Newsflash

Russia is violating UN Charter, Finland's foreign minister tells UN Security Council

In a significant address to the UN Security Council, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen accused Russia of violating the UN Charter and the 10 fundamental principles of the Helsinki Final Act. Speaking as the Chair-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Valtonen emphasized that the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine will have profound implications for regional and global stability, as well as future adherence to international law, particularly for permanent members of the Security Council.

Valtonen underscored the importance of upholding existing security guarantees, stating that there is no need to reinvent the European security order. She highlighted the OSCE's efforts under her leadership to hold Russia accountable for its violations of international law, citing the abduction of Ukrainian children as a clear example. The Helsinki Final Act, signed in 1975, remains a cornerstone of international relations, and its principles are crucial in addressing contemporary security challenges. Valtonen's remarks reflect Finland's commitment to maintaining international law and ensuring accountability for violations. 🌍⚖️

Das Update zum Trump-Interview mit POLITICO

In an exclusive 45-minute interview with POLITICO, Donald Trump shared his views on Ukraine, NATO, and migration, painting a grim picture of Europe on the brink of collapse. He asserted that Russia holds a military advantage, questioned the EU's strategic capabilities, and emphasized that migration is the "central existential question." His remarks have sparked alarm in Berlin and Brussels, raising concerns about Europe's geopolitical influence as Trump reshapes the global stage. 🌍🔍

The interview, part of the Berlin Playbook podcast, delves into Trump's perspective on critical international issues, offering a glimpse into his potential impact on global politics. Hosted by Gordon Repinski, the podcast provides daily political insights, while the Berlin Playbook newsletter offers morning briefings on key topics. Trump's comments underscore the shifting dynamics of global power and the challenges Europe may face in maintaining its position. 🎙️📰

Russia hails US security strategy, welcomes pullback from Europe, weakened NATO, subjugated Ukraine

Russia has expressed approval of the U.S.'s evolving security strategy, particularly its perceived retreat from Europe and the weakening of NATO. The Russian government views these developments as favorable, as they align with its geopolitical interests. Additionally, Russia's stance towards Ukraine remains uncompromising, with the country facing continued pressure and subjugation. This shift in U.S. policy has significant implications for European security and stability, as it creates a power vacuum that Russia is eager to fill. 🌍💥

Half of Kyiv blacked out – warning of severe winter

Ukraine's energy infrastructure is under severe strain due to relentless Russian attacks, with the country's gas production and distribution network suffering extensive damage. Serhiy Koretsky, CEO of Naftogaz, warns that the destruction is substantial and that restoring production will be a lengthy process. Russian strikes on gas and energy facilities have intensified earlier and more aggressively than in previous war winters, raising concerns about the challenges ahead for Ukraine's upcoming winter season. The damage to the gas network is estimated at ten billion kronor, with some facilities potentially taking years to repair.

The primary objective of these attacks, according to Koretsky, is to instill panic among Ukrainians and deprive them of essential utilities like gas, electricity, and heat. Currently, large parts of Ukraine are experiencing power outages, with around 50% of households in Kiev affected. The Ukrainian Ministry of Energy describes the situation in Kiev as particularly challenging. These outages are part of controlled interruptions aimed at easing pressure on the overburdened energy system. 💥🔥

Ukraine to share revised peace plan with US on Tuesday, Zelensky says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine will present a revised peace plan to the United States on Tuesday. This development comes amid ongoing efforts to secure international support and negotiate an end to the conflict with Russia. The revised plan is expected to outline Ukraine's strategic priorities and proposals for achieving a lasting peace, reflecting the evolving dynamics of the war and the shifting geopolitical landscape. 🇺🇸🤝🇺🇦

'It burns for 3 days' — Ukrainian drone strike sparked huge fire at Russia's Temryuk Seaport, SBU source says

On December 5, a Ukrainian drone strike targeted a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at Russia's Temryuk Seaport in Krasnodar Krai, sparking a massive fire that raged for three days. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) confirmed the attack, revealing that approximately 70% of the facility's fuel tanks were destroyed. The operation, conducted by the SBU's elite Alpha unit, focused on the production facilities of Maktren-Nafta, a company involved in LNG transshipment. The strike ignited fires in over 20 of the site's 30 storage tanks, each holding 200 cubic meters of fuel, as well as railway tankers, an intermediate fueling unit, and a loading/unloading overpass. The blaze covered around 3,000 square meters.

