Newsflash

What the fall of Pokrovsk would mean for Ukraine — and Russia

The strategic city of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine is under intense pressure from Russian forces, raising critical questions about the future of the conflict and the preparedness of both Ukraine and Russia. Pokrovsk, once a vital logistic hub, has been a focal point of Russia's offensive since the capture of Avdiivka in February 2024. Russian troops, leveraging foggy weather to hinder drone surveillance, are pushing to capture the city, which could significantly alter the dynamics of the war.

If Pokrovsk falls, Russian forces are likely to advance toward Dobropillia to the north and potentially deeper into Dnipropetrovsk Oblast to the west. However, the main focus will remain within Donetsk Oblast, aiming to recapture areas lost to Ukrainian counterattacks. The condition of Ukrainian units deployed in Pokrovsk will be crucial in determining the pace of future battles. The city's fall would leave Ukrainian forces exhausted and depleted, having defended a complex and vulnerable salient for an extended period.

Ukraine has prepared a network of anti-tank defenses and obstacles to prevent further Russian advances, but the effectiveness of these fortifications remains uncertain. The Ukrainian army has historically struggled with fortifications, and the fall of Pokrovsk could provide Russia with an opportunity to wage attritional warfare. Many units defending the sector have been fighting in multiple hotspots and are struggling to replenish their ranks, particularly in infantry roles.

The fall of Pokrovsk would not significantly impact the broader front line, as Ukraine has already relocated its logistic hubs. However, it would provide Russia with logistical benefits for future offensives, particularly in capturing key transportation routes and potentially encircling Kostiantynivka. The extensive mine network in Pokrovsk could also offer shelter for Russian troops. Experts differ on the potential impact, with some suggesting a northern advance toward Izium and others predicting a westward push toward Pavlohrad.

As the battle for Pokrovsk continues, the strategic importance of the city cannot be overstated. Its capture would likely serve as a springboard for further Russian advances, making it a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict. The relentless assaults and the high stakes involved underscore the urgency for both sides to prepare for the potential consequences of Pokrovsk's fall. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

Ukraine has ‘no chance’ of winning war, Hungary’s Orbán says

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has asserted that Ukraine stands "no chance" of prevailing against Russia's ongoing invasion, and he has criticized the European Union's continued financial aid to the country as "just crazy." His remarks come amidst dwindling hopes for an imminent ceasefire and Europe's efforts to bolster Ukraine's finances ahead of a looming budget crisis next year. In an interview with Mathias Döpfner, CEO of the German media group Axel Springer, Orbán argued that the financial support for Ukraine is economically and financially detrimental to the EU. 🇺🇦💸💥

General Staff: Russia has lost 1,158,260 troops in Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022

Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the conflict has resulted in significant losses for Russian forces. As of the latest report on November 16, Russia has lost approximately 1,158,260 troops, with 860 casualties reported in the past day alone. The extensive losses also include a wide array of military equipment and vehicles, such as 11,353 tanks, 23,591 armored fighting vehicles, 67,464 vehicles and fuel tanks, 34,469 artillery systems, 1,543 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,244 air defense systems, 428 airplanes, 347 helicopters, 81,286 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine. The ongoing conflict continues to exact a heavy toll on Russian military capabilities, highlighting the intensity and scale of the war in Ukraine. 🇺🇦💥

America's top aircraft carrier in place in the Caribbean

The United States has significantly bolstered its military presence in the region surrounding Venezuela, deploying its most advanced aircraft carrier and several supporting warships. This move, ordered by President Donald Trump, is officially aimed at combating drug smuggling from Venezuela. The fleet includes missile-equipped destroyers and other supporting vessels, all operating under the command of Southcom, the U.S. military command in the region.

