Newsflash

Ukraine tries to fend off intensifying Russian attacks on strategic eastern city

Ukraine is currently engaged in a fierce battle to defend a strategic eastern city against escalating Russian attacks. The situation has intensified, with Russian forces launching relentless assaults aimed at capturing this crucial urban center. Ukrainian defenders are working tirelessly to repel the invaders, employing a mix of defensive tactics and counteroffensives to maintain control of the city. The outcome of this struggle is pivotal, as the city's fall could significantly alter the dynamics of the ongoing conflict, potentially opening the door for further Russian advances into Ukrainian territory. The international community watches closely, as the fate of this city could have far-reaching implications for the broader geopolitical landscape in Europe. 🏙️💥

Netherlands nailbiter as far-right, centrists in election dead-heat

The Netherlands is on the edge of its seat as the results of the recent parliamentary elections reveal a nail-biting deadlock between far-right and centrist parties. The outcome has left the political landscape in a state of uncertainty, with neither bloc securing a clear majority. This stalemate raises questions about the future direction of the country, as negotiations for coalition-building commence.

The far-right parties, led by the Party for Freedom (PVV), have made significant gains, capitalizing on voter dissatisfaction with immigration policies and economic issues. Their surge in support has sent shockwaves through the political establishment, challenging the long-dominant centrist parties. The PVV, known for its anti-immigration and Eurosceptic stance, has positioned itself as a formidable force, pushing for stricter border controls and a more nationalist agenda.

Meanwhile, the centrist parties, including the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) and the Labour Party (PvdA), are scrambling to form a coalition that can counter the far-right's influence. The VVD, traditionally a stronghold of economic liberalism, faces internal divisions as it seeks to balance its pro-business stance with the need to address social issues. The PvdA, on the other hand, is grappling with its own identity crisis, torn between its historic role as a champion of social justice and the need to appeal to a broader electorate.

The election results have highlighted deep divisions within Dutch society, reflecting a broader trend across Europe where populist and far-right parties are gaining traction. The outcome in the Netherlands is likely to have ripple effects throughout the European Union, as other countries grapple with similar political tensions. As the coalition negotiations unfold, the world watches to see whether the Netherlands will embrace a more nationalist agenda or strive to maintain its centrist traditions. The stakes are high, and the future of Dutch politics hangs in the balance. 🇳🇱🏛️

West Balkan power producers should adopt carbon pricing as EU tax looms, campaigners say

Western Balkan countries are facing a significant challenge as the European Union prepares to implement its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in January 2026. This tax will require EU importers to pay for the carbon dioxide emissions associated with the production of goods, including electricity, from outside the bloc. For countries heavily reliant on coal, such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, this new tax could dramatically increase the cost of their electricity exports to EU members like Italy, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, potentially leading to a sharp decline in revenue for Balkan power utilities.

To mitigate the impact of CBAM and generate revenue for a sustainable energy transition, environmental advocates are urging these countries to adopt domestic carbon pricing. By implementing carbon pricing, Western Balkan nations could qualify for exemptions under CBAM, thereby reducing the financial burden on their power exports. This strategic move could also raise up to €4.2 billion annually, which could be invested in a just and sustainable energy transition, supporting the coal-dependent region. The introduction of carbon pricing would not only help these countries adapt to the upcoming EU tax but also encourage them to address the environmental and economic challenges posed by their reliance on coal. This shift could pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future in the Western Balkans. 🌍💨

Ukraine war latest live: 'Normal people don't fight like this' — Russia bombs power plant in Donetsk Oblast, Zelensky says

On the 1,344th day of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russian forces launched a devastating attack on the Sloviansk Thermal Power Plant in Donetsk Oblast, killing two people and injuring others. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strike, labeling it an act of terror and calling for global condemnation. The attack was part of a broader assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, with Russian forces launching 653 Shahed-type drones and 52 missiles overnight. Ukrainian air defenses managed to intercept 592 drones and 31 missiles, but significant damage was still inflicted.

In other developments, two soldiers were injured in a shooting at a draft office in Kremenchuk, Poltava Oblast, amid rising tensions over forced mobilization. A Russian drone strike on a gas station in Sumy injured four people, including a journalist. Meanwhile, Polish jets intercepted a Russian reconnaissance plane over the Baltic Sea for the second time this week. The incident highlights ongoing Russian military activity near NATO borders.

Emergency power outages were imposed across Ukraine following the Russian attacks on thermal power plants, which caused fires and equipment damage. This marks the third major assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure in a month, with Russia aiming to cripple the country's power grid ahead of winter. Additionally, Ukraine closed its embassy in Cuba due to the recruitment of Cuban citizens to fight for Russia, further straining diplomatic relations.

