Newsflash

“Security risks” in Shein and Temu products

A recent study by three European consumer organizations has revealed significant safety concerns with products sold by popular online retailers Shein and Temu. The investigation focused on 162 items across three categories: toys, USB chargers, and necklaces. Alarmingly, 112 of these products failed to meet European safety standards. Among the toys, issues included toxic materials and choking hazards. The necklaces were particularly concerning, with several containing the carcinogenic metal cadmium, one of which had 8,500 times the permitted amount.

The findings highlight a troubling trend where some products may appear safe but pose serious health risks. Julie Frère, a spokesperson for the Belgian consumer organization Testachat, emphasized the potential dangers, stating that while some items might seem acceptable, others present genuine safety threats. Both Shein and Temu have responded by removing the problematic products from their platforms, acknowledging the severity of the issues identified. 🛒🚨

Trump denies plans to attack Venezuela

Tensions between the United States and Venezuela are escalating, with reports suggesting an imminent military strike by the U.S. against the South American nation. While President Donald Trump has not officially confirmed these plans, the U.S. has significantly increased its military presence in the Caribbean, sending a destroyer to Trinidad and Tobago for exercises near Venezuela's coast. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has condemned this move, labeling it a "military provocation" aimed at inciting conflict. In response to the growing threat, Maduro has sought support from Russia and China, acquiring missiles and radar systems to bolster his country's defenses.

The U.S. has recently intensified its operations in the region, conducting attacks on alleged drug smugglers off Venezuela's coast, resulting in over 40 deaths. Additionally, the CIA has been authorized to conduct covert operations within Venezuela, further ratcheting up pressure on Maduro's government. The situation remains volatile, with both sides engaged in a tense standoff and the potential for further escalation looming. 🚨🇻🇪🇺🇸

EU has a 'moral obligation' to developing countries on emissions: Sweden's ex-environment minister

The EU faces significant challenges in meeting its climate goals and maintaining global leadership in the fight against climate change, particularly in light of the upcoming COP30 summit in Brazil. Isabella Lövin, a prominent Green MEP and former Swedish environment minister, argues that the EU has a moral obligation to lead on climate action, especially in supporting developing countries disproportionately affected by climate change. She criticizes the lack of ambition and leadership from the EU and the U.S., highlighting the withdrawal of support through the Green Climate Fund and the reduction of development aid by many countries.

Lövin emphasizes that the EU must stick to its 2040 carbon emissions target, not only for moral reasons but also for economic self-interest. She warns that failure to do so could leave the EU behind in the global green transition, with China and other countries outcompeting Europe in green technologies. She also addresses the divide within the European Parliament, noting that while the Greens support simplification in some areas, they advocate for robust reporting on sustainability and environmental legislation. Lövin stresses the importance of clear, long-term targets for businesses to invest in sustainable practices. The EU's ability to lead on climate action is crucial for both global stability and its own economic future. 🌍🌱

Great Britain: Prince Andrew stripped of titles over Epstein case

Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, has been stripped of his military titles and royal patronages by King Charles III, following a scandal involving his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The decision comes after a U.S. court ruled that a settlement reached with Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein's victims, was valid, and that Prince Andrew had not complied with the terms of the agreement. The move effectively removes Prince Andrew from public royal duties and distances the British royal family from the controversy surrounding his friendship with Epstein.

The scandal has been a significant embarrassment for the royal family, with Prince Andrew's past associations with Epstein and his failure to cooperate with legal proceedings drawing widespread criticism. The decision to strip him of his titles and patronages is seen as a necessary step to protect the reputation of the monarchy and to send a clear message about the royal family's commitment to upholding the rule of law and ethical standards. 👑🚫

Prosecutor in Golden Dawn appeal trial to deliver recommendation in December

The appeal trial of the far-right Golden Dawn party in Greece is approaching a critical juncture. The prosecutor is set to deliver her recommendation on December 12, following the conclusion of defendants' statements. Ioannis Lagos, a former Golden Dawn MP and MEP, delivered the final testimony, asserting that the trial is a political conspiracy and vowing to take the case to European courts if he does not receive justice. Meanwhile, Giorgos Roupakias, convicted for the murder of Pavlos Fyssas, did not testify in person. His lawyer submitted a statement expressing his remorse and seeking forgiveness for the pain caused. The trial, which has significant implications for Greek politics and society, continues to unfold with high stakes and intense scrutiny. 🏛️🇬🇷

