Newsflash

Video shows Russian drone killing white flag-waving civilians and dog, Ukraine opens war crimes investigation

A disturbing video has emerged showing a Russian first-person view (FPV) drone deliberately targeting and killing two unarmed civilians and their dog near the village of Kruhliakivka in Kharkiv Oblast. The incident, which occurred on November 3, has prompted prosecutors in Kharkiv to open a pre-trial war crimes investigation. The victims were walking along a road carrying a white flag, a universal symbol of surrender and non-combatant status. The strike, which left no military targets or positions nearby, underscores the Russian military's blatant disregard for international humanitarian law and the right to life of civilians.

The Kharkiv Regional Prosecutor's Office has initiated an investigation under Part 2 of Article 438 of Ukraine's Criminal Code, which addresses violations of the laws and customs of war resulting in death. This incident is part of a broader pattern of Russian forces targeting civilians, as evidenced by the Bucha massacre and other recent killings along the front line. In a separate incident, intercepted radio communications revealed a Russian commander ordering soldiers to shoot civilians near Pokrovsk, further highlighting the systematic nature of these atrocities. Additionally, reports indicate that Russian troops have used civilians, including children, as human shields in various locations. These actions constitute clear war crimes under the Geneva Conventions, and the international community continues to document and condemn such violations. 🚨🇺🇦

Done: Syria's leader to the White House

A historic visit is on the horizon as Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa is set to become the first Syrian leader to visit the White House. The primary purpose of his trip is to formally sign an agreement aligning Syria with the U.S.-led global coalition against ISIS. Al-Sharaa, who previously led the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), played a pivotal role in the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024. HTS, which had ties to al-Qaeda, has since been officially dissolved, with its members integrated into the new Syrian state apparatus. The U.S. and the UK have recently lifted their terrorist designations of the group, paving the way for this significant diplomatic engagement. This visit marks a notable shift in Syria's international relations and its stance against terrorism. 🇸🇾🇺🇸

Russia's Oreshnik missile enters serial production, Putin claims — nearly 1 year after promising to mass produce weapon

Russia has initiated the serial production of the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), according to President Vladimir Putin. This announcement comes nearly a year after Putin promised to begin mass-producing the weapon. The Oreshnik, which can travel at hypersonic speeds and is designed to carry nuclear weapons, was first deployed in an attack on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro in November 2024. Despite Putin's claims of its invincibility, defense analysts suggest it is an upgraded version of the RS-26 Rubez missile, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has disputed its supposed uninterceptability.

In addition to the Oreshnik, Putin boasted about Russia's other advanced weapons systems, including the Burevestnik nuclear-armed cruise missile, the Poseidon underwater drone, the Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle, and the Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile. He asserted that these "superweapons" demonstrate Russia's military prowess and technological advancements. Putin also claimed that Russia poses no threat to any other nation, despite its ongoing military actions in Ukraine. The Sarmat ICBM is expected to undergo combat testing this year and enter active duty in 2026, further bolstering Russia's nuclear arsenal. The rapid development and deployment of these advanced weapons systems underscore Russia's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities amidst geopolitical tensions. 🚀💥

Ukraine war latest: HUR releases combat footage from Pokrovsk, 'fierce battles' ongoing

In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, fierce battles are raging in the city of Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast, as Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) released footage of a special operation against encroaching Russian forces. The video, showcasing drone strikes, tanks, infantry, helicopters, and artillery, highlights the intense struggle to defend the strategic logistics hub. Ukrainian forces have reportedly thwarted Russian attempts to advance north of Pokrovsk, with reports suggesting a significant special operation involving airborne assault units under the command of HUR chief Kyrylo Budanov.

Meanwhile, Germany has announced it will increase financial aid to Ukraine by approximately 3 billion euros in 2026, reaffirming its commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. In a disturbing development, Ukrainian prosecutors in Kharkiv have opened a war crimes investigation following a video that appears to show a Russian drone targeting and killing two unarmed civilians and their dog near the village of Kruhliakivka. This incident underscores the ongoing atrocities committed by Russian forces, which systematically disregard international humanitarian law.

President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Ukrainian soldiers from the 1st Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine "Azov," who are engaged in defensive operations in the Dobropillia sector. Zelensky discussed the frontline situation, the urgent need for weapons, and the scaling up of drone production with the troops. He also presented state awards to the soldiers, emphasizing the importance of defending Ukraine's territorial integrity.

Russia has intensified its aerial bombardments, dropping a record number of guided bombs on Ukraine in October, with over 5,328 munitions targeting military positions and cities near the front line. This escalation is part of a broader strategy of air terror, with Russian forces having dropped approximately 40,000 aerial bombs on Ukraine in the first ten months of 2025 alone.

