Newsflash

Putin taunts NATO’s Rutte: You know the US doesn’t see Russia as an enemy

Russian President Vladimir Putin has sharply criticized NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte for suggesting that the alliance must prepare for a large-scale war with Russia. Speaking at an annual event where he fields questions from journalists and the public, Putin questioned Rutte’s remarks, asking, "What are you even talking about? I really want to ask: Listen, what are you saying about preparing to go to war with Russia? Can you even read? Read the U.S. National Security Strategy." Rutte had previously warned that NATO should adopt a "wartime mindset" and prepare for a conflict on the scale of those fought by previous generations, suggesting that Russia could target the alliance after Ukraine. Putin's response underscores the ongoing tensions between Russia and Western nations, highlighting the deepening divide and the potential for further escalation. 💥🌍

EU to pay €3B a year in interest for Ukraine loan

EU leaders have agreed to raise €90 billion over the next two years to support Ukraine's defense against Russia, with EU taxpayers expected to cover €3 billion annually in borrowing costs. This funding is crucial as Ukraine faces a significant budget shortfall of €71.7 billion next year, exacerbated by Russia's ongoing aggression and President Vladimir Putin's vow to prolong the conflict. The financial package, backed by the EU budget, aims to prevent Ukraine's war chest from being depleted and ensure its continued resistance. 💰🇪🇺🇺🇦

Ukraine strikes Russian ‘shadow fleet’ tanker off Crete

Ukraine has launched a daring strike on a Russian "shadow fleet" oil tanker, the Qendil, in international waters southeast of Crete, marking the first such attack in the Mediterranean. The drone strike, confirmed by an unnamed Ukrainian official, critically damaged the empty vessel, which was part of Russia's unregulated fleet used to evade Western sanctions and fund its war in Ukraine. The Qendil, en route from an Indian port to Russia's Baltic Sea port of Ust Luga, is among several tankers targeted by Ukraine in recent weeks, reflecting Kyiv's expanding campaign against Russian oil infrastructure. The attack underscores Ukraine's growing use of uncrewed aerial systems against maritime assets, with the operation involving "multi-stage" measures. While Ukraine has intensified its strikes on Russian oil refineries, rigs, and tankers, Moscow has threatened retaliation, accusing Kyiv of piracy. The incident highlights the escalating tensions and Ukraine's strategic efforts to disrupt Russia's oil exports, which are crucial for funding its war efforts. 🛢️💥

Zelensky and Putin issue warnings to each other and Europe

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin have exchanged stark warnings, escalating tensions across Europe. Zelensky has accused Russia of preparing new offensive operations, emphasizing that Russia is seeking a prolonged conflict. In response, he has ordered accelerated funding for Ukraine’s ballistic missile program to bolster its defense capabilities. Meanwhile, Putin has issued a stern warning to Europe, stating that any attempt to interfere in Russia’s military operations in Ukraine would have severe consequences. He emphasized that Russia is ready to defend its interests and those of its allies, hinting at potential retaliation if NATO or European forces intervene. These exchanges underscore the deepening divide and the high stakes in the ongoing conflict, with both leaders signaling their resolve to protect their respective interests. 🌍⚔️

EU leaders agree on €90 billion loan to Ukraine as 'plan B' to use of Russian assets

EU leaders have reached a significant agreement to provide Ukraine with a €90 billion loan as a contingency plan, should efforts to utilize frozen Russian assets prove unsuccessful. This financial package is designed to bolster Ukraine's economy and defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict. The decision underscores the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine, even as diplomatic and legal challenges persist regarding the use of Russian assets. The loan will help mitigate the economic strain on Ukraine and ensure continued stability in the face of Russian aggression. 💰🇪🇺

