Newsflash

'Historical precedent' — Ukraine, UK sign license agreement for Octopus interceptor drones

Ukraine and the United Kingdom have forged a significant defense partnership with the signing of a license agreement to produce Octopus interceptor drones. This collaboration, announced by Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal, marks a "historical precedent" and a crucial step in enhancing Ukraine's air defense capabilities. The Octopus drones, proven effective against Russian attack drones, will be manufactured in the UK and deployed to Ukraine to bolster its defenses against ongoing Russian strikes.

Russian Shahed-type drones, originally designed in Iran and mass-produced in Russia as Geran-2, have been a primary weapon in Moscow's assaults on Ukraine. In response, Ukraine has rapidly advanced its drone technology since 2022, transitioning from modifying commercial aircraft to developing and producing attack drones and reconnaissance systems at scale. The Octopus drone is one of several interceptor drones in development, with plans for mass production reaching several thousand units per month.

This agreement underscores Ukraine's commitment to strengthening its air defenses, with Shmyhal previously stating that Kyiv aims to deploy at least 1,000 interceptor drones daily to counter Russian attacks. The collaboration with the UK is a strategic move to enhance Ukraine's defensive capabilities and secure its skies against persistent threats. 🇺🇦🇬🇧✈️

Witkoff's art of the deal? Trump aide coaches Kremlin on Ukraine deal response

A recorded phone call between U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian presidential advisor Yuri Ushakov has raised significant concerns about the Trump administration's relationship with the Kremlin. The conversation occurred amidst a controversial peace plan that appeared to favor Russian interests, calling for Ukraine to cede territory, reduce its military capabilities, and forgo NATO membership. The details of the call have intensified worries about the closeness between the Trump administration and Vladimir Putin, with critics questioning whether this represents a strategic negotiation or a capitulation to Russian demands. The revelation has sparked a debate about the U.S.'s stance on Ukraine and its broader geopolitical strategy. 📞🇷🇺🇺🇸

Belgium’s De Wever dials up opposition to Russian frozen assets deal

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has intensified his opposition to the European Commission's proposal to utilize €140 billion in frozen Russian assets, held in Brussels, to aid Ukraine. In a strongly-worded letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, De Wever expressed his reservations just hours before the Commission was set to present a plan addressing Belgium's concerns.

The Commission aims to secure an agreement among the 27 EU member states at the upcoming European Council summit to release these funds, held in the Euroclear bank, as a reparations loan for Ukraine. However, De Wever has criticized the plan as "fundamentally wrong," citing fears that Belgium could be held liable if Russia initiates legal action seeking repayment. His stance has complicated EU efforts to mobilize these assets to support Ukraine. 🇧🇪💸

Russia closes last Polish consulate in tit-for-tat move

Russia has ordered Poland to close its consulate in Irkutsk, a retaliatory move following Poland's decision to shut down Russia's consulate in Gdańsk. This escalation stems from Poland's accusation that Russia was behind the sabotage of a Polish rail line earlier this month. The mutual closures will leave both countries with only their respective embassies operating in each other's territories by the end of December.

The Russian foreign ministry summoned Polish ambassador Krzysztof Krajewski to inform him of the decision, describing Poland's closure of the Gdańsk consulate as "an openly hostile and unjustified step." Poland had previously ordered the closure of Russia's consulates in Poznań and Kraków due to alleged sabotage activities. Russia responded by closing Poland's consulates in Saint Petersburg and Kaliningrad.

Poland's security minister, Tomasz Siemoniak, anticipated Russia's retaliation, noting that the Irkutsk consulate held historical significance for Poles exiled to Siberia by the Soviets. The recent sabotage on the Warsaw-Lublin rail line, confirmed by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, was attributed to Ukrainian operatives acting on behalf of Russia. Despite charges being drafted against the suspects, their extradition from Belarus seems unlikely due to its close ties with Russia.