In response to the heightened Russian aggression, Ukrainian drone strikes have targeted Russian ammunition facilities, oil refineries, and petrochemical plants across Russia. These strikes have resulted in explosions in occupied Luhansk Oblast and other strategic locations, demonstrating Ukraine's capability to strike back against Russian military infrastructure.

The conflict has also led to the closure of Kramatorsk's iconic front-line rail stop for an indefinite period due to safety concerns amid intensified Russian strikes on railway infrastructure. This closure affects a key train route used by soldiers and their families, with alternative transportation arrangements being made.

Recent Russian attacks have resulted in at least six deaths and 30 injuries across various Ukrainian regions, including Donetsk, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, and Kharkiv. Ukrainian air defenses have intercepted a significant number of Russian drones and missiles, but the ongoing violence continues to claim civilian lives and cause widespread destruction.

According to the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces, Russia has lost over 1,145,670 troops since the beginning of its full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. This figure includes substantial losses in tanks, armored fighting vehicles, artillery systems, and other military equipment, reflecting the high cost of Russia's aggressive campaign. 💥🇺🇦🇷🇺

Amid Russia's relentless attacks on Ukraine's urban areas, will EU have to send boots on the ground?

Amid Russia's unyielding assaults on Ukraine's urban centers, the question of whether the European Union (EU) will need to deploy troops on the ground has gained urgency. As the conflict intensifies, the EU faces mounting pressure to bolster its support for Ukraine, which has thus far included economic aid, military equipment, and diplomatic backing. However, the prospect of direct military intervention remains a contentious issue.

The EU's current stance prioritizes non-military assistance, focusing on sanctions against Russia, humanitarian aid, and strengthening Ukraine's defenses through weapons and training. This approach aims to avoid direct confrontation with Russia while supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Yet, as the war drags on and the humanitarian crisis deepens, calls for more robust action are growing louder.

Proponents of sending EU troops argue that a stronger military presence could deter further Russian aggression and provide crucial protection for Ukrainian civilians. They point to the strategic importance of Ukraine for European security and the potential long-term consequences of a Russian victory. However, critics warn that such a move could escalate the conflict, leading to a broader European war and direct confrontation with a nuclear-armed power.

The EU's response is further complicated by internal divisions. While some member states advocate for a more assertive stance, others remain cautious, fearing the economic and political repercussions of direct involvement. Additionally, the EU must navigate its relationship with the United States, which has shown varying levels of commitment to the conflict under different administrations.

As the situation in Ukraine continues to deteriorate, the EU must weigh the risks and benefits of increased military engagement. The decision will not only shape the future of the conflict but also define Europe's role in global security and its commitment to democratic values. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the EU will take the significant step of deploying troops to Ukraine or continue to rely on indirect support. 🇪🇺🇺🇦💥

How Europe plans to phase out Russian oil and gas, explained

The European Union is on the cusp of a critical decision regarding the phase-out of Russian oil and gas imports, with a potential deadline set for early 2027 or 2028. This move, driven by the need to reduce reliance on Russian energy following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, faces significant challenges. The EU has already made strides in cutting seaborne oil imports, but gas remains a substantial component of its remaining Russian fossil fuel purchases.

The Repower EU plan aims to replace Russian energy through a combination of reduced energy consumption, expanded renewable generation, and diversified supplies. However, this strategy is fraught with obstacles, including high energy costs, dependence on China for renewable technologies, and the risks associated with securing new fossil fuel supplies. The EU's reliance on imports, particularly from the U.S. and Norway, has increased, but global competition for non-Russian LNG and internal disagreements, notably from Hungary and Slovakia, complicate the transition.

Central European countries like Hungary and Slovakia continue to import significant amounts of Russian oil and gas, posing a hurdle to the EU's phase-out plans. Meanwhile, Turkey has emerged as a major hub for re-exporting Russian fossil fuels to Europe, further complicating efforts to sever ties with Russian energy. The EU's Repower EU legislation, which seeks to make the phase-out permanent, is currently under negotiation, with the European Parliament and Council of the EU debating the final timeline. Despite these challenges, the EU is committed to reducing its dependence on Russian energy, even as it navigates the complexities of global energy markets and internal political dynamics. 🛢️🌍

Europe’s energy transition must power a stronger tomorrow

Europe stands at a critical juncture in its energy transition, with the next decade pivotal for determining the continent's economic future. The power sector is central to this transformation, serving as a strategic enabler for affordable, secure, and sustainable growth across industries. The European Union must balance climate ambitions with economic competitiveness to avoid losing its industrial base and global influence. This message was underscored during the PKEE Energy Day 2025 in Brussels, where policymakers, industry leaders, and experts convened to discuss Europe's energy future.