The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with at least seven people killed and 57 injured in Russian attacks over the past day. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russia has lost approximately 1,140,860 troops since the invasion began, along with substantial military equipment, including tanks, armored vehicles, and aircraft. The ongoing war continues to exact a heavy toll on both sides, with no end in sight. 🇺🇦💥

UN warns: 27 million at risk of famine in Congo

Nearly 27 million people are on the brink of severe food insecurity in the coming year, a situation that could spark regional instability, according to warnings from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Food Programme (WFP). The dire circumstances are exacerbated by existing conditions where almost four million people are already living in famine, and over three million children are experiencing stunted growth due to chronic malnutrition. The WFP has been forced to drastically reduce assistance due to insufficient aid, scaling back support from 2.3 million to just 600,000 individuals. The organization is urgently seeking $127 million in emergency funding to prevent a complete halt in aid by February. Without this crucial support, the humanitarian crisis in the region could deepen, putting millions more lives at risk and further jeopardizing regional stability. 🍞😢

US troops to stay in Estonia, defense minister says

The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the current number of troops stationed in Estonia, as confirmed by Estonian Minister of Defense Hanno Pevkur. This decision comes amidst speculation about potential U.S. troop withdrawals from Europe, following announcements of reduced forces in Romania and potential cuts in Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Hungary. The U.S. had previously indicated plans to shift its focus to the Indo-Pacific region, but the decision to keep troops in Estonia underscores the strategic importance of the Baltic region in light of Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine. Pevkur expressed gratitude for the continued U.S. presence and conveyed Estonia's readiness to further deepen military cooperation. The move is seen as a significant boost to regional security and a reaffirmation of the U.S.'s commitment to its European allies. 🇺🇸🇪🇪🌍

Turkey still in talks to procure Eurofighters from Qatar, Oman

Turkey is actively pursuing the acquisition of Eurofighter Typhoon jets from multiple sources to bolster its air defense capabilities and strengthen ties with NATO allies. Following a £5.4 billion ($7.3 billion) deal with Britain for 20 new Eurofighters, Turkey is in ongoing negotiations with Qatar and Oman to procure an additional 24 lightly used aircraft. The British deal, valued at £8 billion ($10.7 billion) by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, includes a comprehensive weapons package featuring MBDA Meteor air-to-air missiles and Brimstone ground attack missiles. While some analysts have criticized the deal's cost, Turkey's Defense Ministry emphasizes the strategic importance of these acquisitions in meeting the mission needs of its air force. 🇹🇷🛩️

Latvia’s parliament votes to quit global treaty protecting women

Latvia is on the brink of becoming the first EU country to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention, a landmark international treaty aimed at combating domestic abuse and violence against women. In a closely watched parliamentary vote, lawmakers decided by a margin of 56 to 32, with two abstentions, to exit the Council of Europe treaty, which standardizes support for women who are victims of violence. The decision comes just a year after the convention came into force in Latvia and followed an intense 14-hour debate. Critics, including Andris Šuvajevs, parliamentary group leader for the center-left Progressive Party, have condemned the move as "shameful," highlighting the potential setback for women's rights and protections in the country. 🇱🇻💔

Pokrovsk part of last major defensive arc stopping Russia from seizing Donbas

The strategic city of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine is a crucial component of the last major defensive line preventing Russian forces from seizing the entire Donbas region. This defensive arc is vital for Ukraine's efforts to halt Russian advances and protect key territories. The city's location and fortifications make it an essential stronghold in the ongoing conflict, serving as a bulwark against further Russian incursions. 🌉🏙️🇺🇦

Latvia quits Istanbul Convention protecting women from violence

Latvia's parliament has voted to withdraw from the Istanbul Convention, a landmark treaty aimed at preventing and combating violence against women. The decision, passed with a 56 to 32 vote and two abstentions, makes Latvia the first European Union member to quit the treaty, which it had ratified just last November. The withdrawal is driven by right-wing opposition parties and some members of the governing coalition, who argue that the convention promotes "gender" theories and is unnecessary due to existing national laws.

President Edgars Rinkevics, who has expressed reservations about the withdrawal, must now sign the motion, though he has hinted he might not override the parliamentary decision. The Istanbul Convention requires signatory countries to develop laws and policies to end violence against women and domestic abuse. The Council of Europe has consistently rejected claims that the treaty imposes gender ideologies, emphasizing its focus on protecting women's rights.

