Newsflash

Macron set to present voluntary military service plan

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to unveil a new voluntary military service program, aimed at bolstering the country's armed forces in the face of growing threats, particularly from Russia. This initiative, while not a mandatory conscription, seeks to recruit and train personnel for active duty or reserve roles. The proposal comes amidst a broader European trend of reconsidering military service to enhance defense capabilities and respond to potential Russian aggression. With concerns mounting that Russian President Vladimir Putin may target a NATO country as early as 2028, many European nations are exploring ways to strengthen their military readiness and cohesion. Macron's plan is expected to garner support from most political parties, reflecting a shared concern over regional security. 🇫🇷🛡️

'Much better than US-Russia version': Ukraine and European negotiators developed latest peace plan

Ukraine and European negotiators have developed a new peace plan, which is reportedly superior to previous proposals involving the U.S. and Russia. This latest initiative aims to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, offering a more viable path to resolution. The plan is the result of collaborative efforts between Ukrainian representatives and European diplomats, who have worked to incorporate key principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security guarantees.

The new peace plan is designed to provide a comprehensive framework for ending the conflict, focusing on immediate ceasefire measures, withdrawal of Russian forces, and the restoration of Ukrainian control over its territories. It also emphasizes the importance of international support and monitoring to ensure the implementation of agreed-upon terms. The plan seeks to balance the interests of all parties involved, while prioritizing the needs and rights of the Ukrainian people.

Negotiators have highlighted several advantages of this European-backed plan over previous U.S.-Russia proposals. These include a stronger emphasis on Ukrainian sovereignty, more robust security guarantees, and a clearer roadmap for post-conflict reconstruction and reconciliation. The plan also takes into account the lessons learned from past negotiations, aiming to address the root causes of the conflict and prevent future escalations.

As the situation in Ukraine remains volatile, the timely introduction of this peace plan offers a glimmer of hope for a diplomatic resolution. However, its success will depend on the willingness of all parties to engage in good faith negotiations and commit to the agreed-upon terms. The international community is closely watching these developments, with many expressing support for a peaceful and just resolution to the conflict. 🇺🇦🇪🇺

PM says new energy initiatives boost Greece’s geopolitical role

Greece is poised to elevate its geopolitical influence through ambitious energy initiatives, according to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The country is set to play a pivotal role in US-backed efforts to reshape Europe's gas supply, transitioning from a peripheral player to a leading actor in regional energy developments. Greece has agreed to facilitate the import of US liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Ukraine through its infrastructure, marking its active participation in Washington's plan to replace Russian gas with American LNG. This initiative, known as the "Vertical Corridor," involves a network of pipelines, LNG terminals, and storage facilities connecting Greece with Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Ukraine, and Moldova.

In addition to this international collaboration, Greece is also opening its waters to gas exploration for the first time in over four decades. This move, involving major energy companies like ExxonMobil, Energean, and HelleniQ Energy, aims to uncover potential natural gas deposits off the coast of Corfu. Exploratory drilling is anticipated within the next 18 months. These energy initiatives are expected to fortify Greece's geopolitical and energy security, attract significant investments, and diversify the country's energy mix. Mitsotakis emphasized that these developments will benefit Greece as a whole, enhancing its influence amid broader geopolitical shifts and potentially bolstering public finances for decades. The US-supported LNG initiative is part of a broader strategy to secure energy supplies for Eastern Europe, including Ukraine, and reduce dependence on Russian gas. 🇬🇷💨

Live: Ukraine announces 'massive' attack on energy sites by Russia

In a significant escalation, Ukraine reported a "massive" attack on its energy infrastructure by Russian drones and missiles, even as peace talks with the U.S. continued. The strikes occurred amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, with Russia dismissing a European counter-proposal to a U.S. peace plan as "unconstructive." The attacks caused substantial damage and casualties in both Ukraine and Russia, highlighting the persistent volatility in the region.

In Ukraine, Russian drones struck residential buildings in Kyiv, injuring four people and triggering fires. Meanwhile, Ukrainian air strikes targeted the Russian port city of Taganrog, damaging buildings and infrastructure, and resulting in one death and three injuries. The Russian region of Krasnodar also suffered a "sustained and massive" attack, with at least six people wounded and numerous homes damaged.

Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict saw mixed progress. While the U.S. and Ukraine engaged in productive talks, disagreements remained on key points. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged that a revised peace plan had incorporated "correct" elements but noted that sensitive issues would require further discussion with U.S. President Donald Trump. The Kremlin, however, criticized the European counter-proposal, stating it was not acceptable to Russia.