The event emphasized that the energy transition must prioritize economic growth and industrial competitiveness. Konrad Wojnarowski, Poland’s deputy minister of energy, highlighted the importance of electricity in driving development and competitiveness, stressing the need for innovation and cooperation among governments, industry, and academia. Dariusz Marzec, president of the Polish Electricity Association (PKEE), described flexibility as crucial for the power sector, advocating for a balanced approach that integrates environmental goals with economic realities.

The shift to renewable energy requires a fundamental redesign of electricity production, management, and consumption. Grzegorz Lot, CEO of TAURON Polska Energia, warned that rapid technological advancements necessitate immediate action and investment in proven technologies. He also called for regulatory stability and consumer engagement, suggesting dynamic tariffs to incentivize demand-side flexibility.

The energy transition is not just an environmental necessity but a strategic requirement for Europe’s security and economic autonomy. Marek Lelątko, vice-president of Enea, emphasized the importance of customer- and market-oriented investments to ensure supply stability and affordable prices. Grzegorz Kinelski, CEO of Enea, stressed the need for continued investments in renewables, storage, and combined cycle gas turbine units to enhance energy security and support economic growth.

Progress is evident, with the power sector delivering significant emissions reductions and increasing the share of low-carbon electricity. However, ambition alone is not enough. The energy transition must be integrated into a broader industrial strategy, with coordinated action across EU institutions, national governments, and industry. The choices made today will shape Europe’s economic landscape for decades, determining whether the continent remains competitive, resilient, and prosperous in a rapidly changing world. 🌍💡

Ukraine: Battle for key city of Pokrovsk rages on

The battle for the strategically important city of Pokrovsk in Ukraine is intensifying, with both Ukrainian and Russian forces engaged in fierce combat. Pokrovsk, located in the Donetsk region, is a crucial transportation hub and has been a target of Russian advances. Ukrainian forces are determined to hold the city, as its loss could significantly impact their defensive capabilities and supply lines. The ongoing conflict highlights the broader struggle for control over eastern Ukraine, with both sides suffering casualties and infrastructure damage. The outcome of this battle could have significant implications for the broader war, as control of Pokrovsk would provide a strategic advantage in future operations. 🏙️💥

EU may have to fund Ukraine until frozen assets plan approved, says economy czar

The European Union is facing a critical decision regarding financial aid to Ukraine. Economy Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis has cautioned that the EU may need to provide interim funding if member states do not swiftly support a proposed loan plan utilizing frozen Russian assets. The delay in implementing this plan could necessitate alternative bridging solutions to address Ukraine’s urgent financial needs. The EU had proposed leveraging EU guarantees and cash balances of Russian assets held by Euroclear, a Belgian-based financial services company, to secure a loan for Ukraine's $60 billion budget deficit. However, Belgium has thus far opposed the plan due to concerns over potential legal and financial risks. The situation underscores the urgency and complexity of providing financial support to Ukraine amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. 💸🇪🇺

Oui, Bruxelles veut vraiment le démantèlement de Google

The European Commission has issued a significant directive to Google, instructing the tech giant to outline its plans for complying with a September ruling that found Google had abused its dominant position in the online advertising sector. The Commission imposed a hefty fine of €2.95 billion on Google and is now considering an unprecedented measure: the potential dismantling of one of Google's business divisions. While the Commission prefers a voluntary divestiture, it has not ruled out the possibility of forcing the sale if necessary. This move underscores the EU's commitment to enforcing fair competition and preventing the abuse of market power by tech giants. The decision could have far-reaching implications for Google's operations and the broader tech industry, as regulators increasingly scrutinize the practices of dominant digital platforms. 💼💻

Spain bets on migration to drive economic growth, bucking European trend

Spain is taking a unique approach to migration, positioning itself as a welcoming destination for migrants while much of Europe tightens its borders. Between January and June of this year, Spain received 77,000 asylum seekers, a significant influx that the Socialist-led government views as an economic asset. The Spanish government has implemented measures to legalize and integrate new arrivals, aiming to leverage migration to drive economic growth. This strategy contrasts sharply with the broader European trend of stricter migration policies and border controls. By embracing migrants, Spain seeks to address labor shortages and stimulate economic development, presenting a model that other European countries might consider as they grapple with demographic challenges and economic stagnation. 🌍🤝