Since initiating military strikes against suspected drug cartel boats, the U.S. has reportedly killed at least 80 individuals, according to calculations by the AFP news agency. However, Venezuelan authorities and President Nicolás Maduro have accused the U.S. of using these attacks as a pretext to escalate tensions and prepare for potential combat operations against Venezuela. The U.S. has not recognized Maduro as the legitimate leader of Venezuela and has even offered a $50 million reward for his arrest, further straining relations between the two countries. 🇺🇸🛳️💥

Blackout in occupied Donetsk amid reported strike on electric substation

A power outage has been reported in the occupied Donetsk region following a strike on a nearby electric substation. The Chaikine substation in Donetsk Oblast was reportedly damaged, according to local media sources. However, these claims have not been independently verified, and Ukraine's military has yet to issue an official statement. Ukraine has a history of targeting military and industrial facilities within Russian-controlled territories, with a recent notable strike on a thermal power plant in Donetsk Oblast on November 11. The attack on the Starobesheve power plant in the occupied community of Novyi Svit resulted in a significant explosion and fire. This ongoing campaign against Russian energy infrastructure is part of Ukraine's strategy to disrupt Moscow's primary funding source for its war efforts. 💥💥🔋

Pro-Ukrainian partisans sabotage rail equipment in Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast, group claims

Pro-Ukrainian partisans from the group Atesh have claimed responsibility for a sabotage operation in the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast. On November 16, the group reportedly set fire to a relay cabinet on a crucial railway section near Novobohdanivka, just 50 kilometers from the front line. This act of sabotage reportedly halted the movement of Russian military trains, allowing Ukrainian forces to launch precise missile and artillery strikes on the immobilized targets. The disruption in rail infrastructure temporarily hindered Russian logistics, causing delays in supply deliveries to occupied regions in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. This interference reportedly led to shortages of fuel and ammunition, reducing the intensity of Russian military operations in those areas. Atesh, known for its sabotage activities against Russian targets, previously conducted a similar operation in Russia's Rostov Oblast in October, targeting railway infrastructure and delaying the transport of military personnel and supplies. 🚂💥

Brazilian lawmakers seek to decimate green laws one week after hosting climate summit

In a surprising turn of events, Brazilian lawmakers are advancing a significant rollback of environmental regulations that would remove crucial protections for the Amazon rainforest. This push comes just days after Brazil concluded hosting the United Nations climate talks in Belém, where the country had proudly showcased President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's achievements in reducing deforestation rates. However, in the capital Brasília, opponents of Lula are seizing the moment to advance legislation that would severely weaken Brazil's environmental safeguards. Environment Minister Marina Silva has warned that these proposed changes would constitute a "severe weakening" of the country's environmental rules, raising concerns about the future of the world's most vital rainforest. 🌳🏞️🇧🇷

Auction of Holocaust items in Germany cancelled after intervention by Poland

An auction of hundreds of items linked to the Holocaust and other Nazi-German crimes has been canceled following international backlash and intervention by the Polish government. The auction, scheduled by the Felzmann auction house in Neuss, Germany, included sensitive artifacts such as Stars of David worn by Jewish prisoners, documents related to forced sterilizations, and letters from Nazi camp prisoners. The sale was condemned by Holocaust survivors, historians, and the Polish government, who argued that such items should be preserved in museums rather than sold for commercial gain.

The Polish government, along with international organizations, successfully pressured the auction house to cancel the event. Poland's foreign minister, Radosław Sikorski, and culture minister, Marta Cienkowska, emphasized the importance of preventing the commercialization of Holocaust artifacts and demanded the return of any items that are part of Poland's historical heritage. The auction house complied, removing the items from its website. The Polish government is now working to clarify the provenance of these objects and secure their return to Poland, if justified. The cancellation highlights ongoing efforts to preserve the memory of Holocaust victims and prevent the exploitation of their personal belongings. 🇵🇱🕯️

Ukraine war latest: Widow of Chornobyl's first victim killed by Russian attack on Kyiv 39 years later

In a tragic turn of events, Nataliia Khodemchuk, the widow of Valerii Khodemchuk, the first victim of the 1986 Chornobyl disaster, was killed in a Russian drone attack on Kyiv. The strike, part of a mass overnight assault on November 14-15, severely injured Khodemchuk, 73, in her apartment, leading to her death at a burn center. Her passing brings the death toll from the attack to seven, with at least 36 others injured across nine districts of the capital. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for increased support and air defense systems to protect Ukrainian civilians.

Meanwhile, Ukraine and Russia have reached an agreement to exchange prisoners, with plans to release 1,200 Ukrainian captives. The deal, facilitated by Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, aims to activate the Istanbul framework for the swap. This development comes as Ukraine continues to advocate for an "all-for-all" exchange, a proposal Russia has yet to accept. Since the full-scale invasion began in 2022, Kyiv has successfully negotiated the release of over 5,800 individuals from Russian captivity.

