Newsflash

EU warns of possible action after the US bars five Europeans combating online hate

The European Union has issued a warning following the United States' decision to ban five European individuals involved in combating online hate speech. The EU expressed concern over the potential implications of this move, suggesting that it may take further action in response. The ban, which targets individuals working to counter hate and extremism online, has raised questions about the broader impact on international cooperation in this area. The EU emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to address online hate and extremism, urging the U.S. to reconsider its decision. This development highlights the complex challenges in balancing free speech, security, and international cooperation in the digital age. 🌍💻

Algeria passes law listing the crimes of French colonization

Algeria has passed a law formally recognizing the "crimes of French colonization," including nuclear weapons tests, extrajudicial executions, torture, and resource plundering. The legislation demands "full and fair compensation" for the damages inflicted during the colonial era. Parliament speaker Brahim Boughali emphasized that this law underscores Algeria's unwavering collective memory, stating that it "can neither be erased nor negotiated away." While the measure is largely symbolic, it holds significant political weight, particularly amid recent diplomatic tensions between Algeria and France. French President Emmanuel Macron has previously acknowledged the colonization of Algeria as a "crime against humanity" but has yet to issue an official apology. 🇩🇿🇫🇷

Tools of a geopolitical vision

The Hellenic Navy’s acquisition of its first Belharra frigate, the Kimon, marks a pivotal moment for Greece, enhancing its maritime capabilities at a critical time. With operations spanning the Aegean, Ionian/Adriatic, Southern Cretan Sea, and Eastern Mediterranean, the Hellenic Navy faces increasing demands, as much of its fleet has reached operational limits. The four Belharra frigates, equipped with advanced air-defense and anti-submarine systems, will significantly bolster Greece’s naval power, enabling it to establish an anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) umbrella and extend its presence beyond territorial waters.

Greece’s extensive coastline and maritime interests make naval strength essential for economic stability and national sovereignty. The country’s role as a transport hub for U.S. natural gas and potential participation in the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) further underscores the importance of securing maritime routes. Beyond deterrence, the new frigates allow Greece to project power and reinforce its alignment with Western naval powers, a consistent foreign policy since 1830.

The Hellenic Navy’s modernization is crucial for Greece’s strategic position, particularly as global trade increasingly relies on maritime transport. With the world’s largest merchant fleet by deadweight tonnage (DWT), Greece has a vested interest in safeguarding international waterways. The acquisition of these frigates strengthens Greece’s ability to participate in NATO and EU missions, enhancing its negotiating power within Western alliances and with regional partners.

To maintain maritime superiority, Greece must accelerate efforts to expand its fleet, including the procurement of additional surface combatants and submarines. A strong navy is not just a strategic asset but a necessity for Greece’s future security and geopolitical influence. 🌊🇬🇷

Ukrainians spend Christmas Eve with power outages after Russian attacks

Ukraine is facing significant power disruptions following a Russian drone and robot attack that damaged several power plants and parts of the national electricity grid. Repairs are expected to take days, and in some areas, up to a few weeks. Authorities have implemented power rationing, with scheduled outages lasting several hours daily until the issues are resolved. In Lviv, residents are enduring up to ten hours of blackouts per day, forcing many to celebrate Christmas with battery-powered lamps. Lesja Kultchytska shared that while her family is maintaining traditions with twelve dishes, the celebration will be more modest due to the challenging circumstances. The situation underscores the ongoing impact of the conflict on daily life in Ukraine. 💡🎄

Ukraine's Zelensky awaits Russian answer to revised US-peace plan

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is awaiting a response from Russia to a revised U.S.-led peace proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The revised plan has been presented to both Ukraine and Russia, with Zelensky expressing cautious optimism about its potential to bring about a peaceful resolution. However, he emphasized that Ukraine remains prepared for all scenarios, including the possibility of continued conflict. The situation remains tense as the international community watches for Russia's response to the proposal. 🕊️🌍

