Newsflash

Warming of the North and Baltic seas continues, German figures show

The North and Baltic Seas are experiencing significant warming, with the North Sea reaching its highest recorded average surface temperature in 56 years. In 2025, the North Sea's average surface temperature was 11.6°C, surpassing the long-term average (1997-2021) by 0.9°C. Every month last year exceeded the long-term average, with June and December setting new records. The Baltic Sea also saw a notable increase, with an average surface temperature of 9.7°C, making 2025 the second warmest year since records began in 1990. These findings, reported by Germany’s Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH), highlight the ongoing impact of climate change on marine environments. 🌊🌡️

The BSH monitors sea surface temperatures weekly, combining satellite data with measurements from stations and ships. The warming trend aligns with climate projections by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which warns of significant sea level rises by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions remain unchecked. The data underscores the urgent need for global action to mitigate climate change and its effects on our oceans. 🌍🔥

Ukraine allies agree on security guarantees in case of a ceasefire

Ukraine and its allies have reached an agreement on security guarantees that would come into effect in the event of a ceasefire. This agreement aims to provide Ukraine with long-term security assurances, ensuring its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The deal includes commitments from key international partners to support Ukraine militarily, economically, and politically, should a ceasefire be established. The specifics of the guarantees are still under discussion, but the agreement marks a significant step toward stabilizing Ukraine’s future security landscape. This development comes as global attention remains focused on the ongoing conflict and the need for a lasting resolution. 🤝🌍

The US says goal is to 'buy' Greenland, despite European opposition

The United States has expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, despite opposition from European nations. This move has sparked discussions about the strategic and economic implications of such a purchase. Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, holds significant geopolitical importance due to its location and natural resources. The U.S. sees potential benefits in securing access to Greenland's vast mineral deposits, renewable energy resources, and its strategic position in the Arctic region. However, European countries, particularly Denmark, have raised concerns about sovereignty and the potential impact on regional stability. The proposal has also reignited debates about the ethics and feasibility of purchasing territories in the modern era. As negotiations continue, the situation highlights the complex interplay of geopolitical interests and international diplomacy. 🌍💰

Taking over Greenland, a long-standing US obsession

The United States, under President Donald Trump, has reignited its long-standing interest in acquiring Greenland, a mineral-rich Danish autonomous territory in the Arctic. Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to obtain the island, even suggesting military intervention as a potential means of acquisition. This has sparked concern in Europe, with several NATO members, including France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the UK, issuing a joint statement reaffirming Greenland's sovereignty and the right of Denmark and Greenland to decide their own future.

Greenland's strategic importance has been recognized for centuries, with its location and resources making it a coveted territory. The U.S. has historically sought to control Greenland, viewing it as part of its sphere of influence. During World War II and the Cold War, the U.S. established a significant military presence on the island, including the Thule Air Base, which remains operational today. The territory's vast mineral reserves, including rare earths and oil, along with its strategic location along new shipping routes opened by melting ice, have intensified global interest.

Despite U.S. ambitions, Greenland has consistently asserted its autonomy and opposition to annexation. A recent poll found that 85% of Greenlanders oppose being annexed by the United States. The geopolitical stakes are high, with China and Russia also showing interest in the Arctic region. The situation underscores the complex interplay of political, strategic, and economic factors at play in the Arctic. 🌍🇬🇱

US to control sale of Venezuelan oil indefinitely, Energy Secretary says

The U.S. will market and sell Venezuelan oil, including up to 50 million barrels initially, as announced by Chris Wright at a Goldman Sachs event in Miami. This development follows President Donald Trump's revelation that Venezuela's interim government had agreed to supply oil to the U.S. Additionally, U.S. special forces recently captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife in a raid, leaving Vice President Delcy Rodríguez in charge of the country. This shift in Venezuela's political landscape and oil strategy marks a significant geopolitical and economic move. 🛢️🇻🇪🔄

Comment Trump pourrait s’emparer facilement du Groenland en 4 étapes

Donald Trump has expressed interest in the United States acquiring Greenland, a territory that is currently part of Denmark and whose inhabitants largely oppose becoming part of the U.S. While a military takeover of Nuuk, Greenland's capital, seems far-fetched, even in light of recent U.S. military actions in Venezuela, Trump appears to be pursuing a more strategic approach. This strategy bears a striking resemblance to Vladimir Putin's expansionist tactics, raising concerns among Europeans about the potential implications for global stability and sovereignty. 🌍🇬🇱

