Newsflash

Mass Russian drone attack on Kyiv kills six people

A devastating drone attack on Kyiv resulted in the deaths of six people and injuries to several others. The assault, carried out by Russian forces, involved a barrage of drones that targeted civilian areas, causing significant destruction and loss of life. The incident underscores the ongoing conflict and the escalating use of unmanned aerial vehicles in modern warfare. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, but the damage was extensive, with multiple buildings and infrastructure damaged. The attack has drawn international condemnation, with calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and respect for civilian lives. The situation remains tense, with fears of further escalation and the potential for more civilian casualties. 💥🏙️🚨

Dozens arrested over Greece’s farm fraud scandal

Greek authorities, in collaboration with European prosecutors, conducted a major operation on Wednesday, arresting 37 individuals suspected of involvement in a large-scale agricultural funding fraud and money laundering scheme. The arrests and searches were part of an ongoing investigation by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), which is probing numerous cases where Greek individuals allegedly misappropriated EU agricultural funds. These funds were intended for pastureland they did not own or lease, or for agricultural work they did not perform, thereby defrauding legitimate farmers of their rightful subsidies. This scandal, first reported in February, highlights the extensive reach of organized crime within the EU's agricultural funding system. 🇪🇺🌾💸

Ukraine war latest: Russian mass attack kills civilians in Kyiv, blackouts begin as energy grid damaged

On the 1,337th day of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a massive missile and drone attack targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure, resulting in the deaths of six civilians and injuries to at least 36 others. The strikes, which hit multiple regions including Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Odesa, caused significant damage to energy facilities and triggered emergency power outages. In Kyiv, two people were killed, and 21 were injured, while four fatalities were reported in the Brovarsky district of Kyiv Oblast. The assault underscores the ongoing threat to Ukraine's civilian population and critical infrastructure. 💥

Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces made strategic gains in Donetsk Oblast, liberating the village of Kucheriv Yar from Russian control. This victory follows months of intense fighting and redeployment of hardened forces to repel a significant Russian infiltration near Dobropillia. The operation resulted in the capture of 50 Russian soldiers and the recapture of territory previously overrun by Russian troops. 🇺🇦🏹

In other developments, intercepted radio communications suggest that a Russian commander ordered troops to shoot civilians near the embattled city of Pokrovsk. The incident, allegedly involving the 30th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade, highlights the ongoing atrocities committed by Russian forces. Additionally, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) revealed an advanced version of its Sea Baby naval drones, confirming their use in a previous attack on the Crimea Bridge. These drones, equipped with machine gun turrets and rocket systems, can cover long distances and carry substantial payloads. 🛳️

Ukraine also secured a significant defense agreement with Sweden, signing a letter of intent for the potential purchase of up to 150 Gripen fighter jets. This deal, part of a broader long-term defense cooperation agreement, aims to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities. President Volodymyr Zelensky also visited Norway, securing around $150 million in support for winter gas purchases as Russia intensifies its assaults on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. 🇸🇪🇳🇴

In Kharkiv, a Russian drone strike hit a kindergarten, killing one person and injuring six others. The attack, which occurred in the Kholodnohirskyi district, underscores the persistent threat to civilian areas. Additionally, Ukrainian drones reportedly struck an oil refinery in Makhachkala, Dagestan, and a mechanical plant in Saransk, Mordovia, causing damage to local enterprises. These strikes highlight Ukraine's ongoing efforts to disrupt Russian military and industrial targets. 🏭

Overall, Russian attacks over the past day resulted in the deaths of at least 12 civilians and injuries to 76 others across various regions, including Kyiv, Chernihiv, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Sumy, and Dnipropetrovsk. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russia has lost over 1.13 million troops since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, along with significant military equipment, including tanks, armored vehicles, artillery systems, and aircraft. 📉📉

Ukraine Gains More Freedom with Long-Range Missiles

The United States has reportedly authorized Ukraine to use British-made Storm Shadow missiles and American ATACMS missiles for strikes on targets within Russia. This decision, which allows Kyiv to escalate its offensive capabilities, is aimed at increasing pressure on the Kremlin. The Storm Shadow missiles, with a range of nearly 30 miles, are launched from Ukrainian fighter jets and rely on American tracking data, giving the U.S. control over their use.