World space summit going to Nicosia

Next week, Nicosia will become the epicenter of global space exploration as it hosts the 6th World Space Symposium, organized by the World Organization for Space Research (COSPAR) and the Cyprus Space Exploration Organization (CSEO). From November 3 to 7, the event will convene major space agencies, including NASA, ESA, JAXA, and ISRO, alongside astronauts, scientists, and industry leaders from companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. The symposium is expected to attract hundreds of experts from over 45 countries, including Japan, India, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea, all gathered to share cutting-edge research and shape the future of space exploration. More than 90 organizations, ranging from leading agencies and universities to national research centers, will participate, presenting over 330 scientific papers. This event underscores Cyprus's growing role in the global space community and highlights the island's commitment to advancing space science and technology. 🌌🚀

Valmet and Patria aim to manufacture armoured vehicles on Finland's west coast

Finnish defense manufacturer Patria and automotive company Valmet Automotive have signed a letter of intent to produce and test armored vehicles at Valmet's plant in Uusikaupunki, Finland. This partnership aims to meet the rising global demand for Patria's armored vehicles, with the company already receiving orders for nearly 1,000 units through the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) program. The CAVS program, initiated by Finland and Latvia in 2020, now includes the UK, Norway, Germany, Sweden, and Denmark, with technology transfer deals underway for Germany and Japan.

The collaboration could provide a significant boost to Valmet Automotive's workforce, as its current contract to manufacture Mercedes-Benz cars in Uusikaupunki is set to expire soon. While the exact employment impact and production start date remain unclear, Valmet's CEO Pasi Rannus emphasized the company's ability to quickly commence high-quality manufacturing. Additionally, Valmet plans to continue producing passenger cars at the plant and is in discussions with several automakers for potential production deals.

The Finnish government recently became the majority owner of Valmet Automotive, injecting €35 million in new capital to support the plant, which has faced job cuts due to slow electric car sales in Europe. Meanwhile, Finland is participating in NATO's PURL arms initiative, which involves purchasing weapons for Ukraine from the United States. 🚘🛡️

Hidden health issues behind more than half of Finland's fatal vehicle accidents

More than half of Finland's fatal road accidents are attributed to drivers' hidden health issues, according to the Finnish Crash Data Institute (OTI). Many of these health risks go undetected because drivers may be unaware of their conditions or choose not to disclose them. Recent data reveals that about half of last year's fatal vehicle accidents were caused by health issues unknown to healthcare services. This highlights a significant gap in the current system, where a driver's ability to operate a vehicle often relies on self-assessment, and mandatory fitness tests are infrequent.

Tapio Koisaari, technology chief at the Finnish Motor Insurers' Centre, suggests that regular health checks for drivers at certain ages could help prevent serious accidents. He proposes a full health history review and follow-up examinations, ideally in a driver's 40s, to address this issue proactively. Currently, sudden health problems like heart attacks are recognized as accident causes, but underlying issues such as untreated substance abuse or mental health problems also pose risks. The combined effects of multiple conditions can impair a driver's fitness to drive.

Finland has made significant strides in reducing road fatalities, with numbers dropping from 1,156 deaths in 1972 to a historic low of 171 in 2023. However, to further decrease fatalities, a more systematic approach to driver health assessments is needed. This would involve regular check-ups and a comprehensive review of drivers' health histories to identify and mitigate potential risks. 🚘🩺

Former Golden Dawn lawmaker Christos Pappas defends himself at appeal trial

Former Golden Dawn lawmaker Christos Pappas defended himself at his appeal trial in Athens, rejecting charges that led to his 2020 conviction and 13-year prison sentence for serving as the deputy leader of the now-defunct neo-Nazi party. Pappas, who was conditionally released in July, argued that he was wrongfully accused and that his parliamentary work was overlooked. He denied any involvement in the 2013 murder of anti-fascist rapper Pavlos Fyssas, asserting that he learned of the killing from the radio the following morning.

Pappas, known as one of Golden Dawn’s leading ideologues, dismissed his "No. 2" label as a media fabrication and distanced himself from party leader Nikolaos Michaloliakos, despite being his godfather. He claimed that photographs from his youth, including one taken beneath a Nazi flag, were used to create false impressions. Pappas alleged that the crackdown on Golden Dawn was politically motivated, aimed at stemming vote losses for the then-ruling New Democracy party. He referenced a secretly recorded video suggesting that the criminal investigation was intended to benefit the ruling conservatives.