At least five killed in attack on refugee camp

In a tragic incident near Gaza City, at least five people were killed in an Israeli attack on a school that was being used as a refugee facility. According to the Gaza Civil Defense Authority, which is controlled by Hamas, the shelling targeted a school in the Tuffah area. The Israeli military stated that forces opened fire on suspicious individuals to neutralize a perceived threat and confirmed that the incident is under investigation. The conflicting reports highlight the ongoing tensions and humanitarian crisis in the region. 🕊️💔

The EU agrees to help Ukraine financially without Russian assets

The European Union has reached an agreement to provide financial support to Ukraine without relying on frozen Russian assets. This decision comes amidst ongoing discussions about how to best assist Ukraine in its time of need. The EU has emphasized the importance of finding alternative funding mechanisms to ensure that Ukraine receives the necessary aid without complicating international relations or legal frameworks. The move underscores the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine while navigating the complexities of global politics and financial regulations. 💸💪

Several killed in Russian attack on Odessa

A devastating Russian attack in Ukraine's Odessa region has resulted in at least seven fatalities and 15 injuries, as reported by regional governor Oleh Kiper on Telegram. The assault reportedly involved ballistic missiles, underscoring the escalating violence in the conflict. The victims include civilians, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. Authorities are likely assessing the damage and providing medical assistance to the wounded. This latest attack further intensifies concerns over the safety and security of Ukrainian civilians amid the prolonged conflict. 🇺🇦💔

EU will eventually use Russian assets to pay for Ukraine war costs, Manfred Weber says

The EU is poised to utilize frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, despite leaders failing to reach a consensus on the matter during a recent summit. Manfred Weber, head of the European People’s Party, confirmed this stance in an interview, emphasizing that the funds will address the financial repercussions of Russia’s actions and potentially repay EU loans extended to Ukraine. However, Belgium, which holds the majority of these assets, declined to release them for Ukraine’s war efforts. In response, EU leaders agreed on an alternative plan involving joint debt, though Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic opted out of this arrangement. The path forward remains uncertain, but the commitment to leveraging frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s recovery is clear. 💸🇪🇺

Winners and losers of EU’s make-or-break Ukraine summit

In a dramatic turn at a recent EU summit, leaders reached a contentious agreement to fund Ukraine's war effort using joint EU debt, despite opposition from three member states. The decision marked a significant departure from the preferred plan of many EU nations, which had advocated for utilizing frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. The marathon negotiations highlighted the complex dynamics of European unity and the challenges of achieving consensus on critical geopolitical issues. While the agreement represents a step forward in European solidarity, it also underscores the deep divisions within the bloc and the difficulties of balancing national interests with collective security goals. 🇪🇺💥

Poland completes first offshore wind power auction, allocating 3.4 GW of capacity

Poland has taken a significant step forward in its energy transition with the successful conclusion of its first-ever auction for offshore wind power. The auction, overseen by the Energy Regulatory Office (URE), awarded contracts to three projects with a combined capacity of 3.4 gigawatts (GW), marking a pivotal moment in the country's shift away from coal towards renewable energy sources. The agreements provide 25-year contracts for difference (CfDs), guaranteeing fixed electricity prices and offering revenue certainty for investors.

The winning projects include Orlen’s Baltic East (900 MW), PGE’s Baltica 9 (975 MW), and Bałtyk I, a joint venture between Polenergia and Norway’s Equinor (1,560 MW). These projects are set to commence electricity generation by December 2032, with the state covering any shortfalls in market prices and benefiting from excess revenues. The auction's success underscores Poland's leadership in offshore wind development, with the country securing 39% of Europe's offshore wind capacity auctioned this year. This achievement comes despite recent setbacks in other European nations and the U.S., where investor confidence has been tested. Poland's longer support period and higher prices further enhance the likelihood of successful project implementation, positioning the country as a key player in the global energy transition. 🌊💨