In parallel, Ukraine is fortifying its communication infrastructure. Kyivstar, Ukraine's largest mobile operator, launched Starlink's direct-to-cell satellite technology to ensure connectivity during wartime blackouts and infrastructure disruptions. This initiative aims to enhance network resilience and keep millions of Ukrainians connected amidst the ongoing conflict.

Meanwhile, international leaders expressed varied opinions on the peace process. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for a "just and lasting peace," while Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stressed that any agreement must strengthen European security. EU leaders acknowledged progress in the peace talks but noted that outstanding issues remained. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz underscored the importance of European consent in any peace plan, reflecting the continent's collective stake in the conflict's resolution. 🌍📡

UN: 50,000 women killed by someone close to them

The home remains the most perilous place for women and girls globally, with 60% of all female homicides perpetrated by a partner or relative. In stark contrast, only 11% of men are killed by someone close to them. While the overall number of women murdered by someone they know has slightly decreased from the previous year, this does not signify a genuine decline, as discrepancies in data reporting across countries obscure the true trend. The report underscores the persistent danger women face within their own homes, with Africa reporting the highest number of such cases last year, totaling 22,000. This stark reality highlights the urgent need for global efforts to enhance women's safety and address domestic violence. 🏠💔

Putin and Erdogan to speak by phone on Monday, Kremlin says

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan are scheduled to hold a phone conversation on Monday. The call is expected to focus on peace efforts in Ukraine, with Erdogan aiming to discuss the resumption of a crucial grain export deal via the Black Sea. This agreement, which allows for the safe passage of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea, is vital for global food security and has been a contentious issue amid the ongoing conflict. The leaders' discussion comes at a critical time, as both nations seek to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and address the humanitarian implications of the war in Ukraine. 📞🌾

Will Ukraine receive any 'meaningful security guarantees from its Western allies'?

The question of whether Ukraine will receive meaningful security guarantees from its Western allies remains a pressing and complex issue. As the conflict with Russia intensifies, Ukraine seeks assurances that its sovereignty and territorial integrity will be protected. However, the geopolitical landscape is shifting, with the United States potentially prioritizing commercial interests over traditional alliances. This shift leaves Europe, and Ukraine by extension, in a precarious position.

Europe is grappling with its own security challenges, particularly on its eastern flank, where Russian military buildups pose significant threats. The continent is vulnerable due to dwindling American support, which may now be conditional on economic incentives rather than shared values. This uncertainty underscores the need for Europe to bolster its defense capabilities swiftly. Current NATO spending targets are deemed insufficient, and discussions are underway to increase them. However, achieving true strategic autonomy requires collective investment in critical assets like satellite systems, intelligence, and heavy transport—capabilities beyond the reach of individual nations.

The European Union itself is not ideally positioned to lead this rearmament effort due to the presence of neutral countries and those with leaderships aligned with Russia. Additionally, the EU does not include key players like Britain, Norway, and Switzerland, which are vital for maintaining European security. This points to the necessity of a new inter-governmental initiative outside the EU. Proposals such as a European Rearmament Bank and a European Defense Mechanism offer promising solutions, providing low-cost loans and direct equipment purchases to enhance defense capabilities. While resistance may arise from nations protective of their defense industries, the benefits of a stronger, more unified European defense market and greater continental security are clear. The time for decisive action is now, as Europe navigates an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape. 🌍🛡️

Yle investigation reveals shady Russian real estate, permit dealings

Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen has announced plans to further restrict Russian citizens from purchasing apartments in Finland, particularly in the Helsinki metropolitan area. While Finland has already barred Russians from buying real estate on national security grounds, the current regulations do not cover apartments typically acquired through housing company shares. Häkkänen emphasized that while individual apartments may not pose the same security risks as large property portfolios, the issue still requires attention. Legislative changes to tighten these restrictions are expected during the current parliamentary term.

An investigation by Yle's MOT unit revealed that thousands of Finnish apartments are listed on Russian websites, with buyers actively purchasing properties. Dual citizens of Finland and Russia remain exempt from these restrictions and can freely buy property. The investigation also uncovered a real estate agency, Vipcon, based in Imatra, which markets properties to Russian buyers and offers services to help secure Finnish residence permits through fraudulent employment schemes. These schemes involve "arranging" jobs for applicants who pay a monthly "salary" to secure residence permits, often leading to permanent residency after five years.

