian ballistic missiles. However, Ukraine currently faces shortages of PAC-3 interceptors for its existing Patriot systems. 💥

Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure continue, with strikes on a coal preparation plant in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and residential buildings in Kherson, Kharkiv, and Chernihiv Oblasts. These attacks resulted in civilian casualties and injuries, including a child. Ukraine's Air Force reported shooting down 38 of the 60 drones used in the attacks, but 20 drones and three ballistic missiles hit their targets.

Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukraine is making strides in its defense capabilities and international support. The country has secured a significant portion of funding for natural gas imports and is working to keep its energy infrastructure operational. Additionally, Major General Mykhaylo Drapatyi has been appointed to lead the Kharkiv command, returning to his role after a previous resignation following a missile attack on a training center. The Kremlin, meanwhile, maintains its demand for the entire Donbas region, showing no signs of backing down from its aggressive stance. 🇺🇦💪

'Russia's stance doesn't change' — Kremlin shoots down Trump's proposal to freeze Ukraine front line

Russia has firmly rejected proposals to freeze the conflict in Ukraine along the current front lines, maintaining its demand for Ukraine to cede the entire Donetsk Oblast. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated Moscow's unwavering stance, stating that Russia's position remains consistent despite ongoing discussions with the U.S. This rejection follows a disappointing meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, where Trump reportedly pressed Zelensky on Putin's territorial demands, rather than securing a deal on U.S. military aid.

The Kremlin's position was reinforced by a phone call between Trump and Putin, during which the Russian president insisted on Ukraine handing over full control of Donetsk Oblast as a condition for ending the war. Trump publicly suggested freezing the front line, referring to Ukrainian land as "property" that Moscow had "won," a stance that has been met with strong rejection from Kyiv. Ukraine has consistently called for an unconditional ceasefire as a precondition for further peace talks, refusing to cede unoccupied territories.

The upcoming discussions between U.S. and Russian officials, leading up to a planned summit in Budapest, face significant challenges due to the stark differences in positions. Ukrainian political expert Yevhen Mahda criticized Trump's approach, stating that the U.S. president is more concerned with personal success than with achieving a genuine peace settlement. Mahda also noted that Putin is setting the pace in Russian-American relations, with Trump struggling to maintain the initiative. The previous summit in Alaska failed to produce any breakthroughs, and the upcoming summit in Hungary, hosted by Moscow-friendly Prime Minister Viktor Orban, is seen as an unfavorable venue by Ukraine. Despite these challenges, Zelensky has expressed readiness to participate if formally invited. 🇷🇺🇺🇸🇺🇦

Trump-Putin meeting in Budapest 'would be a disaster for Europe', expert says

A prominent expert has warned that a potential meeting between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest could have disastrous consequences for Europe. The expert argues that such an encounter could embolden Putin, who has been aggressively pursuing his geopolitical ambitions, particularly in Ukraine. The meeting could signal a shift in U.S. foreign policy, potentially undermining European security and NATO's collective defense.

The expert expressed concern that Trump, known for his transactional approach to international relations, might prioritize personal and economic gains over traditional alliances and democratic values. This could lead to a weakened response to Russian aggression, leaving European nations vulnerable. The expert emphasized that Europe must prepare for a world where U.S. support is uncertain and that strengthening European defense capabilities is crucial. The potential meeting highlights the need for Europe to assert its independence and unity in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges. The expert's warning underscores the importance of European solidarity and strategic autonomy in maintaining continental security. 🇪🇺💥

Russia to face nearly $100 billion deficit in 2026, Zelensky says

Ukraine anticipates that Russia will confront a substantial budget deficit of nearly $100 billion by next year, reflecting the mounting economic strain of its ongoing war. President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted this impending fiscal crisis, noting that Russia's deficit has been rapidly escalating, reaching $71 billion just one month prior. Ukrainian intelligence expects to provide more detailed insights in November. The deficit is already significant, with Russia's budget shortfall hitting 4.19 trillion rubles ($49.4 billion) by the end of August, surpassing the government's annual target.

Russia is implementing austerity measures to address the deficit, including increasing the value-added tax (VAT) and reducing salaries through shortened workweeks. However, cutting fuel subsidies, which has previously led to shortages, is a contentious option. The Kremlin is currently easing restrictions on subsidies to support fuel suppliers amid ongoing shortages exacerbated by Ukrainian strikes on refineries. Printing more money to curb the deficit could lead to hyperinflation, as the Russian central bank has already increased the money supply and inflation levels remain high.

