Newsflash

Cartoon (10/12/2025)

Finland's far-right Blue-Black Movement, known for its racist and fascist ideology, has been reinstated as a registered political party. The group, originally removed from the register in 2024 due to its program violating constitutional and human rights laws, successfully gathered 5,000 supporter signatures and revised its rules to meet legal requirements. Founded by former members of the Finns Party, the Blue-Black Movement draws inspiration from the Lapua Movement, a radical nationalist group active 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 return has raised concerns about the rise of extremist ideologies in Finland's political landscape. 🇫🇮⚠️

Marine Le Pen slams European defense programs

Far-right presidential candidate Marine Le Pen has sharply criticized France’s involvement in European defense initiatives, arguing that these programs divert crucial funds from the country’s own military needs. Speaking to French lawmakers, Le Pen condemned the European Defence Fund and the European Peace Facility, two key EU-level defense funding and coordination efforts, as well as Franco-German industrial defense projects. She asserted that these programs have squandered public money and delayed progress for French manufacturers, the armed forces, and the nation as a whole. Le Pen accused French President Emmanuel Macron of enabling European institutions to interfere in France’s defense policy, emphasizing her belief that national priorities should take precedence over collaborative European efforts. 🇫🇷💥

In message to Trump, Ukraine’s top general attacks Kremlin battlefield narrative

Ukraine's top military commander, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, has asserted that Ukrainian forces are performing significantly better in the eastern battles than Russia's narrative suggests. During a recent briefing, Syrskyi dismissed what he described as Kremlin "disinformation" aimed at swaying foreign opinion. He emphasized that despite intense Russian attacks, Ukrainian forces are not merely withdrawing but are actively holding their ground and even reclaiming territory in key contested areas. This statement comes as Ukraine faces mounting pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to accept a peace deal initially proposed between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. 🇺🇦💥

Ukraine: Attack on Russian “shadow tanker”

A tanker, identified as the "Dashan" and flagged in Comoros, has reportedly sustained critical damage after being struck by Ukrainian naval drones. The vessel, en route to Novorossiysk in southern Russia with its transponder deactivated, was targeted while traversing the Black Sea. Unverified video footage suggests explosions occurred at the stern of the ship. This incident follows a similar attack in late November, where two empty tankers allegedly linked to Russia’s shadow fleet were struck off Turkey’s coast. These vessels are believed to be part of a network used to evade Western sanctions, raising concerns about the ongoing maritime tensions in the region. 🚢💥

Trump’s attack on 'weak' Europe widens political divide

Donald Trump's recent criticism of Europe as "weak" has deepened political divisions within the continent, further complicating its stance amid global tensions. Trump's remarks, which align with his transactional approach to foreign policy, have sparked debate over Europe's defense capabilities and strategic autonomy. His comments come at a time when Europe is already grappling with security challenges, particularly in the wake of Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine. The criticism has intensified discussions about increasing defense spending and reducing reliance on the U.S., with some advocating for a more unified European defense strategy. However, political divisions persist, with varying levels of commitment to defense among European nations. Trump's remarks have also reignited concerns about the reliability of U.S. support, prompting calls for Europe to strengthen its own defense mechanisms and assert its geopolitical influence. 🌍💥

Trump slams 'decaying' Europe as allies reassess security ties

In a recent speech, former U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Europe for its perceived decline, urging allies to reassess their security ties with the United States. The remarks come amid growing concerns over the future of transatlantic relations, particularly as Europe faces heightened security threats from Russia and other geopolitical challenges. Trump's comments have sparked discussions among European leaders about the need for greater strategic autonomy and defense cooperation.

