Newsflash

General Staff: Russia has lost 1,150,100 troops in Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022

Russia has sustained significant losses in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with approximately 1,150,100 troops lost since the full-scale invasion began on February 24, 2022. This figure includes 1,190 casualties incurred in the past day alone. In addition to personnel losses, Russia has also lost a substantial amount of military equipment. This includes 11,330 tanks, 23,544 armored fighting vehicles, 66,795 vehicles and fuel tanks, 34,321 artillery systems, 1,538 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,239 air defense systems, 428 airplanes, 347 helicopters, 78,928 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine. The extensive losses highlight the intense and costly nature of the conflict for Russian forces. 💥🚢🛩️

Russian attacks kill at least 11, injure 44 in Ukraine over past day

Over the past day, Russian attacks against Ukraine resulted in the deaths of at least 11 civilians and injuries to 44 others, according to regional authorities. The assault involved a massive barrage of 458 drones, including Shahed-type attack drones, and 45 cruise and ballistic missiles. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 406 drones and nine missiles, but the onslaught caused significant damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure, leading to power outages in some regions.

In Dnipro, a residential building was struck by a Russian drone, killing three people and injuring 12 others, including two children. Earlier, attacks in Nikopol injured three individuals. Additionally, one person was hurt in Poltava Oblast, another in Kyiv Oblast, and several more in Kharkiv Oblast, where a gas station was targeted, killing one man and injuring eight others. In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, three people were killed, and six were injured. Donetsk Oblast saw two fatalities and three injuries. In Kherson Oblast, Russian forces targeted 32 settlements, resulting in two deaths and 10 injuries. The relentless attacks underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international support and intervention. 💥🏙️🇺🇦

Which of Europe's anti-immigration parties are the most extreme?

Across Europe, far-right parties are gaining significant political influence, challenging the long-standing consensus that kept extremist forces at bay. In Hungary and Italy, far-right governments are already in power, while in Sweden, Austria, and the Netherlands, these parties are part of governing coalitions. France, the UK, Germany, and Spain could soon see far-right parties in government, according to recent opinion polls.

The far-right parties in Europe share a common focus on anti-immigration policies, but their specific goals and ideologies vary. In France, Marine Le Pen's Rassemblement National (RN) aims to abolish the principle of "droit du sol," introduce a "national priority" for jobs and housing, and ban Muslim headscarves in public spaces. The Swedish Democrats (SD) advocate for retroactively removing permanent residency from over 100,000 people and tightening citizenship rules. In Germany, the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) pushes for strict immigration controls and the return of over a million migrants. Spain's Vox party calls for the deportation of millions of foreigners and limits on property purchases by non-nationals. Italy's Brothers of Italy, led by Giorgia Meloni, has taken a more pragmatic approach in government, though it still advocates for tougher immigration policies.

The rise of these parties is driven by a mix of factors, including economic insecurity, cultural shifts, and a backlash against globalization. While some far-right leaders, like Meloni, may soften their rhetoric once in power, the underlying policies often remain harsh. The political landscape in Europe is rapidly changing, with traditional centrist parties struggling to maintain their dominance. As these far-right parties gain more influence, they are reshaping the political debate and challenging the existing order. 🇪🇺🏛️

Ukrainian attacks in Russia's Belgorod, Kursk oblasts leave over 20,000 without power

Ukrainian strikes in Russia's Belgorod and Kursk oblasts have left over 20,000 residents without power, according to regional officials. In Belgorod Oblast, Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov reported that an evening attack caused widespread blackouts in the city of Belgorod and the village of Dubove, with no reported casualties. The assault involved multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) and resulted in fires at a local thermal power plant and several garages. Meanwhile, in Kursk Oblast, a Ukrainian strike set an electrical substation ablaze in the community of Korenevo, leading to power outages in the region.

These attacks come as Russia intensifies its assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, targeting power grids, gas facilities, and heating systems to exacerbate civilian suffering ahead of winter. On the same night, Russia launched a massive drone and missile attack against Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, damaging critical facilities and causing emergency power cuts. Ukraine's state-owned energy company, Centrenergo, reported that all of its thermal power plants are currently offline. President Volodymyr Zelensky had previously warned that Ukraine would retaliate against Russia's energy sector if Moscow continued its strikes on Ukraine's power grid. The escalating exchanges highlight the ongoing conflict's devastating impact on civilian infrastructure and daily life on both sides of the border. 💥🔋

Syria's leader has landed in the US

Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa is set to make a historic visit to the White House, marking the first time a Syrian leader has visited the U.S. since the country's independence in 1946. During his visit, al-Sharaa is expected to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump and sign an agreement for Syria to join a U.S.-led coalition against the Islamic State (ISIS). The leaders will also discuss plans for a potential U.S. military base near the Syrian capital, Damascus. This visit follows the recent lifting of terror-related sanctions against al-Sharaa, approved by the UN Security Council.