The approval for these strikes was initially granted by former President Joe Biden near the end of his term. However, after Donald Trump assumed office, the Pentagon implemented a new procedure requiring the U.S. Secretary of Defense to approve each cross-border attack. Recently, this decision-making authority was transferred to the U.S.'s top general in Europe and NATO commander, Alexus Grynkewich, who subsequently greenlit the use of these weapons. Despite this shift, the White House has not officially confirmed the change, and President Trump has publicly denied U.S. involvement in approving such strikes. The Storm Shadow missiles should not be confused with the more advanced Tomahawk missiles, which Ukraine has been seeking but Trump has recently backed away from providing. The authorization marks a significant escalation in Ukraine's ability to target Russian military assets. 🚀🎯

Greece seen as European entry point for American LNG

The United States is poised to solidify Greece's role as a key entry point for American liquefied natural gas (LNG) into Europe. This strategic initiative will be underscored by the upcoming visit of U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to Athens on November 6-7. Their discussions will focus on leveraging Greece's Revithousa and Alexandroupoli terminals, which are crucial for transporting American LNG via the Vertical Gas Corridor to Eastern Europe.

This visit marks Burgum's second trip to Greece in his capacity as head of the Energy Sovereignty Council, an entity established by President Donald Trump. The council's mission reflects a significant shift in U.S. energy policy, emphasizing the integration of energy production and management with economic development, national security, and geopolitical strategy. The U.S. aims to strengthen energy ties with Greece, enhancing Europe's energy security and reducing its dependence on Russian gas. This move aligns with broader geopolitical goals, including bolstering transatlantic partnerships and countering Russian influence in the region. 🇬🇷🇺🇸💨

In Trump first, US sanctions Russia's oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil after White House cancels Putin meeting

The United States has imposed sanctions on Russia's two largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, in a significant escalation of its response to Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine. This move, announced by the U.S. Treasury, marks the first new sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump since taking office. The penalties target the oil giants and their subsidiaries, aiming to pressure Moscow into agreeing to an immediate ceasefire. The sanctions also include secondary measures, warning foreign financial institutions against conducting transactions with Russia's military-industrial base.

The sanctions come after planned diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Russia collapsed, and Trump canceled a scheduled meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump, who met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on the same day, described the sanctions as a "very big day" in efforts to end the conflict. Ukraine welcomed the move, with Ambassador Olha Stefanishyna hailing it as a historic step. The sanctions follow a large-scale Russian missile and drone attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, which resulted in civilian casualties and widespread damage. The Kremlin has refused to agree to a ceasefire, insisting on Ukraine's surrender of Donetsk Oblast as a precondition for peace talks. The international community continues to call for an immediate halt to hostilities, with the U.S. and its allies seeking to change the dynamics of the conflict. 💥🛢️

Brussels to question Orbán’s government over EU spying allegations, anti-fraud commissioner says

The European Commission is set to engage with the Hungarian government regarding allegations of historic spying activities conducted from its embassy in Brussels. Reports surfaced earlier this month, revealing that Hungarian intelligence officials, operating under the guise of diplomats, attempted to recruit EU staffers as spies between 2012 and 2018. This alleged espionage has raised serious concerns, as it undermines the fundamental principle of loyal cooperation between member states and EU institutions. The EU’s anti-fraud Commissioner, Piotr Serafin, emphasized the gravity of these incidents during a meeting with Members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. The situation highlights the need for transparency and trust within the European Union, as member states work to address and prevent such breaches of cooperation. 🇪🇺🕵️‍♂️

Russian assault on Ukraine's power grid leaves over 100,000 without power in north, east

A massive Russian assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure has left over 100,000 people without power in the northern and eastern regions, as Moscow intensifies its efforts to cripple Ukraine's power grid ahead of winter. The attacks, which began late on October 21 and continued into the morning, targeted energy facilities across multiple oblasts, including Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Chernihiv, Sumy, and Odesa. The most severe outages were reported in Chernihiv and Sumy, with around 140,000 consumers affected.

