Newsflash

UK, France call for long-range arms for Ukraine as Zelensky warns of 'humanitarian disaster'

European leaders, including the UK and France, are rallying behind Ukraine, emphasizing the urgent need for long-range weapons and enhanced military support as President Volodymyr Zelensky warns of an impending "humanitarian disaster." The "Coalition of the Willing," an initiative led by the UK and France, aims to fortify Ukraine's defenses and establish long-term security guarantees, potentially deploying a multinational peacekeeping force post-war.

Zelensky met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other European leaders in London, where he underscored the critical need for continued and escalated support. France pledged additional military aid, including Aster missiles and Mirage aircraft, while the UK reiterated its commitment to providing long-range weapons and air defense systems. The coalition's goal is to bolster Ukraine's capabilities and cripple Russia's war-fighting capacity, with discussions also focusing on energy cooperation and weapons supplies as Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure ahead of winter.

The summit follows a tense meeting between Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump, where Ukraine failed to secure a deal for Tomahawk cruise missiles. The U.S. has since canceled a planned summit with Russia and imposed new sanctions on Russian oil companies, signaling a tougher stance against Moscow. Zelensky's visit to London comes after a European Council meeting in Brussels, where EU leaders discussed further sanctions against Russia and the use of immobilized Russian assets to fund Ukraine's reconstruction. The coalition, backed by 25 countries, aims to provide troops and other forms of support, though the feasibility and timing remain uncertain. 🇺🇦🇬🇧🇫🇷

Maduro Accuses US of Fabricating War Amid Military Escalation

Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro has accused the United States of orchestrating a new "eternal war" in Latin America, despite previous assurances of avoiding military involvement. This claim follows the U.S. deployment of an aircraft carrier to the region, marking a significant escalation in military presence. Over the past few weeks, the U.S. has conducted multiple strikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels off the coast of Venezuela, resulting in over 40 deaths. The U.S. justifies these actions as part of its anti-narcotics efforts. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump has authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations within Venezuela, intensifying pressure on Maduro's government. These developments have heightened tensions and raised concerns about potential military conflict in the region. 🚨🛳️

'Russians hunting Ukrainian farmers' in intercepted drone footage, Azov says

The Ukrainian military has released footage allegedly showing a Russian first-person-view (FPV) drone targeting civilians in Donetsk Oblast. The video, posted by the 12th Brigade Azov, depicts at least four men fleeing from agricultural equipment as the drone approaches, with the post accusing Russian operators of staging a "safari" against civilian farmers. This practice, referred to as a "safari," has been documented in other Ukrainian regions, notably Kherson.

The video suggests the drone crashed into a vehicle, but the authenticity of the footage could not be independently verified. The Azov Brigade condemned the incident as another war crime, adding to the extensive list of alleged violations committed by Russian forces. Concurrently, reports of Russian war crimes continue to surface. In Zvanivka, Donetsk Oblast, Russian soldiers reportedly killed at least four civilians sheltering in basements on October 20. The victims included a husband and son, while the wife and younger son were also targeted, with the younger son and a neighbor found dead. The wife, despite being severely injured, managed to seek help and report the atrocity. These incidents underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the persistent threat to civilian lives in the conflict zone. 🚨🎬

EU accuses Meta, TikTok of breaching rules under landmark digital content law

The European Union has accused Meta (Facebook and Instagram) and TikTok of violating the Digital Services Act (DSA), a landmark law aimed at regulating digital content and ensuring transparency. The EU's preliminary findings suggest that both companies are failing to provide adequate access to public data for researchers and are not effectively addressing illegal content or content moderation decisions. Meta is also accused of using deceptive practices, known as "dark patterns," to discourage users from flagging illegal content or appealing moderation decisions.