The attack was part of Ukraine's ongoing strategy to disrupt Russia's oil and gas infrastructure, a critical source of funding for the war. The SBU emphasized its commitment to continued efforts to cut off revenues from Russia's energy sector, stating that explosions at facilities supporting the war effort will persist. Ukraine has consistently targeted oil facilities in Russia and occupied territories to undermine Moscow's military logistics and supply chains. 🔥🛢️

Europe 'already formidable enough to deter any aggression even without the United States'

Europe has reached a point where it can deter aggression even without U.S. support, according to a recent analysis. The continent's military capabilities have grown significantly, with NATO's European members increasing defense spending by 14% in 2023, totaling €377 billion. This surge in investment has enhanced Europe's ability to defend itself, with the EU's defense budget projected to reach €200 billion by 2025. The European Defense Fund, with a budget of €8 billion, is fostering collaboration among member states, while initiatives like the European Sky Shield Initiative aim to strengthen air defense. Additionally, Europe's defense industrial base is expanding, with companies like Airbus and Rheinmetall increasing production to meet demand. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, including the need for greater defense investment, improved military mobility, and enhanced defense industrial cooperation. However, Europe's progress demonstrates its growing capacity to safeguard its security interests independently. 🌍🛡️

Zelensky says ready to hold Ukraine elections

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed readiness to hold elections in Ukraine, signaling a commitment to democratic processes despite the ongoing war with Russia. This announcement comes amid intense conflict, including recent Russian drone and missile attacks that have caused significant damage and civilian casualties across multiple Ukrainian regions. Zelensky's statement underscores Ukraine's determination to uphold its democratic institutions, even in the face of external aggression. The move also reflects broader efforts to maintain stability and sovereignty amid evolving geopolitical challenges. 🇺🇦🗳️

Slovakia dismantles whistleblower office despite EU Commission pushback

In a controversial move, Slovakia’s leftist-populist ruling coalition, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, has voted to dismantle the country’s Whistleblower Protection Office, a body established in 2021 under the EU’s Whistleblower Protection Directive. The decision, made on International Anti-Corruption Day, was expedited through a fast-track procedure. The office, which safeguarded individuals reporting corruption, will be replaced by a new institution under direct government control, raising concerns about weakened protections for whistleblowers. Critics and opposition parties argue that this change undermines Slovakia’s commitment to transparency and the rule of law. 🚨🔍

Trump's new security doctrine gives Putin exactly what he wants

U.S. President Donald Trump's new National Security Strategy has sent shockwaves through Europe, casting doubt on the post-Cold War security order and aligning with Russian interests. The document criticizes the EU and NATO, two cornerstones of European security, while praising "patriotic" far-right parties. It signals a U.S. retreat from global leadership, focusing instead on the Western Hemisphere and embracing a multipolar world where major powers prioritize their own spheres of influence.

The strategy's tone reflects Trump's disdain for Europe's current leadership, which he has publicly mocked as weak and indecisive. Moscow has welcomed the document, praising its alignment with Russia's own vision. The strategy's focus on national sovereignty and non-interference, along with its deprioritization of European security, plays directly into Russia's hands. It also envisions a fractured Europe, with hard-right governments in key capitals, further undermining European unity.

The document's criticism of the EU is particularly striking, as it suggests that a stronger EU could face resistance from the Trump administration. This contradiction is evident in the strategy's call for Europe to take responsibility for its own defense while simultaneously advocating for a fragmented continent. The strategy also backpedals on NATO's expansion, rejecting the idea of a perpetually expanding alliance. This is a blow to Ukraine, which has been seeking NATO membership since 2022.

The strategy's treatment of Russia is notably soft, referring to Moscow as a "perceived" existential threat to Europe but not to the U.S. It suggests that Washington's role is simply to engage diplomatically with Russia to stabilize strategic relations. This approach is at odds with European efforts to support Ukraine and undermines Kyiv's geopolitical goals of joining NATO and the EU. With the U.S. withdrawing and Europe weakened and fractured, Ukraine may find itself increasingly isolated in its struggle against Russian aggression. 🌍💥

'They're decaying': Trump recycles far-right tropes about European decline

In a recent interview with Politico, U.S. President Donald Trump intensified his criticism of European nations, labeling them "weak" and "decaying" due to their immigration policies. Trump's remarks echoed far-right narratives of civilizational decline, asserting that Europe's approach to migration is a "disaster." He argued that European countries are failing to address immigration effectively, stating, "They're coming in from all parts of the world," and criticizing their reluctance to enforce deportations. Trump's comments come amid tensions over his administration's new national security strategy, which calls for fostering resistance within the EU against liberal migration policies.

Trump specifically targeted several European nations, including Britain, France, Germany, Poland, and Sweden, claiming they are being "destroyed" by migration. He also launched a personal attack on Sadiq Khan, London's first Muslim mayor, describing him as "horrible, vicious, and disgusting." Despite concerns that his rhetoric aligns with Russian interests, Trump dismissed any connection, stating that a weak Europe is not his responsibility.

