Newsflash

Poland charges three Belarusians and two Ukrainians with espionage

Poland has charged five individuals, including three Belarusians and two Ukrainians, with espionage on behalf of Russian intelligence. The suspects, who were recruited via Telegram and compensated in cryptocurrency, conducted various tasks such as photographing critical infrastructure and creating propaganda. Among the detained are a minor and a hospitalised individual who remains at liberty due to health reasons. The arrests follow a pattern of Russian intelligence operations targeting immigrants and refugees in Poland.

The suspects, who confessed to most of the alleged acts, face prison sentences ranging from five to 30 years if convicted. This latest case underscores the ongoing threat of Russian espionage and sabotage in Poland, with recent incidents including arson attacks and rail sabotage. In response to these "hybrid actions," Poland has closed several Russian consulates, leading to a reciprocal closure of Polish consulates in Russia. The Polish foreign minister affirmed the correctness of these closures, while a former security services spokesman criticised the delay in detaining the suspects, calling for enhanced counterintelligence efforts. 🇵🇱🕵️‍♂️

At least three killed in Russian drone and missile strikes on Ukraine

At least three people have been killed in recent Russian drone and missile strikes on Ukraine. The attacks targeted various regions, causing significant damage and civilian casualties. The strikes underscore the ongoing conflict and the persistent threat posed by Russian military actions. The situation remains tense, with Ukrainian authorities working to respond to the attacks and provide aid to affected areas. The international community continues to monitor the developments closely, expressing concern over the escalating violence and its impact on regional stability. 🇺🇦💥

Germany’s far-right AfD sets up youth wing, drawing thousands of demonstrators

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in the German city of Giessen to protest the launch of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party’s new youth organization, Generation Germany. The event, initially scheduled for 10 AM, was delayed due to clashes between AfD supporters and police. Protesters blocked roads and threw stones, leading to the use of pepper spray and water cannons by authorities. AfD leaders condemned the protests, labeling them as undemocratic.

The new youth wing replaces the previously dissolved Young Alternative, a group classified by Germany's domestic intelligence agency as a right-wing extremist organization. The AfD, which finished second in Germany's recent national election with over 20% of the vote, aims to have closer oversight of the new youth group. The party, known for its anti-immigration stance and anti-establishment rhetoric, continues to gain traction as Chancellor Friedrich Merz's coalition government struggles to win voter support. With regional elections approaching in five German states, including two in the AfD-strong ex-communist east, the party's leaders expressed confidence in securing a majority of mandates and potentially providing Germany's first AfD governor. The new youth organization is expected to continue the radical political activism of its predecessor, with a focus on attracting young members and integrating them into the party's political structure. The AfD's rise underscores growing discontent among German voters, who are increasingly drawn to the party's anti-establishment message and tough stance on immigration. 🇩🇪🚨

Security guarantees a 'sticking point' in Ukraine peace deal

Negotiations for a peace deal in Ukraine have hit a significant hurdle due to disagreements over security guarantees. The core issue revolves around the level of security assurances that Ukraine will receive from Western countries, particularly the United States and key European nations. Ukraine is pushing for robust, legally binding security commitments to protect it from future Russian aggression, while some Western allies are more cautious, preferring non-binding assurances that stop short of full-fledged defense pacts.

The debate centers on the extent to which Western powers are willing to commit to Ukraine's defense. Ukraine argues that only ironclad guarantees can provide the necessary deterrence against potential future threats from Russia. However, some Western nations are reluctant to offer such strong commitments, fearing it could escalate tensions with Russia or entangle them in future conflicts. This impasse has stalled progress towards a comprehensive peace agreement, leaving Ukraine's security in limbo.

The situation is further complicated by internal divisions within the Western alliance. While some countries, like Poland and the Baltic states, strongly support Ukraine and advocate for firm security guarantees, others, such as Germany and France, are more hesitant, seeking a balance between supporting Ukraine and maintaining diplomatic channels with Russia. This lack of consensus has made it challenging to present a united front in negotiations, prolonging the uncertainty for Ukraine.