Putin blasts attempted EU ‘robbery’ of Russian assets

In a significant development, EU leaders have devised a €90 billion financing package for Ukraine, utilizing EU debt to provide zero-interest loans for Kyiv’s defense against Russian aggression. This decision came after facing resistance from Belgium, where most of the frozen Russian state assets are held by Euroclear. Initially, the EU had considered leveraging these assets to fund a €210 billion package, but the plan was ultimately abandoned. Instead, the frozen assets will remain in place until Russia ends the conflict and compensates Ukraine for war damages. If Moscow fails to do so, the EU reserves the right to use these assets to recover its costs. This financial support underscores the EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and security amid ongoing hostilities. 💰🇪🇺🇺🇦

Deadly attack on military in Colombia

A military facility in the Colombian town of Aguachica was targeted in a drone and explosive attack overnight on Friday, injuring around 30 soldiers. The militant leftist group ELN, one of the last active guerrilla movements in Latin America, claimed responsibility. The ELN, which has been active since the mid-1960s, controls significant drug-producing regions in Colombia and has not reached a peace agreement with the government, unlike other militant groups such as the former FARC.

This attack marks the ELN's second assault on military and police forces this week, following a previous incident in Cali on Tuesday that resulted in the deaths of two police officers. Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned the attack, emphasizing the need to "completely neutralize" the ELN. The ongoing violence highlights the persistent security challenges in Colombia. 🇨🇴💥

Greece and Armenia sign military cooperation program for 2026

Greece and Armenia have strengthened their military ties by signing the Greece-Armenia Military Cooperation Program for 2026 in Yerevan. The agreement, within the framework of international cooperation between allied and friendly armed forces, includes joint operational training, crisis management, special operations forces training, and exchanges of expertise. The program aims to enhance operational capabilities, improve interoperability, and reinforce the role of both nations as key contributors to security and stability in the Caucasus region. 🤝🌍

Zelensky hails “very positive” first meeting with Poland’s Nawrocki

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Polish President Karol Nawrocki held their first official meeting since Nawrocki took office in August, marking a significant moment in bilateral relations. Despite Nawrocki's initially cooler stance toward Kyiv compared to his predecessor, the meeting was described as a positive step, with both leaders emphasizing unity against shared threats, particularly Russia. Nawrocki, a close ally of Donald Trump, highlighted the importance of U.S. involvement in achieving peace between Russia and Ukraine, while Zelensky expressed gratitude for Poland's unwavering support.

The discussions covered strategic security cooperation, economic collaboration, and energy partnerships, including Poland's role as a gas supply hub for Ukraine and neighboring countries. Both presidents also addressed historical tensions, particularly the World War II-era massacres of ethnic Poles by Ukrainian nationalists, agreeing to expedite exhumations and memorial efforts. Despite past diplomatic friction, the meeting signaled a renewed commitment to strengthening ties, with Zelensky hoping it would usher in a new era of cooperation. The leaders also touched on Poland's proposed ban on promoting historical Ukrainian nationalist ideology, a move criticized by Ukraine. The talks underscored the importance of solidarity in defending European values and sovereignty. 🤝🌍

Elevated flu risk

Greece has entered its seasonal flu period earlier than in previous years, with health authorities detecting the globally circulating A(H3N2) flu virus subclade K. The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control has rated the threat as moderate for the general population but high for vulnerable groups, including those 65 and older, pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and residents of long-term care facilities. As the holiday season approaches, the National Public Health Organization is urging immediate vaccination for high-risk groups, along with prompt antiviral treatment upon symptom onset. They also recommend protective measures such as frequent hand-washing, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, and staying home when symptomatic. 🦠💉

Friday's papers: EU's €90bn loan for Ukraine, PM says government has addressed racism scandal, and pricey hotel breakfasts

European leaders at a Brussels summit decided to allocate €90 billion in joint debt to support Ukraine's military and economic needs over the next two years, following a setback in plans to use frozen Russian assets for the same purpose. The proposal to access these assets, advocated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and supported by Finland and Germany, faced technical and political hurdles, particularly due to Belgium's demands for guarantees that other nations were unwilling to provide. The agreement, reached after a marathon 16-hour meeting, includes a zero-interest loan for Ukraine, repayable only if Russia ends the war and pays reparations. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo described the deal as a "tolerable solution" that secures Ukraine's financial stability, though it does not increase Finland's share of support.

