Newsflash

Russian drone and missile attack on Kyiv kills 6 people and injures at least 35

In a devastating assault, Russian forces launched a barrage of drones and missiles targeting Kyiv, resulting in the deaths of six people and injuring at least 35 others. The attack, which occurred on a recent day, underscores the ongoing conflict and the persistent threat faced by Ukrainian civilians. The strikes caused significant damage to residential areas, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the assault. Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, providing medical aid and assessing the extent of the destruction. The international community has condemned the attack, reiterating calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and respect for civilian lives. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine, where innocent lives continue to be lost amidst the relentless violence. 🇺🇦💥

Russia unleashes massive combined attack on Kyiv: 1 dead and 15 injured

Russia launched a significant combined attack on Kyiv, resulting in one fatality and 15 injuries. The assault involved a barrage of missiles and drones, targeting both military and civilian infrastructure. The strike caused widespread damage, including the destruction of residential buildings, critical infrastructure, and public facilities. Ukrainian air defenses managed to intercept several incoming projectiles, but the sheer volume of the attack overwhelmed the system, allowing some missiles to reach their targets. The assault underscored Russia's continued aggression and disregard for civilian lives, as the strikes occurred during a period of heightened diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire. The international community has condemned the attack, with calls for immediate de-escalation and respect for humanitarian law. 🇷🇺💥🏙️

Mining giant BHP liable for Brazil’s worst environmental disaster, UK court says

In a significant legal ruling, a British court held the global mining giant BHP accountable for the 2015 collapse of a dam in southeastern Brazil, which resulted in the country's most severe environmental catastrophe. The disaster released a massive wave of toxic sludge, claiming 19 lives, displacing thousands, and severely polluting the Doce River. The High Court in London determined that BHP is strictly liable as a polluter for the damage caused by the dam's failure, citing the company's decision to continue raising the dam's height despite known risks.

The lawsuit was brought by hundreds of thousands of Brazilians, numerous local governments, and around 2,000 businesses affected by the collapse of the Fundão dam, which was co-owned and operated by BHP and Vale through their joint venture, Samarco. Judge Finola O'Farrell's ruling emphasized that BHP's actions directly contributed to the dam's collapse, leading to fault-based liability. The victims' lawyers argued that BHP was aware of the excessive accumulation of toxic sludge, which exacerbated the disaster.

BHP, however, maintained that it had prioritized safety and reached a compensation agreement worth approximately $31 billion in Brazil. The company plans to appeal the ruling and continue contesting the lawsuit. The legal battle, initiated in 2018, underscores the complex responsibilities of multinational corporations in environmental disasters and the challenges of seeking justice and compensation across international borders. The ruling may set a precedent for future cases involving corporate accountability for environmental harm. 🌍💨

Baltics, Nordics announce $500 million military aid package for Ukraine

The eight Baltic and Nordic countries have united to fund a $500 million (approximately €430 million) aid package for Ukraine, supplying the nation with crucial military equipment and munitions. This initiative, facilitated through NATO’s Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), involves Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden sourcing aid from the United States. The collective effort underscores the region's steadfast commitment to Ukraine's defense and sends a strong message to Russia about the growing international support for Ukraine. 🇺🇦🤝🌍

Germany lines up new powers to fend off Chinese tech

The German government is poised to strengthen its oversight of critical infrastructure by acquiring new powers to restrict Chinese technology suppliers deemed risky. Lawmakers in the Bundestag have approved legislation that empowers the Interior Ministry to prohibit the use of components from specific manufacturers in vital sectors, such as energy, transport, and healthcare, due to cybersecurity concerns. This move mirrors previous actions taken by European countries in the telecom sector but expands the scope to a broader range of industries.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signaled a firmer stance against Chinese tech giant Huawei, declaring that no components from China will be permitted in the upcoming 6G network. This decision underscores Germany's commitment to enhancing digital sovereignty and protecting its critical infrastructure from potential threats. The issue is set to be a key topic of discussion at an upcoming digital sovereignty summit co-hosted by Germany and France.