Ukrainian prosecutors accused of using force against operative amid conflict with anti-graft agency

In Ukraine, a conflict between the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Prosecutor General's Office has escalated, with allegations of physical force used against a NABU employee during a search of his home. The Prosecutor General's Office accused the employee of organizing surveillance of their restricted facility, while NABU maintains that the search was unlawful and connected to the employee's professional duties. This incident is part of a broader power struggle involving the President's Office, the Prosecutor General's Office, and other law enforcement agencies, who are accused of trying to undermine NABU's independence after it targeted allies of President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The conflict began in July when Zelensky signed a law subordinating NABU to the prosecutor general, a move later reversed due to public protests. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has also been involved, searching NABU premises and detaining employees on charges related to alleged Russian influence. Both sides have since engaged in a series of counter-accusations and legal actions, including charges of illicit enrichment, lying in asset declarations, and extortion. The ongoing confrontation highlights the deepening rift between Ukraine's anti-corruption efforts and its political establishment. 🕵️‍♂️🏛️

The Minister on the sales fraud: "Abuse of the law"

Several Swedish retailers are employing deceptive tactics to circumvent the Price Information Act, raising prices well before sales periods to later advertise discounts. This practice, identified by the price comparison site Prisjakt, involves artificially inflating prices to create the illusion of significant savings during promotional events. Consumer Affairs Minister Erik Slottner acknowledges the issue, describing it as a serious abuse of the legislation designed to prevent misleading marketing.

The current Price Information Act, updated in 2022, mandates that companies disclose the lowest price of an item over the past 30 days when offering discounts. This regulation aims to curb deceptive pricing strategies, such as temporarily raising prices before sales. However, retailers are finding ways to exploit loopholes, prompting the Swedish Consumer Agency to conduct supervisory checks on these companies.

Minister Slottner emphasizes the government's commitment to consumer protection, stating that while the law is relatively new, they remain open to reviewing and strengthening its provisions or implementing additional measures to ensure fair pricing practices. The ongoing scrutiny and potential legislative adjustments reflect the government's dedication to safeguarding consumers from manipulative pricing tactics. 💸🛒

Death toll reaches tragic heights in war-torn Sudan

The conflict in Sudan continues to escalate, with both the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) directing violence primarily against civilians in vulnerable areas. The war shows no signs of abating, as the RSF expands its offensive following the capture of the besieged town of al-Fashir. Sudanese Defense Minister Hassan Kabroun has vowed to continue the fight, stating that preparations are underway for the Sudanese people's struggle.

The violence has been devastating, with nearly 50,000 lives lost since the conflict began. The independent organization Acled has documented a staggering 1,545 deaths in October alone, bringing the total number of dead and injured to around 3,000 for that month. This marks the highest monthly death toll since October 2024, when 3,240 people were killed or injured. The conflict has claimed the lives of nearly 49,800 people, with civilians bearing a significant portion of the casualties. North Darfur and the capital region of Khartoum have been particularly hard hit, with around 14,000 and 11,200 deaths respectively.

The humanitarian situation is dire, with acute famine striking vulnerable cities like al-Fashir and Kadugli in the Kordofan region. The UN-backed IPC has warned that famine is prevalent in these areas, and 20 other regions in Sudan are threatened by severe food shortages. The underreporting of casualties and the lack of independent monitors exacerbate the crisis, making it difficult to assess the full extent of the suffering. The ongoing conflict and famine pose grave threats to the civilian population, with no immediate resolution in sight. 😢💥

Estonian parliament responds to Latvia's possible Istanbul Convention exit

In Estonia, a significant debate has emerged following Latvia's potential withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention, a treaty aimed at preventing and combating violence against women. While some in Estonia advocate for a similar withdrawal, a strong coalition within the Riigikogu, the Estonian parliament, has reaffirmed the country's commitment to the convention and its principles. Led by Maris Lauri, Chair of the Riigikogu Women’s Association, 46 members of parliament signed a statement emphasizing Estonia's dedication to preventing violence and supporting victims.