This diplomatic tit-for-tat underscores the deteriorating relations between Poland and Russia, with both countries now operating solely through their embassies in each other's capitals. The situation highlights the broader geopolitical tensions, as Poland continues to face a series of sabotage incidents linked to Russian operatives. 🇷🇺🇵🇱💥

How rail journeys across Europe could be made faster in the coming years

The European Commission has unveiled an ambitious plan to accelerate the development of high-speed rail networks across the EU. This initiative aims to enhance fast, comfortable, safe, and reliable rail services, aligning with the EU’s climate neutrality goals by 2050. The strategy envisions high-speed rail as a means to unite Europeans, strengthen the economy, and lead the global push for sustainable transport.

EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, emphasized that the plan will break down barriers, mobilize investments for modern infrastructure, and make cross-border rail the backbone of a carbon-neutral, competitive, and secure Europe. Key examples of potential improvements include reducing travel times from Athens to Sofia to six hours and from Copenhagen to Berlin to just four hours, facilitated by the upcoming Færmarn Belt tunnel between Denmark and Germany.

Other notable developments include enhanced cross-border connections between the Baltic countries and a direct Paris-Madrid-Lisbon route. To achieve these goals, the Commission will implement binding timetables by 2027 to reduce bottlenecks and present an EU financing strategy supported by a strategic dialogue with member states, industry, and financial actors. This plan builds on the existing trans-European transport network (TEN-T) initiative, aiming to create a more integrated and sustainable rail infrastructure across Europe. 🚄🌍

The wrong way to peace in Ukraine

The recent revelation of secret negotiations between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin for a Ukraine settlement has sparked significant concern. The proposed 28-point plan, reportedly drafted by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian official Kirill Dmitriev, heavily favors the Kremlin and demands Ukraine's acceptance by a specific deadline. This "peace" plan presents six major issues.

Firstly, it escalates the risk of nuclear war by potentially encouraging other nuclear powers to invade. Secondly, it undermines the international order by legitimizing border violations, leading to a world where invasions become common. Thirdly, it threatens regional stability by emboldening Russia to continue its aggression. Fourthly, it lacks credible enforcement mechanisms, as Russia has a history of violating agreements, and U.S. guarantees under Trump's administration are unreliable. Fifthly, it ignores the crucial aspect of reconstruction, essential for lasting peace and Ukraine's sovereignty. Lastly, it excludes key stakeholders, notably Ukraine and its European allies, from the negotiation process, which is vital for a durable settlement.

Trump's approach, driven by a desire for a Nobel Peace Prize, is flawed and risks prolonging the conflict. By sidelining Ukraine and its allies, the plan fails to address the root causes of the war and may force Ukrainians to continue fighting. Instead, a genuine peace process should involve all concerned parties, ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and security, and pave the way for reconstruction and stability. The international community must continue to support and amplify Ukraine's voice in these critical negotiations. 🕊️❌

European Space Agency to play a greater role in defense

The European Space Agency (ESA) has approved a historic €22.1 billion budget for the next three years, marking a significant expansion of its mandate to encompass security and defense. This shift represents a departure from the agency's previous focus on the exclusive peaceful use of space. The resolution, adopted by ESA's 23 member states, underscores the organization's new role in developing space technologies and systems for security and defense purposes. This strategic pivot is seen as a response to the evolving geopolitical landscape and the increasing importance of space in national security strategies. The ESA described the change as a "historic" move, reflecting the growing recognition of space as a critical domain for both civilian and military applications. 🌌🛸

Explosions reported in several Russian cities amid Ukrainian drone attack

Overnight on November 28, multiple Russian cities experienced explosions amid a widespread drone attack. Reports from independent outlets and eyewitnesses indicated that blasts occurred near the Taganrog-Yuzhny military airfield in Taganrog, as well as in Saratov and Smolensk. Air raid sirens were also activated in the coastal city of Novorossiysk, heightening tensions across the region. The details of the attacks remain unverified, and Ukraine's military has yet to comment on the incidents. This latest event follows a similar drone strike on the Russian city of Cheboksary just two days prior, where Ukrainian forces reportedly targeted a factory producing electronics for Russian weapons. Kyiv has been systematically targeting Russian military infrastructure to weaken Moscow's capabilities in its ongoing war against Ukraine. The affected cities—Taganrog, Smolensk, and Saratov—are strategically located along key waterways and borders, underscoring the potential impact of these strikes on Russia's military operations. 🇷🇺💥

Occupation authorities to send 400 Ukrainian children to Russia for mandatory 'exchange' program

The Center for National Resistance (CNR) has revealed that approximately 400 Ukrainian children from the occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast will be sent to Russia by the end of the year for a mandatory "exchange" program. This initiative, disguised as an "interregional exchange" involving educational and sports activities, is set to take place in Russia's Yaroslavl Oblast. However, the CNR warns that this program is a covert operation aimed at systematically relocating Ukrainian children deep into Russian territory, with no transparency or parental involvement.

