Newsflash

EU leader warns of US interference in Europe's affairs as Russia praises Trump's security vision

EU leaders are expressing growing concern over potential U.S. interference in European affairs, particularly as Russia has praised Donald Trump's vision for global security. The shift in U.S. foreign policy, which now prioritizes commercial deals over shared democratic values, has left Europe vulnerable. This was evident when Trump, after a lengthy call with Vladimir Putin, chose not to impose new sanctions on Russia, despite the lack of progress in peace talks.

Europe faces significant security risks, especially on its eastern border, where Russia is escalating military activity. The continent struggles to provide credible security guarantees to Ukraine without robust American support. This uncertainty extends beyond Eastern Europe, as allies now question the reliability of U.S. backing, which may hinge on commercial opportunities rather than longstanding partnerships.

To address these challenges, Europe must rapidly bolster its defense capabilities. Current NATO spending targets of 2% of GDP are deemed insufficient, with discussions underway to raise them to 3%. However, achieving true strategic autonomy requires investment in critical assets like satellite systems, intelligence, and heavy transport—capabilities that surpass the capacity of individual nations. While Germany could potentially allocate €1 trillion for defense, most European countries lack such fiscal capacity. The EU’s recent €150 billion SAFE mechanism helps but falls short of the required investment scale.

To navigate these challenges, Europe must innovate and collaborate. Two proposals are gaining traction: a European Rearmament Bank, modeled after the EBRD, to provide low-cost loans for defense projects, and a European Defense Mechanism, inspired by the ESM, to directly purchase equipment on behalf of governments. Both could be implemented swiftly, as past financial institutions were established in mere months. While resistance may arise from nations protective of their defense industries or wary of shared debt, the benefits—a stronger, more unified European defense market and greater continental security—are undeniable. The time for decisive action is now. 🚀

The mother of all wake-up calls from Washington to Europe?

In a recent discussion, Ian Lesser, vice president and Brussels chief of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, examined President Donald Trump's new National Security Strategy, which delivers a stark critique of Europe. This strategy has been described as a "mother of all wake-up calls" for the continent, signaling a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy. The document emphasizes a transactional approach, prioritizing deals over shared democratic values, and warns Europe of the consequences of its reliance on American support. The strategy underscores the need for Europe to bolster its defense capabilities and reduce dependence on the U.S., urging the continent to take greater responsibility for its security. This call to action highlights the growing tensions and expectations between Washington and Europe, emphasizing the urgency for Europe to strengthen its strategic autonomy and defense mechanisms. 🌍💥

War in Ukraine: Attacks continue despite diplomacy with the US

Russia's relentless assault on Ukraine continues unabated, with a recent nighttime attack involving 88 drones and six missiles targeting multiple regions, including Kharkiv, Poltava, Mykolaiv, Kherson, and Kirovohrad. Despite Ukrainian air defenses intercepting 71 drones, the strikes caused significant damage and injuries, including a child wounded in Mykolaiv. The attacks underscore the ongoing intensity of the conflict, which persists even as diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Russia unfold. Meanwhile, Europe faces mounting security challenges, compounded by shifting U.S. foreign policy priorities and the need for rapid rearmament to safeguard its values and sovereignty. 💥🌍

EU says it will ‘make sure’ Elon Musk’s X pays €120M fine

The European Commission has announced its intention to enforce the €120 million fine imposed on Elon Musk's X (formerly Twitter) for non-compliance with the EU's Digital Services Act. The penalty, issued for breaching transparency and deceptive design obligations, has sparked a wave of criticism from U.S. officials, Musk, and his supporters, with some advocating for refusal to pay the fine. The Commission remains firm in its stance, asserting that it will ensure the collection of the owed amount. This development underscores the ongoing tensions between regulatory bodies and tech giants over platform accountability and transparency. 💶📵

Cartoon (08/12/2025)

The openly racist and fascist Blue-Black Movement has been reinstated as a political party in Finland. The group, which initially registered in 2022, was removed from the party register in 2024 after the Supreme Administrative Court ruled its program violated constitutional and human rights laws. However, following a review, the Justice Ministry deemed the group’s updated rules and program acceptable, allowing its re-registration.