The statement underscores Estonia's robust legal framework and societal progress in addressing violence against women. Since joining the Istanbul Convention in 2017, Estonia has implemented legislative amendments and established a cross-sectoral prevention council to tackle the issue comprehensively. The statement highlights a shift in public perception, with a majority now recognizing various forms of intimate partner violence as serious crimes and human rights violations. The parliamentarians also noted alarming statistics: nearly 41% of Estonian women have experienced some form of violence in partnerships, and 746 sexual offenses were registered in 2024, with women being the victims in 95% of these cases. The signatories pledged to maintain Estonia's course on combating violence, ensuring prevention, victim support, and perpetrator punishment remain top priorities. The statement aims to reassure the public that Estonia will not waver in its efforts to address and eradicate violence against women. 🇪🇪❤️‍🔥

Drone unrest in Belgium – airports closed

On Tuesday evening, Zaventem Airport in Brussels experienced a series of disruptions due to drone sightings, leading to temporary closures of air traffic. The first alarm was raised around 8 PM, prompting the diversion of several flights to Liège Airport, which was also subsequently closed due to further drone reports. Air traffic to Brussels resumed briefly at 9:30 PM but was halted again just 15 minutes later. The mayor of Steenokkerzeel confirmed that two drones were spotted over the airport. Flights from various international destinations, including Gothenburg, Munich, and Oslo, were rerouted, some via Ostend. The disruptions caused Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken to abruptly leave a television broadcast, stating that his attention was needed elsewhere. This incident is part of a recent trend of drone sightings over Belgian airports, raising concerns about aviation safety and security. 🛬️🛸

Poll: Half in Finland fear major war breaking out in Europe

A recent survey by the Finnish Business and Policy Forum (Eva) reveals that a clear majority of Finns remain supportive of NATO, with increased confidence in the alliance's security guarantees since the spring. Nearly half of the respondents (46%) expressed concern that the war in Ukraine could escalate into a major European conflict, with women and individuals with lower education levels showing higher levels of apprehension.

The survey indicates a notable shift in public opinion, as 38% of respondents now view NATO's deterrence capabilities as credible, up from 32% in the spring. This recovery in trust comes amidst previous doubts sparked by the return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency. The survey, conducted by Taloustutkimus with over 2,000 participants aged 18 to 79, highlights a growing sense of security among Finns, who now see NATO membership as a tangible guarantee of their nation's defense. 🇫🇮🇺🇸🇷🇺

Kimberly Guilfoyle takes up position as US ambassador to Greece

Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former California prosecutor, television personality, and close ally of US President Donald Trump, has officially assumed her role as the first female US ambassador to Greece. At 56, Guilfoyle presented her diplomatic credentials to Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas, following her swearing-in ceremony in Washington. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time as the US seeks to enhance liquefied natural gas exports to Eastern Europe through Greek ports, a critical effort to support Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.

Guilfoyle's arrival coincides with a visit from US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, who will engage in discussions with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and other officials to expand Western gas exports to Ukraine via a revised multinational pipeline network. The US and Greece have fortified their military ties since 2018, with increased US access to Greek bases and American involvement in Greece's defense modernization program.

During a black-tie welcome reception in Athens, Guilfoyle participated in a lively Greek dance, expressing her enthusiasm for strengthening US-Greece relations. She assured attendees of her commitment to both nations, stating, "I know we will do amazing things for these two exceptional countries. I will not disappoint the United States of America. I shall not disappoint Greece." Guilfoyle's diplomatic mission is poised to further solidify the strategic partnership between the US and Greece, fostering cooperation in energy, defense, and beyond. 🇺🇸🇬🇷💼

EU Commission to tackle street drug crisis with new package

The European Commission is preparing a comprehensive package of measures to combat the escalating drug crisis within the EU, with a focus on reducing the flow and production of street drugs. Scheduled for release on December 3, the package will include new rules on precursor chemicals used in drug manufacturing, an updated EU Drugs Strategy, and a European action plan to tackle drug trafficking. The current drugs strategy, which has guided EU priorities since 2021, is set to expire this year, making way for a new strategy and action plan that will outline Europe's approach to the drug crisis from 2026 to 2030.

The EU is currently facing a significant increase in the availability of cocaine, synthetic stimulants, and potent opioids, along with more complex trafficking networks and rising drug-related violence, particularly in Belgium and the Netherlands. The ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp are major entry points for illegal narcotics into Europe. The Commission's home affairs department is leading the development of the new drug strategy and trafficking plan, while the tax department is responsible for the proposal on drug precursors. 🇪🇺🚔

Estonia’s fuel sellers running out of ammunition in price war

Fuel prices in Estonia have surged dramatically in recent weeks, signaling a potential end to the intense price war among gas station operators. Diesel prices jumped by over 30 cents, from €1.189 to €1.499 per liter, while gasoline increased from €1.35 to €1.599 per liter within a week. This sharp rise is attributed to new sanctions on Russian oil, which have driven up global fuel prices. The price war, which saw sellers sacrificing margins and taking losses, has left consumers as the primary beneficiaries. However, with the recent price hikes, it appears that the era of ultra-low fuel prices may be coming to an end. 🛢️💨