Ukraine's Deputy Energy Minister, Artem Nekrasov, highlighted the critical situation in these border regions, which are particularly vulnerable due to Russia's systematic destruction of local energy generation. The ongoing strikes have forced energy workers to implement emergency power outages and repair damaged infrastructure, often while under continued bombardment. Russia's strategy includes "double-tap" attacks, where facilities are struck repeatedly after first responders arrive, targeting both infrastructure and emergency personnel.

The assaults have also impacted Ukraine's port infrastructure, with the Izmail port in Odesa Oblast suffering damage and power outages. The port, located on the Danube River, is crucial for Ukraine's export-oriented economy. The Russian strikes aim to destroy key economic sectors and tax-paying enterprises that fund Ukraine's defense spending.

Energy companies, such as DTEK, have been working to restore power using backup systems, but the situation remains precarious. The attacks have led to increased production costs and inflationary pressure, further straining Ukraine's economy. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has warned that the energy crisis could exacerbate Ukraine's humanitarian situation, particularly for those living in front-line regions, potentially leading to more people fleeing these areas. 💥🏭

US and Russian leaders are on 'different wavelengths', stalling talks on Ukraine

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has seen a stalemate in diplomatic efforts, as U.S. and Russian leaders appear to be on "different wavelengths." Recent talks have failed to yield significant progress, with both sides holding firm to their positions. The U.S. continues to support Ukraine, providing military aid and diplomatic backing, while Russia maintains its aggressive stance, showing no signs of backing down. This impasse has left Ukraine in a precarious situation, with its sovereignty and territorial integrity at stake. The international community watches with concern as the crisis deepens, hoping for a breakthrough that could lead to a peaceful resolution. However, the stark differences in priorities and perspectives between the U.S. and Russia make finding common ground increasingly challenging. The situation remains tense, with the potential for further escalation looming over the region. 🌍💥

Journalists imprisoned in Georgia and Belarus win Sakharov prize, the EU's top human rights award

The European Parliament has awarded the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, its highest human rights honor, to journalists imprisoned in Georgia and Belarus. This recognition underscores the ongoing struggles for press freedom and human rights in these countries. The prize aims to highlight the plight of journalists who face imprisonment and persecution for their work, emphasizing the importance of a free press in democratic societies. The award serves as a call to action, urging the international community to advocate for the release of these journalists and to support the broader fight for freedom of expression and human rights. 📰🔐

As Zelensky set to land in Brussels, EU rushes to offset Trump's pressure on Ukraine

As President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares to meet with EU leaders in Brussels, the European Union is scrambling to counter U.S. President Donald Trump's shifting stance on Ukraine and his apparent alignment with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The upcoming EU Council meeting will focus on bolstering support for Ukraine, including discussions on unlocking frozen Russian Central Bank assets for Kyiv's benefit. European diplomats are working on a 12-point plan to reinforce existing commitments and resist pressure for territorial concessions, aiming to lock in the current contact line as the starting point for negotiations.

The EU is also considering a 140-billion-euro reparations loan to Ukraine, using frozen Russian assets, but member states are proceeding cautiously due to potential legal liabilities. The bloc is working to address concerns, particularly from Belgium, where a significant portion of the assets is held. Additionally, EU leaders will discuss the 19th sanctions package on Russia, which includes a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports and new travel restrictions on Russian diplomats and vessels. The meeting will also address the ongoing dispute over whether Ukraine should prioritize purchasing weapons from European and Ukrainian suppliers or have the flexibility to acquire American gear based on operational needs. Zelensky's visit to Brussels is crucial for aligning EU support and countering the geopolitical pressures from the U.S. and Russia. 🇪🇺🇺🇦🇷🇺

Now let Zelenskyy hit Russia with Tomahawks, Finland tells Trump

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to permit Ukraine to use American-made Tomahawk cruise missiles to strike targets within Russia. Orpo emphasized that Russia poses a persistent threat to European security and urged the U.S. to provide Ukraine with the necessary weapons to defend itself and compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage in negotiations. Orpo's remarks coincide with Trump's announcement of substantial sanctions against Russian state-owned oil companies, marking a significant escalation in U.S. efforts to pressure Putin over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

