Newsflash

'They're not scary' — Ukraine's drone commander 'Madyar' promises blackouts in Russia after new strikes

Ukraine is gearing up for new strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, aiming to cause widespread blackouts and disrupt power supplies. Robert "Madyar" Brovdi, commander of Ukraine’s Drone Systems Forces, announced these plans on Facebook, asserting that while blackouts may be inconvenient, they are not frightening. He emphasized that Ukraine’s drones, dubbed "Free Ukrainian Birds," are unpredictable and capable of forcing rapid adaptations in Russian regions.

Brovdi highlighted that Russian fuel shortages are becoming more frequent, and gas and oil reserves are depleting quickly. His statement comes after a significant power outage in Moscow Oblast on October 31, which Russian media attributed to drone attacks on energy facilities. On November 1, Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) struck a crucial Russian military fuel pipeline in Moscow Oblast, disabling a key supply route for the Russian army. The targeted Koltsevoy (Ring) pipeline, a 400-kilometer-long fuel artery, supplies gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel from refineries in Ryazan, Nizhny Novgorod, and Moscow. The operation reportedly destroyed all three major fuel lines simultaneously near the Ramensky district, southeast of Moscow, despite anti-drone measures. This strike is seen as a significant blow to Russia’s military logistics and economy in the region. 💥🔌

Russia kills at least 4, injures 51 across Ukraine over past day

On November 1st, Ukrainian officials reported that at least four civilians were killed and 51 others were injured in Russian attacks across various regions of Ukraine. The Ukrainian Air Force intercepted 206 out of 223 attack drones launched by Russia overnight, including around 140 Shahed-type loitering munitions and other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) such as Gerbera and decoy drones. Seventeen drones managed to reach their targets in seven different locations.

In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Russian forces conducted 496 attacks on 14 settlements, resulting in one death and three injuries. The strikes caused significant damage to private homes, apartments, a commercial building, and infrastructure facilities. In Mykolaiv Oblast, a ballistic missile strike using an Iskander-M missile with a cluster warhead killed one person and injured 19, including a 9-year-old child. The attack damaged a gas station and several vehicles. In Kherson Oblast, drone, artillery, and air strikes on over 20 settlements, including Kherson, resulted in two deaths and 22 injuries. The attacks targeted residential areas and critical infrastructure, damaging eight apartment buildings and 15 private homes.

In Sumy Oblast, Russian forces launched 82 attacks on 31 settlements using various weapons, injuring seven people and prompting the evacuation of eight residents from border areas. The air raid alert in the region lasted for 15 hours. In Chernihiv Oblast, Russian forces carried out 23 attacks, injuring one civilian and damaging civilian and critical infrastructure. The relentless assaults underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international support and intervention. 🇺🇦💥

Ukrainian drones strike oil terminal, tanker in Russia's Krasnodar Krai

Ukraine's military reportedly conducted a significant strike on a Russian oil terminal in the port city of Tuapse, Krasnodar Krai, late on November 1. The attack targeted a loading pier and an oil tanker, resulting in large fires and substantial damage to port infrastructure. Russian officials confirmed the incident, noting that the deck superstructure, a vessel, buildings, and terminal infrastructure were affected. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.

The Tuapse terminal, operated by Russia's state oil company Rosneft, is a crucial hub for Russian oil exports, making it a strategic target for Ukrainian forces. The strike is part of a broader campaign by Ukraine to disrupt Russia's energy logistics and weaken its primary funding source for the ongoing war. This is not the first time the terminal has been targeted; a previous attack occurred on September 24. The latest incident coincides with wider Ukrainian drone attacks on various regions of Russia, including reports of explosions and smoke in the city of Oryol. While Ukraine's military has not officially commented on the attacks, the use of domestically developed drones for deep strikes against Russian targets is a well-established tactic. 💥🏭

'A rumble in Moscow Oblast' — Ukraine hits critical military fuel pipeline near Russian capital, HUR says

Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) successfully targeted and disabled a critical Russian military fuel pipeline in Moscow Oblast on October 31. The strike hit the Koltsevoy (Ring) pipeline, a 400-kilometer-long fuel artery that supplies the Russian army with gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel from refineries in Ryazan, Nizhny Novgorod, and Moscow. Despite robust security measures, including anti-drone nets and armed guards, the operation successfully destroyed all three major fuel lines near the Ramensky district, southeast of Moscow.

