Newsflash

Russia's air defenses are wide open — there's just one problem

Ukrainian drones and missiles have been successfully targeting Russian oil facilities, causing significant disruptions and fuel shortages. Nearly 160 strikes in 2025 have led to a 37% drop in refining capacity, striking at the heart of Russia's defense budget, which heavily relies on oil revenues. The Kremlin has struggled to respond effectively, with President Vladimir Putin recently signing a law to deploy reservists to defend critical infrastructure, but this move has been met with ridicule and skepticism.

Russia's air defenses, once formidable, have been weakened by corruption, years of war, redeployments, and constant Ukrainian strikes. Experts note that while Russia concentrates its defenses around the Ukrainian front and strategic regions, the rest of the country has significant vulnerabilities. Ukraine has exploited these gaps, conducting successful strikes deep within Russian territory, including a notable attack on a drone factory in Tatarstan.

Despite these vulnerabilities, Ukraine faces a significant challenge: a lack of sufficient long-range missiles to fully exploit Russia's air defense gaps. While Ukraine has developed domestically produced missiles like the Neptune and the powerful Flamingo, these weapons are not yet available in large numbers. Western allies, particularly the U.S. and Germany, hold the key to boosting Ukraine's capabilities with advanced missiles like the Tomahawk and Taurus, but political hesitations and fears of escalation have so far prevented their deployment. The situation highlights the delicate balance between providing Ukraine with the tools it needs to defend itself and avoiding further escalation of the conflict.

Kyiv targets Russia’s energy supply after massive attack on Ukraine power grid

Several Ukrainian regions experienced significant power outages on Sunday following what the state grid operator described as the "most massive strike" against Ukraine’s power plants since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The relentless Russian assault, which began on Friday and continued into Saturday, involved hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles, leaving Ukraine’s generation capacity at "zero" on Saturday.

In response, Ukraine launched a counterattack overnight into Sunday, targeting energy infrastructure in the Russian city of Voronezh. The strike left around 20,000 people without electricity, according to reports from Reuters and AFP. This escalation underscores the ongoing intensity of the conflict, with both sides targeting critical infrastructure to disrupt enemy operations and civilian life. 💥🏙️

Ukraine looking to order 27 Patriot air defense systems, Zelensky says

Ukraine is urgently seeking 27 Patriot air defense systems from U.S. companies to bolster its defenses against intensified Russian strikes on its energy infrastructure as winter approaches. President Volodymyr Zelensky has also expressed interest in borrowing these crucial systems from European allies in the interim. Recent Russian attacks have targeted Ukraine's thermal power plants, causing significant disruptions, and have resulted in civilian casualties in Donetsk and Kherson oblasts.

Zelensky emphasized that while international support is crucial, Ukraine's needs will only be fully met when the war ends and Russian President Vladimir Putin ceases his aggression. He acknowledged the importance of continued assistance from allies, including weapons and coordinated sanctions, but stressed that more is needed to effectively counter Moscow's advances. Despite concerns about U.S. President Donald Trump's foreign policy, Zelensky maintains a positive relationship with the American leader, who has indicated a willingness to support Ukraine within certain limits.

Trump's recent interactions with Putin, including a surprise phone call and a canceled summit, have fueled speculation about the U.S.'s stance on the conflict. While Trump has expressed disappointment with Putin's actions, he has not ruled out providing Ukraine with advanced weaponry like the Tomahawk missile. As Ukraine braces for a challenging winter, the international community's support remains pivotal in its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression. ❄️💥

Ukraine war latest: Russia launches 'one of the largest' attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure since start of war

On November 8-9, Ukraine faced one of the most significant Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure since the start of the war. The assault, which involved 458 drones and 45 cruise and ballistic missiles, targeted key cities including Kyiv, Kremenchuk, Dnipro, Kharkiv, and Chernihiv. Ukrainian forces managed to intercept most of the drones and several missiles, but the attack caused extensive damage and power outages, particularly in Kyiv, where residents experienced over 12 hours of emergency blackouts. The energy minister described the attack as one of the largest direct ballistic missile strikes on Ukraine's energy facilities since the war began.

In response to the attack, President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized Ukraine's efforts to acquire additional Patriot air defense systems from the U.S. Meanwhile, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed readiness to meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the war, reiterating Moscow's hardline stance and demands. Ukraine also imposed new sanctions on eight senior Kremlin officials and five Russian publishing houses for their roles in supporting the war and spreading propaganda.