Women's rights groups in Latvia have organized protests in response to the decision, highlighting the convention's tangible benefits in saving lives and improving women's safety. The withdrawal comes amidst broader conservative efforts, including a proposed amendment to restrict abortion access. The move has sparked concerns about Latvia's commitment to women's rights and international obligations. 🇱🇻💔

Injuries, explosions reported as Russia launches guided bombs, drones across Ukraine

On October 30, Russia launched a wave of guided bombs and drones targeting multiple Ukrainian cities and regions, triggering widespread air raid alerts and explosions. In Sumy, four civilians, including a young girl and an elderly woman, were injured when 10 drones struck residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure within an hour. Governor Oleh Hryhorov reported the casualties and damage.

Zaporizhzhia faced threats from Russian KAB guided bombs, with Governor Ivan Fedorov warning residents of ongoing dangers. These KABs, or Korrektiruyemaya Aviabomba, are long-range guided aerial bombs equipped with precision targeting systems, recently upgraded to strike targets up to 200 kilometers away. Explosions were also reported in Dnipro, following Ukrainian air force alerts about an incoming guided bomb.

Additionally, the military warned of ballistic missile threats in southeastern Ukraine. Drone strikes were reported in the southern port city of Mykolaiv, with more drones reportedly heading toward Odesa. The situation remains fluid, with authorities urging citizens to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols. 💥🏙️🛸

Poland delays reopening of Belarus border following Lithuania’s closure, says PM

Poland has agreed to delay the reopening of its border crossings with Belarus, aligning its actions with Lithuania's decision to keep its own borders closed. This coordinated effort was confirmed by Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė following a detailed discussion with her Polish counterpart. The move aims to prevent potential hybrid attacks and ensure the security of both countries' citizens. The Lithuanian government has already received initial reactions from Belarus and is prepared to manage any threats that may arise from this decision. 🇱🇹🇵🇱🇧🇾🔒

Authorities raid OPEKEPE offices in EU aid fraud investigation

Authorities conducted a significant raid on the offices of OPEKEPE, the organization managing agricultural subsidies, as part of an ongoing investigation into EU aid fraud. The operation, led by the Economic Police and the Criminal Investigations Directorate, seized all 2025 subsidy applications and related digital files for forensic analysis. This raid follows an earlier audit by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), which scrutinized OPEKEPE’s payments from 2014 to 2025.

The investigation has led to the arrest of 37 individuals, with 13 currently in custody, including a 38-year-old alleged ringleader from Giannitsa and a 36-year-old deputy from Crete. The European Public Prosecutor’s Office, collaborating with Greek authorities, has uncovered a complex network allegedly involved in collecting tens of thousands of euros in fraudulent EU aid since 2018. The accused are charged with forming a criminal organization, grant fraud, falsifying certificates, and money laundering, among other offenses. Their alleged schemes include falsely claiming subsidies for deceased individuals, falsely appearing as tenants of agricultural land, and submitting fraudulent livestock declarations. The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the fraud and identify additional participants. 💸🚨

Vilnius mayor proposes Lithuanian language training for city employees

The mayor of Vilnius, Valdas Benkunskas, has announced plans to introduce a language training program for employees of municipal companies following a social media incident involving a Belarusian trolleybus driver. The driver, Andrejus Paukas, refused to speak Lithuanian with a Vilnius public transport dispatcher, sparking controversy and highlighting the need for better language integration among third-country nationals working in the city.

The proposed initiative aims to support foreign workers in learning Lithuanian to at least a basic level, with the city administration covering the costs for relevant training. This program is intended to foster respect for the Lithuanian language and improve communication within municipal services. The mayor described the driver's actions as "absolutely intolerable," emphasizing the importance of linguistic integration for a harmonious and respectful work environment. 🚎🗣️

Crackdown on kebab, pizza & Chinese restaurants finds €11m in unpaid taxes

The Finnish Tax Administration has uncovered €11 million in unpaid taxes following intensified audits of approximately 370 restaurants over the past two years. The audits primarily targeted pizza, kebab, and Chinese eateries, revealing a significant amount of unpaid income taxes, value-added taxes, withholding taxes, and other employer payments. In nearly 200 cases, or 53% of the inspected establishments, serious issues were identified, leading to potential criminal prosecutions. Additionally, over 450 reports were forwarded to other authorities for suspected benefits fraud, unpaid pension contributions, and money laundering.