Putin wasn't 'honest' with Trump, treasury chief says as US imposes massive sanctions

The United States has imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia, targeting its financial institutions, defense sector, and key individuals, following revelations that President Vladimir Putin misled U.S. President Donald Trump about Russia's intentions in Ukraine. The sanctions, announced by the U.S. Treasury, aim to cripple Russia's economy and hinder its military capabilities. The move comes after it was discovered that Putin had been dishonest with Trump regarding Russia's plans for further aggression in Ukraine.

The sanctions include freezing the assets of major Russian banks, imposing restrictions on key defense companies, and targeting prominent Russian oligarchs with ties to the Kremlin. The U.S. Treasury Secretary emphasized that these measures are designed to isolate Russia economically and politically, sending a strong message to other nations considering similar aggressive actions.

The sanctions are part of a broader strategy to counter Russia's growing influence and assertiveness on the global stage. The U.S. has been working closely with European allies to coordinate a unified response to Russian aggression, although some European countries have expressed concerns about the potential economic impact of such sanctions on their own economies. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and find a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. The U.S. and its allies are committed to maintaining a strong and united front against Russian aggression, while also exploring diplomatic channels to achieve a lasting peace. 🌍💥

Trump-Putin summit on Ukraine war marked by indecisiveness

The recent summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, focused on the ongoing Ukraine war, concluded without a clear resolution or decisive action. The meeting, held amid escalating tensions, saw Trump and Putin engage in lengthy discussions, but the outcome was marked by indecisiveness. Despite Putin's refusal to agree to a ceasefire, Trump chose not to impose additional sanctions on Russia, citing potential interference with future business deals. This approach, aligned with Trump's new "transactional" foreign policy, prioritizes economic interests over traditional alliances and democratic values.

The summit underscored the shifting geopolitical landscape, leaving European nations in a precarious position. European leaders have warned that a Russian victory in Ukraine would pose significant security risks to the continent. However, without robust American support, Europe struggles to provide credible security guarantees to Ukraine or defend its own values. The indecisive summit outcome has further complicated Europe's efforts to navigate the complex security dynamics in the region. The lack of a clear path forward has raised concerns about the potential for further Russian aggression and the need for Europe to bolster its defense capabilities independently. 🇷🇺🇺🇸🇪🇺

Slovakia lifts veto on latest Russia sanctions

A prolonged impasse over the latest sanctions package against Russia was resolved after Slovakia withdrew its veto. The 19th sanctions package, targeting Moscow since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine over three years ago, aims to deplete the Kremlin’s war chest. Key measures include restrictions on energy traders and financial institutions, particularly those in third countries. The sanctions will also target companies aiding Russia’s war efforts and 117 additional tankers suspected of violating the oil price cap by transporting Russian fossil fuels. This package marks a significant step in the international community's ongoing efforts to economically isolate Russia and hinder its military capabilities. 🇪🇺🇷🇺

EU Approves New Sanctions Package Targeting Russian Gas and Shadow Fleet

The European Union is poised to finalize its 19th sanctions package against Russia, with Slovakia's previous blockage now resolved. The package, set to be finalized just before the EU summit in Brussels, aims to phase out Russian gas by January 1, 2027, and includes measures against 117 additional vessels suspected of belonging to Russia's "shadow fleet," preventing them from docking in EU ports. This brings the total number of sanctioned vessels to 558. The EU is also targeting more Russian banks, cryptocurrency handling, and companies in other countries, including China, that are believed to be aiding Russia in evading sanctions. Additionally, the package tightens restrictions on Russian diplomats' travel within the EU and sanctions related to providing Russia with AI services.