The speech highlighted the need for Europe to strengthen its defense capabilities, as reliance on U.S. support may no longer be guaranteed. European leaders are now considering increasing defense spending and investing in critical strategic assets, such as satellite systems and intelligence capabilities. The debate over Europe's security future has intensified, with calls for a more unified and self-reliant defense strategy. 🌍🛡️

Fuller version of Trump security strategy reportedly calls for “pulling Poland away from EU”

A leaked, longer version of the Trump administration’s National Security Strategy suggests that the U.S. should aim to distance Poland, Austria, Italy, and Hungary from the European Union. The document advocates for supporting political movements and figures in these countries that promote sovereignty and traditional European values while maintaining pro-American stances. This aligns with Trump’s amicable relations with national-conservative leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Poland’s Karol Nawrocki, who has called for EU reforms to enhance national sovereignty.

The official, shorter version of the strategy, released by the White House, criticizes the EU for undermining political liberty and sovereignty, and warns of Europe facing "civilizational erasure." Meanwhile, Poland’s pro-EU government, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, has expressed concern, with Tusk emphasizing that Europe remains America’s closest ally and urging continued cooperation against shared enemies.

A Polish delegation from President Nawrocki’s National Security Bureau recently visited Washington to discuss the strategy with U.S. officials, highlighting the potential for expanded bilateral security cooperation. However, the broader implications of the strategy have sparked debate, with some Poles supporting continued EU membership while others consider leaving the bloc. 🇺🇸🇪🇺

Baerbock says Ukraine must not cede territory for peace deal

UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock has firmly stated that Ukraine should not be compelled to cede territory as part of any peace agreement, emphasizing that rewarding aggression only perpetuates conflict. In an interview with Germany’s Funke media group, Baerbock, a former German foreign minister, warned that condoning such actions sets a perilous precedent and undermines the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, which prohibits the use of force.

Baerbock’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions, with Russian President Vladimir Putin insisting that Ukraine withdraw from parts of the Donbass region still under its control. Russia has already illegally annexed Crimea and claims sovereignty over the Ukrainian regions of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. Despite pressure from the United States for Ukraine to make territorial concessions to end the war, Ukraine has steadfastly refused.

Baerbock expressed caution about the UN’s potential role in securing a ceasefire, stating that any discussion of enforcement must follow a ceasefire and a peace agreement. However, she emphasized that Russia must first demonstrate a genuine willingness to end the war. Her stance underscores the international community’s delicate balancing act between pursuing peace and upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. 🌍✌️

European nations weigh looser protections for migrants amid rise of far right parties

European nations are increasingly considering the relaxation of protections for migrants as far-right parties gain political influence across the continent. The rise of these parties, often advocating for stricter immigration policies, has put pressure on governments to re-evaluate their approach to migration and asylum. This shift comes amid growing public concerns over border security and the integration of migrants, with some far-right groups framing migration as a threat to national identity and social cohesion.

In response, several European countries are exploring measures to tighten immigration laws, including faster deportation processes, stricter asylum criteria, and reduced access to social benefits for migrants. These proposed changes have sparked intense debate, with human rights organizations warning that such policies could undermine international commitments to refugee protection and exacerbate humanitarian crises. Meanwhile, proponents argue that these measures are necessary to address public safety and economic concerns, as well as to counter the growing political influence of far-right movements.

The debate over migration policies reflects broader tensions within Europe, where economic instability, security fears, and cultural divisions have fueled support for far-right ideologies. As these parties continue to gain ground, the continent faces a delicate balancing act between maintaining humanitarian principles and responding to the demands of an increasingly polarized electorate. The outcome of this debate will shape Europe’s approach to migration for years to come, with significant implications for both domestic politics and international relations. 🌍🤝

Revenge or necessary cuts? Culture institutions see funding slashed following protests

In the upcoming budget, significant cuts are planned for the Media Support Fund and the National Museum, raising concerns about political retaliation. Opposition politicians, including Mindaugas Lingė of the Conservative group, suggest these reductions may be a response to protests by the cultural community and media against the populist-led Culture Ministry. Lingė criticizes the cuts as a "vindictive stab in the back," questioning the motives behind targeting sectors that have voiced opposition. The Media Support Fund, crucial for sustaining cultural and regional press, is also facing reductions, further fueling concerns about the government's stance on freedom of expression. 📰⚖️

Police foil suspected contract killing plot

Police in Attica have thwarted a suspected contract killing plot, arresting a 37-year-old man with a lengthy criminal record. The investigation began with intelligence on drug trafficking in the Kalyvia area, leading to the discovery of stolen vehicles and a cache of weapons. Authorities seized three Kalashnikov rifles, two silenced pistols, ammunition, gloves, helmets, and gasoline canisters from a vehicle. Further searches uncovered five stolen cars, motorcycles, a boat, a drone, and three cellphones.