The DSA requires platforms to explain content moderation decisions, which the EU claims Meta's platforms have not been doing. Both Meta and TikTok have the opportunity to review the EU's findings and propose solutions to address the concerns. Failure to comply could result in significant fines for each breach per platform. The EU has defended the DSA against accusations of censorship, asserting that it protects free speech and empowers EU citizens to challenge content moderation decisions made by Big Tech. Both companies are also under separate EU investigations for concerns related to the addictive nature of their platforms for children. The EU is determined to enforce its rules, despite potential backlash from the U.S. administration. 📵🇪🇺

Russia sentences 21-year-old admin of 'Melitopol is Ukraine' Telegram channel to 14 years in prison

In a stark display of repression, a Russian court has sentenced 21-year-old Yana Suvorova, the administrator of the "Melitopol is Ukraine" Telegram channel, to 14 years in prison. Suvorova, detained in August 2023, was accused of "organizing and participating in a terrorist group," "terrorist acts," "espionage," and allegedly collaborating with Ukrainian military intelligence. Her crime? Running a Telegram channel that provided essential information to residents of the Russian-occupied city of Melitopol, helping them navigate humanitarian crises and access necessary resources. Before the war, Suvorova was a university student with dreams of working in rehabilitation and aesthetics.

The court's verdict has drawn international condemnation, with Reporters Without Borders denouncing the trial as unfair and calling for her immediate release. Suvorova's boyfriend, Oleksandr Nykolaenko, described her as a caring individual who created the channel to assist her community during the full-scale invasion. Her detention and harsh sentence are part of a broader Russian campaign to suppress press freedom and control the narrative in occupied Ukrainian territories.

Suvorova's case is not isolated. Other administrators of Melitopol Telegram channels have also been sentenced to lengthy prison terms on similar charges. The Russian authorities have been systematically targeting Ukrainian journalists, with at least 30 currently held in captivity. The conditions in these detention centers are reportedly dire, with reports of torture and even death. This assault on press freedom underscores the brutal tactics employed by Russia to maintain control and silence dissent in the regions it occupies. 📵🔒

Russia has upgraded its already devastating glide bombs

Russia has enhanced its arsenal with upgraded long-range glide bombs, known as KABs, which are now capable of striking deep into Ukrainian territory, reaching distances of up to 200 kilometers. These precision-guided aerial bombs, equipped with wings and advanced targeting systems, allow Russian aircraft to launch attacks from a safe distance, minimizing the risk of interception by Ukrainian air defenses. Recent attacks on cities like Mykolaiv, Poltava, Lozova, and Odesa highlight Russia's strategic shift towards using these weapons to target residential areas far behind the front lines. The upgrades, likely involving added propulsion, reflect Russia's ongoing efforts to adapt to Ukrainian defenses and maintain pressure on civilian populations. Military analysts suggest that this move underscores Russia's inability to secure air superiority and its need to find cost-effective ways to continue its campaign. Despite the increased range and precision, the latest KAB upgrades do not fundamentally alter the battlefield dynamics but rather indicate Russia's persistent attempts to demoralize civilians and inflict damage. 💥🏙️

Kherson hammered by Russian artillery, videos show multiple explosions in residential areas

On October 24, the city of Kherson endured a severe Russian artillery bombardment, with residential areas seemingly targeted indiscriminately, resulting in the deaths of at least two people and injuries to 21 others. Videos circulating on social media, some reportedly shared by Russian forces, depicted multiple explosions across the city. The intense shelling has become a grim routine for Kherson residents, who have described the frequent drone and artillery attacks as a "human safari."

The city, partially occupied by Russian forces on the left bank of the Dnipro River, has been a frequent target, with civilians often bearing the brunt of the violence. As winter approaches, there are concerns that Russian forces may escalate their attacks, potentially targeting critical infrastructure like boiler houses to exacerbate the suffering of civilians. The intentional targeting of non-combatants, as seen in these attacks, is a clear violation of international law and constitutes a war crime. The relentless bombardment underscores the urgent need for international intervention to protect civilians and hold perpetrators accountable. 🌨️🏙️

Hungary’s Orbán vows to ‘circumvent’ US sanctions on Russian oil titans

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has announced that Budapest is actively seeking ways to bypass American sanctions imposed on Russian oil and gas companies. U.S. President Donald Trump recently introduced significant sanctions against Russia's Lukoil and Rosneft, marking a notable shift in policy. These sanctions could potentially disrupt Russia's oil pipelines to Europe, posing a substantial threat to Hungary, which relies heavily on Russian energy supplies. Orbán's statement underscores Hungary's determination to secure its energy needs amidst escalating geopolitical tensions. 🇭🇺🛢️💥

