Newsflash

Russian attacks kill 9, injure 53 across Ukraine over past day

Russian forces conducted a series of devastating attacks across Ukraine, resulting in the deaths of at least nine civilians and injuries to 53 others over a single day. The assault involved three Kinzhal ballistic missiles launched from Tambov Oblast and 135 drones from various locations within Russia and occupied Crimea. Ukraine's air defenses and electronic warfare systems successfully intercepted two ballistic missiles and 91 drones, but one missile and 41 drones still struck targets in 13 locations, with debris falling in four additional areas.

In Kyiv, a Russian attack on November 14 resulted in seven fatalities and 36 injuries, with damage reported across nine districts. Kherson Oblast was also heavily targeted, with 34 settlements, including the regional center, hit. These attacks claimed one life and injured seven others. In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, a 65-year-old man was killed in Nikopol, and a 52-year-old man was injured in Synelnykove. Sumy Oblast saw five injuries, including a 17-year-old boy and an 18-year-old man. Donetsk Oblast reported injuries in Kramatorsk and Lyman, while Kharkiv Oblast saw attacks on nine settlements, injuring a 59-year-old man in Lozova. The relentless assaults underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international support and intervention. 🇺🇦💥

Why we must continue to support Ukraine

As we commemorate those who have sacrificed for freedom and liberty, our thoughts turn to Ukraine, which has been valiantly defending its sovereignty against Russia’s illegal invasion since February 2022. Despite global distractions, European democracies must remain steadfast in their support for Ukraine, as Russia’s relentless attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure intensify with the approaching winter. Vladimir Putin’s refusal to engage in ceasefire negotiations reveals his true intentions: to break the Ukrainian spirit and assert control over a sovereign nation.

Ukraine’s fight is not just for its own survival but also for the defense of European values and the rule of law. Greece, along with other allies and partners, has been instrumental in providing political and practical support to Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion. As the battlefield evolves, continued military assistance is crucial. Moreover, the humanitarian needs are pressing, with daily drone attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure causing widespread distress.

The onset of winter exacerbates these challenges, making it imperative to provide spare parts, generators, and equipment to keep the electricity grid functioning. Recent investments in Europe’s energy security are welcome but will take time to materialize. In the interim, we must stand united with Ukraine, sharing their fight for sovereignty, freedom, and the rule of law. Our support is not just a moral obligation but a strategic necessity to ensure that Ukraine can repel this brutal invasion and maintain essential services throughout the winter. 🇺🇦💪

Ukraine strikes Ryazan oil refinery, hits multiple other Russian military targets, General Staff says

Ukrainian forces launched a series of strategic strikes on Russian targets, including a significant attack on an oil refinery in the city of Ryazan. The refinery, a crucial supplier of aviation fuel for Russia's Aerospace Forces, sustained substantial damage, with explosions and a large fire reported at the facility. Russian air defenses claimed to have intercepted 64 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 25 over Ryazan Oblast, but the strikes still caused notable damage.

In addition to the Ryazan refinery, Ukrainian forces targeted several other military assets. A Nebo-U radar station in Russian-occupied Crimea was struck, as was a military train near Tokmak in occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Furthermore, a concentration of Russian personnel near Vovchansk in occupied Kharkiv Oblast was hit. The full extent of the damage from these strikes is still being evaluated.

Ukraine's targeted attacks on Russian oil facilities and military infrastructure aim to disrupt Moscow's logistics and supply chains, posing challenges to Russia's military operations. These strikes have reportedly led to gasoline shortages in various parts of Russia and contributed to a 17.1% drop in Russian oil product exports in September compared to the previous month. The ongoing campaign highlights Ukraine's strategic efforts to weaken Russia's military capabilities and supply lines. 💥🛢️

Zelensky pledges rapid reform of state energy firms amid major government scandal, calls for new leadership

In response to a major corruption scandal involving high-level officials and state energy firms, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a comprehensive overhaul of the country's key energy enterprises. This initiative includes management changes, financial audits, and the establishment of new supervisory boards and leadership. The scandal, which has rocked Zelensky's administration, involves bribes and money laundering schemes within state energy firm contracts.