Ukraine: Zelensky reveals revised 20-point US plan to end Russian war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has disclosed a revised 20-point plan proposed by the United States to end the ongoing war with Russia. The plan, which focuses on a negotiated ceasefire and eventual peace agreement, includes key elements such as the withdrawal of Russian troops, the restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity, and mechanisms for accountability for war crimes. Zelensky emphasized that while the plan provides a framework for negotiations, significant challenges remain, particularly regarding Russia's willingness to engage in good-faith discussions. The proposal also addresses economic and humanitarian aspects, aiming to stabilize Ukraine and ensure long-term security. Despite the complexities, Zelensky expressed cautious optimism, stating that the plan offers a potential path forward, though it will require sustained international support and diplomatic efforts. 🇺🇸🤝🇷🇺

Zelenskyy floats terms for peace plan, signaling possible withdrawal from eastern Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revealed that the latest draft of a peace plan, negotiated between U.S. and Ukrainian officials, proposes Kyiv withdrawing its troops from the eastern territories claimed by Moscow. During a press briefing in Kyiv, Zelenskyy explained that the updated plan suggests designating the Donbas region—a majority of which is currently under Russian occupation—as a demilitarized "free economic zone," where neither Ukrainian nor Russian forces would be present.

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine opposes this withdrawal, which is one of Russia's key demands. However, he acknowledged the difficult choice ahead: "Either the war continues, or we will have to make decisions regarding potential economic zones." The proposal highlights the complex negotiations and the challenging trade-offs Ukraine faces in its pursuit of peace.

US sanctions former EU commissioner and four Europeans over efforts to curb online hate speech

The Trump administration has imposed sanctions on five European nationals, including former European Commissioner Thierry Breton, for their roles in combating hate speech and disinformation. The sanctions, announced on Tuesday, include visa revocations and deportation orders. Among those affected are Imran Ahmed and Clare Melford, heads of the Centre for Countering Digital Hate and the Global Disinformation Index, respectively. Ahmed, currently residing in Washington, faces immediate deportation. Additionally, German activists Anna-Lena von Hodenberg and Josephine Ballon, leaders of the non-profit Hate Aid, are also subject to visa bans. The administration describes these actions as part of a broader effort to counter what it perceives as digital censorship. 🇺🇸🚫

US actions will not stop EU from moderating online hate and disinformation, commissioner says

The European Union has firmly rejected U.S. visa sanctions imposed on individuals linked to the Digital Services Act (DSA), a law governing content moderation on social media platforms. The EU’s Internal Market Commissioner, Stéphane Séjourné, declared that these sanctions will not deter the bloc from enforcing its rules, emphasizing that the DSA was democratically adopted and has no extraterritorial reach. The U.S. State Department accused the targeted individuals, including former EU Commissioner Thierry Breton, of coercing American tech companies into censoring viewpoints, a claim the EU strongly denies.

French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen both expressed solidarity with Breton, reaffirming their commitment to protecting Europe’s independence and freedom of speech. Breton, who spearheaded the DSA, condemned the visa ban as a "witch hunt," drawing parallels to the McCarthy era. The DSA has become a contentious issue, with U.S. conservatives alleging it suppresses right-wing perspectives, a claim the EU vehemently rejects. The sanctions also targeted activists from organizations combating online hate and disinformation, further highlighting the growing transatlantic divide over digital sovereignty and free speech. 🇪🇺🇺🇸

Kerameus: Combining AI with the human factor

Labor and Social Security Minister Niki Kerameus emphasized the importance of integrating artificial intelligence with human expertise to achieve optimal outcomes in the workforce. Speaking at the 4th Labor Conference, she highlighted the current favorable labor market conditions, with unemployment at an 17-year low of 8.2% and 188,000 new jobs created in the first 10 months of 2025. Kerameus stressed the need to address how the human factor can be effectively combined with the rapid advancements in technology.