FT: US firms plan to buy $22bn of Lukoil assets — deal would include Teboil stations in Finland

US petroleum giant Chevron and private equity firm Quantum Capital Group are in talks to acquire the international assets of Lukoil, the sanctioned Russian oil company, valued at approximately $22 billion. The assets include oil and gas production facilities, refineries, and over 2,000 gas stations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, including the Finnish chain Teboil, which recently ceased operations due to US sanctions. The deal, which requires approval from the US Treasury Department and President Donald Trump, is currently under negotiation, with a deadline set for January 17. Other bidders for Lukoil's assets include the Carlyle Group and Dubai's International Holding Company. 💰🛢️

US to withdraw from 66 international organizations

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order suspending U.S. funding and participation in several international organizations. The affected organizations include the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and the UN treaty that facilitates global climate negotiations. The U.S. State Department justified this decision, citing redundancies, mismanagement, and unnecessary expenditures within these organizations. This move underscores a broader policy shift aimed at reevaluating and reducing U.S. involvement in international bodies. 🌍💸

Greece awaits extradition of Pink Panther suspects

Greek authorities are awaiting the extradition of two Serbian suspects linked to the notorious "Pink Panthers" criminal network, following their arrests in Bulgaria and Croatia. The duo, aged 48 and 46, were apprehended after a daring jewelry heist at the Sani Resort in Halkidiki last September, where they stole luxury watches and jewelry valued at nearly €580,000 in just over a minute. The suspects were tracked down through European arrest warrants after an investigation by Greece’s Organized Crime Unit.

The Pink Panthers, infamous since 2003 for their audacious heists, gained their name after London police discovered a stolen blue diamond hidden in face cream—a nod to a scene from the "Pink Panther" film. The gang entered Greece in August 2024 using fake documents and stolen license plates, conducting surveillance before executing their plan. During the heist, two members held employees at gunpoint while others posed as visitors, escaping on electric scooters and vehicles. Authorities are now investigating their potential involvement in similar armed robberies across Europe during 2024-2025. 🚨💎

The new Trump formula

Donald Trump has embraced a bold and unapologetic approach to U.S. foreign policy, abandoning isolationism and wielding American power with unprecedented assertiveness. He has shattered postwar taboos, such as bombing Iran—a move no previous U.S. president had dared to make—while treating allies like Europe with a mix of disdain and expectation of deference. Trump prioritizes raw power and strategic interests over democratic values, as seen in his handling of Venezuela, where he focuses on resource exploitation rather than restoring democracy.

Trump’s confidence is fueled by the vast capabilities of the Pentagon and intelligence services, which he wields without restraint. His administration is now dominated by loyalists rather than seasoned diplomats or generals who might challenge his decisions. This unchecked power has left adversaries like Russia and China uneasy, as they watch the U.S. assert dominance in regions like the Middle East and Latin America. However, Trump’s aggressive tactics raise concerns about potential overreach, such as applying the "Venezuela model" to other regions like Greenland or Cuba.

The long-term implications of Trump’s approach remain uncertain. Will his strategy lead to a more dominant U.S. presence in an increasingly chaotic world, or will it isolate America from its traditional allies? While some applaud his decisive leadership, others fear it could backfire, leaving the U.S. vulnerable in a major conflict without reliable partners. Trump’s formula is a radical departure from the post-WWII balance of power, and its success or failure will shape global geopolitics for years to come. 🌍⚖️

Why does Donald Trump want to take over Greenland?

Donald Trump's interest in Greenland stems from a mix of strategic, economic, and personal motivations. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, holds significant geopolitical importance due to its location in the Arctic region, which is rich in natural resources and plays a crucial role in global climate and security dynamics. Trump's fascination with Greenland appears to be driven by several factors:

Firstly, Greenland's vast natural resources, including rare earth minerals, oil, and gas, present valuable economic opportunities. The island's strategic location also makes it a key player in Arctic shipping routes, which are becoming increasingly accessible due to melting ice caps. By gaining influence or control over Greenland, Trump could potentially secure access to these resources and shipping lanes, bolstering U.S. economic and military interests in the region.