The appeal trial, which began in 2022, involves most of Golden Dawn’s former MPs. Many defendants have already served their sentences and did not appear in court. Present at the hearing were Pappas, former MEP Ioannis Lagos, and former MP Stathis Boukouras. The original trial, lasting over five years, resulted in convictions for 68 defendants in 2020, marking a significant legal milestone in addressing the party’s criminal activities. 🏛️🚔

Polish culture ministry sets out plan for “depoliticising” public media

Poland's culture ministry has introduced a draft media bill aimed at depoliticizing public media, a move that has sparked controversy and criticism from the opposition. The proposed legislation seeks to dissolve the National Media Council (RMN), a body established by the former Law and Justice (PiS) government, and replace it with an expanded National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT). The new council would have nine members appointed through a process involving both chambers of parliament, the president, and oversight from non-governmental organizations and public hearings.

The bill also introduces stringent "apoliticality" standards for appointing public media authorities, requiring candidates to have no political party affiliations or functions within the past five to ten years. Additionally, the draft calls for the abolition of the television and radio licence fee, replacing it with direct state funding of 2.5 billion zloty annually, indexed to inflation. The legislation also aims to limit local government media to non-editorial bulletins without advertising, promoting independent local outlets.

The current government, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, has pledged to restore neutrality to public media, which became a propaganda tool under PiS rule. However, the opposition has accused the Tusk government of merely shifting the bias in its own favor. The draft bill will undergo public and inter-ministerial consultations before being submitted to the Sejm early next year. Despite these efforts, public trust in Poland's public media remains low, with more Poles distrusting it than trusting it. The bill's fate also hinges on the approval of PiS-aligned President Karol Nawrocki, who has previously vetoed government bills. 📰🇵🇱

One year later: New wave of protests in divided Serbia

In Serbia, thousands of people have embarked on a multi-day march towards Novi Sad, culminating in a large demonstration this Saturday. The protests mark the one-year anniversary of a tragic train station roof collapse that killed 16 people, including a six-year-old child. The incident has galvanized public outrage against widespread corruption and the government's handling of the disaster.

The country is deeply divided, with opinion polls showing nearly equal support for the government and the opposition protest movement. While some Serbs remain loyal to President Aleksandar Vucic, others demand reforms and new elections. The protests have been met with violent resistance from both police and organized counter-demonstrators, with dozens arrested and several still in custody. The former construction minister and twelve others have been indicted, but a trial has not yet been scheduled.

The marchers, who began their journey in Belgrade, are determined to show that their fight for justice and change continues. The protests have been fueled by longstanding discontent with Vucic's autocratic rule and the pervasive corruption that has plagued the country. Despite government concessions and resignations, the demonstrators remain steadfast in their demands for accountability and reform. The upcoming demonstration in Novi Sad is expected to be a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for change in Serbia. 🇷🇸💥

Ukraine war latest: 170,000 Russian troops deployed in Pokrovsk sector, Zelensky says

On day 1,346 of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that approximately 170,000 Russian troops are deployed in the Pokrovsk sector of eastern Donetsk Oblast, aiming to capture the semi-surrounded city. Despite Ukrainian forces holding their ground, the strategic situation remains precarious, with a narrow gap for supplies and reinforcements. Russian forces are intensifying their efforts to encircle Pokrovsk, posing a significant threat to Ukrainian defenses. Zelensky's comments about protecting troops may indicate a potential withdrawal in the near future.

In other developments, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has reportedly requested military aid from Russia, including missile and radar repairs, amidst escalating tensions with the U.S. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has approved the potential sending of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, although the final decision rests with U.S. President Donald Trump. Poland has once again intercepted a Russian reconnaissance plane flying without a flight plan over the Baltic Sea, marking the third such incident in a week.

Ukraine's military has continued its offensive, striking Russian energy infrastructure and military targets deep within Russian territory. The Ukrainian Navy confirmed successful strikes on Russian energy facilities using domestically produced Neptune cruise missiles. Additionally, Ukraine's Special Operations Forces destroyed a Russian Buk-M3 air defense system and a Nebo-U radar in Russia's Rostov Oblast, significantly impacting Russian military capabilities. President Zelensky also revealed that Ukraine's security services had destroyed a Russian Oreshnik ballistic missile within Russian territory earlier this year.