Al-Sharaa, formerly the leader of the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), played a pivotal role in the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad in December. HTS, which had ties to al-Qaeda, has since officially disbanded, and the U.S. removed its terrorist designation of the group in July. Concurrently, Syrian security forces have conducted 61 raids against ISIS cells, resulting in 71 arrests, as reported by Syrian state television. This visit and the subsequent agreements signify a significant shift in U.S.-Syrian relations and regional security dynamics. 🇺🇸🇸🇾💥

Ukraine's state-owned energy company says all of its power plants are down after Russia's 'largest-ever attack'

Ukraine's state-owned energy company, Centrenergo, reported that all of its thermal power plants are currently offline following a massive Russian assault on November 8. The attack, described as the largest to date, targeted all three of Centrenergo's thermal power plants—Trypillia in Kyiv Oblast, Zmiivska in Kharkiv Oblast, and Vuhlehirska in Donetsk Oblast. These facilities had been previously damaged in 2024 and 2022, with the Zmiivska plant completely destroyed and the Vuhlehirska plant occupied by Russian troops.

Ukraine's Air Force intercepted 406 out of 458 drones and nine out of 45 cruise and ballistic missiles launched by Russia during the overnight assault. Despite these defenses, the attack successfully destroyed all restored capacity at the power plants, leaving them unable to generate electricity. Centrenergo had previously worked tirelessly to ensure a stable power supply for Ukrainians through the winter, overcoming significant challenges to start the current heating season. However, this recent strike has dealt a severe blow to the country's energy infrastructure. Russia's intensified campaign against Ukrainian energy targets aims to cripple the nation's power grid and plunge it into darkness as winter approaches. The attack caused widespread power outages in several regions, including Kremenchuk, Kyiv, Dnipro, Kharkiv, and Chernihiv. 💥💡🇺🇦

'We had only a few seconds before it hit' — Russian drones force journalists farther from Ukraine’s front lines

The escalating use of Russian drones in Ukraine has significantly increased the danger for journalists covering the conflict, forcing them to reassess their safety protocols and limiting their ability to report from the front lines. In October 2025 alone, three journalists were killed, and five were wounded in drone attacks that occurred far from the front lines, sometimes over 20 kilometers away. These incidents highlight the growing risk posed by Russian first-person-view (FPV) drones and Lancet drones, which are increasingly targeting media professionals.

The first attack on October 3 killed French photojournalist Antoni Lallican and severely injured his Ukrainian colleague, Heorhii Ivanchenko, near Druzhkivka. The second attack on October 13 wounded three members of the German newspaper Die Welt team near a Ukrainian air defense position. The third attack on October 23 killed two Ukrainian journalists, Olena Hramova and Yevhen Karmazin, in Kramatorsk, a city previously considered relatively safe.

These incidents have led to a reassessment of safety measures, with some Western media enforcing stricter distance rules from the front lines, effectively canceling trips to the war-torn east. Journalists now face a "kill zone" extending up to 15 kilometers behind the contact line, where small kamikaze drones pose a constant threat. This has made it increasingly difficult for journalists to cover the conflict up close, with some opting to work alone or from safer areas to minimize risks. The expanding gray zone and the blurring of the front line have further complicated reporting efforts, forcing journalists to adapt their methods and prioritize safety. Despite these challenges, journalists remain committed to covering the war, highlighting the bravery of Ukrainian forces and the human cost of the conflict. 📸📰💥

Over 69,000 killed in Gaza

The Hamas-controlled Health Ministry in Gaza reported that the death toll in the region has reached at least 69,169 individuals, with 284 new victims identified since October 31. Many of these newly identified victims were found in the rubble but could not be identified until recently. Since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began on October 10, an additional 241 people have lost their lives in Gaza. The figures provided by the Hamas-controlled authorities are considered credible by the United Nations and several independent experts. However, the authorities do not differentiate between combatants and civilians in their reports. Previous claims from the authorities suggest that approximately half of those killed are women and children. The ongoing conflict continues to take a heavy toll on the civilian population in Gaza. 😢🏛️

Massive Russian attack damages Ukraine's energy network, killing several

In a significant escalation, Russia launched a massive drone and missile barrage against Ukraine, targeting the country's energy infrastructure and causing widespread damage. The overnight attacks included a drone strike on a nine-story apartment building in Dnipro, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to 12 others, including two children. A fire erupted in the building, destroying several apartments. Additionally, an energy company worker was killed in Kharkiv.