In a disturbing incident, Russian troops reportedly executed two captured Ukrainian soldiers in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The killing, documented by the Ukrainian organization Deep State, violates the Geneva Conventions and is part of a pattern of war crimes committed by Russian forces. Ukraine's Human Rights Ombudsman condemned the executions, emphasizing the systemic criminal behavior of the aggressor state. The United Nations has also confirmed growing incidents of Russian forces killing or maiming surrendering Ukrainian troops.

Ukrainian forces struck a major oil refinery in Russia’s Samara Oblast and a drone base operated by the elite Rubikon unit. The Novokuibyshevsk refinery, one of Russia's largest, was targeted with new "Bars" jet drones, resulting in explosions and a fire. The attack is part of a series of Ukrainian strikes on Russian infrastructure, with previous assaults on the same refinery leading to temporary suspensions of operations. Additionally, Ukrainian forces hit a drone storage base and a fuel station in the temporarily occupied Donetsk Oblast.

In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Ukrainian forces successfully repelled a Russian armored assault on the strategic village of Novopavlivka. Despite poor weather and low visibility, Ukrainian troops managed to push back the Russian advance, inflicting significant losses on enemy equipment and personnel. The village, situated on strategic high ground, has been a key defensive position, blocking Russian attempts to push deeper into the oblast. As the fighting season intensifies, Ukrainian forces continue to hold their ground, despite increasing pressure from Russian advances in the region. 🇺🇦💥

Zelensky in Paris to seek fresh arms as Russian strikes intensify

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Paris to secure crucial military agreements with France, aiming to bolster Kyiv's defenses against intensified Russian drone and missile strikes. Zelensky's meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron resulted in significant deals for air-defense systems, warplanes, and missiles, reinforcing Ukraine's long-term military capabilities. The agreements include a potential 10-year strategic aviation pact, providing Ukraine with advanced Rafale combat jets, and additional SAMP/T air-defense systems. These deals are part of a broader effort to ensure Ukraine's military strength and deterrence against future Russian aggression. The visit also highlighted France's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense industry and fostering collaboration between Ukrainian and French firms in the drone sector. 🇫🇷🇺🇦🛩️

UK government defends asylum crackdown, PM Starmer under pressure from far right

The UK government is facing significant pressure from far-right groups as it defends its recent crackdown on asylum seekers. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's administration has implemented stringent measures aimed at curbing the influx of asylum seekers, which has sparked controversy and criticism from various quarters. The far-right factions are particularly vocal, demanding even tougher policies and accusing the government of being too lenient on immigration.

The government's stance has been met with resistance, both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that the measures are inhumane and violate international human rights standards. The government, however, maintains that these actions are necessary to control the borders and ensure national security. The debate has intensified, with protests and counter-protests taking place across the country. The far-right groups are capitalizing on the public's concerns about immigration, using the situation to gain political traction and influence public opinion. The government's challenge is to balance security concerns with humanitarian principles, all while navigating the complex political landscape shaped by far-right pressures. The situation underscores the broader tensions within Europe over immigration policies and the rise of far-right ideologies. 🇬🇧🏛️

Latvia ranks first among 32 countries for investment promotion

Latvia has once again secured the top spot in a regional investment promotion assessment, scoring 70.83 out of 100 points. The study, conducted by Reinvantage, evaluates 32 countries across Central, Eastern, and Southern Europe, Central Asia, and the Balkans based on five key categories: validity of information, support and community building, online presence and ease of use, innovativeness and creativity, and response to current events. Estonia ranked second with 68.67 points, while Lithuania placed fifth with 62.50 points.

Latvia's success is attributed to its exceptional performance in providing clear, accurate, and up-to-date information, earning 24 out of 30 points in the 'validity of information' category. The country also excelled in support and community building (20 out of 25) and online presence and ease of use (18 out of 20). However, Latvia's scores in creativity and innovation (3 out of 15) and response to current events (6 out of 10) indicate areas for improvement. The study's author, Craig Turp-Balazs, emphasized the importance of reliable data, stating that innovative efforts are futile if the basic information is outdated or inaccurate.