Founded by former members of the Finns Party, the Blue-Black Movement promotes ethnonationalist ideologies and draws inspiration from the Lapua Movement, a radical nationalist and fascist group active in Finland in the late 1920s and early 1930s. The group recently held a May Day event in Tampere, where participants carried Finnish flags and a banner reading "May Day is White." The movement’s re-emergence raises concerns about extremist ideologies gaining political influence in Finland. 🇫🇮⚠️

Antonio Costa says Europe cannot accept US 'threat to interfere'

European leaders are expressing growing unease over the shifting stance of the United States under the new administration, particularly concerning its approach to global conflicts and alliances. Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa has openly criticized the U.S. for what he perceives as a "threat to interfere" in European affairs, emphasizing that Europe must assert its independence and sovereignty in the face of this evolving geopolitical landscape. The concern stems from recent signals that the U.S. may prioritize commercial interests over traditional alliances, potentially leaving Europe vulnerable to security threats, particularly from Russia.

This uncertainty has prompted a renewed focus on Europe's defense capabilities. European leaders are calling for a significant increase in defense spending, with discussions underway to raise NATO's target from 2% to 3% of GDP. Additionally, there is a push for greater investment in strategic assets such as satellite systems, intelligence, and heavy transport to reduce dependence on the U.S. However, the challenge lies in coordinating these efforts across the continent, given the diverse political and economic interests of individual nations.

To address these challenges, proposals for new financial mechanisms, such as a European Rearmament Bank or a European Defense Mechanism, are gaining traction. These institutions could provide the necessary funding and coordination to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities while ensuring efficient procurement and reducing fragmentation in the defense industry. The urgency of these efforts is underscored by the need to counter emerging threats, particularly from Russia, and to safeguard Europe's security and sovereignty in an increasingly uncertain world. 🌍💥

European allies back Zelensky after Trump criticism

European allies have rallied behind Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following recent criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump. The support underscores a united front in defense of Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression. Trump's remarks, which questioned Zelensky's leadership and the U.S. commitment to Ukraine, have sparked concern among European leaders, who view a strong, independent Ukraine as crucial for regional stability. European officials have emphasized the importance of continued support for Ukraine, both militarily and politically, to counter Russian expansionism and uphold democratic values. The solidarity shown by European allies highlights their determination to stand with Ukraine in the face of external challenges and ensure its sovereignty and security. 🤝🌍

Britain will beef up anti-corruption force amid national security fears

The U.K. government has announced a £15 million investment to expand its Domestic Corruption Unit, a specialized body focused on investigating corruption within local authorities and financial institutions. This move comes amid growing concerns that corruption poses a significant threat to national security. The expansion is part of a broader anti-corruption strategy, which outlines over 100 measures aimed at combating bribery, money laundering, and intimidation. The strategy underscores the government's commitment to strengthening integrity and transparency across public and private sectors. 🇬🇧💰

Farm protests may end, but government woes won’t

Farmers across Greece have been staging widespread protests, blocking highways in a show of discontent against the conservative government. The unrest began in Thessaly, a region heavily reliant on agriculture and still recovering from devastating floods in 2023 that destroyed farms, livestock, and villages. Farmers there also feel unfairly penalized by delayed subsidies following a farm subsidy scandal, primarily centered on Crete. Cretan farmers, too, face financial losses due to the scandal, while all Greek farmers grapple with rising production costs.

The ongoing protests pose significant challenges for the ruling New Democracy party. A government minister acknowledged that while the blockades will eventually end, the underlying issues will persist. Adding to the party's woes, a second judicial investigation into the subsidy scandal may soon implicate local New Democracy leaders in Thessaly, further eroding public support. To ease tensions, the government plans to pay outstanding subsidies by the end of December, though this may only offer temporary relief. Recent opinion polls indicate a sharp decline in New Democracy's popularity in both Thessaly and Crete, signaling growing discontent among farmers and the broader public. 🌾🚜

Fifteen face multiple charges following Grigoropoulos march

Fifteen individuals arrested during a march commemorating the 2008 police killing of 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos now face multiple misdemeanor charges. The annual demonstration, held in Athens, often draws large crowds and occasionally turns violent as participants protest police brutality. The charges against the defendants include disturbing the peace, attempted assault on police officers, damage to public property, violence against officials while armed, disobedience, insults and threats, illegal possession of weapons, and refusal to submit to fingerprinting. The case has been referred to the Summary Three-Member Misdemeanor Court for trial. 🚨🇬🇷

Greece, Germany agree to cancel backlog of asylum cases under EU rules

Greece and Germany have reached an agreement to clear a backlog of asylum cases under the EU’s Dublin Regulation, a move aimed at easing the burden on Greece as it prepares to implement the upcoming EU Migration Pact in June 2026. The deal, announced after a meeting between Greek Migration Minister Thanos Plevris and his German counterpart in Brussels, will cancel all outstanding asylum cases, allowing Greece to avoid the obligation of re-examining applications from asylum seekers who transited through its territory. This agreement is seen as a gesture of solidarity from Germany, which has also faced challenges with secondary migration flows.