The planned reforms target major energy companies such as Energoatom, Naftogaz, Ukrhydroenergo, and the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine. Zelensky emphasized the urgency of these changes, calling for swift appointments of new CEOs and supervisory boards. He also stressed the importance of transparent communication between ministers, law enforcement, and anti-corruption bodies to ensure that any uncovered schemes receive immediate and fair responses. The president underscored that full transparency in the energy sector is an absolute priority.

The scandal, uncovered by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), implicated several high-ranking officials, including Timur Mindich, a close ally of Zelensky, who allegedly led a group involved in bribes and money laundering. The investigation revealed that businessman Oleksandr Tsukerman managed the back-office operations for laundering approximately $100 million. In the wake of these revelations, two ministers—Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko and Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk—have resigned. The ongoing reforms aim to restore public trust and ensure the integrity of Ukraine's energy sector. 💸🔍

Rage, panic, and a glimmer of hope in Ukraine as corruption scandal unfolds

Ukraine is currently grappling with its most significant corruption scandal since President Volodymyr Zelensky took office, as an investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) implicates several high-ranking officials. The probe alleges that Timur Mindich, a close ally of Zelensky, led a group involved in kickbacks from energy construction and procurement, including projects to fortify Ukraine's energy infrastructure, and subsequently laundered the illicit funds. This scandal has led to the resignations of two ministers, Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko and Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk, and has sparked widespread outrage among Ukrainians already facing severe hardships due to the ongoing war with Russia.

The timing of the scandal is particularly challenging, as Ukraine braces for a difficult winter marked by chronic power outages and escalating Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure. The revelation of corruption has fueled public anger, with many Ukrainians expressing disbelief and frustration that while they endure the hardships of war, some officials are enriching themselves. This sentiment is echoed across the country, from frontline soldiers to civilians in Kyiv, who see the scandal as a betrayal of their sacrifices.

Despite the crisis, there is a glimmer of hope that the investigation demonstrates the strength of Ukraine's democratic institutions. The existence of the Anti-Corruption Bureau itself is a result of mass public protests, which successfully pressured the government to reinstate key anti-corruption bodies. This scandal serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for democracy in Ukraine, where the fight against corruption is as crucial as the battle against external threats. As the country navigates this challenging period, Ukrainians remain hopeful that justice will prevail and that their international allies will continue to support their fight for sovereignty and democracy. While there are concerns about potential reputational damage and its impact on international support, many Ukrainians believe that the fight against corruption and for their nation's survival must continue, regardless of the obstacles. 🇺🇦💥

Norway appeals court backs climate activists in oil permits dispute

A recent court ruling in Norway has dealt a significant blow to the country's plans to develop three offshore oil and gas fields: Tyrving, Breidablikk, and Yggdrasil. The ruling, in favor of Greenpeace Norway and the environmental group Nature and Youth, asserts that the environmental and climate impacts of these projects have not been adequately studied or evaluated. The court's decision upholds an earlier ruling from January 2024, which the Norwegian energy ministry had appealed, arguing that the projects should proceed.

The environmental groups had filed the case in 2023, contending that the permits for these fields were granted without proper environmental impact assessments. Sigrid Hoddevik Losnegard, president of Nature and Youth, hailed the ruling as a victory for future generations and a sign that the fight against climate change is being taken seriously. Frode Pleym, head of Greenpeace Norway, emphasized the global significance of the decision, noting that courts worldwide are increasingly recognizing the need for governments to protect their citizens from climate harm. 🌍🏛️