The strike dealt a significant blow to Russia's military logistics and economy in the region. The Koltsevoy pipeline was capable of transporting up to 3 million tons of jet fuel annually, along with millions of tons of diesel and gasoline. HUR chief Kyrylo Budanov emphasized the impact of these strikes, stating that they have caused more damage to Russia than economic sanctions alone.

The attack was part of a larger Ukrainian drone assault on Russia, with reports indicating that Russia's Defense Ministry intercepted 98 drones across 10 regions, including 11 over Moscow Oblast. Power outages were reported in Zhukovsky, and drone debris fell in Tula, disrupting traffic. These coordinated strikes are part of Ukraine's ongoing efforts to weaken Russia's military infrastructure and combat capabilities. 💥🛢️

Syrian leader to Washington

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa is set to visit the United States, marking a significant diplomatic shift. The primary purpose of his trip is to sign an agreement aligning Syria with the U.S.-led global coalition against ISIS. However, the visit also holds symbolic weight, as al-Sharaa is expected to meet with President Donald Trump, becoming the first Syrian president to visit the White House. The visit, tentatively scheduled for November 10, was revealed by the U.S. envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, during a meeting with journalists in Bahrain. Barrack also indicated that new negotiations between Syria and Israel on a security agreement will commence following al-Sharaa's U.S. trip.

Al-Sharaa's rise to power was marked by his leadership of the Islamist rebel group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which played a pivotal role in the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad. Despite the group's links to al-Qaeda, it has since been officially dissolved, with its members integrated into the new Syrian state apparatus. The U.S. and the UK have lifted their terrorist designations of the group, recognizing the political shift. Since assuming power, al-Sharaa has pursued a dramatic change in Syria's political direction, previously meeting with Trump in Saudi Arabia and addressing the UN General Assembly in New York. This visit underscores the evolving dynamics in the Middle East and the potential for renewed diplomatic engagement. 🇸🇾🇺🇸🤝

Drones spotted over military base in Belgium for second time in 24 hours

In recent days, Belgium's Kleine Brogel Air Base has experienced two drone sightings within 24 hours, raising concerns about potential security threats. On October 31 and November 1, drones were spotted over the base, which is believed to house U.S. nuclear weapons under NATO's nuclear sharing arrangements and is set to host F-35 fighter jets starting in 2027. Belgian authorities attempted to intercept the drone during the second incident but were unsuccessful. The sightings are part of a broader trend of mysterious drone activities across Europe, fueling fears of Russian involvement in hybrid warfare and highlighting vulnerabilities in the alliance's security.

These incidents follow a pattern of unexplained drone sightings and Russian airspace violations, with recent events in Estonia, Poland, and Romania adding to the tension. The surge in drone activity has led to air traffic disruptions in several European countries, including France, Czechia, Germany, Lithuania, Norway, and Denmark. The repeated incursions have prompted calls for a more robust response to such threats, with some advocating for the downing of Russian aircraft and drones if necessary. The ongoing investigations and heightened security measures underscore the need for vigilance and cooperation among NATO allies in the face of evolving challenges. 🛩️🚨

Ukraine says army holding out in Pokrovsk amid intensifying Russian offensive

Ukraine has reported that its forces are maintaining their defensive positions in Pokrovsk despite an intensifying Russian offensive in the region. The city, located in the Donetsk Oblast, has been a strategic target for Russian forces, with recent weeks seeing a surge in military activity. Ukrainian officials have emphasized the resilience of their troops, who are facing heavy shelling and ground assaults. The situation remains fluid, with both sides reporting casualties and infrastructure damage. The ongoing conflict in Pokrovsk is part of a broader Russian campaign to gain control over key territories in eastern Ukraine, a move that has drawn international condemnation and calls for increased support for Ukraine. The battle for Pokrovsk is critical, as its fall could significantly alter the dynamics of the war in the region. 🇺🇦💥

Ukraine sends special forces to Pokrovsk as Moscow tightens grip

Ukraine has deployed special forces to the eastern city of Pokrovsk, which is under intense Russian assault. The city, located in the Donetsk region, serves as a crucial supply route for the Ukrainian army and has been a target of Russian forces for over a year. Despite facing a significant Russian offensive involving thousands of troops, Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky denied reports of the city being encircled, asserting that efforts to maintain logistics are ongoing.