Bombs pour on the city of Kherson

The city of Kherson is under intense bombardment, with a relentless barrage of explosions rocking the urban landscape. The assault has caused widespread destruction, with residential buildings and critical infrastructure bearing the brunt of the attacks. The city's residents are enduring a harrowing ordeal, as the continuous shelling disrupts daily life and poses significant threats to civilian safety. The situation in Kherson remains dire, with no immediate signs of the violence abating. The international community continues to monitor the developments closely, expressing grave concern over the escalating conflict and its impact on the civilian population. The city's resilience is being tested as it grapples with the devastating consequences of the ongoing bombardment. 🏙️💥

Zelensky will meet with the coalition of the willing to seeks more arms

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet with a coalition of international allies to secure additional military support for his country's defense against Russian aggression. This gathering, often referred to as the "coalition of the willing," includes nations committed to aiding Ukraine through military aid, economic assistance, and diplomatic backing. The meeting comes at a critical juncture in the conflict, as Ukraine continues to face intense Russian assaults and seeks to bolster its defenses.

The coalition comprises various countries that have pledged support for Ukraine, recognizing the strategic importance of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. These allies have provided a range of assistance, from lethal and non-lethal military equipment to financial aid and humanitarian support. The coalition's collective efforts aim to strengthen Ukraine's military capabilities, enhance its resilience, and demonstrate international solidarity against Russian aggression.

Zelenskyy's engagement with the coalition underscores Ukraine's determination to defend its territory and uphold democratic values. The meeting will likely focus on coordinating further military aid, sharing intelligence, and planning joint defense strategies. As the conflict persists, the coalition's support remains vital for Ukraine's ongoing resistance and its ability to withstand the challenges posed by Russian military actions. The outcome of this meeting could significantly influence the trajectory of the conflict and Ukraine's ability to defend itself against future threats. 🇺🇦🤝🛡️

Austrian HS Timber Group to buy Latvian Kurekss

Nextwood Two GmbH, an Austrian holding company, is indirectly owned by HS Timber Group GmbH (HS Timber), which is itself controlled by the private investment fund Evergreen Privatstiftung. HS Timber operates extensive wood processing facilities across Austria, Germany, Romania, Finland, and Argentina, employing over 2,700 people and serving customers in 80 countries. The company has already established a presence in Latvia through its ownership of SIA Vika Wood, a Latvian wood processing firm.

SIA Kurekss, a prominent manufacturer and exporter of sawn timber, operates a production facility in the Ventspils region of Latvia. The company also owns Kurzemes granulas, a subsidiary specializing in the production and sale of wood pellets. This strategic ownership structure positions HS Timber and its affiliates as significant players in the global wood processing industry, with a diverse operational footprint and a strong market presence. 🌳🏭

UN Employees Detained by Houthi Forces in Yemen's Capital

In Yemen, seven UN employees, all Yemeni citizens, have been arrested by the country's security forces. The individuals are accused of spying for Israel, according to a source within Yemen's security organization. This incident is part of a broader pattern of detentions targeting UN personnel, orchestrated by the Iran-backed Houthi movement and its security apparatus. Previously, in October, several UN employees were briefly detained during a raid on the UN office in the capital, Sana'a. The ongoing arrests and detentions highlight the volatile and precarious environment in which international aid workers operate in Yemen. 🇾🇪🕵️‍♂️

Catalan, Basque and Galician get a boost as Merz and Sánchez team up in Brussels

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez have forged a strategic alliance to advance their respective domestic agendas within the European Union. Following a recent meeting in Madrid, the two leaders are collaborating to navigate EU politics and deliver on their governments' promises. A significant breakthrough came when Germany agreed to re-evaluate its stance on recognizing Catalan, Basque, and Galician as official EU languages. This decision follows Spain's request and marks the beginning of bilateral talks aimed at presenting a unified proposal to all EU member states in an upcoming meeting. This cooperation underscores the importance of cross-border alliances in addressing regional linguistic and cultural concerns within the EU. 🇪🇺🇩🇪🇪🇸

Greece emerging as key entry point for American LNG to Europe

Greece is rapidly becoming a pivotal entry point for American liquefied natural gas (LNG) into Europe, a development highlighted by Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou. In 2019, Greece imported 6 to 7 billion cubic meters of natural gas for domestic use, but this figure has since surged to 17 billion cubic meters, with 11 billion cubic meters, primarily American LNG, being re-exported to neighboring countries. This shift underscores Greece's growing significance in regional energy security, as evidenced by the upcoming visit of U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and 20 ministers from Eastern and Central Europe.