This move is part of a broader strategy by Moscow to integrate Ukrainian children into the Russian education system, with over 500 schools in occupied territories already fully assimilated. These schools include mandatory propaganda classes, furthering Russia's influence. The abduction of Ukrainian children has been condemned internationally, with the International Criminal Court (ICC) issuing arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russia’s Commissioner for Children's Rights, Maria Lvova-Belova. Lvova-Belova has openly admitted to forcibly abducting a 15-year-old boy from Mariupol, despite his reluctance to go to Russia. This systematic effort to re-educate and assimilate Ukrainian children underscores the grave human rights violations occurring in the occupied territories. 🇷🇺👦🏼📚

Getting ready to fight back? France introduces military service as Russian threat looms

In response to the escalating threat from Russia, French President Emmanuel Macron has announced the reintroduction of mandatory military service. This historic decision aims to bolster France's defense capabilities and prepare its youth for potential conflicts. Under this new initiative, young people will undergo military training for approximately one year, receiving a monthly stipend of 800 euros. The program will be voluntary and open to all, providing an opportunity for citizens to contribute to national security while gaining valuable skills and discipline.

Macron made the announcement at an army barracks in Varces, Isère, surrounded by young individuals already in uniform. The move underscores France's commitment to enhancing its military readiness in the face of growing geopolitical tensions, particularly with Russia. This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen France's defense infrastructure and ensure the country's security in an increasingly uncertain global landscape. The program is expected to foster a sense of national unity and preparedness among the younger generation. 🇫🇷💪

US to discuss Ukraine security guarantees after peace deal signed, Rubio tells allies

The United States has committed to discussing long-term security guarantees for Ukraine following the signing of a peace agreement, according to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This assurance was conveyed to European allies during a recent call, emphasizing President Donald Trump's intention to address security concerns once a deal is reached. Ukrainian officials have insisted that any settlement must include binding security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression.

During the call, Rubio also hinted at unresolved issues, such as Ukraine's territorial integrity and the status of frozen Russian assets, which are critical to European diplomats. However, the specifics of the security guarantees the U.S. would provide remain uncertain. Trump has ruled out deploying American troops as peacekeepers, while Moscow has threatened to view any foreign contingents as legitimate targets. European allies, however, have expressed readiness to deploy peacekeepers once a ceasefire is established.

This discussion comes after Washington presented a peace proposal to Kyiv in mid-November, which was criticized for its favorable conditions towards Russia. The original framework, initially comprising 28 points, was reduced to 22 after negotiations in Geneva. Kyiv rejected key elements of the draft, including withdrawing from unoccupied eastern Donbas, reducing its army to 600,000 troops, and forgoing NATO membership. Despite Trump's pledge to swiftly end the conflict, his efforts have yet to yield a breakthrough, as Moscow continues to reject a ceasefire and demands extensive territorial concessions. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇺🇦

Regular coaches to Russia, Belarus could be banned in Latvia

In response to security concerns, Latvia is implementing significant restrictions on passenger transport services to Russia and Belarus. As of November 1, 2025, non-regular passenger transport, both direct and transit, to these countries will be prohibited for all carriers, regardless of their legal status or vehicle registration. Currently, regular international passenger coach services are limited to three routes each for Russia and Belarus. The Ministry of Transport is drafting a Cabinet Order to further restrict these routes by canceling existing permits or not renewing them.