She underscored the necessity of upgrading skills, advocating for state investment in education and reskilling programs to empower individuals in the evolving job market. Additionally, Kerameus highlighted the state's role in leveraging AI to enhance public services. Two key initiatives were mentioned: the digitization of handwritten social security contribution records using AI and the "Job Match" application by DYPA, which aligns job seekers' profiles with business needs based on location, salary expectations, and expertise. These efforts aim to bridge the gap between technological progress and human potential, ensuring a balanced and efficient labor market. 🤖💼

Empty seats

The recent budget debate in Parliament has been marred by a striking absence of lawmakers, with empty seats dominating the plenary hall over the first three days. This widespread absenteeism, spanning all parties, reflects a troubling disregard for democratic institutions and public responsibility. Many MPs prioritize media appearances, constituency events, and social media engagement over their parliamentary duties, often delivering speeches prepared with AI assistance before promptly leaving the chamber. The lack of accountability from party leaders exacerbates this decline, as they fail to enforce consistency among their members.

This phenomenon is more than a mere crisis of parliamentarianism; it underscores a deeper erosion of trust in political institutions. MPs who bemoan voter apathy and populism while neglecting their core responsibilities contribute to public disillusionment. The contrast between their lavish social media campaigns and their absence from critical debates highlights a troubling disconnect. The empty seats in Parliament symbolize a broader societal issue—one rooted in dishonesty, hypocrisy, and opportunism. These factors pose a greater threat to social cohesion than juvenile delinquency, fostering an environment ripe for unrest. The time has come for a reckoning with the values and integrity of our political leaders. 🏛️💭

Warning: Your Christmas present may be a live electrical product

The Swedish Electrical Safety Authority conducted a review of approximately twenty electrical products from companies claiming to operate within the EU, only to find that all of them posed serious safety risks. Each product exhibited technical flaws that could lead to electric shocks or fires, according to Per Samuelsson, head of department at the authority. The investigation focused on 19 operators suspected of using dropshipping, a practice where goods are shipped directly from platforms like Temu, Shein, or AliExpress, often originating from China. Out of 22 ordered products, 18 arrived, none of which met EU safety standards. Issues ranged from poor heat resistance to the risk of melting and combustion. The Swedish Consumers' Association has also noted an increase in dropshipping-related problems, including undelivered or misrepresented items. Consumers within the EU face challenges in exercising their rights when sellers operate outside the Union, often making it difficult to identify the responsible party. To ensure product safety, consumers are advised to verify the seller's EU-based contact information, check for Swedish user manuals, and compare labeling with EU requirements. 🔌🔥

At least seven killed in mosque explosion in Maiduguri

A devastating explosion occurred during evening prayers in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state, Nigeria. Authorities suspect a suicide bomber was responsible for the attack, although no armed group has yet claimed responsibility. The region has a long history of insurgencies by jihadist groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP, though Maiduguri itself had not experienced a major attack in recent years. The incident has raised concerns about renewed violence in an area already grappling with instability. 💥🇳🇬

EU hits out at Norway-UK deal allowing mackerel overfishing

The European Union has expressed strong disapproval of a recent fishing agreement involving the UK, Norway, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands, which was signed without prior consultation with the EU. The accord, announced on December 16, sets a total allowable catch of over 299,000 tonnes for 2026, a figure 72% higher than scientific recommendations. This decision is particularly concerning as the mackerel stock is already below biological limits and at risk of collapse, potentially leading to irreversible damage to the population.

The EU has criticized the agreement for exacerbating overfishing and has stated it will seek further clarification from the parties involved. French fishermen's representatives have also raised concerns, arguing that the deal allows these nations to overfish a fragile stock while still exporting their produce to the EU, undermining fair competition. The EU's stance underscores its commitment to sustainable fishing practices and the need for international cooperation to protect marine resources. 🐟🌊

Zelensky unveils new US-backed, 20-point plan to end the war in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has unveiled a comprehensive 20-point plan to end the war in Ukraine, developed in collaboration with the U.S. and submitted to Moscow for review. The plan outlines a path to peace, including the reaffirmation of Ukraine's sovereignty, the establishment of demilitarized zones, and robust security guarantees backed by the U.S., NATO, and European signatories. Key provisions include Ukraine's future EU membership, economic recovery initiatives, and the creation of funds to support reconstruction and development. The plan also addresses humanitarian concerns, such as prisoner exchanges and the return of hostages, and calls for a legally binding agreement monitored by a Peace Council chaired by U.S. President Donald Trump. The immediate implementation of a full ceasefire is contingent upon all parties agreeing to the terms. 🌍✌️