The Finnish Immigration Service, Migri, is aware of these schemes, noting that while not new, the methods employed can vary. In the first half of the year, Finland granted approximately 3,700 residence permits to Russian citizens, highlighting the ongoing interest in acquiring property and residency in the country. The Finnish government is now taking steps to address these security concerns and prevent potential misuse of real estate and residence permit processes. 🏠🇷🇺🇫🇮

Defense: Russian military threat increases to 2030

Sweden is preparing to significantly bolster its defense capabilities in response to growing threats, particularly from Russia. The country's defense budget is projected to increase from 148 billion SEK this year to over 200 billion SEK by 2030. The Armed Forces have outlined their priorities for this funding, aiming to meet both NATO requirements and the escalating security challenges posed by Russia.

Lieutenant General Carl-Johan Edström, Chief of the Defence Staff, highlights the need to counter Russia's expanding influence and military capabilities. This includes potential increases in ground troops along the Russian-Baltic border, enhanced long-range military assets, and a strengthened Russian fleet in the Arctic. To address these threats, Sweden plans to invest in long-range combat capabilities, including robots with a range of up to 200 kilometers, and improve its ability to conduct operations in Finland and the Baltic region through advanced drone warfare and ammunition stockpiles.

NATO's requirements for Sweden include the ability to lead and conduct multi-domain operations by the end of 2030, integrating land, air, and naval forces. This necessitates enhanced command support systems and intelligence-gathering capabilities, such as airborne surveillance and satellite technology. Sweden aims to maintain a comprehensive situational awareness from the Ural Mountains to the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

To safeguard its bases, infrastructure, and transportation networks, Sweden will also invest in robust air and missile defense systems. This includes contributing to NATO's integrated air and missile defense, ensuring protection against a wide range of threats, from long-range ballistic missiles to small drones. The overarching goal is to create a multi-layered defense system that can effectively deter and respond to various security challenges. 🇸🇪🛡️

Foreign investors expected in ADMIE

Greece is set to increase the share capital of its Independent Power Transmission Operator (ADMIE) with the involvement of foreign investors, while the state will retain control. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced this development, emphasizing the need for additional capital to finance critical infrastructure projects, particularly island interconnections. This move aligns with broader geopolitical strategies aimed at reducing Chinese influence in Greek infrastructure, a concern echoed by the United States.

Mitsotakis highlighted the government's success in collaborating with foreign investors while maintaining significant state control in strategic sectors, citing the Public Power Corporation as an example. The prime minister's remarks came during a business forum in Singapore, where he underscored the importance of ADMIE's role in connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa through electrical interconnections. This strategic positioning is crucial in the evolving global energy landscape.

The potential entry of American investors, such as BlackRock, is seen as a means to counterbalance China's current 24% stake and enhanced management rights in ADMIE through State Grid. While the U.S. seeks to curb China's influence, there is an expectation that China will not obstruct the government's plans, allowing for the introduction of new investors without increasing State Grid's stake. This delicate balance aims to strengthen ADMIE's financial position while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics. 🌍💡

Ukraine: Several injured in attack on Kyiv

Overnight, Ukraine faced a significant escalation in Russian attacks, with drones and missiles targeting the capital city of Kiev. Mayor Vitaliy Klychko reported that residential buildings were struck, resulting in at least four injuries. The Ukrainian Ministry of Energy confirmed that energy facilities were also under attack, with restoration efforts pending once the security situation stabilizes. The Air Defense issued a nationwide missile alert, warning of a widespread threat across Ukraine.

In retaliation, Ukraine launched a substantial attack on Russian territories. In the port city of Taganrog, one person was killed, and three were injured. Meanwhile, in Krasnodar, Governor Veniamin Kondratiev described the assault as one of Ukraine's "most persistent and massive," with six residents injured and at least 20 homes damaged across five municipalities. The escalating conflict underscores the deepening hostilities between the two nations, with civilian populations bearing the brunt of the violence. 🇺🇦🇷🇺💥

US presses Ukraine on peace plan as Kyiv warns of concessions to Moscow

In the aftermath of Sunday's Geneva talks, Ukrainian officials expressed concerns that U.S. peace proposals might force Kyiv into unacceptable concessions to Russia. Despite easing pressure during the meeting, the U.S. has maintained overall pressure on Ukraine to accept a plan that includes ceding eastern regions and reducing military size. Kyiv and its European allies view the war as an unprovoked aggression, resulting in significant loss of life and displacement. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the situation as a "critical moment," while U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism for a breakthrough. The talks, involving Ukrainian, U.S., and European officials, aim to update the peace plan, with all sides agreeing that any deal must uphold Ukraine's sovereignty. Meanwhile, the war continues, with recent Russian strikes causing civilian casualties. The Kremlin has welcomed the original U.S. plan but has rejected European amendments, insisting on recognition of occupied territories. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