Reducing defense expenditures, which account for about 32% of Russia's budget, is seen as a logical solution but is politically untenable due to the ongoing war. The Kremlin has planned to spend 13.5 trillion rubles ($164.5 billion) on defense in 2025, with a slight reduction expected in 2026. The economic challenges underscore the severe financial toll of Russia's military operations, with no immediate resolution in sight. 💸📉

Colombia Recalls Ambassador Amid Tensions with US

Tensions between the United States and Colombia have escalated sharply following remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump. On Sunday, Trump announced the termination of all aid to Colombia and labeled President Gustavo Petro a "narcotics leader." He further threatened to impose new tariffs on Colombia and hinted at potential military action if Petro does not address drug cultivation in the country. In response, Colombia's Foreign Ministry recalled its ambassador to Bogotá for consultations, and Interior Minister Armando Benedetti condemned Trump's statements as a "threat of invasion or military action."

The U.S. has been actively patrolling the South American coast since August, with warships stationed off the coast and at least six boats allegedly involved in drug trafficking attacked. These operations, primarily targeting narcotics trade from Venezuela, have resulted in the deaths of at least 27 people. Recently, the focus has shifted to Colombia, with U.S. Defense Minister Pete Hegseth reporting the deaths of three individuals on a transport ship linked to the Colombian armed group, the National Liberation Army. The situation remains tense, with both countries at a diplomatic impasse. 🇺🇸🇨🇴🛳️

Gerapetritis and Fidan discuss bilateral issues at EU council

On the sidelines of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg, Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis engaged in discussions with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, focusing on bilateral and regional issues. The meeting took place during extended sessions on security and defense, which included key regional partners such as Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Ukraine.

Gerapetritis emphasized that the primary dispute between Greece and Turkey centers around the delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf. The ministers also exchanged views on the evolving situation in the Eastern Mediterranean. Gerapetritis presented Greece's proposal for a multilateral cooperation framework involving five coastal states in the region, dubbed the “5×5” initiative, highlighting its potential value amidst geopolitical changes.

The conversation also touched on the upcoming informal expanded meeting on the Cyprus issue, scheduled for late 2025. Gerapetritis expressed optimism about the election of Tufan Erhurman as the new Turkish Cypriot leader, viewing it as a renewed opportunity for progress towards the reunification of Cyprus in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions. The talks underscored the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address regional tensions and foster cooperation. 🇬🇷🇹🇷🇪🇺

Carriers plan new links to Greece for 2026

Greece is poised for significant expansion in its air connectivity, with several airlines announcing new routes and increased services for the 2026 summer season. American Airlines will introduce a direct flight from Athens to Dallas Fort Worth, its largest U.S. base, starting in May 2026, in addition to continuing its existing routes from Athens to Charlotte, Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia. This development underscores Greece's success in strengthening its transatlantic connections.

In a major move, Aegean Airlines and IndiGo will launch direct flights between Greece and India, with Aegean connecting Athens to New Delhi and Mumbai from March 2026, and IndiGo offering six weekly flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Athens starting in January 2026. These routes will be facilitated by Aegean's new Airbus A321neo XLR aircraft, designed for long-range flights.

EasyJet will bolster its presence in Thessaloniki by adding flights to Amsterdam and Bristol, bringing the total number of destinations from Thessaloniki to seven across five countries. Meanwhile, Jet2 will introduce a new route from the UK to Hania, Crete, and Ryanair will connect Hania and Rhodes with Bournemouth, England. Additionally, Ukrainian airline SkyUp will offer flights connecting Chisinau, Moldova, with Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as several popular Greek islands, including Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, and Zakynthos. These expansions reflect Greece's growing appeal as a tourist destination and its strategic efforts to enhance air connectivity. 🛫🌍

Barriers in front of Parliament again?

The debate surrounding the government's decision to protect the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from political exploitation or aesthetic degradation has sparked a broader conversation about the democratic right to protest and the role of Parliament in Greek society. The controversy is not merely about the monument but rather about the underlying tensions between the public and the political establishment, which have been simmering since the economic crisis and the Indignant movement of 2011.

During the economic crisis, protests shifted from merely expressing demands outside Parliament to attempting to physically enter the building, reflecting deep-seated distrust. This culminated in the 2011 and 2012 protests, where attempts were made to forcibly enter Parliament, including a notable incident during a debate on the second bailout agreement. In response, permanent barriers were erected in front of Parliament in 2013, a move criticized by the opposition as undemocratic.

The SYRIZA-Independent Greeks government, upon taking office in 2015, removed these barriers, symbolizing a restoration of Parliament's relationship with the people. However, recent events, such as the hunger strike by Panos Ruci and subsequent protests, have reignited the debate. The core issue is whether protests against Parliament should be unrestricted and whether occupying the space directly in front of Parliament should be allowed.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located near Parliament, has become a focal point for these tensions. Protesters seek to frame their demands in a national and heroic context, but the monument's proximity to Parliament creates confusion. The real question is whether liberal democracy can tolerate pushback when frustration challenges its institutions and what limits, if any, should be placed on the form of protests. This debate is crucial for understanding the boundaries of democratic expression and the role of public dissent in shaping political discourse. 🏛️🇬🇷

EU pushes back on Trump’s demand Ukraine cede territory to Putin

EU's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, firmly stated that Ukraine should not be compelled to surrender any territory as part of a peace agreement with Russia. Speaking in Luxembourg after a meeting of foreign ministers, Kallas emphasized that conceding territory would set a dangerous precedent, encouraging aggression and undermining international law. Her remarks follow U.S. President Donald Trump's suggestion that Ukraine should cede the Donbas region to secure a ceasefire, a proposal that has drawn criticism from European leaders.