As talks continue, the focus remains on finding a middle ground that addresses Ukraine's security concerns while respecting the political and strategic sensitivities of Western allies. The outcome will significantly shape the future security architecture in Eastern Europe and determine the extent of Western involvement in the region. 🇺🇦🇷🇺

Macron to host Zelensky for talks in Paris on Monday

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Monday. This visit comes as the United States is actively pushing for a resolution to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukraine has intensified its efforts to disrupt Russian oil exports, reportedly using drones to target two "shadow fleet" tankers suspected of transporting sanctioned Russian oil. The meeting between Zelensky and Macron is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties and coordinating a response to Russia's aggression. Additionally, recent developments in Ukraine include the resignation of Zelensky's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, amid a corruption scandal, and heightened tensions with Russia, as evidenced by the arrest of individuals accused of working for a foreign intelligence service. 🇫🇷🇺🇦

Ukrainian suspected in Nord Stream explosions appears in German court

A court in Karlsruhe has ordered the detention of a Ukrainian man extradited from Italy, who is suspected of orchestrating the sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea. The Ukrainian national, a professional diver, was arrested in Rimini, Italy, in August and is accused of using forged identity documents to rent a boat used in the operation. Prosecutors allege that he and two other Ukrainian diving instructors placed explosives on the pipelines, which were discovered damaged and leaking gas in September 2022 in Swedish and Danish waters. While some initially suspected Russian involvement, Moscow denied the allegations. The incident prompted Finland to halt tourist visa issuance to Russian nationals, citing the pipeline damage and disputed elections in Russian-occupied Ukrainian regions. The suspect's detention marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the pipeline sabotage. 💥🇺🇦🇷🇺

Moldova: New drone violation

Moldova has invoked emergency measures after two unidentified drones breached its airspace, posing a direct threat to aviation safety. The Ministry of Defense confirmed the incident, highlighting the ongoing issue of airspace violations in the region. This recent event follows a previous report of a drone crash in Moldova, part of a larger incident involving six drones.

President Maia Sandu has accused Russia of using Moldovan airspace to launch drone attacks on Ukraine. She condemned these actions, stating that Russian drones violated Moldovan airspace en route to target Ukrainian civilians. Sandu expressed solidarity with Ukraine, emphasizing Moldova's stance against such aggressive actions. The repeated incursions underscore the geopolitical tensions in the region, with Moldova caught between Ukraine and Romania. 🛩️🚨

Pope removes shoes but doesn’t pray on visit to Istanbul’s Blue Mosque

Pope Leo, during his inaugural overseas trip as the leader of the Catholic Church, visited Istanbul’s iconic Blue Mosque, a significant gesture of interfaith respect. He removed his shoes upon entering the mosque, a customary sign of reverence, and toured the expansive complex accompanied by the mosque’s imam and the mufti of Istanbul. Although Leo did not engage in prayer during the visit, he engaged in lighthearted conversation with his guides, including the mosque’s lead muezzin. The Vatican initially released a statement claiming that the pope had prayed and been welcomed by the head of Turkey’s state-run religious organization, which was later corrected as an error. The pope’s decision not to visit the nearby Hagia Sophia, a historic site that was recently reconverted into a mosque, marked a departure from previous papal visits to Turkey. Leo’s trip, which also includes a visit to Lebanon, is being closely observed as he navigates his role on the global stage. His visit to Turkey, the first stop on his international tour, commemorates the 1,700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed and underscores his commitment to interfaith dialogue and Christian unity. 🕌🤝

Golden Visa losing its shine?

The Golden Visa program, which grants residence permits through significant investments, is experiencing a decline in new applications. In October, applications dropped by 49% compared to the same month last year, with a total of 6,212 applications submitted from January to October, marking a 12% decrease year-over-year. This trend follows a surge in applications between 2023 and 2024, driven by successive increases in the minimum investment threshold, particularly in Attica. As a result, there are currently 10,946 pending applications, with processing times exceeding a year.

Despite the drop in new applications, the approval of new permits has surged. In the first 10 months of this year, 7,156 new initial investor permits were granted, a 109% increase compared to the same period last year. Since the program's inception, a total of 25,573 permits and renewals have been approved, with an additional 12,910 pending, bringing the total to 39,009, not including family members of investors. The program has already attracted €6.44 billion in foreign capital, with an additional €2.73 billion pending, totaling over €9.17 billion. This influx has significantly boosted liquidity in the real estate market and benefited property sellers. 🏠💸

Zelenskyy’s ex-right-hand man vows to fight on frontline after ouster in corruption scandal

Andriy Yermak, former chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has announced his intention to join the frontlines in Ukraine's ongoing conflict. Yermak's decision comes amid a corruption scandal that led to his abrupt dismissal on Friday, following a raid on his home by the national anti-corruption watchdog. Expressing feelings of betrayal and a desire to avoid further complications for the president, Yermak stated that he would fight for his country, asserting that his dignity had not been protected. This move underscores the intense pressures and personal sacrifices faced by those involved in Ukraine's political and military landscape.