The audits were conducted based on a risk analysis that identified small and medium-sized bars, kebab, and pizzeria restaurants as high-risk targets for tax evasion. Tarja Valsi, director of the Tax Administration's tax crime division, noted that the inspections were highly successful in focusing on likely offenders. She emphasized that foreign-owned companies were significantly more prone to various forms of misconduct compared to Finnish-owned restaurants. This latest audit program follows a previous initiative that uncovered nearly €20 million in unpaid taxes in the restaurant sector over five years, concluding in 2022. 🍕🍛🍜💸

Bridge to Sicily halted in Italian court

The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of the far-right Brothers of Italy party, recently approved a €13.5 billion (up to 150 billion kronor) project to construct the world's longest suspension bridge, connecting Sicily to the Italian mainland. However, the Court of Auditors, responsible for overseeing public spending, has halted the government's approval and the registration of related political decisions. Meloni criticized the court's intervention, viewing it as an infringement on the government and parliament's jurisdiction.

The proposed bridge across the Strait of Messina has been a subject of debate for decades. Proponents argue that it would stimulate economic growth in southern Italy and serve as a strategic asset, potentially offsetting some of Italy's NATO defense spending commitments. However, critics express concerns about the project's financial viability and potential environmental impacts, fearing it could become an economic burden. The future of this ambitious infrastructure project remains uncertain amid ongoing political and legal scrutiny. 🌉💸

Deforestation in the Amazon is decreasing

Brazil has announced a significant reduction in Amazon rainforest deforestation for the fourth consecutive year, just ahead of hosting the UN climate talks. However, despite this progress, a substantial area of forest, equivalent to four times the size of London, was lost between August 2024 and July 2025. According to the National Institute for Space Research, 5,796 square kilometers of rainforest were destroyed during this period. Brazil remains committed to halting deforestation by 2030 and has prioritized forest protection for the upcoming COP30 climate talks in Belém this November. The Amazon rainforest, spanning nine countries, plays a vital role in mitigating climate change, making its preservation a global priority. 🌳🌍

Aegean will run direct flights to Baghdad starting in December

Aegean Airlines is set to launch direct flights from Athens to Baghdad starting December 16, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between Greece and Iraq. This new route will be the first direct European airline service to the Iraqi capital, reflecting improved security conditions and growing international confidence in the region. The announcement was made by Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis during a visit to Iraq, who emphasized the potential benefits for people-to-people exchanges, economic cooperation, and cultural ties.

The decision to launch direct flights to Baghdad comes after years of security concerns that had previously deterred European carriers. Since the fall of Saddam Hussein in 2003, Iraq faced a period of sectarian violence and the rise of extremist groups like ISIS. However, the security situation has since stabilized, allowing for increased international engagement. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein welcomed the new flight route, highlighting ongoing discussions about cooperation in agriculture, investment, and tourism. He also noted recent visits by European leaders as evidence of Iraq's growing stability and international standing.

To support this growth, Iraq is upgrading its international airport in Baghdad. A $764 million contract has been awarded to a global consortium led by Corporacion America Airport and Amwaj International to rehabilitate, expand, and operate the airport, further enhancing its capacity to handle increased air traffic and support the country's economic development. 🛬️🌍

Finnish shipyard ends Estonian firms’ contracts over alleged Ukrainian worker exploitation

A prominent shipyard in western Finland has severed ties with two Estonian companies, Bongo Marine and Hodek, following allegations of exploiting Ukrainian workers. The Meyer Turku shipyard revoked access rights for employees of these firms last week, after reports of worker exploitation emerged at the end of last month. The shipyard's decision underscores a zero-tolerance stance on labor abuses and highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring fair treatment for workers, particularly in the context of international labor practices. This action serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical conduct in business operations and the need for vigilance in protecting workers' rights. 🛳️🇺🇦

Kimberly Guilfoyle in Athens

Kimberly Guilfoyle is set to become the new U.S. Ambassador to Athens, marking a significant moment as the first woman to hold this position and the first with personal ties to the Trump family. Her appointment has generated considerable attention, partly due to the delay in confirming her nomination and the media frenzy surrounding her background. As she takes on this role, Guilfoyle will navigate a complex diplomatic landscape, managing bilateral relations and regional developments while distinguishing between informed advisors and opportunistic influencers.

Greece, a steadfast ally with a strong diaspora in the U.S., enjoys a robust and valuable relationship with America. Guilfoyle's tenure begins in a favorable climate, presenting an opportunity to further strengthen this bond. To succeed, she must prioritize Greece's interests, address its concerns, and avoid the pitfalls of self-serving advisors. By doing so, Guilfoyle can enhance the Greek-American relationship, ensuring mutual benefits for both nations. 🇬🇷🇺🇸🤝