The battle for Pokrovsk is part of a broader Russian strategy to gain a propaganda victory and secure a major supply route. Moscow has been steadily advancing along the front line, engaging in costly, meter-by-meter battles that have resulted in extensive destruction and civilian displacement. The city, once home to 60,000 people, is now largely deserted and devastated by fighting.

Russia's military aggression has intensified, with a record number of missile strikes in October, totaling 270, a 46% increase from the previous month. These strikes, primarily targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, have led to widespread power outages and rolling blackouts across the country. Additionally, Russia launched over 5,200 long-range drones in October, maintaining a high level of aerial assaults. The ongoing conflict, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and millions of displaced Ukrainians, with no end in sight. 💥🏙️🇺🇦

Many people are being treated after a knife attack on a train

A significant incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. local time near Huntingdon, approximately 12 miles north of London. Two individuals have been arrested following the event, which involved a train traveling from Doncaster to London. Emergency services, including two ambulance helicopters and police from various departments, swiftly responded to the scene.

Local Tory MP Ben Obese-Jecty described the response as unprecedented in scale. Passengers who did not require medical attention were transported by buses, while several witnesses reported that people were trampled during attempts to flee the perpetrators. Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed deep concern over the "horrific incident" and advised the public to follow police instructions and avoid the area.

Initially, police used a code word indicating an ongoing terrorist attack, but this has since been withdrawn. Home Affairs Minister Shabana Mahmood urged the public to avoid speculation at this early stage. Roads and parts of the rail network in the area remain closed, with the local train company, LNER, advising against travel due to major disruptions. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as authorities continue their work. 🚨🚓🚑

Egypt's new super museum inaugurated: "New chapter"

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi inaugurated the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum, marking a significant milestone in the country's cultural and economic revitalization. The museum, constructed on the Giza Plateau near the iconic pyramids, has been a work in progress since 2005, facing delays due to political and economic turmoil, including a suspension during the Arab Spring. After its completion in 2023 and a secret opening in 2024, the museum was officially unveiled with a spectacular ceremony featuring traditional dancers, a drone-controlled laser show, and fireworks.

The Grand Egyptian Museum, with its striking pyramid-like glass facade, replaces the outdated Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Spanning 24,000 square meters, it houses over 100,000 artifacts, with half of them on display, making it the world's largest collection dedicated to a single civilization. Visitors are greeted by an 83-ton statue of Pharaoh Ramses II in the central courtyard. Among the museum's highlights are the ongoing restoration of a 4,500-year-old sun ship and the complete collection from the tomb of King Tutankhamun, displayed in full for the first time since its discovery in 1922.

The museum is expected to play a crucial role in revitalizing Egypt's tourism industry, with authorities aiming for five million annual visitors. This initiative is part of a broader effort to boost the economy, with a target of 18 million tourists for the year. The Grand Egyptian Museum stands as a testament to Egypt's rich history and its commitment to preserving and showcasing its cultural heritage. 🏛️🇪🇬

Flights resume at Berlin airport after suspension over drone scare

Flights at Berlin Brandenburg Airport were temporarily suspended for nearly two hours on Friday evening due to sightings of unidentified drones. The incident, which occurred between 8:08 PM and 9:58 PM, led to the diversion of numerous flights to other German cities. Authorities relaxed the airport's night flight ban to manage the disruption. Police in Brandenburg state confirmed a drone sighting and deployed a patrol car and helicopter, but the drone's pilot remained unidentified.

This incident is part of a broader trend of drone-related disruptions at airports and military sites across Europe. Germany, along with other European countries like Denmark, Norway, Poland, Romania, and Estonia, has experienced similar drone scares. Germany, a key NATO supporter of Ukraine, has attributed some of these incidents to Russia, which has denied the allegations. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has emphasized the need for enhanced capabilities to detect, assess, and potentially neutralize drones, highlighting the growing concern over this hybrid threat. 🛩️🚁

PM Orpo: New Turku-Helsinki rail line will be completed

The Finnish government and seven cities and municipalities have agreed to fund the first phase of the West Railway, a major infrastructure project connecting Helsinki and Turku. This new rail line, the first entirely new rail line in Finland in a century, is set to significantly boost the construction industry and stimulate private investments in housing and commercial projects, particularly in southern Finland. The initial phase will focus on building sections between Espoo, Vihti, Lohja, Salo, Hajala, and Nunna-Kupittaa, with the remaining segments to be constructed in a second phase. The state is expected to contribute around €400 million to this first phase, despite the government's austerity measures. The total cost of the project is estimated between €3.4 billion and €4 billion, with the completed line expected to reduce travel time between Helsinki and Turku by approximately 35-40 minutes. Construction is anticipated to commence in late 2027 or 2028, pending approval from municipal and state decision-making bodies. However, the project has faced criticism from environmental groups like the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation, which argues that the potential benefits of reduced transport emissions will be overshadowed by the destruction of valuable old-growth forests along the route. 🚄🌳