Transport Minister Atis Švinka emphasized that the Cabinet Order will be grounded in security considerations and will allow for reassessment if circumstances change. However, the order must be legally sound to prevent financial losses to the state. In the long term, the Ministry is evaluating the need to amend regulations to include safety risk assessments as a basis for limiting or suspending permit issuances. An opposition request to suspend these services was recently rejected in the Saeima, indicating the government's commitment to proceeding with the planned restrictions. 🚌🚫

Palestinians shot with their hands outstretched

A high-profile shooting in Jenin was captured on video and published by an Egyptian television company. The footage shows two men walking out of a house with their hands raised, only to be ordered to lie on the ground and subsequently shot at close range by Israeli soldiers. The soldiers are heard claiming that the men disobeyed military orders and entered a house, contradicting the visual evidence. The Palestinian Authority has condemned the incident, accusing the Israeli military of "deliberate war crimes" and describing the killings as summary executions. In response, the Israeli military stated that the men were suspected of "terrorist activity" and were forced out of a building, with witnesses reporting the use of rocket launchers. The incident is under investigation by both the military and the police. Meanwhile, ultranationalist Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed his full support for the soldiers involved, stating that "terrorists will die." The conflicting narratives and the minister's staunch defense of the soldiers have further escalated tensions in the region. 🎥🔍

Thursday's papers: 5,000 troops in Archipelago, Finland's economic slide from grace, and a gambler (briefly) fools Kela

A significant NATO joint maritime defense exercise, dubbed "Freezing Winds 25," is underway in southern Finland, the Archipelago Sea, and the Gulf of Finland, involving around 5,000 troops from Finland, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, France, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, and the U.S. This historic Finnish Navy-led drill, featuring 20 combat ships and various support vessels, simulates a defense scenario in the Baltic Sea region, including Estonian waters. The exercise highlights Finland's expertise in maritime mine clearing and involves continuous operations of fighter jets, maritime surveillance aircraft, and helicopters. While the drills may cause minor disruptions, locals are advised to expect increased military activity.

Meanwhile, Finland faces growing economic challenges, as the European Commission initiates disciplinary steps due to the country's excessive state deficit, which has surpassed the EU's 3% of GDP threshold. This shift marks a stark contrast to Finland's past economic discipline, with the country now grappling with deficits since 2008. The decline is attributed to the waning dominance of Nokia and a lack of political will to address the slow economic deterioration. The Ministry of Finance acknowledges the situation and awaits the EU's corrective measures.

In unrelated news, a Finnish man was convicted of aggravated fraud for concealing around €200,000 in gambling winnings while receiving social assistance benefits. The individual, who ran a pizzeria, used the benefits to support his family and cover debts, claiming he was unaware of the need to declare his winnings. However, the court found his actions systematic and deliberate, resulting in a six-month suspended sentence and an order to compensate the social insurance agency for over €23,600 in damages. The verdict is subject to appeal. 💸🎰🇫🇮

Nobel Prize winner: Will never be allowed to leave Iran

Narges Mohammadi, a prominent Iranian human rights activist and 2023 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has been separated from her teenage twins, Kiana and Ali, for over a decade. In a recent video message, Mohammadi revealed that she had applied for a passport to visit her children but was denied due to permanent travel bans imposed by the Islamic Republic. She expressed her frustration, noting that while the authorities impose lifelong restrictions on her, they live in constant fear of the regime's eventual downfall.

Mohammadi, 53, has spent much of the past ten years in Evin Prison in Tehran but was granted limited medical leave in December 2023. Her lawyers have cautioned that she could be returned to prison at any time. Her twins, now 19, reside in Paris with their father, Mohammadi's husband, and accepted her Nobel Prize on her behalf in Oslo. The activist's ongoing struggle highlights the severe restrictions and human rights abuses she faces under the Iranian regime. 🇮🇷🏛️

Guinea-Bissau suspended from cooperation

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced that Guinea-Bissau will remain suspended from the regional bloc until constitutional order is restored. This decision follows a military takeover in the country, which occurred just days after presidential and parliamentary elections. The military intervention has plunged Guinea-Bissau into political turmoil, with both President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and opposition leader Fernando Dias declaring victory, leading to heightened tensions.