The minister emphasized Greece's commitment to hydrocarbon exploration, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Ionian Sea, noting that commercial exploitation of these resources could significantly impact the country's energy landscape. Greece is also aligning with broader European efforts to reduce dependence on Russian gas, a goal shared by both the U.S. and the EU. Energy independence and competitiveness are seen as closely linked, with low energy prices being crucial for maintaining European competitiveness.

In the realm of renewable energy, Greece is implementing new spatial planning regulations for renewable projects, ensuring that new ventures and those in the initial licensing phase adhere to clear guidelines. This move aims to address the previous lack of strategy and rules in the renewable energy sector, which has hindered long-term progress. Additionally, efforts are underway to accelerate energy storage projects, a critical component for the sustainable development of renewable energy sources. 🌍💨💡

US Sanctions Colombia's President Gustavo Petro Over Drug Smuggling

The United States has intensified its conflict with several South American countries, particularly Colombia and Venezuela, due to concerns over narcotics production and smuggling. On Friday, the U.S. government imposed sanctions on Colombian President Gustavo Petro, his wife, and son, accusing Petro of allowing drug cartels to operate freely. The U.S. Finance Minister, Scott Bessent, stated that Petro has opposed efforts to curb cartel activities. In response, Petro defiantly declared on social media that he would never give in, echoing a phrase often used by Latin American rebel movements.

Colombia's Interior Minister, Armando Benedetti, was also targeted by the U.S. sanctions. Benedetti retaliated with a phrase frequently used by critics of U.S. imperialism, writing "Gringos go home" on social media. This escalation follows President Trump's earlier announcement to freeze American aid to Colombia. The U.S. Finance Department justified the sanctions as a means to defend American security and combat narcotics smuggling. This latest move further strains relations between the two countries, with both sides adopting defiant stances. 🇺🇸🇨🇴💥

Hungary's Orban seeks to boost support, opposition holds rival rally on 1956 anniversary

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is intensifying efforts to bolster his support base ahead of upcoming elections, leveraging the 1956 anniversary to rally his base. The 1956 Hungarian Revolution, a pivotal moment in the country's history, serves as a potent symbol for national pride and resistance against foreign influence. Orbán's Fidesz party is capitalizing on this sentiment, organizing events and speeches to emphasize his government's commitment to national sovereignty and traditional values.

Meanwhile, opposition parties are also mobilizing, holding a rival rally to commemorate the 1956 anniversary and challenge Orbán's narrative. The opposition seeks to remind voters of the revolution's democratic ideals and criticize what they see as Orbán's authoritarian tendencies and erosion of democratic norms. This political tug-of-war comes as Hungary faces increasing international scrutiny over its democratic backsliding and human rights record.

The 1956 anniversary is a critical moment for both sides, as they vie for the support of Hungarian voters. Orbán aims to portray himself as a defender of national interests against external pressures, while the opposition strives to rekindle the revolutionary spirit of 1956 to advocate for democratic reforms and a break from Orbán's rule. The outcome of this political contest could significantly shape Hungary's future trajectory and its place within the European Union. 🇭🇺🗳️

Three Ukrainians convicted in Poland over role in Russian-linked arson campaign

In a significant legal development, three Ukrainian nationals have been sentenced in Poland for their involvement in a criminal group tasked with carrying out sabotage and terrorism across Poland and other European Union states. The trio, identified as Serhii R., Pavlo T., and Vladyslav Y., were convicted for participating in a group that executed acts of sabotage and arson, including the devastating fire that destroyed Warsaw’s largest shopping center, Marywilska 44.

The Warsaw-Praga district court handed down jail terms ranging from 16 months to five and a half years, with the possibility of appeal. The group’s activities, which took place in 2023 and 2024, were aimed at intimidating the public and influencing opinion, as stated by Poland’s National Prosecutor’s Office. Serhii R. and Pavlo T. received the longest sentences for their roles in obstructing investigations into arson attacks on an IKEA store in Vilnius, Lithuania, and the Marywilska shopping center in Warsaw. They assisted the group’s leader, Serhii Chalyi, in evading capture by arranging his escape from Poland.