The suspect is linked to six vehicle thefts across Athens and its surroundings. His criminal history includes a 2006 manslaughter conviction, escape from custody while in possession of Kalashnikovs, and charges for domestic violence and weapons possession. Ballistics tests are ongoing, but authorities believe the arrest prevented a planned contract killing. 🚨🔫

Farmers begin pullback from Volos Port as blockades persist nationwide

Farmers in Greece have begun withdrawing their tractors from the commercial port of Volos, easing a blockade that had disrupted operations. However, some protesters and fishermen remain at the site, with tractors redeploying to reinforce blockades across the Thessaly region. Authorities had set a deadline for protesters to leave, threatening arrests for obstructing traffic. Despite this, blockades persist on major highways and border crossings, including key routes like the Athens-Thessaloniki corridor and Egnatia Odos.

The protests stem from delays in aid payments due to investigations into a corruption scandal involving falsified land ownership records. Farmers are also grappling with a sheep pox outbreak that has led to the culling of hundreds of thousands of animals. The government, under pressure, has urged farmers to lift the blockades and has promised additional aid payments, totaling €3.7 billion this year. A nationwide meeting of blockade representatives is scheduled for Saturday to discuss next steps and consolidate demands. 🚜💸

Britain’s Brexit point man says no to rejoining EU customs union

Britain’s top Europe minister, Nick Thomas-Symonds, defended the decision to keep the U.K. out of the EU's customs union, despite optimistic projections for a swift reset of ties with the bloc in early 2026. Speaking in Brussels during talks with EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, Thomas-Symonds expressed concerns that a recent non-binding parliamentary vote on rejoining the tariff-free union—initiated by the Liberal Democrats but supported by over a dozen Labour MPs—could reignite divisive Brexit debates. He criticized the move as "Brexit Redux" and accused Lib Dem leader Ed Davey of seeking to revive past arguments, emphasizing the need to focus on future-oriented solutions. 🇬🇧🇪🇺

Machado appeared – first in months

Venezuelan democracy activist María Corina Machado, a prominent figure in the opposition to President Nicolás Maduro, arrived in Oslo early Thursday morning. She was awarded the Peace Prize for her relentless efforts in advocating for democratic rights and a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy in Venezuela. Machado, who has been in hiding for months, was unable to attend the award ceremony held the previous day. Her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa Machado, accepted the prize on her behalf, assuring that her mother would arrive in Oslo shortly. The activist, who has become a unifying force for Venezuela's fragmented opposition, was celebrated from the balcony of the Grand Hotel, where she waved to supporters gathered outside. 🌟🇻🇪

PM holds talks with senior officials on farmer payments plan as protests escalate

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis convened a meeting with senior officials to expedite the disbursement of over €1 billion in subsidies and compensation to farmers by the end of the year. The gathering at Maximos Mansion included key figures such as Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis, Rural Development and Food Minister Kostas Tsiaras, and OPEKEPE’s interim chief Giannis Kavvadas, with AADE head Giorgos Pitsilis joining remotely. The discussion focused on enhancing coordination among state services to accelerate payments and potentially extending the GAIA program, which subsidizes farmers' electricity costs.