Bank of Greece revises current account deficit up

The Bank of Greece has revised its 2024 current account deficit to 7.2% of GDP, up from the previous estimate of 6.4%. This revision, driven by the inclusion of deferred interest on loans from the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF), widens the gap from the European Commission's target of a 3% deficit. Despite this setback, there are signs of improvement in 2025. From January to August, the deficit decreased by €2.1 billion, or 24.3%, reaching €6.6 billion. This positive shift is attributed to growth in tourism, fuel, and primary income sectors. The revised data underscores the challenges Greece faces in meeting its fiscal targets, even as some economic indicators show promise. 📉💰

Pierrakakis: Real credibility test will be actions, not plans

At a joint event celebrating the 20th anniversary of the European think tank Bruegel and Greece’s partnership, Minister of Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis emphasized the urgent need for Europe to advance the completion of the Savings and Investment Union. He criticized the practice of "national reservations," which he argued weakens EU cohesion. Pierrakakis highlighted the importance of fostering more cross-border acquisitions and mergers within Europe, using UniCredit's involvement in Greece as a key example of genuine commitment.

He asserted that the true measure of Europe's credibility will be its actions, not just plans. Recent developments, such as UniCredit increasing its stake in Alpha Bank, Credia acquiring a Maltese bank, and Euronext's acquisition of the Athens Stock Exchange, demonstrate tangible progress. Pierrakakis also noted that the current security crisis could accelerate the implementation of a common European defense policy.

Reflecting on Greece's economic progress, Pierrakakis pointed out that the country has stabilized its finances and achieved significant digital transformation in a short period. However, he stressed the need for faster growth, with Greece currently expanding at a 2.4% rate. The minister's remarks underscore the importance of concrete steps and collaborative efforts in strengthening Europe's economic and security frameworks. 🇪🇺💼

Serbia marks anniversary of train station disaster with protests

Tens of thousands of Serbians gathered in Novi Sad to honor the 16 victims of a train station roof collapse that occurred last year. The event, marked by a 16-minute silent vigil at the precise time of the tragedy, aimed to remember each of the lives lost and sparked nationwide protests against police violence and government inaction. Despite the government declaring a national day of mourning, tensions remain high, with President Aleksandar Vučić warning against any potential violence during the commemoration. The mass demonstration, drawing thousands from across Serbia, underscores the ongoing public outcry and demand for accountability. The day serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic event and the subsequent calls for government reform. 🕯️🇷🇸

Serbians stage mass rally to mark first anniversary of deadly train station collapse

Tens of thousands of Serbians gathered in Novi Sad to commemorate the first anniversary of a tragic railway station roof collapse that claimed 16 lives. The event sparked a wave of student-led protests against President Aleksandar Vucic's administration, highlighting deep-seated issues of corruption and government accountability. At 11:52 am, the time of the tragedy, the crowd observed 16 minutes of silence, with many in tears and embracing one another. Families of the victims, students, and war veterans stood together, holding wreaths and candles at the site.

The protests, initially calling for a transparent investigation, have evolved into demands for early elections and systemic change. Students and other activists marched from various parts of the country, some covering hundreds of kilometers, to participate in the commemoration. The protests have led to the resignation of the prime minister and the formation of a new government, but Vucic remains in office, often labeling demonstrators as foreign-funded plotters.

In a rare gesture, Vucic apologized for past remarks and called for dialogue. The government declared the day of the rally a national day of mourning, with religious services held for the victims. The EU has expressed support for the protesters' calls for accountability and democratic values, urging restraint and peaceful resolution. Despite some instances of violence, the protests have largely remained peaceful, with ongoing investigations into the collapse and potential misuse of EU funds. The tragedy has galvanized a movement for change, with the EU acknowledging its potential to transform Serbia's political landscape.

On the trail of migrant smugglers 1/3: The fall of Calais trafficker Idrees G.