Kallas, who previously served as Estonia's prime minister, highlighted the importance of recognizing and respecting the territorial integrity of nations. She drew on her country's history of occupation, noting that international recognition of Estonia's sovereignty was crucial despite decades of foreign control. While EU leaders have expressed support for Ukraine, they have been cautious about insisting that Ukraine retain all its territory in any potential deal. The diplomatic tension underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with Europe advocating for a rules-based international order while navigating shifting U.S. policies.

Von der Leyen tries to appease EU climate target skeptics

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced plans to modify crucial green laws to garner support for a new climate target. In a letter to national leaders, von der Leyen detailed intentions to revise the EU’s carbon pricing mechanisms and existing climate objectives for forests. This proactive measure comes ahead of the European Council summit, where leaders are scheduled to discuss the EU’s new comprehensive emissions-reduction goal for 2040. The move underscores the urgency and complexity of achieving consensus on ambitious climate policies within the European Union. 🌍🍃

Lavrov and Rubio discuss Putin-Trump summit, Zelensky seeks invite

In a recent development, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio engaged in a discussion about the potential summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is actively seeking an invitation to join the talks, hoping to address the ongoing conflict in his country.

The dialogue between Lavrov and Rubio comes amid heightened tensions and a complex geopolitical landscape. The potential Putin-Trump summit has sparked both interest and concern, with various stakeholders closely monitoring the situation. Zelenskyy's push to participate underscores Ukraine's desperate need for a resolution to the conflict, which has devastated the nation and claimed countless lives.

The discussions highlight the intricate web of international relations, where the actions of a few key figures can significantly impact global stability. As the world watches, the outcome of these talks could shape the future of Eastern Europe and beyond. 🌍🤝

Newfound optimism for resumption of Cyprus talks

The election of Tufan Erhurman, a moderate candidate from the Republican Turkish Party, as the new Turkish Cypriot leader has rekindled hopes for resuming reunification talks on the divided island of Cyprus. Erhurman, who advocates for negotiations under UN auspices, secured a decisive victory over the hard-line incumbent Ersin Tatar, who was backed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This shift in leadership is seen as a crucial opportunity to restart peace negotiations, although Ankara's influence remains significant due to its substantial support for the occupied north.

In domestic news, the Greek government plans to submit a contentious amendment to Parliament, granting the Defense Ministry exclusive control over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and prohibiting protests in the area. This move, which includes the removal of a memorial for the 57 victims of the Tempe rail crash after eight months, is expected to spark public outcry. Meanwhile, Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis will meet with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, in Luxembourg to discuss Turkey's participation in the EU's SAFE defense program, amid ongoing tensions and accusations of obstruction.

On the international front, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides will attend the MED9 summit in Slovenia, alongside representatives from other Mediterranean and Southern European Union member states. Additionally, the first EU-Egypt summit will take place in Brussels, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and economic partnerships. EU leaders will also convene to address defense preparedness, Russia's frozen assets, support for Ukraine, and competitiveness in the green transition and digital sovereignty, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joining via videoconference. Lastly, Greek farmers and livestock breeders are set to organize protests due to delayed subsidies and compensation for 2024. 🇪🇺🇨🇾🇹🇷🇬🇷🇪🇬🇺🇦

Euronext rules out higher bid for Athens bourse

Pan-European exchange operator Euronext has expressed its commitment to transforming the Athens Stock Exchange (ATHEX) into a financial hub for Southeastern Europe but has ruled out increasing its acquisition offer. Euronext is seeking to buy up to 100% of Hellenic Exchanges, the operator of the Athens bourse, as part of a strategy to consolidate European capital markets and address competitiveness gaps with U.S. markets. The current offer, launched on October 6 and ending on November 17, proposes one new Euronext share for every 20 shares held by ATHEX investors.