Elsewhere, a Russian Ka-226 helicopter crashed in Dagestan, killing five people, including employees of a sanctioned Russian defense company. Additionally, Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie visited frontline areas in Mykolaiv and Kherson oblasts, describing the constant threat of drones and the resilience of local families living under Russian shelling. She called on governments to end conflicts and protect civilians, highlighting the work of Ukrainian humanitarian organizations. 💥💥💥

Hellenic Post may be in trouble with giro accounts

The Hellenic Post, or ELTA, is grappling with severe financial difficulties that have raised concerns about its very survival. This precarious situation has brought attention to the fate of citizens' funds deposited in ELTA's giro accounts. As of 2024, these accounts held €131.73 million, a slight increase from €125.91 million in 2023. The funds have remained largely untouched, with beneficiaries either keeping them as savings or neglecting to claim them for extended periods. The pressing question now is what will happen to these deposits if account holders attempt to withdraw their money, given the organization's uncertain financial future. 💸📉

Three priests arrested as police dismantle drug trafficking ring

In a significant operation, Greek authorities dismantled a major drug trafficking ring, arresting eight individuals, including three priests accused of storing narcotics within a church. The group is suspected of distributing cocaine and raw cannabis across Greece, as well as facilitating migrant trafficking. During the raids, police confiscated 2.238 kilograms of cocaine and 9.092 kilograms of raw cannabis, with the organization’s illicit profits estimated to exceed €105,000. The involvement of clergy members in the criminal enterprise has shocked the community and raised concerns about the infiltration of illegal activities into religious institutions. 🚔💨

GW's criticism – raised terrorism suspicions early on

In a recent interview, a security expert expressed concerns over the timing of a police intervention in a terrorism case. The individual, who was planning to create functional explosive devices, was arrested by Säpo (Swedish Security Service) on the day it was determined he had begun constructing such devices. The plans were uncovered with the aid of an undercover police officer.

The expert, GW Persson, argued that the police should act on the right side of the legal boundary, ensuring that their actions do not provoke individuals to commit crimes they otherwise would not have. He cited past cases where early interventions led to acquittals, suggesting that the police and prosecutors might have acted prematurely in this instance. Persson acknowledged that while safety is paramount, hasty interventions could potentially compromise the legal process and result in acquittals. He hopes his concerns are unfounded but cannot dismiss the possibility that the authorities intervened too soon. 💥🚔

Concern among Christians after bomb attacks on churches

A series of bomb attacks targeting Christian sites in Dhaka, Bangladesh, has sparked fear and anxiety within the Christian community. The incidents began on October 8 with a bomb thrown at one of the capital's oldest churches, followed by two more attacks the next night—one at another church and one at a Catholic school. Fortunately, no physical injuries were reported, but the attacks have instilled a sense of unease among the Christian minority, which comprises around half a million of the country's 170 million inhabitants.

The motives behind these attacks remain unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility. However, the Dhaka police have stated that the bombings are intended to instill fear. Authorities are investigating whether the incidents are connected or isolated. The attacks come amidst a backdrop of political unrest in Bangladesh, following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after 15 years in power. The country is scheduled to hold elections in February, adding to the tense atmosphere. 🇧🇩💥

Explosions rock Voronezh amid reported drone attack on Russian power plant

A thermal power plant in Voronezh, a city in southwestern Russia, was reportedly targeted in an overnight attack on November 9, according to multiple sources. Residents reported hearing explosions and experiencing temporary power outages, while the regional governor had earlier warned of potential missile threats and drone activity. The Voronezh combined heat and power (CHP) plant, the city's primary energy supplier for residential and industrial facilities, was allegedly struck, with footage circulating on social media appearing to show an explosion at the site.

Voronezh Oblast, which borders Ukraine's Kharkiv Oblast, is frequently used by Russia as a launch point for attacks on the front lines and the city of Kharkiv. Last month, Ukraine's special forces confirmed striking radar systems in the region. Despite the reports, local authorities have not confirmed the attack, and no casualties or damage have been officially reported. Ukrainian authorities have remained silent on the alleged incident, which is still under investigation. 💥🏭

Russia's Lavrov says he is ready to meet Rubio in person to discuss war in Ukraine

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has expressed his willingness to meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in person to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which he refers to as the "Ukraine issue." Despite this openness to dialogue, Lavrov maintained a firm stance on Russian interests, emphasizing that Moscow's demands must be met for any resolution. He highlighted the importance of regular communication between the two officials, stating that they are prepared for in-person meetings whenever necessary.

The U.S. had previously canceled a planned summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin due to Russia's unyielding negotiating position. Lavrov's ministry had indicated that Russia would not soften its demands regarding Ukraine, which included excessive concessions and a refusal to accept a ceasefire. This rigid stance reportedly led to the summit's cancellation, with sources suggesting that Lavrov's influence in the Kremlin may have diminished as a result.