This ruling is part of a broader trend of climate-related legal battles. In late October, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that Norway had not violated its climate obligations when it issued Arctic oil and gas exploration licenses in 2016. However, in 2024, the same court condemned Switzerland for its inaction on climate change, marking the first such ruling against a state. Additionally, in July 2025, the International Court of Justice declared climate change an "urgent and existential threat," stating that countries have a legal duty to prevent harm from their greenhouse gas emissions. This advisory opinion, while not legally binding, carries significant political and legal weight. Climate activists have long criticized Norway, the largest producer of oil and gas in Western Europe, for profiting from fossil fuel sales despite their contribution to global warming. 🏭🔥

Refugee boats capsized – several dead

Two boats carrying refugees were recently intercepted, with a total of 95 individuals on board. The passengers, originating from Bangladesh, Egypt, and Sudan, were identified by the Red Crescent. This incident underscores the ongoing perilous journeys undertaken by migrants seeking to reach Europe. Since 2014, approximately 34,000 people have tragically lost their lives in the Mediterranean Sea while attempting this treacherous crossing. The persistent high number of fatalities highlights the urgent need for safer migration routes and more effective international cooperation to address this humanitarian crisis. 🛥️🌊💔

Ban on new short-term rental assets hasn’t worked in central Athens

The ban on new short-term rental properties in central Athens, implemented at the start of 2025, has paradoxically led to an increase in available listings. Data from digital platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, collected by AirDNA for Kathimerini, reveals a 5% rise in short-term rentals from January to October 2025, growing from 13,913 to 14,651 units. This surge is most pronounced in the city's core districts, where the ban is in effect until 2026.

The unexpected growth is attributed to a rush by property owners and managers to secure special Real Estate Registration Numbers (AMA) from the tax office before the ban took effect. This preemptive move allowed them to register their properties, which have since entered the market. Notably, the Syntagma-Monastiraki-Plaka area saw a 10% increase, while Koukaki and Agios Konstantinos experienced 8% and 6% rises, respectively. Even areas like Kerameikos and the Acropolis vicinity saw significant increases of 20% and 13%. Conversely, some districts like Attikis Square and Pangrati witnessed slight declines, while Kypseli, outside the restricted zones, saw a 17% increase. This trend highlights the unintended consequences of regulatory measures and the adaptability of market participants in response to policy changes. 🏠📈

Finland's Iceye emerges as fast-rising star in private space race

Finnish space technology firm Iceye has rapidly evolved from a startup into a global defense contractor, specializing in high-precision radar satellites. Headquartered in Espoo, the company's strict security measures reflect its focus on government and military clients, who rely on its satellites for tracking natural disasters, shipping, and military hardware with one-meter accuracy. Iceye's revenue surged from €6 million in 2020 to over €100 million in 2024, with projections exceeding €200 million in 2025, positioning it among Finland's fastest-growing tech firms.

The company's success is driven by contracts with the armed forces of Finland, Poland, and the Netherlands, as well as Japanese industrial giant IHI. Iceye's ambitious vision includes launching hundreds of satellites to create a global digital infrastructure, providing real-time, objective information about events on Earth. The firm's manufacturing process is meticulous, with each satellite hand-assembled and tested under strict conditions to ensure reliability.

Iceye's growth is part of a broader "new space" surge in Finland, with the country's reputation for reliability and the agility of its smaller companies becoming a competitive advantage. The firm has attracted global talent and formed strategic partnerships, including a joint venture with German defense company Rheinmetall to scale satellite production. Despite risks associated with rapid growth, Iceye's momentum is strong, and its innovative approach to satellite technology is positioning Finland as a key player in the global space industry. 🛰️🌍