Euronext's Chief Executive, Stephane Boujnah, emphasized that the offer is final and will not be increased. The tender requires a minimum acceptance of 67%, and if Euronext acquires over 90% of ATHEX’s total rights, it will initiate a squeeze-out process for the remaining shares. The offer, supported by the ATHEX board and major shareholders, reflects Euronext's confidence in Greece's economic recovery and potential. If successful, Euronext plans to establish an Athens-based support and technology center, enhance ATHEX’s appeal, and attract Greek shipping companies and Balkan firms to the exchange. The outcome of the tender will be announced on November 19. 📈🇬🇷

Poland and Lithuania open Via Baltica road connection between them

Poland's President Karol Nawrocki and Lithuania's President Gitanas Nausėda inaugurated a new section of the Via Baltica highway, a crucial route connecting their countries and extending from Estonia to Poland. This infrastructure project, part of the longer European route E67, aims to enhance economic cooperation and regional security by providing a vital link for both civilian and military transport. The leaders emphasized the historical significance of the connection, highlighting the shared values and common history between Poland and Lithuania, which were once part of a joint commonwealth.

The Via Baltica project, along with the parallel Rail Baltica initiative for improved train connections, is set to bolster economic development and strengthen Europe's security. The upgraded highway allows for faster travel between Lithuania and Western Europe, with a journey from Lithuania to Lisbon now possible entirely on highways. This development is particularly significant for NATO's eastern flank, as it enhances military transport capabilities and rapid deployment potential in the Baltic states.

The Suwałki Gap, a strategic area between Poland and Lithuania, is of particular importance due to its proximity to the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad and Russia's ally Belarus. The region's growing military, economic, and energy ties underscore Poland's shifting geopolitical focus towards the Baltic and Nordic regions, where the Russian threat is acutely felt. This reorientation reflects a broader trend of increased defense spending and cooperation among countries in the region, with Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia among NATO's top defense spenders. 🇵🇱🇱🇹🛣️

Far right hits Macron’s government for Louvre heist as blame game begins

In the wake of a daring seven-minute heist at the Louvre Museum, where the French crown jewels were stolen, political tensions in France have escalated. The far-right faction swiftly blamed President Emmanuel Macron and his administration for the brazen daylight robbery, accusing them of lax security measures and insufficient protection of national heritage. Marion Maréchal, a Member of the European Parliament, proposed eliminating the €200 cultural vouchers provided to French high school students under Macron’s initiative, suggesting that the funds be redirected towards safeguarding France’s “national treasures.” The incident has sparked a heated debate about security priorities and the protection of cultural artifacts. 🏛️💎

Dutch 'Ingka Investments' to become Latvia's largest forest owner

Ingka Investments, a subsidiary of the Ingka Group, has secured a historic deal to acquire 135,000 hectares of forest land in Latvia and 18,000 hectares in Estonia from Sodra, Sweden's largest forest owners' association. Valued at €720 million, this acquisition marks the largest forest land purchase in Latvia's history. Upon completion, Ingka Investments will own approximately 230,000 hectares of Latvian forests, subject to approval from Latvian authorities.

The acquisition aligns with Ingka Investments' commitment to supporting regional economies and preserving healthy forests for the long term. The company aims to enhance the affordability and sustainability of IKEA's business operations. Ingka Group, the world's largest IKEA retailer, operates in 31 countries and generates around 90% of IKEA's total retail sales. Owned by a charitable foundation, the group reinvests all earnings into further development, enabling significant long-term investments.

Ingka Investments has a proven track record in Latvia, where it already owns 110,000 hectares of land. In the 2025 financial year, the company reported a turnover of €11.9 million and planted over 2.5 million seedlings, resulting in a net increase of more than 250,000 cubic meters of forest. Additionally, the company has dedicated 16,000 hectares of its Latvian forests to a collaborative study with the European Forest Institute and Preferred by Nature, exploring more nature-friendly forestry practices to minimize impacts on biodiversity. 🌳🍃

Danish wind turbine giant Vestas suspends plans for major plant in Poland

Danish wind turbine manufacturer Vestas has suspended plans to build a major new factory in the Polish coastal city of Szczecin, citing lower-than-expected demand for offshore wind energy in Europe. The facility, which was set to create over 1,000 jobs and supply Poland's Baltic Sea wind farms, as well as other European projects, is now on hold. This decision underscores the challenges facing Europe's offshore wind sector, compounded by increased competition from Chinese manufacturers and broader EU-wide industry downturns.

The Baltic Power project, Poland's first offshore wind farm, is progressing with construction beginning earlier this year. Developed by Polish state energy giant Orlen and Canada’s Northland Power, the facility is expected to start generating electricity in 2026, with a capacity of 1.2 GW, enough to power over 1.5 million households. Poland aims to significantly expand its offshore wind capacity, targeting 5.9 GW by 2030 and 11 GW by 2040, as part of its shift away from coal towards renewable and nuclear energy.

Despite these ambitious plans, Poland's green energy transition faces hurdles. In August, President Karol Nawrocki vetoed a bill that would have simplified the construction of onshore wind turbines. Additionally, the European Commission initiated legal action against Poland for failing to submit its long-term emissions reduction strategy, making it the only EU member state without a finalized plan. 💨🌍