After Trump's threat: Pentagon investigates senator

The Pentagon has issued a statement indicating that retired military personnel, including former astronaut and current Congressman Mark Kelly, can be recalled to active duty if deemed necessary for legal proceedings or other reasons. This move is highly unusual, as the Pentagon has traditionally maintained a non-partisan stance, especially during the Trump administration. The Pentagon's statement alleges that Kelly's recent comments in a video infringe upon the "loyalty, morale, or order and discipline of the armed forces."

In the video, Kelly and five other Democratic congress members urged veterans, military personnel, and intelligence employees to refuse to carry out illegal orders, emphasizing that no one should follow orders that violate the law or the Constitution. This call to action has sparked controversy, with Defense Minister Pete Hegseth stating on his personal X account that Kelly's conduct brings the armed forces into disrepute and will be addressed appropriately. Former President Trump has also weighed in, using his Truth Social platform to suggest severe consequences for the congress members, including the possibility of imprisonment or even the death penalty for seditious behavior. This escalating rhetoric underscores the heightened tensions surrounding political discourse and military loyalty. 🚨🇺🇸

Belgium braced for three-day national strike over budget cuts

Belgium is preparing for a three-day national strike starting on Monday, as unions protest the government's proposed budget cuts and labor law reforms. The strike, set to disrupt major transportation, schools, and public services, will occur in three waves, culminating in a full general strike on Wednesday, with all flights grounded at the country's main airports.

The strike comes despite the government's recent agreement on the national budget, which includes tax hikes on various sectors and spending cuts aimed at reducing the budget deficit by €9.2 billion by 2029. The budget deal, reached after months of negotiations, seeks to address Belgium's high debt levels, which are among the highest in Europe. However, unions remain dissatisfied with the proposed reforms, particularly changes to the pension system, and have called for the strike to pressure the government into reversing or modifying these measures.

The strike is a response to Prime Minister Bart De Wever's austerity efforts, which include liberalizing the labor market, reducing unemployment benefits, and reforming pensions. The unions accuse the government of dismantling social programs and showing contempt for the social movement. Previous protests have seen tens of thousands of demonstrators take to the streets of Brussels, highlighting the deep divisions within Belgian society over the government's fiscal policies. 🚨🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️

Relentless dilemmas in geopolitical instability

In the face of escalating geopolitical instability, Greece confronts significant challenges in navigating its foreign policy. For decades, Greece pursued a multidimensional approach, balancing ties with the West, the European Union, and potential openings with Russia and China. However, the current global landscape, marked by the polarizing stance of the U.S. under President Donald Trump and Europe's diminished influence, makes this strategy increasingly difficult.

Greece must now grapple with tough decisions, particularly regarding its relations with Moscow and Beijing. The impasse with Russia raises questions about whether Greece's alignment was driven by principle or the pursuit of trade-offs, especially as the Biden administration did not offer visible concessions. Looking ahead, Greece must prepare for a potential U.S.-brokered agreement between Kyiv and Moscow, where Russia could re-emerge as a key interlocutor in the West. This scenario poses risks to Greek energy interests, as Russian gas pipelines may reopen with American approval.

Similarly, Greece faces dilemmas in its policy toward China, despite the potential benefits of stronger ties with India. The lack of a cohesive foreign policy strategy and effective coordination among government ministries further complicates Greece's ability to navigate these challenges. Athens must tread carefully, avoiding hasty decisions that could lead to missteps in its relations with major global powers. The need for a methodical and cautious approach is paramount, as Greece seeks to balance its interests in an increasingly unpredictable world. 🌍💥

US demands digital concessions in return for EU steel tariff relief

The European Union's efforts to persuade the United States to eliminate tariffs on steel and aluminum have sparked a familiar counter-demand from Washington: relax your digital regulations, and we'll find a compromise. This exchange occurred during recent meetings between EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, EU trade ministers, and U.S. representatives, including Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. The EU has expressed concerns over the U.S. Commerce Department's expansion of tariffs to over 400 products containing steel and aluminum, imposing a 50% tariff on these items. The EU argues that this broad application of tariffs contradicts the spirit of a trade framework agreement reached in July. The negotiations highlight the ongoing tensions and trade-offs between the two economic powerhouses as they seek to balance their respective interests in the global market. 🌐💼

Polish justice minister pledges investigation into far-right leader’s Auschwitz speech

Poland's justice minister, Waldemar Żurek, has vowed to take action against far-right leader Grzegorz Braun following his latest antisemitic remarks made outside the Auschwitz concentration camp. Braun, a member of the European Parliament, claimed that the Polish government is implementing directives from Jewish organizations and criticized plans to adopt a new National Strategy for Counteracting Antisemitism. He argued that promoting Jewish life in Poland is akin to inviting danger and suggested that Jews view non-Jews as subhuman. Braun also asserted that Poles are being marginalized in their own country, particularly regarding the history of World War II.