In his interview with Russian state media, Lavrov reiterated Russia's long-standing demands, insisting that the war's "root causes" must be addressed. He echoed Kremlin talking points, blaming an aggressive West for the conflict and asserting that Russia's interests must be considered for any resolution. Additionally, Lavrov reaffirmed Russia's claim over Crimea, stating that the peninsula's residents exercised their right to self-determination in a 2014 referendum, despite international reports of falsified results. This stance underscores Russia's unwavering position on the conflict and its unwillingness to compromise on key issues. 🇷🇺🇺🇸

BBC director resigns after row over Trump documentary edit

The director general of the BBC, Tim Davie, and the broadcaster's head of news, Deborah Turness, have resigned amid a controversy surrounding the editing of a documentary about former U.S. President Donald Trump. The issue arose from a Panorama program that spliced together clips from Trump's January 6, 2021, speech, making it seem as though he had encouraged supporters to march to the U.S. Capitol and "fight like hell." The edited version was misleading, as the original speech urged supporters to walk peacefully to the Capitol to cheer on lawmakers.

The controversy has sparked broader concerns about bias and editorial standards at the BBC. UK Culture, Media and Sport Minister Lisa Nandy described the allegations as "incredibly serious," citing systemic bias in the reporting of sensitive issues such as Israel, Gaza, trans people, and the Trump presidency. The BBC has promised a full response to Parliament's culture, media, and sport committee.

Trump himself reacted to the news, claiming that the controversy exposed "corrupt journalists" and "very dishonest people" attempting to influence the presidential election. The BBC's funding, derived from a mandatory license fee for live TV viewers in the UK, has also come under scrutiny following previous apologies for "serious flaws" in other documentaries, including one about Gaza that was deemed misleading by the UK media watchdog. The resignations highlight the ongoing challenges the BBC faces in maintaining impartiality and public trust. 📺🇬🇧

Heavy EU defections from Latin America meeting

The European Union (EU) and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) are set to strengthen their partnership, emphasizing shared values and growing trade exchanges. This year's EU-CELAC meeting, hosted by Colombia, aims to solidify cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, food safety, and technical cooperation. Colombian President Gustavo Petro envisions the partnership as a beacon of democracy amidst global challenges.

However, the meeting is notable for the absence of key EU leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. This contrasts sharply with the previous summit in Brussels in 2023, where all EU heads of state were present. Sweden, represented by EU Minister Jessica Rosencrantz, underscores the importance of cooperation with Latin America, focusing on trade, green transition, and combating organized crime.

The meeting occurs amidst heightened geopolitical tensions, including deadly U.S. attacks on alleged drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean and the eastern Pacific, which have resulted in over 60 deaths. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on Colombian President Petro, adding complexity to the diplomatic landscape. The low European turnout is partly attributed to the concurrent UN climate summit in Brazil, but some analysts suggest a desire to avoid confrontations with Trump may also be a factor. The absence of top EU officials sends a clear diplomatic signal, reflecting a cautious approach to maintaining relations with the U.S. 🌍🇪🇺🇨🇴

3D printing as an emerging technology: Redefining the aerospace sector

Three-dimensional printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is revolutionizing various industries by creating objects layer-by-layer using materials like nylon, plastic, and metal. This technology offers unparalleled flexibility, efficiency, and waste reduction, making it invaluable across sectors such as aerospace, medicine, and military. Its ability to produce complex objects quickly and cost-effectively is transforming traditional manufacturing processes.

In the aerospace sector, 3D printing enables the creation of intricate components that would otherwise take months or years to build. Companies like Relativity Space are at the forefront of this innovation, using 3D printing to construct rockets with unprecedented speed and precision. Their Terran R rocket, for example, is 95% made from 3D-printed materials, demonstrating the technology's potential to revolutionize space exploration.

Greece is also making significant strides in adopting 3D printing technology. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Athens used 3D printing to produce plastic face shields, showcasing the technology's versatility and rapid response capabilities. The Greek military has integrated 3D printing into its operations, producing autonomous drones that highlight the technology's potential for defense applications. 🚀🇬🇷

Legislative efforts, such as the 2022 law L.4961, have been introduced to regulate 3D printing, addressing issues like intellectual property and liability. These measures ensure controlled technological development and pave the way for Greece to become a leader in 3D printing, modernizing its manufacturing processes and embracing this transformative technology. With continued investment and innovation, Greece has the potential to redefine its industrial landscape and contribute significantly to the global 3D printing revolution.