The assault involved 458 drones and 45 missiles, with Ukrainian forces successfully intercepting 406 drones and nine missiles. Despite these efforts, 25 locations were struck, prompting emergency power outages in several regions. Ukraine's Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed that multiple major energy facilities were damaged in Kharkiv, Kyiv, and the central Poltava region.

Russia's Defense Ministry claimed that the strikes targeted military and energy sites supporting Ukrainian forces, while Ukraine accused Russia of attempting to "weaponize winter" by disrupting civilian access to heat, light, and water. The attacks are part of an ongoing strategy by both sides to cripple each other's energy infrastructure, with Ukraine targeting Russian refineries to deprive Moscow of oil export revenue.

Meanwhile, intense fighting continues in the strategic city of Pokrovsk, with both Russia and Ukraine vying to control the area. The outcome of this battle could influence U.S. diplomatic efforts and peace negotiations. Russian President Vladimir Putin claims his forces are close to victory and demands that Ukraine cede the Donbas region as a precondition for peace. Ukrainian officials, however, deny that Pokrovsk or nearby Kupiansk are encircled, asserting that fighting persists. The situation remains volatile, with both sides reporting advances and counterattacks. 💥🏙️

Ireland wants to ban Israel from Uefa competitions

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has successfully passed a motion to suspend the Israel Football Association (IFA) from international football. The motion, proposed by Irish club Bohemians, garnered a clear majority from the FAI's delegates, exceeding the required half. The FAI alleges that the IFA is in violation of two UEFA statutes: organizing clubs in the occupied Palestinian territories without the Palestinian Football Association's approval and failing to implement an effective anti-racism policy. This move follows a similar call from the Turkish Football Federation in September, advocating for Israel's exclusion from international football.

The suspension comes as Israel's men's national team concludes its World Cup qualifiers with a match against Moldova on November 16. Currently in third place, the team is ineligible for direct qualification or playoff spots for the upcoming tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The FAI's decision underscores growing international scrutiny of Israel's football activities and policies. ⚽️🇮🇪🇮🇱

Greece targeted in three major cyberattacks in 2024

In 2024, Greece faced three significant cyberattacks, accounting for nearly half of the eight major incidents recorded in the EU, according to the annual report by the EU Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA). These attacks underscored the vulnerability of key national institutions in Greece.

The most severe incident involved the National Observatory of Athens, where hackers infiltrated the online booking system in July 2024, stealing visitors’ credit card data. Fortunately, no funds were lost, and the observatory has since bolstered its security measures. Additionally, the Hellenic Police experienced a breach that resulted in the leak of emails being sold on the dark web. The Hellenic Open University also suffered a substantial data breach, with 813 gigabytes of data compromised, leading to operational disruptions.

Across the EU, ENISA documented 586 cyber incidents in 2024, with the majority being distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, ransomware incidents, and data breaches. These events highlight the growing threat of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure and the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures. 🌐🔒

Greece, US ink 20-year LNG contract

Greece and the United States have solidified a significant energy partnership with the signing of a 20-year liquefied natural gas (LNG) contract. The agreement, inked during the 6th Transatlantic Energy Cooperation Summit in Athens, involves Greece’s DEPA and construction group Aktor, operating through their joint venture Atlantic-See LNG Trade, and U.S. energy firm Venture Global. The contract secures the supply of up to 4 billion cubic meters of LNG annually, valued at €25 billion at current prices, with deliveries beginning in 2030.

The deal, one of the largest long-term LNG contracts in Eastern Europe, will primarily supply gas to Ukraine and other Eastern European countries, bolstering regional energy security. In addition, Atlantic-See LNG Trade signed memoranda of understanding with Ukraine’s Naftogaz and Romanian firms Nova Power & Gas and Transgaz for the supply of up to 2.1 billion cubic meters of LNG annually, also starting in 2030. Venture Global, which holds a 25% capacity in Greece’s Alexandroupoli floating terminal, gains guaranteed sales over two decades. The commercial risk is borne by Atlantic-See LNG Trade and its shareholders, DEPA and Aktor, who are pursuing further long-term supply agreements.