Explosions rock Kyiv as mayor reports ‘massive’ Russian strikes across the capital

In the early hours of the morning, Kyiv was jolted by a series of powerful explosions as Russian forces launched a "massive" wave of strikes across the Ukrainian capital. The city's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, reported that the assault involved multiple waves of missile and drone attacks, targeting both military and civilian infrastructure. The strikes caused significant damage to buildings and critical infrastructure, including power plants and residential areas. Emergency services were swiftly deployed to assess the damage and assist those affected. The attacks underscored the ongoing intensity of the conflict, with Russian forces continuing to target major Ukrainian cities despite international calls for a ceasefire. The situation remains fluid, with reports of ongoing clashes and the potential for further escalation. 💥🏙️🚨

Germany government approves voluntary military service to boost army

The German government has approved a program for voluntary military service aimed at bolstering the country's armed forces. This initiative comes as Germany seeks to strengthen its military capabilities in response to evolving security challenges, particularly in light of Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine and the shifting geopolitical landscape in Europe. The program is designed to attract a broader range of individuals to the military, enhancing both the size and diversity of the German armed forces.

The voluntary service will offer civilians the opportunity to serve in various roles within the military, providing them with training, skills, and a sense of purpose. This move is part of a broader effort to modernize and expand Germany's military, ensuring it can effectively contribute to European security and defend against potential threats. By encouraging voluntary enlistment, Germany aims to build a more resilient and adaptable military force capable of addressing the complex security challenges of the 21st century. The program is expected to complement existing recruitment efforts and help meet the growing demand for military personnel in an increasingly uncertain global environment. 🇩🇪🛡️

German parliament's budget committee supports hiking Ukraine aid to 11.5 billion euros in 2026

Germany's Bundestag budget committee has approved a significant increase in aid to Ukraine, allocating €11.5 billion ($13.4 billion) for 2026. This marks a substantial rise from the initially proposed €8.5 billion ($9.9 billion), with an additional €3 billion ($3.5 billion) earmarked to bolster Ukraine's defense against intensifying Russian attacks. The enhanced funding will support the provision of artillery, drones, armored vehicles, and the replacement of two Patriot missile systems. This decision comes amid growing uncertainty over continued U.S. support for Ukraine and follows the ruling coalition's decision to relax Germany's debt brake, enabling increased spending.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced the aid package during an E5-format meeting in Berlin, which included top defense officials from the U.K., France, Poland, Italy, and EU diplomat Kaja Kallas. Additionally, Germany pledged an extra €150 million ($175 million) in military aid to Ukraine under the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative. This program allows NATO allies to procure advanced U.S. weaponry for Kyiv. Germany has previously contributed $500 million to the PURL initiative, with eight Nordic and Baltic NATO allies recently committing another $500 million.

Pistorius condemned Russia's recent aerial strikes, stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to make the winter harsh for Ukraine. Moscow's forces launched a massive attack on Kyiv overnight, resulting in at least six deaths and numerous injuries, along with power outages in Donetsk, Kyiv, and Odesa oblasts. This increased German support is crucial for Ukraine as it faces escalating Russian aggression and seeks to maintain its defense capabilities. 🇩🇪🇺🇦💥

‘First to help others’ — Kyiv firefighter battles blaze that gutted his own family's apartment

In the early hours of November 14, Kyiv firefighter Serhii Vlasenko responded to a devastating Russian attack, only to discover that his own apartment was ablaze. The assault, involving 430 drones and 19 missiles, primarily targeted Kyiv, resulting in six deaths and 35 injuries. Vlasenko, a 15-year veteran of Ukraine's Emergency Service, was on duty as a shift supervisor when the attack occurred.

The Russian drone strike destroyed Vlasenko's apartment, where he lived with his mother, wife, and two young children. Fortunately, the family had reacted to the air-raid siren, saving their lives. Upon arriving at the scene, Vlasenko found his home engulfed in flames. Despite the personal tragedy, he continued his duties, fighting the fire and rescuing his family from their damaged home. The apartment was completely destroyed, but the family has since been provided with a service apartment.