In parallel, the United States has announced new sanctions targeting Russia's two largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, accusing them of funding the Kremlin's military operations. U.S. Finance Minister Scott Bessent emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire and threatened further steps to end the conflict. This move comes amidst a shift in the U.S. stance, which had previously hoped for a diplomatic agreement with Russia but has since hardened its position following the cancellation of a planned meeting between the two countries' presidents. 🇪🇺🇷🇺

US-Wanted Fentanyl Kingpin Zhi Dong Zhang Arrested in Cuba

A notorious narcotics dealer, specializing in fentanyl, has been apprehended in Cuba after attempting to enter Russia with a false passport. The individual, identified as Zhi Dong Zhang, is known by aliases such as "Brother Wang" and "Nelson Mandela." Zhang is accused of heading a criminal network that has collaborated with infamous Mexican drug cartels. His arrest in Cuba follows a dramatic escape from a high-security prison in Mexico City, where a judge had permitted his transfer to house arrest.

Zhang's journey to Cuba and subsequent capture highlight the complex web of international crime and law enforcement cooperation. After completing interrogations in Cuba, Zhang is expected to be transferred to Mexico. From there, he will likely face deportation to the United States, where he is wanted for his alleged leadership role in a significant criminal organization. 🌍🚔

Russia just hit a kindergarten in Kharkiv

In a brazen attack, Russia struck Kharkiv with drones on October 22, targeting a densely populated area in the city's Kholodnohirskyi district. The assault resulted in the death of a 40-year-old man and injuries to nine others. The strike hit a kindergarten, which was fortunately evacuated just before the impact, sparing the lives of 48 children and their teachers. The drone attack also damaged nearby buildings, including a store, a coffee shop, an office building, and six cars, and sparked three fires, the largest of which engulfed 500 square meters of the kindergarten building.

The assault, likely involving jet-powered Geran-2 Shahed-type drones, was condemned by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who described it as a "spit in the face" to those advocating for peace. The attack on Kharkiv was part of a larger wave of Russian strikes targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure across multiple regions, including Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, and several other oblasts. These strikes, which have been ongoing for over two years, have left countless civilians injured and infrastructure damaged, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis as winter approaches. 💥🏙️

EU states press Brussels on migration strategy

European Union member states, particularly those in the south, are urging the European Commission to provide clear solutions on migration policy ahead of the upcoming European Council summit. While migration is not the primary focus of the summit, it remains a critical issue for countries like Greece that bear the brunt of migrant arrivals.

In a letter to EU leaders, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined plans to allocate €675 million between 2025 and 2027 to Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, and Libya. This funding aims to bolster migration management in these countries, which are key transit points for migrants attempting to reach Europe. Von der Leyen highlighted a 23% decrease in overall arrivals this year but noted a 3% increase along the central Mediterranean route, with Libya being the most significant departure point. She stressed the importance of collaborating with Libyan authorities and fully implementing the 2016 EU-Turkey migration deal, which is crucial for Greece and other frontline states. The push for a robust migration strategy underscores the ongoing challenges and the need for coordinated efforts to manage migrant flows effectively. 🇪🇺🌍

More Greeks at risk of poverty or social exclusion this year, report shows

In 2025, Greece faces a significant rise in poverty and social exclusion, with 26.9% of its population, or 2.74 million people, at risk. This marks an increase of 0.8 percentage points from the previous year, according to data from the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT). Child poverty remains alarmingly high at 22.4%, and the risk of material and social deprivation has also increased. Despite some improvements and targeted interventions, low wages, job insecurity, and the high cost of basic goods and energy continue to trap many Greeks in poverty. The Minimum Guaranteed Income (MGI) falls short, covering only 60% of the poverty line, a level deemed inadequate by European standards.

The "Poverty in Greece 2025" report by the Hellenic Anti-Poverty Network highlights these challenges, providing a comprehensive assessment of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion in Greece. The report identifies persistent and evolving forms of poverty, noting that Greece has the lowest purchasing power for wages and pensions in Europe. The tax system disproportionately burdens low-income households, and current social policies have failed to lift the most vulnerable out of poverty. The report calls for stronger coordination across all levels of governance and emphasizes the need for policies that ensure visibility, dignity, and empowerment for those living in poverty. It also includes detailed policy proposals for the Ministries of Social Cohesion and Family, and National Economy and Finance, aimed at addressing the inadequacies of the MGI measure. 🇬🇷💸