Meanwhile, Finland has been grappling with a racism scandal involving former Miss Finland Sara Dzafce and two Finns Party MPs who defended her after she made a racist gesture. The MPs, Kaisa Garedew and Juho Eerola, were reprimanded by their party, and Prime Minister Orpo apologized for their actions. Orpo stated that the government has addressed the issue internally and plans to strengthen cooperation with Asian embassies to prevent future incidents. However, opposition parties have called for a joint government statement on values, a request Orpo has declined. Analysts suggest that further racism scandals may emerge as the political campaign season heats up.

In other news, Helsingin Sanomat reviewed breakfast offerings at hotels in the Helsinki capital region, noting a wide range of prices. The most expensive breakfast, priced at €45, was found at the Waldorf Astoria in Kruunuhaka. Other high-end options included the Lapland Hotel on Bulevardi (€39) and Kämp near Esplanadi (€38). More affordable breakfasts were available in neighboring cities, such as Hanaholmen Hotel in Espoo (€22) and Hotel Matts in Matinkylä (€18.90). Experts noted that while prices may seem high, they reflect the exclusivity and variety of offerings, with some hotels targeting foreign tourists unaware of local price levels. 🍳🏨

US: More than 70 IS targets attacked in Syria

The United States has launched a series of strikes in Syria, targeting ISIS members, infrastructure, and weapons depots. Over 70 targets in central Syria were attacked on Friday using fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery. The U.S. Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, confirmed the operations, stating that the U.S. will continue to pursue terrorists threatening Americans and their regional partners. The strikes were in response to an attack on December 13 that killed three American citizens, including two military personnel and a civilian interpreter.

U.S. President Donald Trump described the attacks as "very serious revenge" on his Truth Social platform, expressing hope for a brighter future in the region if ISIS is eradicated. Syria's Foreign Ministry, while not explicitly commenting on the U.S. strikes, reaffirmed its commitment to fighting ISIS and ensuring the group has no safe havens in Syria. The Pentagon reported that the suspected ISIS attack on Americans occurred in Palmyra, where the delegation was meeting with local leaders to counter terrorism. 🇺🇸💥

New EU loan to Ukraine was 'not what most EU member states wanted'

A recent €50 billion loan package approved by the European Union for Ukraine has sparked debate among member states. While the loan was ultimately supported, it did not reflect the unanimous preference of all EU nations. The package, aimed at bolstering Ukraine's economy amid ongoing conflict, includes grants and loans with favorable terms. However, some member states had advocated for a different approach, highlighting the complexities of reaching consensus within the EU. The loan's approval underscores the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine, even as internal discussions continue about the best strategies for long-term assistance. 💸🇪🇺

Deep contradictions ahead for Gaza's future peace

A senior Hamas representative, Bassem Naim, has emphasized that Israel must completely halt what Hamas considers "violations" of the ceasefire in Gaza for negotiations to progress. Naim stressed that the Israeli occupation must end and that Israel must fully adhere to the agreements made in Sharm el-Sheikh for further talks to take place. The next round of negotiations, hosted by the United States in Florida, will involve U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and representatives from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that for peace to be achievable, Hamas must be completely disarmed, asserting that any future threats or attacks from Hamas would impede peace efforts. Israel has consistently demanded that Hamas surrender all weapons as a precondition for advancing to the next phase of negotiations. However, Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas leader in Gaza, has countered this by asserting that Hamas has a "legitimate right" to remain armed. The ongoing stalemate highlights the deep-seated challenges in achieving a lasting peace agreement. 🇮🇱🇵🇸⚔️