The attack caused significant damage across seven districts of Kyiv, including the Shevchenkivskyi district, where debris from an Iskander-M ballistic missile struck and damaged the Azerbaijani Embassy. As of the evening of November 14, search and rescue efforts were still underway, with emergency crews working to clear debris from affected buildings. Vlasenko's story underscores the dedication and sacrifice of Ukraine's first responders, who put the safety of others above their own, even in the face of personal loss. 🇺🇦🔥🚒

Iran suspected of seizing oil tankers

An oil tanker, the Talara, flagged in the Marshall Islands and en route from the United Arab Emirates to Singapore, abruptly altered its course towards Iranian territorial waters on Friday. According to Vanguard Tech, Iran's Revolutionary Guard seized control of the vessel. The U.S. Navy is actively monitoring the situation. The ship was traversing the Strait of Hormuz when it was approached by three boats, prompting the sudden change in direction.

This incident marks a resumption of Iran's seizures of merchant ships near its coast, a practice that had been dormant for some time. The last known seizure occurred in April 2024, when the merchant ship MSC Aries was taken. Iran has yet to issue a statement regarding the latest incident, leaving the international community awaiting official clarification. 🛳️🇮🇷

German coalition ups military aid to Ukraine

Germany's governing parties have taken a significant step to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities by allocating an additional €3 billion in military aid, bringing the total support to €11.5 billion. This decision comes amid uncertainty surrounding U.S. assistance to Ukraine and reflects Germany's commitment to helping the embattled nation. The funds will be used to procure essential military equipment, including artillery, drones, armored vehicles, and two Patriot air defense systems. This substantial increase in aid underscores Germany's resolve to support Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. 🇩🇪🇺🇦💪

Ukraine war latest: Ukraine downs 14 Russian missiles, strikes back with 'Long Neptunes,' Zelensky says

In the ongoing conflict, Ukraine successfully intercepted 14 out of 19 Russian missiles launched overnight, including advanced aeroballistic and ballistic types, as reported by President Volodymyr Zelensky. The strikes targeted residential areas in Kyiv and critical energy infrastructure, prompting Ukraine to retaliate with "Long Neptune" missiles against Russian targets, a move Zelensky described as a justified response to Russian aggression. The Long Neptune, an upgraded version of Ukraine's Neptune anti-ship missile, boasts an extended range of up to 1,000 kilometers.

Meanwhile, Ukraine faces a growing threat from Russia's increased production of glide bombs, with plans to manufacture up to 120,000 units in 2025, including longer-range variants. These weapons have been used extensively against Ukrainian positions and cities. To counter this threat, Ukraine has begun mass-producing Octopus interceptor drones, with multiple manufacturers involved in the effort.

Ukraine has also conducted strategic drone strikes on Russian targets, including an oil terminal in Novorossiysk and an oil refinery in Saratov. These attacks highlight Ukraine's capability to strike deep into Russian territory, disrupting key infrastructure and supply chains. Russia, meanwhile, is reportedly facing labor shortages in its drone production facilities and is considering importing 12,000 North Korean workers to bolster its manufacturing capabilities.

The conflict has taken a heavy toll, with at least 13 people killed and 32 injured in Russian attacks over the past day. The largest assault occurred overnight, involving a massive combined drone and missile strike on Kyiv. Despite the ongoing violence, Ukraine remains steadfast in its defense, with President Zelensky emphasizing the need for international support and solidarity. The next Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, held in the Ramstein format, is scheduled for December 3, bringing together over 50 countries to coordinate military aid for Ukraine. 🇺🇦💥