The Greece-Germany accord is expected to set a precedent for similar deals with other EU member states that support Greece’s stance on the Migration and Asylum Pact, the new Returns Regulation, and calls for greater EU assistance for frontline countries. This development comes as the EU finalizes a broader overhaul of its migration system, which includes measures such as streamlined deportations, increased detentions, and the creation of a "solidarity pool" to distribute costs among member states for hosting refugees. The reforms also introduce a "safe third country" principle, allowing EU nations to reject or deport asylum seekers who could seek protection elsewhere.

While the EU’s new migration policies are intended to strengthen control over migration flows, critics warn that the measures could compromise human rights and protections for vulnerable migrants. 🌍⚖️

Poland’s LOT loses out at last minute in bid to buy largest Czech airline Smartwings

Polish flag carrier LOT’s anticipated acquisition of Smartwings, the Czech Republic’s largest airline, collapsed unexpectedly after Turkey’s Pegasus Airlines secured a €154 million deal for the Czech airline. Reports had suggested LOT was finalizing the purchase, with the Polish government even preparing an announcement. However, Pegasus Airlines submitted a higher bid of €10 million just hours before the decision, leading to a swift change in plans. Smartwings confirmed the agreement with Pegasus, expressing confidence in the partnership.

The failed deal was a setback for LOT, which had been seeking to expand its fleet and regional routes, particularly in preparation for operating at a new "mega-airport" near Warsaw. Smartwings’ 112-aircraft fleet, including 40 Boeing 737 MAX 8s, would have bolstered LOT’s charter offerings and provided access to skilled personnel. Industry experts lamented the lost opportunity, noting the strategic advantages Smartwings would have brought to LOT’s hub development at the Central Communication Port (CPK). This marks the second time in recent years that LOT has missed out on acquiring a regional rival, following its withdrawal from a 2020 bid for German airline Condor. 🛫🇵🇱

Foreign students face financial ruin after agents sell false dream of 'world's happiest country'

An investigation by Yle's MOT unit has exposed how third-party agents lure foreign students to Finland with false promises, leaving many in poverty and marginalization. These agents, partnered with Finnish educational institutions, exploit Finland's reputation as the "happiest country in the world" to sell an inaccurate image of life there. They provide misleading information, assuring students they can easily secure part-time jobs to cover living expenses, despite the reality of Finland's unemployment crisis and language barriers.

Thousands of students, primarily from South Asia, have arrived in Finland under these false pretenses, only to face severe financial struggles. Many, like Rikita from Nepal, borrowed significant sums to fund their move, expecting to repay debts with part-time work. Instead, they find themselves in dire situations, relying on social welfare and food handouts. Bhavesh Patel, another student, discovered that finding work was far more challenging than promised, leaving him and others vulnerable to exploitation.

The issue stems partly from a 2022 education reform that granted continuous residence permits to non-EU students, encouraging institutions to attract fee-paying students. However, this has led to a new "poor underclass" in Finland, with students facing debt, exploitation, and even abuse. University chaplain Sonja Jakobsson describes these students as victims of international education recruitment, urging Finnish institutions to stop using third-party agents to prevent further exploitation. The situation highlights the urgent need for ethical recruitment practices and support for students already affected. 🌍💸

Trial of Polish far-right leader for attacking Jewish celebration in parliament begins

The trial of far-right Polish leader Grzegorz Braun has commenced in Warsaw, where he faces multiple charges, including offenses related to an attack on a Hanukkah celebration in parliament in 2023. Braun, known for promoting antisemitic conspiracy theories, has claimed he is being prosecuted for "defending himself against Jewish supremacy." His supporters gathered outside the court in solidarity. The trial has been delayed due to the need to strip Braun of parliamentary immunity twice—first in Poland’s parliament and later in the European Parliament, where he was subsequently elected. Despite starting as an outsider, Braun secured 6.3% of the vote in this year’s presidential election.

The charges against Braun include insulting a religious group, interfering with a religious act, offending religious feelings, and assaulting a woman involved in the Hanukkah ceremony. He also faces accusations of property damage and disturbing the peace during a lecture by a Holocaust scholar and for removing a Christmas tree adorned with EU and LGBT+ flags from a courthouse. Additionally, Braun is charged with assaulting a public official after confronting the director of the National Institute of Cardiology, whom he blames for pandemic policies. Braun has called for the removal of the presiding judge, citing judicial reforms under the former Law and Justice (PiS) government, but his request was denied.