Turkey to miss deadline for inclusion in EU’s SAFE defense mechanism

Turkey will not meet the November 30 deadline for inclusion in the EU’s €150 billion defense loan mechanism, SAFE (Security Action for Europe), despite backing from key member states like Germany. The European Commission confirmed that Turkey, along with South Korea, will not be processed in time due to ongoing evaluations. Germany had strongly advocated for Turkey’s inclusion, viewing it as a crucial NATO partner. However, Turkey’s bid has faced significant hurdles, including potential vetoes from Greece and Cyprus, as well as objections from France.

Additionally, negotiations with the United Kingdom for its participation in SAFE have collapsed. The EU’s request for a £6.75 billion contribution was deemed too high by London, which countered with a mere £82 million offer. While Turkey and the UK can still engage in bilateral defense projects with EU countries, deeper cooperation is limited to 35% of any SAFE-funded project and requires special agreements that are no longer viable. The EU continues negotiations with Canada, aiming to avoid another setback in its outreach to allied partners. The 19 EU member states planning to join SAFE must submit their national programs by the deadline, with initial disbursements expected before the end of the year. 🇪🇺🇹🇷🇬🇧🇨🇦

Attica hit by deepening reservoir crisis

Attica, the region encompassing Athens, is grappling with its most severe and prolonged drought in decades, prompting the Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company (EYDAP) to declare a state of emergency. The region's water reserves have plummeted by 32.2 million cubic meters in just 40 days, with reservoirs like Evinos, Mornos, Yliki, and Marathonas showing alarming declines. Even with a significant increase in inflows, it would take six years for the reservoirs to return to their 2021 levels.

The drought is attributed to a 25% decrease in annual rainfall, a 15% increase in evaporation, and a 6% rise in water consumption. The Standard Rainfall Index has hit an extreme low of -2.01, indicating severe drought conditions. EYDAP has implemented several measures to mitigate the crisis, including operating additional boreholes and reducing ecological flows. However, these efforts may not be enough to offset the ongoing water loss. The Regulatory Authority for Waste, Energy and Water (RAAEY) has approved EYDAP’s emergency declaration, acknowledging the urgent need for action. The public is also being urged to conserve water, with a 5% reduction in consumption expected through awareness campaigns. 💦🌳

Top Ukraine officials head to US for Sunday peace talks

A high-level Ukrainian delegation, led by Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, is set to travel to the United States for crucial talks with American officials. The discussions will focus on a proposed peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The delegation's visit comes in the wake of significant political changes in Kyiv, including the dismissal of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's top adviser, Andriy Yermak. Yermak, who was instrumental in Ukraine's relations with Western allies, was removed from his position following an anti-corruption raid on his residence. This shift in leadership underscores the urgency and importance of the upcoming negotiations, as Ukraine seeks to secure international support for a lasting peace agreement.

Greece joins space nations with launch of five microsatellites

Greece has successfully launched five microsatellites from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, marking a significant achievement in the country’s National Microsatellite Program. The launch includes two operational ICEYE radar satellites designed to provide continuous Earth observation data for civil protection and national security. Additionally, three experimental satellites—two PHASMA units and one MICE-1—will test secure connectivity and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

Digital Governance Minister Dimitris Papastergiou celebrated the milestone, stating that Greece’s presence in space is now a reality. This development enables Greece to acquire its own space data for the first time, enhancing the nation’s capabilities in various sectors. The program is funded through the Recovery and Resilience Fund, with support from the European Space Agency. This launch underscores Greece’s growing prowess in space technology and its commitment to leveraging space for national advancement. 🌍🛰️

Paasikivi received his doctor's hat

Joakim Paasikiivi, a former lieutenant colonel and military strategy instructor at the Swedish National Defense University, has gained prominence in Sweden due to his insights on Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Recently, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from Jönköping University, recognizing his significant contributions to public education and analysis in security policy, geopolitics, and international relations. These areas are deemed crucial for advancing social science research and fostering sustainable societal development. 🎓🌍

South Africans suspected of signing for Russia

South African authorities have arrested several men suspected of illegally joining the Russian military to fight in Ukraine. The arrests followed a tip-off to the police, who are investigating violations of South African law that prohibits citizens from enlisting in foreign armies without government approval. A preliminary investigation suggests that a South African woman facilitated the recruitment and entry of these individuals into the Russian Federation's military.