On Thursday, the military's chief of staff, General Horta N'Tam, was sworn in as the new leader, initiating a one-year transition period. President Embaló, who is currently in neighboring Senegal, has been accused by the opposition of orchestrating the coup to avoid accepting the election results. The African Union and the European Union have both condemned the coup, urging a swift return to constitutional governance and the resumption of the electoral process. The situation in Guinea-Bissau remains volatile, with calls for resistance from the opposition and international pressure for a peaceful resolution. 🇬🇼💥

The big news is elsewhere

The media's focus on former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras' book may seem excessive, but it is warranted given the lingering impact of the SYRIZA-ANEL coalition government (2015-2019) and the traumatic memories it evokes. The coalition's attempts to influence liberal institutions, which are crucial for maintaining democratic checks and balances, have left a lasting impression. These efforts, though ultimately unsuccessful, highlighted the potential risks to Greece's democratic framework, reminiscent of illiberal democracies like Hungary, Russia, and Venezuela, where elections exist but are manipulated by ruling parties.

The current political climate in Greece seems complacent, with many believing that the election of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in 2019 marked the end of such threats. This complacency is evident in the lack of public discussion surrounding the Predator spyware scandal, where four company executives are on trial. Key testimonies, including allegations of political interference and threats, have largely gone unnoticed. For instance, Stamatis Trimbalis, a legal representative involved in the case, claimed he was given prepared answers by the accused and felt secure knowing New Democracy was in power. Another witness, a major general of the Hellenic Police, reported receiving threatening messages referencing unsolved journalist murders. Despite the gravity of these revelations, the trial is proceeding quietly in a single-member misdemeanor court in Athens, with minimal public attention. This lack of scrutiny raises concerns about the ongoing health of Greek democracy and the potential for future abuses of power. 📜🔍

Lithuania’s goal of normalising ties with China shows little progress

Lithuania's new government, led by Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė, aims to normalize diplomatic relations with China to align with those of other EU member states. However, this goal faces significant challenges. The previous administration had highlighted China's growing foreign policy and security risks, particularly its alliance with Russia and influence in Belarus. Despite the new government's efforts, there is little public evidence of improved relations with Beijing more than a month into its tenure.

The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry acknowledges ongoing communication with China but remains tight-lipped about the details, citing the sensitive nature of the discussions. The diplomatic rift began in late 2021 when Lithuania permitted the opening of a Taiwanese representative office in Vilnius, named "Taiwanese." This move provoked Beijing, leading to severe diplomatic and economic retaliation, including the downgrading of diplomatic relations from ambassador to chargé d'affaires. The path to mending these frayed ties appears fraught with obstacles, as both sides navigate the complex geopolitical landscape. 🇱🇹🇨🇳🇹🇼

Threat of war: Which countries in Europe have military service?

Conscription policies across Europe vary significantly, with some countries maintaining mandatory military service, others reintroducing it, and a few transitioning to voluntary schemes. Denmark, Finland, Norway, Estonia, Greece, Cyprus, Austria, and Switzerland continue to enforce compulsory military service for men, with Finland, Norway, and Estonia also offering voluntary service for women. Denmark and Finland have extended their service periods and, in Denmark's case, made it compulsory for women as well.

Lithuania, Sweden, Latvia, and Croatia have reinstated conscription in recent years, citing security concerns and the need for a robust defense force. Lithuania and Sweden include women in their conscription policies, while Latvia and Croatia maintain mandatory service for men only. France, Belgium, Romania, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Poland, and Germany are among the countries exploring or implementing voluntary military service programs, aiming to engage young citizens in national defense without mandatory conscription.

In contrast, countries like the United Kingdom have decided against reinstating conscription, focusing instead on voluntary recruitment. The diverse approaches reflect each nation's unique security needs, societal values, and historical contexts, shaping their military policies and defense strategies. 🌍🏛️

Rail Baltica to require €500–600 million annually in investments

The Rail Baltica project, a significant railway initiative connecting the Baltic states, is set to receive substantial annual investments of €500–600 million through 2030, primarily funded through the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility. The project aims to complete the railway within five years, with a comprehensive investment plan ensuring its readiness by 2029, although construction will continue into 2030. Anvar Salomets, CEO of Rail Baltic Estonia, highlighted the necessity of these investments, emphasizing that the project's scope has expanded, leading to an increase in share capital. However, this increase is modest, with a yearly limit of €4 million, and is primarily used to cover overhead and eligible expenses for foreign funding. The Rail Baltica project is crucial for enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration within the Baltic states. 🚄🇪🇺