US delays sanctions on Russian oil giant Lukoil, Bloomberg reports

The U.S. Treasury Department has temporarily delayed sanctions against the Russian oil giant Lukoil, providing the company with a window to divest its international assets. This postponement comes amidst heightened interest from potential buyers in the U.S., Europe, and the Persian Gulf, who are seeking approval to engage with Lukoil. The Trump administration has granted limited exemptions to facilitate these transactions, allowing for the sale of Lukoil's retail gas stations and international assets through December 13. Additionally, sanctions on Lukoil's Bulgarian subsidiaries have been deferred until April 29. This strategic delay aims to support cooperation with foreign governments and potential buyers, ensuring a smoother transition of Lukoil's assets. The U.S. initially imposed sanctions on Lukoil and Rosneft in October, targeting both companies and their subsidiaries to pressure Russia into negotiations with Ukraine. European countries hosting Lukoil refineries, such as Bulgaria and Romania, have been actively seeking ways to keep these facilities operational, with Bulgaria even considering nationalization and subsequent sale. 🛢️🇷🇺🇺🇸

Greece reaffirms commitment to Cyprus sovereignty

Greece has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the sovereignty of Cyprus, marking 42 years since the unilateral declaration of the so-called “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.” In a strong statement, Greece's Foreign Ministry condemned the declaration as illegal and in violation of fundamental principles of the UN Charter and international law, citing relevant UN Security Council resolutions. Greece emphasized that it will never accept the consequences of Turkey's invasion and occupation of Cyprus, urging all states to uphold international law and respect Cyprus' sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The ministry reaffirmed Greece's commitment to a comprehensive, mutually acceptable solution based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation, in line with UN Security Council resolutions. Recent diplomatic efforts, including the appointment of a new UN envoy for Cyprus and informal meetings, were highlighted as positive steps toward resuming peace negotiations. However, Greece and Cyprus remain firm in their rejection of Turkey's proposed two-state settlement, insisting that progress can only be made if Turkey abandons this stance and aligns with international law and EU principles. 🇬🇷🇨🇾

Tourism shifts favor Greece

Greece is experiencing a significant surge in international tourism, outpacing many of its European counterparts. By mid-2025, the country saw a 22.4% increase in international arrivals compared to 2019, surpassing popular destinations like Spain, Portugal, and Italy. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including competitive pricing, favorable trends shaped by climate change, and technological advancements. Many German travelers, for instance, are now opting for Greece over traditional destinations like Turkey.

The European Travel Commission's (ETC) quarterly report highlights that Greece's performance is among the best in Europe, with only Serbia and Malta showing higher increases in tourist arrivals. The report also notes that travelers are increasingly influenced by weather patterns and overtourism, leading them to reconsider their travel dates and destinations. A significant 28% of key traveler markets plan to shift their trips to different months in the next two years to avoid crowds, save money, and escape extreme heat.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in travel planning is another key trend. AI adoption has nearly doubled, with 18% of travelers using it to find better deals and plan trips away from peak months and crowded locations. This trend is particularly prominent among Gen-Z and Millennials, with the highest usage in China (40%) and the U.S. (27%). As travelers become more tech-savvy, they are leveraging digital tools to make smarter, more informed decisions about their travel plans. 🌴📈🌐

Many demonstrated against emissions in Eskilstuna

A large demonstration took place in Eskilstuna, Sweden, to protest against the establishment of a factory by the company Senior Material. The factory has been granted an exemption to release up to 900 tons per year of the carcinogenic and nerve-damaging chemical methyl chloride. The decision, which has been appealed by the municipal government, has sparked significant concern among residents and neighboring communities.

Organized by healthcare professionals, including pediatric nurse Sari Myllyniemi, the protest aimed to raise awareness about the potential health risks posed by the chemical to current and future generations. Approximately 6,000 people participated, with attendees coming from nearby towns such as Arboga, Västerås, and Strängnäs, highlighting the broader regional impact of the factory's operations. The demonstration featured speakers including Gunnar Johansson, a senior professor of toxicology, and several doctors, all advocating for stricter regulations and a reversal of the exemption granted to Senior Material. The protesters' goal is to escalate their concerns to the national government, emphasizing that they will not accept the potential environmental and health hazards posed by the factory. The demonstration underscores the community's determination to protect their health and environment from what they perceive as a significant threat. 🏭💨🚨

Several killed by IS-backed group in Congo

In the troubled eastern region of Congo, a violent attack on civilians occurred on Friday evening in the village of Byambwe, resulting in the deaths of seventeen individuals, including eleven women and six men. Local official Alain Kiwewa reported the incident, which is part of a broader pattern of violence in the area, with other villages also reportedly targeted. Armed groups, notably the ADF and M23, have been responsible for numerous deadly attacks, with the ADF, which pledged allegiance to ISIS in 2019, frequently targeting civilians along the Ugandan border.