The Investment and Development Agency of Latvia, led by Director Ieva Jāgere, has been actively reorganizing to enhance its services. Over the past year, the agency has attracted €754 million in investments, implemented 184 projects, and launched four new support programs. Jāgere highlighted the creation of a digitisation and data analytics division, as well as a new Investment Department, to better serve investors and strengthen Latvia's position as a leading investment destination. 📈💼

Israel opposes US F-35 sale to Turkey, envoy says

Israel has expressed strong opposition to the potential sale of U.S. F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, citing significant security concerns. Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yahel Leiter, described Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as "hostile and belligerent," and argued that Turkey's acquisition of advanced aircraft would not be beneficial at this time. Despite these reservations, Leiter acknowledged Turkey's strategic importance as a NATO member and its critical geographic position. Israel seeks to maintain a "functional, practical relationship" with Turkey that aligns with its security needs and the broader Western strategy. However, Israel firmly opposes any Turkish military involvement in Gaza or Syria, a stance that the U.S. reportedly respects.

In contrast, Israel has shown little concern over a potential U.S. arms deal with Saudi Arabia. Ambassador Leiter asserted that there is no indication that such a sale would jeopardize Israel’s qualitative military edge. This nuanced approach reflects Israel’s efforts to balance its security interests with the geopolitical realities of the region. 🇮🇱🇺🇸🇹🇷

Palestinian footballers play friendly in Spain's Bilbao in front of 50,000 spectators

In a powerful display of solidarity and sportsmanship, a team of Palestinian footballers took to the field in Spain's Bilbao, playing before an estimated 50,000 spectators at the iconic San Mames Stadium. The charity match, organized to raise funds for Doctors Without Borders (MSF), featured a selection of Palestinian players facing off against a team of Spanish players from the Basque Country. The event was marked by a sea of Palestinian and Basque flags, with thousands of fans marching in support before the game.

The match comes amid widespread protests in Spain against Israel's military actions in Gaza, sparked by the Hamas-led attacks in October 2023. Bilbao, the host city, had previously seen large demonstrations against an Israeli-owned cycling team during the Spanish Vuelta. The Basque team included players from prominent clubs like Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad, while the Palestinian team featured players from various countries, including Qatar, Chile, Iceland, and the United States.

The Palestinian football scene has been severely impacted by years of conflict, with the destruction of infrastructure and the loss of numerous athletes, including the renowned Suleiman Al-Obeid, known as the "Palestinian Pelé." The Palestinian Football Federation reported that 289 sports facilities were destroyed, and over 1,100 athletes, coaches, and referees were killed, with thousands more injured or missing. The event in Bilbao served as a poignant reminder of the resilience of Palestinian athletes and the international support for their cause. The Palestinian team is set to play another match in Barcelona against a selection of players from the Catalonia region. 🏆🇵🇸🇪🇸

UK to cut protections for refugees under largest asylum policy overhaul in modern times

The UK government is set to implement the most significant overhaul of its asylum policies in recent history, aiming to drastically reduce protections for refugees. The proposed changes are expected to include stricter criteria for granting asylum, making it more difficult for refugees to seek safety in the country. Critics argue that these measures will put vulnerable individuals at greater risk, potentially violating international human rights standards.

The reforms are part of a broader effort to curb illegal immigration and reduce the number of asylum seekers entering the UK. Proponents of the changes argue that they will help to manage the influx of refugees more effectively and ensure that resources are allocated to those with the most genuine claims. However, human rights organizations and advocacy groups have expressed concern that the new policies will lead to increased hardship for refugees, many of whom are fleeing war, persecution, and other life-threatening situations. 🇬🇧🚫

The government plans to introduce legislation that will tighten eligibility requirements, expedite the asylum process, and limit the rights of asylum seekers while their claims are being processed. These measures are likely to include restrictions on family reunification, reduced access to public services, and stricter enforcement of immigration rules. The proposed changes have sparked debate both within the UK and internationally, with some praising the government's tough stance on immigration and others condemning it as inhumane and contrary to the UK's obligations under international law.

‘Not very optimistic:’ Finland’s Stubb plays down prospects of Ukraine ceasefire soon

Finnish President Alexander Stubb has expressed skepticism about the prospects of a ceasefire in Ukraine before the end of 2025, suggesting that meaningful progress towards peace might only be achievable by the spring. His comments, made in an interview with the Associated Press, come as Europe works to secure funding for Ukraine's ongoing defense efforts and Kyiv grapples with a significant corruption scandal.