Additionally, Trump criticized Europe's role in the Ukraine conflict, asserting that European nations "talk but don't produce," allowing the war to persist. His remarks underscore a growing rift between the U.S. and Europe, raising questions about the future of transatlantic alliances. 🌍💥

Tuesday's papers: Purra targets immigrant poor, train plans derailed, and stadium fire

Finland's finance minister and leader of the nationalist Finns Party, Riikka Purra, has proposed restricting social assistance payments to individuals who have lived in Finland for at least 10 years. She argues that this measure is necessary to preserve the welfare system, which she claims has become unsustainable and discourages work. However, social assistance is a constitutional right in Finland, ensuring a minimum standard of living for those in need. Legal experts suggest that denying this aid to long-term residents could violate the constitution.

Meanwhile, plans for a €4 billion high-speed rail line between Helsinki and Turku have faced a significant setback after the municipal council of Kirkkonummi rejected the project. The decision, driven by concerns over costs and environmental impact, casts doubt on the future of the "one-hour train" initiative, which has been championed by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo. The outcome of upcoming votes in Lohja and Salo will further clarify the project's fate.

In sports news, a fire has devastated a stand at FC Haka's stadium in Valkeakoski, with authorities suspecting arson. The club, known for its strong performances in Finnish football, has faced recent challenges, including relegation from the top league. The fire has left the community in shock, with local leaders expressing solidarity and hope for the club's recovery. 🔥🏟️

The court confirms: Princess Sofia met Epstein

Newly leaked documents from the investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein reveal his connections to Sweden through a prominent Swedish-American financier. The financier allegedly facilitated introductions between Epstein and young Swedish women from her network, including Princess Sofia, who met the billionaire on several occasions around 2005. The Swedish court confirmed these meetings but did not disclose the circumstances or locations. The revelations have sparked renewed interest in Epstein’s international network and the extent of his influence. 🌍🔍

November 2025: the new priorities of European tech investing

Europe's tech sector is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from chasing the "next big thing" to focusing on building essential infrastructure and scaling with discipline. This evolution is evident in several key areas, including defense, space, robotics, and AI governance.

In defense and dual-use technologies, capital is flowing towards strategic solutions and their supply chains, with investments like Quantum Systems' €180M raise for dual-use aerial systems and Ferroelectric Memory Company's €100M for semiconductor fabrication. The space industry is also maturing, with institutional capital and a focus on production, as seen in the European Investment Bank's €500M Space TechEU program and Toulouse U-Space's €24M raise for satellite production.

Robotics is another area of growth, with investments shifting from software-only AI to embodied systems and robotics. Companies like Flexion Robotics and Gravis Robotics are raising significant funds to develop and deploy robotic solutions across various industries. Additionally, AI governance and fraud-mitigation systems are emerging as essential budget lines, with investments in companies like AI Score and Falkin.

Financing structures are also evolving, with companies using credit facilities, securitisation, and asset-backed funding to scale without constant dilution. This trend is reflected in M&A activity, with smaller, functionality-driven acquisitions outweighing larger, valuation-defining exits.

Overall, Europe's tech sector is moving towards greater discipline, focusing on production, supply chains, and real-world deployment. This shift reflects a new sense of what the continent chooses to develop at scale, marking a clear trajectory for the sector's evolution. 🚀

Russia's Syzran oil refinery halts operations after Ukrainian drone strike

On December 5, Russia's Syzran oil refinery suspended operations after sustaining damage from a Ukrainian drone attack, as reported by Reuters on December 9. Ukraine's military confirmed the strike, stating it aimed to weaken Russia's military and economic capabilities. The drones targeted the refinery's crude distillation unit, which had previously been hit in August and required two weeks of repairs. Industry sources suggest the latest damage could take up to a month to fix.

Located in Russia's Samara Oblast, approximately 700 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, the Syzran Oil Refinery is a key asset of the state-owned oil company Rosneft. With an annual processing capacity of 7 to 8.9 million tons of oil, the facility has been a repeated target in Ukraine's strategic campaign against Russia's oil infrastructure. These strikes, often conducted using long-range drones, are part of Ukraine's efforts to disrupt the funding and fuel supply for Moscow's ongoing war efforts. 🛢️💥

Peace deal, security guarantees, reconstruction — Zelensky unveils 3-track plan as talks intensify

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has outlined a three-track plan for ending the war with Russia, focusing on a peace framework, security guarantees, and reconstruction. The peace agreement, initially a 28-point U.S.-Russian draft, has been revised to 20 points, emphasizing Ukraine's, Europe's, and the world's interests. The second document centers on security guarantees, with Kyiv working closely with the U.S. and European partners to establish robust protections, including potential Article 5-like commitments. Zelensky acknowledged that while the U.S. is not yet ready to support Ukraine's NATO membership, it is pushing for concrete security assurances.