The police investigation gained public attention last week when it was revealed that Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, was allegedly involved in luring 17 South African men to Russia under false pretenses. These men were reportedly unaware that they were being recruited to fight in the war in Ukraine. Zuma-Sambudla has since resigned from her position as a Member of Parliament. Ukraine has reported that 1,426 citizens from various African countries have joined the Russian army, and international media have also highlighted cases of African women being offered contracts to work in Russia's drone factories. 🇷🇺🇺🇦🇿🇦💥

European travel chaos fears ease after Airbus intervenes on software fix

A major European aircraft manufacturer recently announced that its planes would remain grounded until a critical software update was completed, following a technical malfunction on a U.S. flight that exposed vulnerabilities to solar radiation. This incident raised concerns about widespread disruptions, but several leading European airlines reported minimal cancellations, attributing the situation to effective logistical management. The manufacturer's CEO acknowledged the challenges but assured that updates were being deployed swiftly to prioritize safety.

The issue stemmed from a JetBlue flight in October, where intense solar radiation corrupted critical flight control data, causing the plane to nosedive. The manufacturer instructed clients to take immediate action, leading to the grounding of numerous aircraft. However, French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot reported that the defect had been corrected on over 5,000 aircraft, with far fewer than initially feared requiring prolonged servicing. Most updates could be done remotely and quickly, minimizing disruptions.

European airlines like Air France, Lufthansa, and EasyJet reported minimal or no cancellations, with most software updates completed overnight. In contrast, Latin American and Asian regions faced more significant challenges. For instance, Colombian airline Avianca warned of substantial disruptions, while Philippine carriers offered refunds and rebookings after grounding dozens of flights. The manufacturer and airlines are working diligently to resolve the issue, prioritizing passenger safety and minimizing travel disruptions. 🛬️🌍

Thousands of Airbus planes grounded by software glitch

A significant portion of Airbus's global fleet, specifically the A320 family of aircraft, has been temporarily grounded due to a technical issue related to solar radiation. The European airplane manufacturer identified a problem where intense solar radiation could corrupt critical data essential for the functioning of flight controls. This discovery followed an incident where a JetBlue flight from Florida to Mexico experienced a sudden loss of altitude, prompting an emergency landing. The incident resulted in the hospitalization of around 15 individuals.

Airbus confirmed that approximately 6,000 aircraft are affected, but for the majority, a quick software fix will resolve the issue, allowing most planes to resume operations swiftly. Several European airlines, including Lufthansa, Swiss, and Austrian Airlines, have reported disruptions due to this grounding. However, Brussels Airlines has stated that its flights remain unaffected. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has temporarily halted flights on certain Airbus planes as a precautionary measure. 🛩️🌞

Company expelled from Turku Shipyard keeps hiring

An Estonian company, previously expelled from the Turku shipyard for alleged worker exploitation, continues to recruit welders in Finland. The firm, Hodes, has been advertising jobs in both Turku and Helsinki, as revealed by an investigation conducted by STT, a Finnish news agency. Posing as a Ukrainian jobseeker, STT discovered that the company is still actively hiring, despite previous reports of underpaying Ukrainian workers.

In September, STT exposed the underpayment of Ukrainian workers employed by Estonian subcontractors at the Turku shipyard. Following this revelation, Meyer Turku, the operator of the shipyard, terminated contracts with two firms implicated in the scandal: Hodes and Bongo Marine. Both companies share the same Tallinn address and use the same recruitment phone number. Initially, Hodes advertised shipbuilding and repair jobs in Finland, promising above-average pay, free accommodation, and workwear. Despite the allegations and subsequent termination of contracts, the company persists in its recruitment efforts, raising concerns about ongoing labor exploitation. The Meyer Turku shipyard is renowned for manufacturing some of the world's largest cruise liners. 🚢

Polish city becomes first to break ties with Israel, citing “Gaza genocide”

The city of Sopot, a renowned Baltic Sea resort in Poland, has become the first Polish municipality to terminate its long-standing partnership with an Israeli city due to the ongoing situation in Gaza. The decision, driven by a civic initiative supported by the left-wing Together party, Amnesty International, and local pro-Palestinian activists, followed a call to end the 30-year partnership with Ashkelon. The resolution, which garnered over 300 signatures from local residents, accused Israel of carrying out "full-scale ethnic cleansing" in Gaza since 2023, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths, including approximately 20,000 children. While acknowledging Hamas' crimes, the resolution held Israel solely responsible for the "genocide" in Gaza. The city council voted to adopt the resolution, with nine members in favor, six against, and six abstaining or absent. The move has sparked debate, with some councillors arguing for suspension of cooperation rather than a complete break, and others criticizing the resolution for being one-sided. This decision comes amid broader political tensions, with Poland's foreign minister and prime minister previously criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza and the West Bank. The far-right Confederation party has also submitted a resolution to Poland’s parliament condemning Israel’s actions and Hamas' attacks, although it has not yet been voted on. 🇵🇱🇮🇱🏙️