Stubb acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating that while a ceasefire by March 2026, marking the fifth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, would be a positive development, he is not optimistic about achieving a ceasefire or initiating peace negotiations within the current year. His remarks underscore the complex and protracted nature of the conflict, as well as the urgent need for sustained international support for Ukraine. 🕊️🇺🇦

Energy corridor, defense support top agenda during Zelenskyy’s Athens visit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to visit Athens, focusing on strengthening energy cooperation and defense support amid Ukraine's pressing needs. Zelenskyy's agenda includes meetings with Greek President Konstantinos Tassoulas, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Parliament Speaker Nikitas Kaklamanis. Key discussions will revolve around the vertical natural gas corridor, which runs from Alexandroupoli, Greece, through Romania and Moldova to Ukraine. This project has gained urgency due to recent agreements facilitating the transport of U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) through Greek facilities.

Ukraine aims to boost its gas imports by 30% to address shortages and infrastructure damage, while Greece seeks to solidify its position as a regional energy hub using its Revithoussa terminal and the Alexandroupoli FSRU. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of this energy agreement for both immediate winter needs and long-term energy security, highlighting broader European cooperation from Norway to Greece. Additionally, defense support will be a significant topic, with discussions on Greece's 2023 bilateral security agreement, Ukraine's participation in the U.S.-backed PURL program, and further training for Ukrainian F-16 pilots. While Greece has not committed key air-defense systems, it has provided limited surplus matériel, and France has shown interest in acquiring Greece’s Mirage 2000-5 jets for potential transfer to Ukraine. 🇬🇷🇺🇦🔋

Russia claims new successes in southern Ukraine

In the ongoing conflict, the Russian Ministry of Defense has identified Mala Tokmachka and Rivnopillia in the Zaporizhia region as key locations of interest. Mala Tokmachka, situated southeast of Zaporizhia, is strategically significant as its fall could jeopardize the nearby city of Orichiv. Meanwhile, Rivnopillia, located in eastern Zaporizhia, is surrounded by Russian-controlled territory to the north, east, and south of Khuljaipole. Aerial photographs released by the Russian Ministry of Defense depict Russian soldiers waving flags amidst the ruins of Rivnopillia.

The Zaporizhia region is one of four areas, alongside the occupied Crimean peninsula, that Russia claims to have annexed. However, none of these regions are fully under Russian control. The Ukrainian government has not yet responded to these developments. The situation remains fluid and tense, with both sides vying for control in this critical region. 🇷🇺🇺🇦🏙️

Pierrakakis: Greece is a model of fiscal discipline and reforms

Greece has emerged as a beacon of fiscal discipline and reform, according to National Economy and Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis. Speaking at the London School of Economics (LSE), Pierrakakis highlighted the country's remarkable transformation from the depths of its recent economic crisis to a period of robust growth, now outpacing the European Union's average. He attributed this turnaround to a "quantitative accumulation of change" that has led to a qualitative shift in Greece's economy and society.

Pierrakakis acknowledged the severity of Greece's past struggles, noting that the country lost 25% of its GDP, endured the equivalent of a Great Recession, and required three rescue programs instead of one. This tumultuous period, he said, has instilled a new, rational fiscal culture in Greece. Looking ahead, Pierrakakis emphasized the need for faster wage convergence with European averages through increased productivity. Despite the progress, he acknowledged that certain social groups still require targeted support due to challenges posed by the energy crisis, high food and rent prices, and a persistent sense of subjective poverty. 🇬🇷📈

Ukraine working on prisoner exchange with Russia, Zelenskyy says

Ukraine is actively pursuing a significant prisoner exchange with Russia, aiming to secure the release of approximately 1,200 Ukrainians currently held captive. This effort is part of a broader strategy to revive peace negotiations and ultimately end Russia’s ongoing invasion. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of these exchanges and the potential for renewed diplomatic efforts to bring the conflict to a close. Intensive meetings, negotiations, and discussions are underway to facilitate the resumption of prisoner swaps and to create a pathway towards peace. 🤝🇺🇦🇷🇺