Braun's speech was swiftly condemned by Żurek, who emphasized that antisemitism has no place in Poland and that such statements harm the country's international standing. The justice minister also noted that he has requested the lifting of Braun's parliamentary immunity to face charges related to Holocaust denial. Braun has a history of controversial statements and actions, including inciting religious hatred and disrupting Jewish religious celebrations. His inflammatory rhetoric has led to multiple investigations and legal actions, underscoring the ongoing struggle against extremism in Poland. 🇵🇱🚨

US expected to escalate threats against Venezuela

The United States has designated the Cartel de los Soles, also known as the Cartel of the Suns, as a foreign terrorist organization, citing threats to domestic security from its drug-smuggling activities. This designation is part of a broader set of measures against Venezuela, including the sinking of over 20 Venezuelan ships by the U.S. military, resulting in approximately 80 deaths. The U.S. holds Venezuelan President Maduro partly responsible for these activities. In response, the U.S. Navy has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford and an accompanying armada to the Caribbean Sea off Venezuela's coast, while several airlines have suspended flights to the country due to conflict risks.

Venezuela's authoritarian leader, Maduro, has placed the country on war alert. Despite the escalating tensions, both Maduro and U.S. President Donald Trump have hinted at potential talks. Meanwhile, opposition leaders in Venezuela, such as Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado Parisca, remain in hiding or have gone into exile due to reprisals and violence. The Cartel de los Soles, originally a term coined by Venezuelans to describe corrupt military officers involved in drug trafficking, has expanded to include widespread corruption under the leadership of former President Hugo Chávez and current President Maduro. The designation "Suns" refers to the rank insignia of high-ranking officers, highlighting the deep-seated corruption within Venezuela's military and police forces. 🇻🇪🚨

Poland criticises Israeli Holocaust institute’s post suggesting Polish responsibility for German crimes

The Polish government and various officials have criticized Israel’s Holocaust remembrance center, Yad Vashem, for a social media post that implied Poland was responsible for introducing anti-Jewish measures during the Holocaust. The post suggested that Poland was the first country where Jews were forced to wear distinctive badges, without mentioning that Poland was occupied by Nazi Germany at the time. This oversight drew immediate criticism from Polish officials, including the Auschwitz Museum, which clarified that Germany was responsible for these measures. The controversy sparked a broad range of reactions across the political spectrum, with figures from the centrist Civic Coalition, the far-right Confederation, and the national-conservative Law and Justice party all condemning the post. The US ambassador to Poland also weighed in, denouncing the "grotesque falsehood" that Poles were to blame for the Holocaust. Yad Vashem later issued a clarification, acknowledging that the measures were introduced by German authorities, but the original post remains online. The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding Holocaust remembrance and the importance of accurate historical context in discussions about the atrocities committed during World War II. 🇮🇱🇵🇱

High cost of tax exemptions

Tax exemptions in Greece have reached unprecedented levels, with the state forgoing €22.88 billion in potential revenue, equivalent to 30.9% of total tax collections. This substantial sum, which increased by €4.06 billion in just one year, primarily benefits legal entities and general government bodies, significantly reducing their tax liabilities. The surge in exemptions has created a complex web of tax breaks, often implemented to address social needs and political priorities, but at the cost of a fairer and more balanced tax system. 🏦

The most significant exemptions include those for intra-group dividends and income acquired from capital gains, which have doubled in recent years. Conversely, exemptions for first-time homebuyers have been curtailed, reflecting the high cost of real estate and the shift towards investment and commercial properties. In 2024, the number of tax exemptions rose to 1,236, up from 1,106 in 2023, indicating a growing trend of tax relief measures. This proliferation of exemptions has made it increasingly difficult to assess their true fiscal impact, but it is clear that the absence of these exemptions could boost public revenues to €96.5 billion, enabling more substantial social policies and targeted reforms.