The contract marks a historic step in Greece’s energy strategy, providing a long-term, strategic LNG supply line from the U.S. and reinforcing Greece’s role as a key player in European energy security. The agreement also aligns with broader efforts to diversify Europe’s gas supplies away from Russian sources. U.S. and Greek officials further emphasized their commitment to deepening economic cooperation, with a focus on energy and artificial intelligence. The signing ceremony was attended by U.S. Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle, who commended Greece’s leadership in European energy diversification. 💨🇬🇷🇺🇸

China to resume exports of Nexperia chips, says Dutch PM

In a significant development, the Chinese government has agreed to lift export restrictions on crucial chips essential for the European automotive industry. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof announced this decision, stating that China will resume supplies from Nexperia, a Dutch-based chipmaker and subsidiary of Chinese firm Wingtech. The crisis began in October when the Netherlands took control of Nexperia, leading China to impose retaliatory export bans. The resolution came after collaborative efforts between the Netherlands, Germany, the European Commission, and diplomatic talks between the Netherlands and China, alongside a broader trade détente between the U.S. and China. German automaker Aumovio confirmed it had received the necessary permissions to restart imports of Nexperia’s chips, marking a positive turn for the European auto sector. 🚘💻

Polish president confirms attendance at Independence March

Poland's newly elected president, Karol Nawrocki, has announced his participation in the upcoming Independence March in Warsaw, an annual event organized by nationalist groups to celebrate Poland's Independence Day. Initially founded by far-right organizations, the march now attracts a diverse range of participants, from mainstream conservatives to radical nationalists. While past marches have sometimes resulted in violent clashes, others have proceeded without major incidents.

Nawrocki's predecessor, Andrzej Duda, rarely attended the event, except in 2018 when a larger march was co-organized with the then-government to mark the centenary of Poland's independence. Nawrocki, who previously attended the march as the head of the state Institute of National Remembrance, has expressed his enthusiasm for the event, viewing it as an opportunity to showcase Polish unity and patriotism. The march, originally established by the National Radical Camp and All-Polish Youth, is now primarily organized by the National Movement, a far-right group within the Confederation party.

The municipal authorities in Warsaw, led by the centrist Civic Platform party, have periodically attempted to ban the march, but organizers have consistently found ways to proceed. The national-conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party, a key political rival, has had a complex relationship with the march, expressing support while often avoiding direct participation. However, as the event has grown in size and popularity, PiS leaders have increasingly attended, with Jarosław Kaczyński participating in recent years.

The Independence March has faced criticism from liberal politicians, including current Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who has described it as a "reputational disaster" and a "march of shame." Under Tusk's leadership, police have conducted raids on properties linked to the march, investigating reports of violent threats and hateful chants. Despite these controversies, the march continues to draw significant crowds, with estimates ranging from 90,000 to 250,000 participants. The event remains a contentious symbol of Polish nationalism, reflecting the country's ongoing political and social divisions. 🇵🇱🏴

US to make strategic shipping investments

The United States is poised to make significant strategic investments in Greece's maritime infrastructure, according to Shipping Minister Vassilis Kikilias. Speaking at the Transatlantic Energy Cooperation (P-TEC) summit in Athens, Kikilias announced that discussions with American counterparts are underway to bolster Greek ports and shipyards, fostering stronger connections with U.S. facilities. This initiative, backed by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, aims to enhance maritime infrastructure and secure energy supply chains. With over 80% of global trade and a substantial portion of energy supplies transported by sea, controlling maritime routes is crucial. Greece, home to 20% of the world’s merchant fleet, plays a pivotal role in this global network. The upcoming investments underscore the strategic importance of Greece's maritime sector in maintaining global trade and energy security. 🚢🌍

Historic ski resort prepares for warmer weather

In the French Alps, the changing climate is reshaping the landscape and the lives of its inhabitants. As temperatures rise, traditional activities like skiing are being challenged, while new opportunities emerge. Gérard Berrux, a small-scale baker and part-time cow herder, benefits from the warmer climate, allowing his cows to graze for extended periods. Meanwhile, the Alps' warming, occurring at twice the global average, poses significant challenges to the region's ecosystems and economy.

Mountain guide Olivier Greber witnesses firsthand the rapid retreat of glaciers and the increasing risks posed by thawing permafrost, which leads to more frequent rockfalls. Ski resorts, a vital part of the local economy, are also under threat. Mathieu Dechavanne, CEO of Compagnie du Mont-Blanc, notes that while summer tourism has increased due to heatwaves in France, the ski industry faces numerous obstacles, including ice-covered lift cables and melting permafrost.

The future of ski resorts is uncertain, with lower slopes at risk of disappearing as snow turns to rain. Some resorts are fighting to prolong their existence, but these efforts often come at an environmental cost. In Chamonix, Mayor Éric Fournier has chosen a different path, halting the construction of new lifts and tourist accommodations to preserve the town's unique character and environment. Despite the potential financial drawbacks, Fournier and Dechavanne agree that uncontrolled expansion would be detrimental to Chamonix's natural beauty and appeal. 🏔️🌡️

Symbols of land going to waste

Greece's Hellenic Post (ELTA) service embodies the nation's struggle to transition from acquiring modern trappings to achieving a functional, law-abiding society. Today, the past, despite its challenges, is viewed with nostalgia compared to the current state of affairs. The recent decision by ELTA's management to close hundreds of rural post offices has sparked widespread protests, highlighting the government's failure to address longstanding issues and support rural communities.