In August 2023, a tragic incident unfolded in the English Channel when a migrant boat, carrying 68 people, sank, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals. The investigation quickly zeroed in on two Iraqi smugglers, Idrees G. and Tariq H., who were known for their ruthless tactics to protect their lucrative human trafficking business. The migrants, primarily from Afghanistan, had paid exorbitant sums to make the perilous journey from Calais to Britain. The overloaded boat, ill-equipped and poorly maintained, capsized shortly after departure, leading to a desperate rescue operation.

French authorities, including the agency for combating organized crime and the Office for the Fight against the Illicit Trafficking of Migrants, took charge of the investigation. Survivors identified Idrees G., nicknamed the "Great Haji," and Tariq H. as the masterminds behind the operation. Idrees G., despite previous convictions and deportations, had returned to France to orchestrate the dangerous crossings. His modus operandi involved sabotage, violence, and even threats of murder to eliminate competition and maintain control over the trafficking routes.

Idrees G. and Tariq H. were arrested near Calais shortly after the incident. Despite their attempts to evade justice, evidence from German authorities and intercepted communications revealed their extensive involvement in the smuggling network. The duo's brazen activities included violent raids on rival smugglers and boasting about their illicit earnings from prison. Their trial is set to commence in Paris, highlighting the ongoing battle against organized migrant smuggling and the dire consequences of unregulated human trafficking. 🛳️🚨

China blames Dutch government for Nexperia supply disruptions

China and the Netherlands are entangled in a high-stakes dispute involving semiconductor maker Nexperia, which has significant implications for global chip supply chains. The conflict began when the Dutch government took control of Nexperia, citing mismanagement, prompting China to halt exports of Nexperia products, including crucial automotive chips. This move has raised concerns about potential production stoppages, particularly in Europe’s automotive industry, where Nexperia supplies around 40% of standard chips.

The Chinese Commerce Ministry criticized the Dutch government's intervention, stating it has caused chaos in global production and supply chains. In response, China offered a potential lifeline by hinting that it might allow exports of urgently needed components, urging affected companies to contact the ministry for review. However, the criteria for these exports remain unclear, and it is uncertain whether the offer extends to foreign companies.

The dispute has sparked worries in the automotive sector, with German car manufacturer Volkswagen and the German Association of the Automotive Industry expressing concerns about potential production restrictions and stoppages. Meanwhile, there is hope that recent talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping may lead to a resolution, with reports suggesting that Nexperia’s Chinese subsidiary could resume chip deliveries. The outcome of these discussions and their impact on Europe remain to be seen, as EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič reported constructive talks with Chinese officials. The situation underscores the delicate balance of global trade and the interconnected nature of modern supply chains. 🌍🔧

China’s pause on rare earth export controls extends to EU

China has confirmed that its temporary suspension of export controls on rare earths will extend to the European Union, as announced by EU trade chief Maroš Šefčovič. This decision follows a meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump, during which Beijing agreed to delay its latest round of rare earth export restrictions for one year. The EU promptly sought and received assurances that the suspension would apply to the bloc as well. Both China and the EU have reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing dialogue on improving the implementation of export control policies. This development is crucial for the EU, as rare earth elements are vital for various high-tech industries, including renewable energy and defense. 🌍💼

Workplace harassment complaints soar

Workplace harassment complaints in Greece have surged dramatically, with the Labor Inspectorate reporting a more than doubling of cases from 151 in 2022 to 318 in 2024. The majority of these incidents, 78%, involved mobbing, which includes verbal, psychological, and moral harassment. Notably, there has been a shift in harassment patterns, with a decrease in employer-driven "vertical mobbing" and an increase in "horizontal mobbing" between colleagues. Among complaints against fellow employees, 33% involved those in management positions, while 26% involved peers at the same hierarchical level.

The Labor Inspectorate has been proactive in addressing these issues, conducting 1,806 workplace checks and receiving 374 complaints through October 2025. Georgia Vazaki, head of the Labor Inspectorate’s violence and harassment monitoring unit, highlighted that 31% of cases were resolved through mediation, bypassing court proceedings. She emphasized that violence and harassment are now recognized as psychosocial risks with a robust institutional protection framework. Companies with over 70 employees are mandated to incorporate anti-harassment policies into their workplace regulations, with 299 such regulations filed in 2024. This proactive approach aims to create a safer and more respectful work environment for all employees. 👥💼