The convictions are part of a broader investigation into the group, which has also led to charges against two other Ukrainians, Oleksander V. and Daniil B., for their alleged involvement in the Marywilska arson attack. Additionally, Daniil B. and another individual, Oleksandr H., were found responsible for the Vilnius IKEA store arson, acting on orders from Oleksander V. and Chalyi. The National Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that the Marywilska fire was orchestrated by Russia’s intelligence services, although the exact perpetrator remains unidentified.

Poland has experienced a surge in sabotage, espionage, and disinformation, which it attributes to Russia’s "hybrid war" against EU countries. The recent detentions of eight additional individuals suspected of planning sabotage on behalf of Russia underscore the ongoing threat. Poland has taken retaliatory measures, including closing Russian consulates in Kraków and Poznań, in response to these activities. The Kremlin has dismissed the accusations as baseless and motivated by "Russophobia." 🇵🇱🔥💥

Friday's papers: Finland to host EU Eastern Flank conference, Stubb's pep talk to students, and the worst village road

Finland is set to host the EU’s inaugural Eastern Flank conference on December 16, with Helsinki as the likely venue. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo announced the event following the EU summit in Brussels. The conference will focus on strengthening the defense of EU’s eastern border states, including the Baltic countries, Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria, with discussions on financing this effort within Europe’s next multiannual fiscal framework. Although a previous proposal for a ‘drone wall’ to protect these nations has been deprioritized, the EU aims to implement a continent-wide anti-drone system by the end of 2027.

Meanwhile, President Alexander Stubb reassured the public during a visit to Ostrobothnia, stating that Finland does not face any significant threats and has a promising future. He emphasized the importance of engaging with diverse international partners, including authoritarian regimes, to address global challenges. Stubb also highlighted the need for personal diplomacy to ensure Finland’s security.

In a lighter note, the rural newspaper Maaseudun Tulevaisuus revealed the winner of an informal contest to find Finland’s worst road. Road 9562, a 30km dirt road between Raattama and Tepasto in Kittilä, Finnish Lapland, was crowned the worst due to its poor condition, posing safety risks to locals and tourists alike. The competition aimed to raise awareness about the deteriorating state of rural roads and their impact on daily life and the tourism industry. The road, part of a 1,500km route from Helsinki to Norway’s North Cape, offers stunning natural scenery despite its poor condition. 🌳🚗

Cyprus has "completely turned the page" on Russian money: Cypriot Deputy Europe Minister Raouna

Cyprus has decisively distanced itself from Russian financial influence, as affirmed by Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna. At a recent EU summit, Raouna emphasized that Cyprus has "completely turned the page" on Russian money, with the country freezing €1.2 billion in Russian assets. As Cyprus prepares to assume the EU presidency in January 2026, supporting Ukraine will be a top priority, driven by a deep understanding of territorial integrity and sovereignty, given Cyprus's own experience with Turkish occupation.

Raouna underscored that Cyprus will champion unequivocal support for Ukraine across political, economic, and humanitarian fronts during its presidency. While the EU summit did not reach a consensus on using frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, Raouna highlighted the need for legally sound and economically viable proposals. Cyprus, despite its historical ties with Russia, has implemented strict measures to combat money laundering, including collaborating with the FBI and adhering to EU sanctions. The country has also seen a significant influx of American companies, further solidifying its shift away from Russian capital.

In addition to its stance on Ukraine, Cyprus aims to maintain a strong focus on the Gaza conflict during its EU presidency. The country has played a pivotal role in establishing the Cyprus Maritime Corridor, a humanitarian initiative supported by the EU and regional partners. Cyprus also advocates for the implementation of a six-point plan aligned with President Trump's 20-point proposal, emphasizing the interconnected security of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East with that of the European Union. 🇨🇾🇪🇺

Gaza Factions Agree to Technocratic Governance

A significant development has emerged from negotiations regarding the governance of the Gaza Strip. Hamas, a dominant political force in Gaza, has agreed to a temporary handover of control to a Palestinian committee composed of independent technocrats. This decision was announced in a joint statement following a meeting in Cairo, Egypt. The technocratic committee will be responsible for managing daily life and essential services in the region.

The agreement stipulates that the technocratic administration will collaborate with Arab countries and international institutions to ensure effective governance. This proposal for an independent technocratic rule has been a key topic in the ongoing negotiations about Gaza's future. The joint statement, published on Hamas's official website, marks a pivotal moment in the political landscape of the Gaza Strip, as efforts continue to stabilize the region and address its pressing needs. 🇵🇸🏛️