The closure of post offices is just one symptom of a broader problem: the systematic dismantling of essential state services in rural areas. Agricultural police, regular police stations, postal services, provincial bus lines, local medical services, and offices of telecom and energy companies are all disappearing, leaving residents to fend for themselves. This retreat of the state benefits organized interests at the expense of ordinary citizens, contributing to a sense of indifference and helplessness.

The OPEKEPE farm subsidy scandal exposed the deep-seated corruption and favoritism that plague Greek politics, with politicians often serving their own interests rather than the public good. As basic services vanish, rural communities suffer, leading to an exodus of young people and an aging population. The countryside withers, losing more services and becoming increasingly marginalized. This vicious cycle threatens the very fabric of Greek society, as the land goes to waste and the state's presence diminishes. 🌳🏠

Will 'war profiteer' Norway come to Ukraine's financial rescue?

Norwegian political parties, including allies of the Labour government, are advocating for Oslo to assist Europe in utilizing frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine financially. Western nations have frozen approximately €210 billion in Russian assets due to Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. While interest from these funds has been used to aid Kyiv, European allies seek to access the funds directly, a move that carries significant risks, such as deterring other nations from investing in the EU.

Norway, with its substantial financial resources and AAA credit rating, is seen as a potential key player in this effort. The European Commission plans to provide Ukraine with a €140 billion interest-free loan using part of the frozen Russian assets, but Belgium, where the bulk of these assets are held, demands guarantees from other EU countries to share the risks. Norway, which has benefited from soaring gas prices since the invasion, could potentially provide these guarantees without compromising its credit rating.

The idea has gained traction among some European leaders, with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressing support. Norway's government, while cautious, is in talks with Brussels and has already committed significant aid to Ukraine. The Norwegian Greens Party is pushing for the country to take on this "moral obligation," given its substantial financial reserves and profits from the war. 🇳🇴💸

President vetoes government plan to create Poland’s first new national park in 24 years

Polish President Karol Nawrocki, aligned with the right-wing opposition, has vetoed a government proposal to establish the Lower Oder Valley National Park, the country's first new national park in 24 years. The park, which would have protected a 3,856-hectare area along the Polish side of the Oder River, was opposed by Nawrocki on grounds of potential economic hindrance and security concerns. The president argued that the park could impede economic activity, particularly river transport, and raised questions about the thoroughness of environmental impact analyses and local community consultations.

The veto has drawn sharp criticism from the climate and environment minister, Paulina Hennig-Kloska, who accused the president of political maneuvering and disregarding environmental values. Local activists have long advocated for the park, especially after a 2022 ecological disaster that severely polluted the Oder River. Despite some local opposition and concerns from the shipping industry, the government had made concessions to address navigation issues. The proposed park would have been the first new national park in Poland since 2001, with the country currently having 23 national parks covering about 1% of its territory. The government and local authorities have pledged to find alternative solutions to enhance nature protection in the area. 🌳🇵🇱

Crete, one big powder keg

The island of Crete is grappling with a severe crisis of lawlessness and violence, as acknowledged by Citizen Protection Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis. The minister's stark remarks highlight the pervasive issues of criminal activity, bullying, and corruption that have long plagued the island. Recent deadly incidents, such as those in the village of Vorizia, have underscored the urgent need for intervention. The government has responded with stricter gun control measures and the deployment of a specialized police contingent, often referred to as the "Greek FBI," to combat the escalating violence.

The root of Crete's problems lies in deep-seated political and social issues, including clientelism, tolerance of rule-breakers, and a shift in political power dynamics. These factors have allowed criminal groups to operate with impunity, engaging in activities ranging from drug trafficking to extortion. The situation has deteriorated to the point where a small village requires constant police patrols to maintain order.

Beyond the immediate threats, Crete faces significant long-term challenges. The culture of violence and lawlessness has contributed to high rates of gun possession, violence against women and teenagers, and a pervasive sense of fear. This environment stifles the potential of young men, who should be productive members of society but are instead drawn into criminal activities. Schools are forced to close due to safety concerns, and children grow up in environments devoid of learning and play.

The future of Crete hangs in the balance, as the island struggles to address both its immediate security concerns and the deeper socio-political issues that fuel the cycle of violence. 🌴🔫