Four dead in new prison riot in Ecuador

In Ecuador, a recent outbreak of violence at a prison is linked to the planned transfer of inmates to a new high-security facility in another province. This incident occurred just two months after a previous clash at the same prison resulted in the deaths of 14 inmates, as rival gangs fought for control. Ecuador, once considered relatively safe, has seen a surge in organized crime-related violence in recent years, exacerbating issues within the overcrowded prison system.

Since 2021, over 500 people have lost their lives in prison violence across the country, highlighting the escalating crisis within Ecuador's penal institutions. The ongoing turmoil underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address both the root causes of crime and the dire conditions within the prison system. 🇪🇨🔒

AI a threat to one in every 10 jobs in Greece

Artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly transforming the employment landscape, particularly in white-collar professions, and Greece is not immune to these changes. According to a study, one in every 10 jobs in Greece is at risk of being automated. Professions most vulnerable to AI displacement include salespeople, interpreters, translators, customer service representatives, telephone operators, stockbrokers, hotel receptionists, mathematicians, public relations specialists, data scientists, web developers, and public safety communications operators. This trend is not unique to Greece; globally, technology giants are also laying off tens of thousands of employees as AI continues to reshape industries. The shift underscores the urgent need for workforce adaptation and reskilling to mitigate the impact of AI on employment. 💼🤖

White House gloats after BBC boss quits over Trump coverage ‘mistakes’

The BBC, Britain's publicly-funded broadcaster, is facing a significant leadership crisis following the resignations of its Director-General, Tim Davie, and the CEO of News, Deborah Turness. Their departures come amid intense scrutiny and criticism over the BBC's coverage of Donald Trump, particularly an episode of its flagship Panorama documentary series. The resignations were swiftly welcomed by the White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, highlighting the political sensitivity of the situation. This leadership shakeup marks a tumultuous period for the BBC, raising questions about its editorial independence and public trust. 📺📉

Sources: US shutdown nearing end

A significant development has emerged in the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, with at least eight Democratic senators reportedly reaching a cross-party agreement on state funding. This deal, described as "temporary," aims to secure funding through January and could potentially break the deadlock in the Senate. A vote on the matter is expected later tonight, Swedish time. However, several Democratic senators have expressed opposition to the deal, adding uncertainty to the outcome.

If the Senate approves the budget, the bill will then proceed to the House of Representatives for final approval before being sent to President Donald Trump. Even if an agreement is reached, the reopening process is anticipated to take several days to complete. The current shutdown, which began on October 1st, is the longest in U.S. history, with the previous record being 21 days. The 40-day lockdown has had severe consequences, including delayed wage payments and the furlough of thousands of government employees without pay. 🇺🇸🏛️

Commission makes changes to its own budget proposal to avoid Parliament rebellion

The European Commission has proposed significant changes to its €1.8 trillion seven-year budget plan in an effort to prevent a potential rejection by the European Parliament. This strategic move comes ahead of a critical virtual meeting involving key EU figures, including Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU. By addressing sensitive issues, the Commission aims to secure the necessary support from Parliament, thereby averting a potential rebellion from a majority of lawmakers. The proposed adjustments reflect the Commission's commitment to finding common ground and ensuring the budget's approval, which is crucial for the EU's financial stability and operational continuity. 🇪🇺💸

Slovakia reportedly won’t back using frozen Russian assets for Kyiv’s military costs

Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico has firmly stated his country's opposition to using frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's defense spending. In an interview with Slovakian public broadcaster STVR, Fico emphasized that Slovakia will not participate in any legal or financial schemes aimed at seizing these assets for military purposes in Ukraine. This stance comes as the European Union is working to agree on a plan to utilize revenues from immobilized Russian assets to provide a €140 billion loan to Ukraine, without actually seizing the assets. The EU's plan is crucial, as the International Monetary Fund has expressed concerns about Ukraine's public finances, and IMF aid is contingent on EU support. Fico's position highlights the ongoing tensions and differing views within the EU regarding how to support Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict. 🇸🇰💸

Burgum highlights Greece-US LNG deal

U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum emphasized the significance of a major LNG agreement between the United States and Greece, signed during the 6th Transatlantic Energy Cooperation Summit in Athens. The deal, involving Greece’s DEPA and construction group Aktor, along with U.S. energy firm Venture Global, secures the supply of up to 4 billion cubic meters of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually for 20 years, valued at €25 billion at current prices. This long-term contract, set to commence on January 1, 2030, is one of the largest in Eastern Europe and aims to bolster Europe’s energy independence by expanding gas supply routes along the Vertical Corridor from south to north. The LNG will primarily be directed to Ukraine and other Eastern European countries, reinforcing transatlantic energy ties and supporting Europe’s energy security. 🇬🇷🇺🇸💨