Secondly, Trump's interest in Greenland may be influenced by his personal business ventures. The former president has a history of pursuing high-profile real estate deals and has expressed admiration for Greenland's natural beauty. Some speculate that Trump's interest in the territory could be tied to potential investment opportunities or the development of luxury resorts and other ventures.

Lastly, Trump's interest in Greenland aligns with his broader foreign policy approach, which prioritizes transactional diplomacy and the pursuit of U.S. interests above all else. By seeking to take over Greenland, Trump aims to strengthen America's position in the Arctic, counterbalance the influence of other nations like China and Russia, and secure valuable resources for the United States. However, this ambition has faced significant opposition from Denmark and Greenland's local government, which have rejected the idea of selling or transferring control of the territory. 🌍💰

Why is Latvia increasingly on the fintech shortlist?

Latvia has emerged as a prime destination for fintech companies seeking to establish operations in Europe, thanks to its regulatory clarity, structured supervisory processes, and access to advanced central-bank infrastructure. The country’s early consultation process allows companies to engage with regulators before formal applications, reducing uncertainty and streamlining compliance. Latvia’s transparent licensing pathway, coupled with publicly available guidance, ensures predictability in authorisation timelines, aiding in strategic planning and resource allocation.

One of Latvia’s standout features is its direct participation in the central-bank-operated Electronic Clearing System (EKS), enabling non-bank payment providers to execute SEPA credit transfers, including instant payments, without relying on intermediary banks. This enhances operational efficiency and supports real-time settlement capabilities, crucial for fintech scaling. Additionally, Latvia’s regulatory framework aligns with EU standards, offering a balanced cost structure and reduced supervisory fees for innovative payment models, further reducing compliance risks.

Latvia has also positioned itself as a hub for crypto-asset service providers under the EU’s MiCA framework, with Latvijas Banka already issuing licenses and offering pre-licensing consultations to ensure compliance. The country’s strong digital infrastructure, high internet penetration, and widespread adoption of instant payments make it an ideal gateway for fintech expansion across Europe. With a population of approximately 1.86 million and a robust non-cash payment system, Latvia provides a strategic and efficient environment for fintech innovation. 🌍💡

A ‘catalogue’ of threats and challenges

Greece faces a complex array of security challenges, from geopolitical tensions with Turkey to emerging threats like cyberattacks, disinformation, and climate change. Thanos Dokos, secretary-general for national security and adviser to the prime minister, highlights the critical role of the newly established General Secretariat for National Security in addressing these issues. This body, created to support the prime minister and the National Security Council, focuses on fostering interministerial cooperation, drafting national security strategies, and enhancing resilience against hybrid threats.

The secretariat does not engage in defense procurement but instead facilitates collaboration among various agencies, ensuring effective communication and coordination. Key challenges include Turkish revisionism, demographic shifts, and the need for technological advancements in areas like drones and artificial intelligence. Greece is making strides in innovation, supported by national and European funding, with initiatives like the Hellenic Center for Defense Innovation and the upcoming AI factory, Pharos.

Dokos emphasizes the importance of maintaining open channels of communication with Turkey while prioritizing Greece’s sovereignty and deterrent capabilities. The secretariat’s success hinges on political consensus and its ability to adapt to future governments, ensuring continuity in national security efforts. With a small, flexible team and a focus on situational awareness, the secretariat aims to strengthen Greece’s security posture in an increasingly unstable region. 🌍🔒

Cyprus faces new labor showdown

Cyprus is on the brink of renewed labor unrest, with unions and employers preparing for potential conflicts over wages, pensions, and workers' rights. Despite recent resolutions on the minimum monthly wage, trade unions warn that labor peace is fragile unless President Nikos Christodoulides addresses unresolved issues promptly. Unions SEK, PEO, and DEOK have jointly urged the president to act on four key demands: establishing an hourly minimum wage, expanding collective agreements to cover 80% of workers as per an EU directive, revising the employment strategy for third-country nationals, and implementing the delayed Ergani 2 labor monitoring system.

Additionally, pension reform, postponed in 2025, is back on the agenda. The government aims to ensure the sustainability of the Social Insurance Fund and enhance pensions, particularly for low-income retirees. Employers, however, are resisting any reopening of settled agreements, fearing it could disrupt labor relations. The stage is set for a tense standoff, with unions pushing for swift action and employers advocating for stability. 💼⚖️

Cyprus assumes EU presidency with Ukraine’s Zelenskyy attending

Cyprus has taken over the European Union’s rotating presidency, marking the beginning of its six-month term with a high-profile meeting attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Antonio Costa. The ceremony in Nicosia also included Middle Eastern leaders, such as Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, underscoring Cyprus’s ambition to serve as a bridge between Europe and the region.