Braun has pleaded not guilty, asserting he acted in the public interest. If convicted, he could face up to three years in prison. Beyond these charges, Braun is under investigation for multiple alleged crimes, including inciting religious hatred, assaulting a doctor involved in a late-term abortion, and vandalizing an LGBT+ exhibition. His recent legal troubles and presidential campaign have increased support for his party, the Confederation of the Polish Crown (KPP), which now polls at around 6-7%. Braun’s controversial statements, including denying the authenticity of Auschwitz’s gas chambers, have further fueled public and legal scrutiny. 🇵🇱⚖️

Police to probe Nigel Farage campaign spending

British authorities are investigating potential electoral law violations by the Reform UK party during the 2024 general election. Essex Police confirmed they are reviewing a report, initially referred by the Metropolitan Police, regarding alleged misreported campaign expenditures. Reform UK has denied any wrongdoing, attributing the claims to a disgruntled former councillor who was expelled from the party months ago. The allegations were brought to light by The Daily Telegraph, which identified Richard Everett, a former councillor and member of Nigel Farage’s campaign team, as the source of the report. Farage, the Reform UK leader, secured a significant victory in the 2024 election, winning his Clacton seat with an 8,000-vote majority and finally achieving parliamentary representation after eight attempts. 🇬🇧🔍

Today in Norway: A roundup of the news on Monday

Norway's latest tax data reveals unprecedented wealth inequality, with a historic concentration of assets among the richest citizens. Over the past decade, the total taxable wealth of half the population has doubled, outpacing inflation, which stood at 36% over the same period. Historian Ola Innset warns that this level of inequality is reminiscent of pre-democratic times, highlighting a growing disparity in the nation's financial landscape. 💰📉

In other news, the Norwegian government is proposing that all electric vehicle (EV) charging stations must accept standard bank cards and contactless payments. This requirement, currently under consultation, aims to ensure accessibility for all EV users, regardless of their preferred payment method. 🚗💳

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who lives in hiding, has vowed to attend her Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo despite warnings from her government. The Nobel Institute's head, Kristian Berg Harpviken, confirmed her commitment, though details about her arrival remain undisclosed due to security concerns. 🏆🌍

Additionally, Norway, the EU, and the UK have agreed on a fisheries deal for 2026, reducing the total quota for shared fish stocks in the North Sea by 44% compared to 2025. The agreement allocates 1,898 tonnes to Norway, ensuring sustainable management of crucial marine resources. 🐟🌊

Israeli attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon

On Monday evening, Israel conducted airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military confirmed that the attacks targeted a Hezbollah special forces training facility, along with rocket launchers and several buildings. The strikes were reported by The Times of Israel, highlighting the ongoing tensions between Israel and the Islamist movement. 💥🇮🇱

China's former sports minister sentenced to death

A Chinese court has sentenced former Sports Minister Gou Zhongwen to a suspended death penalty, which could be commuted to life imprisonment if he remains crime-free for the next two years. The court found Gou guilty of accepting bribes and abusing his authority between 2009 and 2024, as reported by the state-run Xinhua news agency. Gou, who served as Minister of Sports from 2016 to 2022—including during the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics—and previously held the position of deputy mayor of Beijing, has pleaded guilty to the charges. 🏛️⚖️

Rwanda accused of violating peace agreement

In a parliamentary address, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi accused Rwanda of violating the terms of a recently ratified peace agreement, citing attacks by Rwandan-backed forces in the eastern province of South Kivu. These attacks reportedly involved heavy weapons fired from western Rwanda, and ongoing clashes with the M23 militia group, which the UN alleges is supported by Rwanda. The violence has escalated, with over 30 people killed in a recent explosion in the village of Sange, following a dispute between the Congolese army and a rebel group allied with the military.

The peace agreement, signed just days ago in Washington with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump, was hailed as "historic." However, the ongoing conflict, which has persisted with varying intensity since the mid-1990s, underscores the fragility of the peace process. Tshisekedi's remarks highlight the challenges of achieving lasting stability in the region. 🇨🇩🇷🇼

Update aus Brüssel: Spahn bei der EVP — Selenskyj bei von der Leyen

This week in Brussels, EU interior ministers are set to agree on stricter migration policies, including the establishment of return centers in third countries and penalties for those who do not cooperate with deportation efforts. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has already hailed this as a "migration turnaround 2.0." Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrives in Brussels after meetings in London with key European leaders to discuss security, support, and the stalled negotiations over the €165 billion in frozen Russian assets. 🇪🇺🇺🇦