The conflict has taken a heavy toll, with at least 14 people killed and 71 injured in Russian attacks across Ukraine over the past day. The Ukrainian Air Force reported downing 107 out of 146 drones launched by Russia overnight. The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported that Russia has lost around 1,141,830 troops since the invasion began, along with substantial military equipment. The war continues to exact a devastating human and material cost on both sides. 🇺🇦💥

Venezuela reportedly requests missiles, radars from Russia amid US tensions

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has sought military aid from Russia, as revealed by confidential documents obtained by the Washington Post. This request comes amid heightened tensions in the Caribbean Sea, where the U.S. military has conducted strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels and is considering air strikes on Venezuelan military facilities allegedly involved in drug smuggling. Maduro's letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin seeks repairs for radars, military aircraft, and potentially missile supplies, reflecting the strong alliance between the two countries, both of which share a mutual antipathy towards the West.

In addition to Russia, Venezuela has also reached out to China and Iran for military support and equipment. Maduro reportedly wrote to Chinese President Xi Jinping, requesting "expanded military cooperation" to counter escalating tensions with the U.S. The Venezuelan leader has accused the U.S. of attempting to seize the country's natural resources, including oil, gas, and gold, and has mobilized 15,000 soldiers in response to perceived threats. Maduro has also denied U.S. allegations of his involvement in drug trafficking and terrorism, asserting that these claims are part of a broader strategy to undermine his government. Venezuela possesses approximately 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S portable air defense systems, further underscoring the depth of military cooperation between the two nations. 🇻🇪🇷🇺

Sources: Pentagon approves Tomahawk to Ukraine

The Pentagon has determined that allowing Ukraine access to Tomahawk missiles would not deplete the U.S. stockpile, but the final decision rests with President Donald Trump. Trump has previously expressed reservations about providing Ukraine with Tomahawks, citing the U.S.'s own needs and the potential to "empty" the country of these weapons. Neither the White House nor the Pentagon has officially commented on this assessment.

Ukraine has been actively seeking Tomahawk missiles to extend its strike capabilities deeper into Russian territory. During a recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump expressed hope for ending the war without supplying Tomahawks. However, Zelenskyy remains optimistic, stating that Trump's non-committal response was better than a definitive refusal. "It's good that President Trump didn't say 'no,' even though today he didn't say 'yes,'" Zelenskyy remarked in an interview with NBC News.

Meanwhile, the U.S. has recently lifted restrictions on Ukraine's use of certain long-range missiles, specifically British-made Storm Shadow missiles with a range of nearly 300 kilometers. This adjustment does not include Tomahawk missiles, which Ukraine continues to seek for enhanced defensive capabilities. The situation underscores the delicate balance between supporting Ukraine and maintaining U.S. military readiness. 🇺🇸🇺🇦💥

Hope, etched in black and white

In his new exhibition, "Say Goodbye Before You Leave," Albanian-born Magnum photographer Enri Canaj captures a decade of displacement, from 2014 to 2022, through the lens of his own experiences as a former migrant. The black-and-white series, featuring 40 photographs, many of which are being shown for the first time, chronicles the journeys of refugees and migrants across Balkan borders, camps, and their eventual resettlement in Europe. The exhibition, opening at the Beehive cultural space in central Athens, portrays both the despair and resilience of those uprooted from their homes.

Canaj’s personal journey resonates deeply with the subjects of his photographs, as he notes, "Their present mirrors my past." His images span from the infamous Moria camp on Lesvos to the streets of Northern Europe, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of those rebuilding their lives. One poignant story is that of Ahmad, a young Afghan boy caring for his disabled mother, later photographed in Sweden, embodying survival and quiet dignity. Despite the chaos, Canaj finds enduring optimism and humanity in the faces of those he photographs. The exhibition will be on display until March 31, 2026. 📸🌍

Historic tie in Dutch election leaves political landscape polarised

The recent Dutch election has resulted in a historic tie, leaving the country's political landscape deeply polarized. The outcome has created a significant challenge for forming a new government, as the two leading parties, representing starkly different ideologies, now hold an equal number of seats in parliament. This unprecedented situation reflects the growing divisions within Dutch society, with voters increasingly aligning themselves along clear ideological lines.