Despite the ongoing violence, there are signs of diplomatic efforts toward peace. Reports from Qatar suggest that an agreement has been reached between the M23 rebel group and the Kinshasa government, outlining a framework for continued ceasefire talks. These negotiations are being mediated by Qatar, the United States, and the African Union. However, previous attempts at a ceasefire framework, agreed upon in July, quickly fell apart as both sides accused each other of breaching the agreement. The path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges, as armed groups continue to wreak havoc in the region. 🇨🇩💔

Labour struggling to pull Britain out of cycle of instability

Britain is once again mired in political instability, with the Labour government facing significant challenges just over a year into its term. The party, which won a landslide victory in July 2024, is now grappling with plummeting support, with polls showing it trailing behind both the right-wing populist Reform party and the left-wing Greens. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's approval ratings have hit an all-time low, and speculation is rife about a potential leadership challenge. The upcoming budget, expected to break a key election promise not to raise income tax, threatens to further erode public trust.

The Labour government's predicament is a result of a combination of factors, including Britain's weak economic growth, stringent fiscal rules, and the bond market's reluctance to fund increased public borrowing. The UK's high bond yields reflect both higher inflation and a lack of confidence in the government's ability to manage public finances. The government's attempts to cut welfare spending faced intense opposition, further damaging market confidence. Since the 2022 economic turmoil under former Prime Minister Liz Truss, the UK has had to pay a premium to borrow, with bond yields higher than justified by inflation alone.

Labour attributes its fiscal woes to external factors such as the global financial crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the energy shock from the Russia-Ukraine war, as well as the previous Conservative government's policies. However, many economists had warned that tax increases would be inevitable, and some of Labour's own policies, such as a payroll tax hike, have exacerbated the situation. The government's lack of a compelling growth strategy and clear economic vision has left many Labour MPs disillusioned. The upcoming budget is a critical moment for Starmer and the Labour Party, as they must present a credible plan to break Britain's cycle of economic stagnation and political turmoil. Failure to do so could lead to further upheaval and a potentially uncontainable populist backlash. The political landscape is tense, with both the government and the opposition seemingly committed to fiscal discipline, setting the stage for a more realistic economic debate in the next election. 🇬🇧📉

Lebanon to file protest against Israeli wall

The Lebanese government has lodged a formal protest with the United Nations, accusing Israel of constructing a concrete wall that crosses the Blue Line, the de facto border between Lebanon and Israel. The complaint, issued from the office of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, alleges that the wall violates the demarcation line, which is overseen by the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). UNIFIL confirmed the existence of the T-shaped concrete wall, stating that it was built by the Israeli military southwest of Yaron and indeed crosses the Blue Line. Israel, however, denies these accusations, asserting that the wall is part of a broader security plan initiated in 2022 and does not encroach upon the Blue Line. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions and differing interpretations of the border between the two countries. 🇱🇧🇮🇱

Poll: 'Latvia in First Place' is in first place in Latvia

In the latest political polls, the opposition party LPV has surged to the top, with 9.5% of respondents indicating they would vote for it if elections were held tomorrow. Prime Minister Evika Siliņa's New Unity party also saw a rise in support, with 9.3% of voters backing it, up from 7% in July. The Progressives, another coalition party, maintained their third-place position but saw a slight decline in support, dropping from 8% to 6.8%. The opposition United List and the National Alliance followed closely behind, with 6.5% and 6.4% support, respectively.