As protests by farmers escalate, blocking highways, ports, and airports, the government is preparing for formal talks, expected to begin early next week. Farmers have been urged to appoint a representative committee for these discussions. The unrest stems from significant delays in payments owed by OPEKEPE, which is currently under investigation for alleged falsified land and livestock declarations related to EU farm subsidies. The growing demonstrations have raised concerns about public order and economic disruption. 🚜💸

House prices beat 2008 record

House prices in Greece have surged beyond their 2008 peak, marking a full recovery from the economic crisis. By the end of the third quarter of 2025, national prices were 7.14% higher than in 2008, with an 86% increase since the 2017 low. The rise is particularly steep in Attica, where prices have climbed 12.5% above 2008 levels and 103% since 2017. Thessaloniki has also seen a 100% average increase, surpassing its 2008 high by 5.7%. In Athens, southern suburbs, the city center, and northern areas have seen price jumps of 20-30% compared to 2008, driven by strong demand from both domestic and foreign buyers.

A Deloitte analysis ranks Athens as the second most expensive European city for new home purchases, requiring 15.3 years of wages to buy a 70-square-meter apartment. Only Amsterdam, where 15.4 annual salaries are needed, is more costly. The average price in Athens stands at €8,475 per square meter, up 10.1% annually. In Attica, newly built homes now average €4,100 per square meter, a 10.8% increase from the previous year, with a 70-square-meter apartment costing €287,000. This price is 2.28 times higher than the national average of €1,800 per square meter, highlighting the growing challenge for prospective homebuyers. 🏠💸

Daughter of absent Peace Prize laureate Machado accepts Nobel on her behalf

The daughter of imprisoned Saudi Arabian human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Loujain al-Hathloul accepted the prestigious award on her behalf during a ceremony in Oslo. Al-Hathloul, a prominent advocate for women's rights and gender equality in Saudi Arabia, was unable to attend the event as she remains incarcerated in her home country. Her sister, Lina al-Hathloul, delivered an emotional speech on her behalf, highlighting her mother's unwavering commitment to justice and equality. The Nobel Committee honored Loujain al-Hathloul for her courageous efforts in challenging gender discrimination and advocating for women's rights, despite facing imprisonment and persecution for her activism. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights and the importance of recognizing those who dedicate their lives to this cause. 🌟🏆

'We must break the cycle of impunity for Russian troops': Ukrainian Nobel laureate O. Matviichuk

Ukrainian Nobel laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk, head of the Center for Civil Liberties, emphasizes the urgent need to break the cycle of impunity for Russian troops to achieve justice in Ukraine and prevent future aggression. Her organization, a 2022 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, is dedicated to documenting war crimes, advocating for the release of illegally detained individuals in Russia and occupied Ukraine, and promoting democratic reforms within Ukraine. Matviichuk's work underscores the importance of accountability in maintaining global peace and security. 🌍⚖️

Swedish discount back in budget proposal

Sweden, along with the Netherlands and Austria, has historically received a discount on its contributions to the EU budget due to its net financial burden. However, the European Commission's initial proposal for the 2028-2035 budget period removed these discounts. In a recent development, Denmark, which holds the EU Council presidency, has reportedly reintroduced the discounts in a draft negotiating framework, known as the "negotiating box." This framework, which lacks specific figures, was discussed by EU ambassadors in Brussels and will be further deliberated during the upcoming summit of EU leaders. A final decision on the budget is not expected until at least next autumn. 🇪🇺💰

Trump: Tanker seized off Venezuela

The U.S. has escalated its sanctions against Venezuela by seizing a Venezuelan oil tanker, marking a shift from financial penalties to direct physical intervention. This move raises the stakes for Caracas and those involved in its oil exports, which primarily go to China at discounted rates due to existing sanctions. Jorge Leon, head of geopolitical analysis at Rystad Energy, highlights the significance of this action, noting that it represents a clear escalation in U.S. efforts to disrupt Venezuela's oil trade.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned the U.S. actions, demanding an end to what he describes as illegal and brutal interventions against Venezuela and Latin America. The U.S. has recently intensified its operations in the region, including attacks on ships allegedly involved in drug trafficking off Venezuela's coast. Additionally, several American warships are currently stationed in the Caribbean Sea near Venezuela, further heightening tensions. 🚢💥