The tie underscores the shifting dynamics in Dutch politics, where traditional coalitions may struggle to form a stable majority. Both leading parties will need to navigate complex negotiations and potentially seek support from smaller factions to break the deadlock. The polarised result highlights the need for compromise and cooperation, as the country faces critical issues that require decisive leadership and unified action. The path forward remains uncertain, but the election outcome serves as a stark reminder of the deep divisions that exist within the Dutch political spectrum. The political landscape is now at a crossroads, with the future direction of the country hanging in the balance. 🇳🇱🏛️

Getting STR rules right: A smarter path for Europe’s tourism

As the European Union concludes its public consultation on housing and considers stricter regulations for short-term rentals (STRs), European leaders face a critical decision. The outcome will shape Europe's future in smart, inclusive tourism or lead to ineffective measures that neglect local communities and families. The current EU regulation on STRs is yet to be fully implemented, with many member states lacking complete digital registration systems and essential data interfaces. Before rushing into new legislation, Europe should focus on ensuring the existing framework is effectively executed and delivers tangible results.

Tourism is a cornerstone of Europe's economic growth and competitiveness, generating jobs, revitalizing rural and underserved areas, and funding public services through tax revenues. In 2024, 60% of Airbnb stays occurred outside major cities, demonstrating the role of STRs in distributing tourism benefits across European communities. Additionally, Airbnb bookings by European families in rural areas surged by over 200% between 2019 and 2024, highlighting the affordability and accessibility of STRs for domestic travel. Prioritizing the successful implementation of current STR regulations will enable Europe to harness the full potential of this vital sector, fostering inclusive growth and supporting local economies.

Kasidiaris denies responsibility for Golden Dawn crimes

Ilias Kasidiaris, currently serving a 13-year sentence for his role in the criminal activities of the neo-Nazi Golden Dawn party, has attempted to disassociate himself from the organization’s violent acts during his appeal hearing at the Athens Court of Appeals. Kasidiaris expressed remorse for the "vile criminal acts" committed by Golden Dawn supporters but asserted that he bore no responsibility for them. He condemned the 2013 murder of musician Pavlos Fyssas and the 2021 attack on Egyptian fishermen, describing the former as a "heinous crime" that also harmed his own reputation and led to his imprisonment.

Kasidiaris claimed that the proliferation of Golden Dawn offices resulted in a loss of control over the party, implying that this contributed to the violent incidents. He denied allegations of training party members in military-style exercises, insisting that photographs of him in uniform were from licensed reserve officers’ club events. He also admitted to suggesting that Golden Dawn members wear black T-shirts during events, a decision he now regrets. Throughout his testimony, Kasidiaris alleged political interference in his original trial, seeking to portray himself as a victim of injustice. 🚔🏛️

APN Podcast: The spies among us?

Finland's relationship with Russia has long been intricate, and the country's recent accession to NATO has heightened tensions and security concerns. A recent podcast episode delves into the persistent threat of Russian espionage, highlighting claims by a former CIA officer that Russia continues to infiltrate "illegals"—deep-cover agents—into Finland and other NATO nations. These agents lead ordinary lives while executing covert missions, posing a significant risk to national security.

Historically, Finland has been a hotbed for espionage, particularly during the Cold War, when Helsinki served as a training ground for Soviet agents. Key Finnish figures were often assigned "pet Russians," and espionage was employed to acquire Western technology. However, the reality of these spy games was often more nuanced and complex than it appeared.

The Finnish Security and Intelligence Service (Supo) has shifted its focus to countering hybrid tactics, which include disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and economic coercion, rather than conventional military threats. This evolution in espionage techniques underscores the need for vigilance and adaptability in Finland's security strategy. The podcast invites listeners to engage in the conversation and share their thoughts on this critical issue. 🎙️🌐

More remains have been handed over from Gaza

The Israeli military has received three unidentified bodies from Gaza, with initial assessments suggesting they do not belong to any of the eleven remaining Hamas hostages. The remains are currently undergoing identification processes, and it remains uncertain whether they are connected to the hostage situation. Hamas has not issued a statement regarding the handover. Earlier in the week, the remains of two Israeli hostages were returned, along with 30 Palestinian bodies handed over to Gaza's health authorities for identification. The ongoing efforts to identify these remains highlight the complex and sensitive nature of the conflict and the desperate search for answers amidst the violence. 🕯️🇮🇱🇵🇸