The third document addresses Ukraine's post-war reconstruction, highlighting the need for planning amid ongoing conflict. Zelensky's comments followed a briefing from Ukraine's negotiating team after consultations in London with EU national security advisers. Kyiv has been actively engaging with European leaders, including meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Pope Leo XIV. Meanwhile, Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov visited Washington to refine the U.S.-backed proposal.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, Russia remains unwilling to compromise on key demands, such as withdrawing from unoccupied parts of Donetsk Oblast. As talks intensify, European leaders have expressed frustration over their exclusion from U.S.-Russia negotiations, prompting Kyiv to strengthen its diplomatic engagements. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine and Europe have finalized revisions to a peace proposal, which will soon be presented to the U.S. 🇺🇦✌️

State Audit: Latvia needs to do something about house renovation

The State Audit Office has highlighted significant challenges in Latvia's efforts to renovate residential buildings, emphasizing that rising costs and insufficient funding are major barriers. Despite the benefits of timely renovations, such as reduced long-term expenses and improved living standards, many residents delay or avoid renovation projects due to unpredictable costs and lack of support. The audit reveals that only 39.5% of apartment owners are aware of energy efficiency measures or full building renovations, while just 8% know the approximate costs, indicating a critical lack of information for decision-making.

The renovation process is often prolonged, with 44.4% of general meetings requiring three or more attempts to reach a decision. Additionally, 57.8% of residents have never been informed about renovation options, underscoring a communication gap. The primary concerns for residents include cost (30.2%), construction quality (22.7%), and procedural complexity (15.6%). Rising construction costs, which have surged by 127% since 2017, further deter investment by reducing economic returns.

Latvia also lacks targeted support for low-income households, with 18.7% of residents struggling with "very burdensome" housing costs and 42% unwilling to spend more than €0.5 per square meter on renovations. This disparity risks exacerbating social tensions and increasing reliance on municipal benefits. To address these issues, the audit recommends that the Ministry of Economics implement measures to make renovations more accessible, financially viable, and understandable for residents. Without such improvements, Latvia's renovation progress will remain slow and uneven. 🏘️💡

Drone operations to become core part of army recruit training, defense minister says

Greece is undergoing a significant transformation in its military training, with Defense Minister Nikos Dendias announcing that drone operations will become a central focus for new army recruits. Traditional weapons will now be primarily used for self-defense, as the role of the modern soldier evolves to meet contemporary combat demands. Dendias emphasized that the Greek Armed Forces are undergoing a comprehensive shift, stating, "Everything must change if we want to have the ability to survive in this new environment." The modern soldier will be trained to operate drones and anti-drone systems, marking a departure from traditional combat methods. This strategic shift reflects the growing importance of technology in warfare, ensuring that Greece's military remains adaptable and effective in an ever-changing battlefield. 🚁💻

Court summons ten new witnesses in wiretapping trial

An Athens court has ordered ten new witnesses to testify in the ongoing wiretapping and spyware case, following revelations from earlier testimonies. These individuals, primarily linked to the companies involved, are believed to have played roles in the spyware operation. Among them is a man previously mentioned by Christos Rammos, former head of Greece’s privacy watchdog, who allegedly purchased infected messages using a bank card. The defendants are accused of attempting to spy on 116 individuals, including politicians and journalists, with two confirmed intrusions involving journalist Thanasis Koukakis and former Meta employee Artemis Seaford. The court’s decision to summon these witnesses underscores the need for a more thorough investigation into the case, particularly concerning oversight and accountability at the National Intelligence Service (EYP). 📜🔍

Is Turkey closer to F-35s and seeing CAATSA sanctions lifted?

Turkey may soon resolve its standoff with the United States over CAATSA sanctions and regain access to F-35 fighter jets. Recent statements from Turkish intelligence chief Hakan Fidan and U.S. Ambassador Tom Barrack suggest a resolution could be reached within months. Both officials hinted that a "solution" is within reach, despite Turkey's refusal to abandon its Russian S-400 missile defense systems, which triggered the sanctions.

The optimism stems from ongoing diplomatic efforts between Ankara and Washington, which have been working to find a mutually acceptable path forward. While Turkey has maintained its stance on retaining the S-400s, discussions may involve alternative measures to address U.S. security concerns. If successful, this could pave the way for the lifting of CAATSA sanctions and Turkey's reintegration into the F-35 program, strengthening defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. 🇹🇷🇺🇸✈️