The National Alliance experienced a significant drop from its previous leading position, where it had 9.7% support in July. The Greens and Farmers' Union also saw a decline, falling from 6.6% to 5.8%. Meanwhile, the Sovereign Power party, not currently in parliament, garnered 4.4% support, while For Stability! saw a decrease to 3.6%. Harmony, once a top party, now polls at just over 2%.

A substantial portion of the electorate remains undecided or uninterested, with 22.2% unsure of their vote and 16.2% intending not to participate. This leaves over a third of potential voters open to influence. The recent debate over the Istanbul Convention significantly impacted these ratings, with sociologist Arnis Kaktiņš noting that the issue had a profound effect on voter sentiment. If elections were held now, eight parties would likely surpass the 5% threshold to enter the Saeima, reflecting a dynamic and uncertain political landscape. 📊🗳️

Several killed when boat capsizes in the US

In a tragic maritime incident, at least four people have lost their lives, and four others are hospitalized after a boat carrying migrants encountered severe difficulties. The Coast Guard is actively searching for additional survivors who may have been on board the vessel at the time of the accident. Among the survivors are individuals from Mexico, with others remaining unidentified.

The incident underscores the perilous journey many refugees undertake in their attempts to reach the United States by sea, often on unstable and unsafe boats. Robert Tucker, the Coast Guard commander in San Diego, emphasized the grave risks involved, stating that the incident highlights the dangers migrants face in their desperate quest for a better life. The search and rescue efforts continue as authorities work to account for all those who may have been on board. 🛥️🌊

Finland sets out measures to attract data centres with high value added

Finland is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on the global investment boom in data centres, with a focus on attracting high-value projects that drive economic growth, innovation, and job creation. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo appointed Veli-Matti Mattila to prepare a national roadmap for data centres, emphasizing the importance of these investments in supporting Finland's digital transformation and data economy goals.

Mattila's report outlines several key recommendations, including continuing electricity tax relief, streamlining permit procedures, and setting national objectives for data centre operations. The report also highlights the need for flexibility measures to ensure a reliable power system, such as a fossil-free flexibility scheme to manage grid scarcity and price spikes. Additionally, it calls for enabling wind power development in eastern Finland and introducing a registration requirement for data centres.

Data centres offer numerous benefits beyond their primary function, including increased investment, jobs, and tax revenue. They typically source electricity from fossil-free producers, accelerating renewable energy investments and supporting Finland's transition to more sustainable power generation. Moreover, data centres can drive business activity in regions outside major urban centers.

However, the report also acknowledges the need for separate efforts to accelerate digital and AI development. While data centres do not automatically lead to research or innovation activities, their presence can support these efforts when complemented by investments in education, training, and related ecosystems. Data centre operators should be encouraged to participate in these initiatives to maximize their positive impact on Finland's digital future. 💡🌐

Norwegian state TV apologises for calling Polish Independence March “Nazi”

In a recent incident, Norway’s state broadcaster, NRK, apologized for inaccurately describing Poland’s annual Independence March as a "Nazi march." The event, which attracts around 150,000 participants, is organized by nationalist groups but draws a diverse crowd, including mainstream conservatives and right-wing politicians like President Karol Nawrocki. The use of the term "Nazi" sparked outrage in Poland, given the country's history of suffering under Nazi occupation during World War II. The Polish community in Norway, along with Polish organizations and the Polish embassy in Oslo, expressed their dismay and demanded a correction. NRK eventually apologized, acknowledging the term was "unjustified" and acknowledging the sensitivity of the issue.

The Independence March has been a contentious event, with critics like former Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt previously describing it as a gathering of "neo-Nazis" and "white supremacists." Such remarks have led to legal actions and diplomatic tensions. Despite the presence of far-right groups like the National Radical Camp (ONR), which the Polish Supreme Court has ruled can be described as "fascist," these elements represent a small minority among the marchers. The event continues to be a significant annual occurrence in Warsaw, reflecting the complex political landscape of Poland. 🇵🇱🇳🇴