Europe’s defense chiefs: We’re with Ukraine for the long haul

In a significant gathering in Berlin, Europe's leading defense officials convened to express their united backing for Ukraine. The key points discussed included the commitment to sustained, open-ended support for Kyiv, the recognition of accelerating hybrid threats against Europe, and the resolve of the continent's major military powers to assume a greater role in their own defense as the conflict enters a challenging winter phase. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius underscored Germany's leadership in supporting Ukraine, pledging to continue funding for U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems and interceptors through the Ukraine-focused PURL mechanism, which facilitates the delivery of U.S. arms and technology to Ukraine via NATO members. This meeting highlights the continent's determination to bolster its defense capabilities and stand firmly behind Ukraine in the face of ongoing aggression. 🇺🇦🇩🇪

Russian military vessel spotted near Hawaii, US Coast Guard says

On October 29, the U.S. Coast Guard detected and monitored a Russian military vessel, the Kareliya, operating near U.S. territorial waters close to the Hawaiian Islands. The Kareliya, a Vishnya-class intelligence ship, was spotted approximately 15 miles south of Oahu, home to the state capital, Honolulu. The Coast Guard responded by conducting a safe and professional overflight and transiting near the vessel, in accordance with international law, to ensure maritime security and support national defense.

The Kareliya is one of six active Vishnya-class intelligence-gathering ships operated by Russia's Pacific Fleet. It has been previously sighted near the Hawaiian Islands in 2021 and 2022. Captain Matthew Chong, chief of response for Coast Guard District 14, emphasized that such monitoring is routine and coordinated with other U.S. military and federal agencies. The Coast Guard's actions aim to protect maritime borders, defend sovereign interests, and ensure the safety and security of U.S. waters in the Pacific region. 🌊🇺🇸🇷🇺

Saab receives billion-dollar order for German fighter jets

Saab, a prominent Swedish defense and aerospace company, has announced the delivery of its advanced Arexis telewar system to the German Air Force. This cutting-edge sensor system will be integrated into the Eurofighter, a multirole combat aircraft developed through a collaborative effort among several European nations. The Arexis system is designed to significantly enhance the Eurofighter's situational awareness and survivability on the modern battlefield, providing a crucial advantage in complex and dynamic combat environments. The delivery underscores the deepening cooperation between Sweden and Germany in the realm of defense technology, with Saab's President and CEO, Micael Johansson, expressing pride in the partnership and the system's capabilities. This integration is expected to bolster the Eurofighter's operational effectiveness and contribute to the overall security of the participating nations.

UN calls for halt to Houthi attacks

The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution to extend sanctions against the Iran-backed Huthi regime in Yemen. The resolution, adopted with a vote of 13–0, aims to address the Huthi regime's ongoing support for terrorism and its recent military actions against Israel. The Huthis, who have aligned themselves with the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, have been actively sending missiles and drones into Israeli territory, exacerbating regional tensions. China and Russia chose to abstain from the vote, reflecting their differing stances on the conflict. This resolution underscores the international community's concern over the Huthi regime's destabilizing activities and its alignment with terrorist organizations. The sanctions are intended to pressure the Huthis to cease their aggressive actions and comply with international norms. 🌍🚨

EPPO renews terms of three delegated prosecutors in Greece

The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has extended the terms of three delegated European prosecutors in Greece for an additional five years. Popi Papandreou, Charikleia Thanos, and Dionysis Mouzakis will continue their roles, overseeing ongoing cases within the Greek office. European Chief Prosecutor Laura Kovesi, during a visit to Greece, commended the local team for their exceptional work, highlighting their involvement in significant investigations such as the OPEKEPE scandal and a major customs fraud case. Kovesi expressed confidence in the team's capabilities, stating, "Our prosecutors are Greek and they are very good, our team is excellent. We are doing our job and we will continue to do so." This renewal underscores the EPPO's commitment to maintaining strong legal enforcement in Greece, ensuring justice and accountability in high-profile cases. 🏛️🇬🇷

'They could go after anyone' — Ukraine’s ex-energy chief on Zelensky’s blackout blame game

Ukraine's former energy chief, Volodymyr Kudrytskyi, has accused President Volodymyr Zelensky and his allies of orchestrating a blame game to deflect responsibility for the country's energy crisis. Kudrytskyi, recently detained on embezzlement charges, alleges that Zelensky's administration was aware of an impending corruption scandal involving Energoatom, the state-owned nuclear operator, and sought to pin the blame on others. The scandal, which involves a $100 million kickback scheme, has already led to the arrest of eight individuals, including former Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko and Zelensky's ex-business partner Timur Mindich.