Israel investing 350 billion shekels in domestic arms industry to reduce dependence on other countries

During a ceremony at a military base, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a significant investment of 350 billion shekels (approximately 1,000 billion kronor) over the next decade to develop an independent arms industry. This move aims to reduce Israel's reliance on foreign suppliers, even among its allies. The decision comes amid growing restrictions on arms sales to Israel by several Western countries due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Despite international criticism over civilian casualties in Gaza, the United States, Israel's closest ally, has continued its military support. 🇮🇱💥

EU 'strongly condemns' US visa bans against five Europeans

The European Union and several European nations have strongly condemned the U.S. State Department's decision to deny visas to five European officials and activists, accusing them of coercing American social media platforms into censoring viewpoints. The EU, along with France, Germany, and Spain, has rejected the U.S. claims, emphasizing that the Digital Services Act (DSA) is a democratically adopted regulation aimed at ensuring a safe and fair digital environment within the EU. The DSA, led by Thierry Breton, mandates transparency in content moderation and protects users from harmful content, particularly for children. However, U.S. conservatives have criticized the act, alleging it suppresses right-wing perspectives—a claim the EU vehemently denies.

European leaders, including German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Spain’s foreign ministry, have condemned the U.S. visa bans as unacceptable intimidation and coercion, aimed at undermining Europe’s digital sovereignty. Breton, now a former EU official, and other targeted individuals, such as Imran Ahmed and Clare Melford, have defended their work, calling the U.S. actions an attack on free speech and an unlawful attempt to silence critics. The EU remains committed to defending its regulatory autonomy and ensuring a level playing field for digital platforms. 🌍💻

US to Turkey: Don’t escalate

The U.S. has been gently urging Turkey to maintain calm and avoid escalating tensions with its neighbors, according to diplomatic sources. This message comes amid concerns over a recent mock combat engagement between Greek and Turkish F-16 fighter jets, the first since February 2023. Greek diplomats are now questioning whether this incident was an isolated event or a sign of Turkey disregarding the U.S. advice.

Turkey’s desire to purchase advanced F-35 fighter jets from the U.S. adds weight to the situation. To secure this deal, Turkey is reportedly willing to return the Russian S-400 anti-aircraft missiles it previously acquired—a move it had long considered humiliating and impractical. This shift in stance underscores Turkey’s strategic interest in aligning with U.S. interests and avoiding further diplomatic strain. The U.S. is clearly emphasizing the importance of stability in the region, and Turkey’s willingness to compromise on the S-400 issue highlights the significance of maintaining strong ties with Washington. 🇺🇸🇹🇷✈️

Nos 12 Cesar de l’année politique 2025

In a surprising turn of events, French Prime Minister François Bayrou announced his resignation on August 25, 2024, following a summer break. He called a sudden press conference to reveal his plan to request a vote of confidence from the National Assembly on September 8. This bold move came after presenting a €40 billion budget plan and anticipating widespread protests on September 10. Bayrou sought to challenge lawmakers to support his vision for France's future. However, Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally (RN), swiftly responded on Twitter, declaring her party would vote against the government. Despite Bayrou's media blitz in the following days, the outcome was never in doubt. His tenure as Prime Minister ended abruptly, leaving observers stunned. 🇫🇷💥

Metlen sells part of Chilean portfolio at a better price

Metlen Energy & Metals has successfully completed the sale of a significant portion of its Chilean portfolio, including four solar projects with a combined capacity of 588 megawatts and co-located Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) totaling 1,610 MWh. The transaction, finalized with GAC RS Chile II SpA, a subsidiary of Glenfarne Group, was signed in April 2025 and is part of Metlen’s global Asset Rotation Plan. The deal, valued at $865 million, exceeded initial estimates of $815 million, reflecting the growing opportunities in Chile’s hybrid solar and energy storage market. Metlen Chairman Evangelos Mytilineos emphasized that co-located solar and BESS projects are key to the company’s future strategy, positioning Metlen to capitalize on the expanding market for hybrid energy solutions. 🌞🔋