Kudrytskyi claims that his arrest is politically motivated, aimed at finding a scapegoat for Ukraine's worsening energy situation amid Russian attacks. He asserts that the President’s Office and Halushchenko have long sought to remove him from Ukrenergo, the state energy company, to gain control and extract funds. The former Ukrenergo CEO also accuses Zelensky of protecting corrupt officials loyal to him, rather than taking responsibility for the lack of energy defenses. This has left millions of Ukrainians suffering blackouts and weighed down morale, as energy companies struggle to replace damaged equipment.

The ongoing corruption scandal and Kudrytskyi's case could erode Western trust and impact investment in Ukraine's energy sector. Opposition lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak and corporate governance professional Andriy Boytsun have expressed concerns that the scandal could negatively affect potential donors or investors, questioning the use of funds in Ukrainian state-owned companies. Kudrytskyi's controversial ouster from Ukrenergo in 2024 and the subsequent embezzlement charges have cast a shadow on Ukraine’s reputation for corporate governance, with Western partners expressing criticism.

Kudrytskyi maintains that he oversaw the construction of 60 concrete shelters for Ukrenergo’s transformers, while other state agencies built none. He also urged Zelensky to decentralize the grid by adding gas piston plants and battery storage to reduce reliance on large Soviet plants. However, Zelensky chose an alternative plan involving a massive investment fund for renewable equipment, which Kudrytskyi believes was unfeasible. As Ukraine seeks more funding to support its energy sector, Kudrytskyi warns that the President’s Office may retaliate against critics and government detectives, potentially targeting those who are not silent and loyal enough. 💡💥

Shipping ‘can cut emissions by 50% via existing technologies’

The shipping industry can significantly reduce its emissions by 50% using existing, proven technologies, according to experts at the 19th Greener Shipping Summit in Athens. Panos Kourkountis, head of the Marine Technical Managers Association (Martecma) and Technical Director at Sea Traders, emphasized the importance of leveraging current technologies rather than waiting for new, unproven solutions. He highlighted that the fuel required by the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Net-Zero Framework is scarce and that producing alternative fuels like ammonia and methanol is energy-intensive and impractical in the short term.

Kourkountis also noted the limitations of battery energy and the environmental concerns surrounding nuclear energy. Angelos Minakis, ABS Business Development Manager, agreed, criticizing the IMO for dismissing liquefied natural gas (LNG) while overlooking other fuels. He advocated for re-engagement and consensus-building among IMO member states to address these issues effectively. Miltiadis Varvitsiotis, vice president and CEO of Skaramangas Shipyards, saw an opportunity for the Greek shipbuilding industry, particularly Skaramangas, to capitalize on the U.S. opposition to the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework. With upcoming certifications for LNG carriers, Skaramangas is poised to serve vessels transporting American LNG through the Eastern Mediterranean. The summit, organized by Newsfront/Naftiliaki newspaper under Martecma's auspices, underscored the need for practical, immediate solutions to reduce shipping emissions. 🚢🌍

German Antifa group is a ‘terrorist’ organization, US declares

The United States has designated a German far-left group, known as Antifa Ost, as a "foreign terrorist organization." The group, also referred to as the Hammerbande, is accused of conducting numerous violent attacks against individuals perceived as "fascists" or part of the "right-wing scene" in Germany between 2018 and 2023. Notably, Antifa Ost is alleged to have carried out a series of attacks in Budapest in mid-February 2023, resulting in severe injuries to several victims, some of whom were linked to far-right ideologies. This designation underscores the U.S. government's concern over the group's violent activities and its transnational reach. The move is likely to increase scrutiny and pressure on the group's operations both in Germany and abroad. 🇺🇸🇩🇪🇭🇺🔨