Zelenskyy was warmly welcomed by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, who expressed hope for progress toward Ukraine’s EU membership. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss a recent gathering in Paris, where Ukraine’s allies, including the U.S., pledged security guarantees in the event of a ceasefire. Cyprus, despite its historical ties with Russia, has strongly supported sanctions against Moscow, drawing parallels between Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Turkey’s 1974 invasion of northern Cyprus.

Zelenskyy’s presence at the event symbolized the EU’s continued support for Ukraine as the war with Russia enters its fifth year. Christodoulides emphasized that Cyprus’s presidency aims to strengthen EU autonomy and deepen integration in response to global challenges. 🇪🇺🇨🇾

Britain’s pledged troops for Ukraine. Just don’t ask for the details.

Britain has pledged to deploy troops to Ukraine as part of a broader multinational effort to support a potential ceasefire agreement with Russia. During a recent meeting of the "coalition of the willing" in Paris, the U.K. and France signed a "declaration of intent" to station forces in Ukraine, a move that follows months of discreet planning by British civil servants and military personnel. However, details about the operation remain scarce, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer announcing only that a House of Commons vote will be held.

The lack of transparency has raised questions about the practicalities of the deployment, including the terms of engagement and how the mission will be executed, especially given the current strain on Britain’s armed forces. While the commitment signals strong support for Ukraine, the absence of clear operational details leaves many uncertainties about the scope and impact of this initiative. 🇬🇧🇺🇦

Kherson lives under anti-drone nets and in fear of Russian attacks

Kherson, a city in southern Ukraine, is under constant threat from Russian drone attacks, forcing residents to live under anti-drone nets and in a state of perpetual fear. The city has endured relentless bombardments since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, with drones and missiles targeting both military and civilian infrastructure. The Ukrainian military has deployed anti-drone nets and electronic warfare systems to mitigate the threat, but the attacks continue to cause significant damage and loss of life.

Residents of Kherson describe living in a state of constant anxiety, with air raid sirens frequently disrupting daily life. The psychological toll of living under the constant threat of attack is immense, with many residents reporting symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Despite the hardships, the people of Kherson remain resilient, with community support networks providing essential aid and assistance to those in need.

The situation in Kherson highlights the devastating impact of Russia's ongoing aggression on civilian populations. The international community must continue to support Ukraine in its defense against Russian attacks and work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict. 🌍⚔️

Australia holds its breath ahead of Friday as fires could become unstoppable, fire chief says

Australia is bracing for a potential repeat of the devastating "Black Summer" bushfires that ravaged the country during the 2019-2020 season, killing 33 people and an estimated one billion animals, while scorching 170,000 square kilometers of land. As temperatures soar, with Melbourne reaching 41 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, several southern states are already battling multiple bushfires.

In Victoria, one fire has already spread over 3,000 hectares, threatening to cross into neighboring New South Wales. Chris Hardman, Victoria's fire chief, warns that any fires ignited on Friday could become uncontrollable due to extreme weather conditions. The ongoing heatwave has intensified concerns, with Hardman emphasizing that fires not extinguished immediately may become unstoppable, posing a significant threat to lives and property. Authorities and communities are on high alert, preparing to mitigate the potential catastrophe. 🔥🇦🇺

NBI seizes Fitburg vessel

Finland's National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has taken control of the cargo vessel Fitburg to aid in a preliminary investigation. The ship is suspected of damaging a submarine cable in the Gulf of Finland, and a joint team of Finnish and Estonian criminal police is working to determine if the damage was intentional. The investigation involves multiple agencies, including the Helsinki police, the Border Guard, and the Defence Forces.

The vessel, which was seized on New Year's Eve while en route from Russia to Israel, had its cargo previously held by Finnish Customs for a sanctions assessment. While Customs found that the steel cargo violated Russian sanctions, it decided not to pursue a criminal case. Transport regulator Traficom also conducted an inspection, identifying ten deficiencies that did not pose risks to the vessel or its crew. The ongoing investigation aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the suspected damage to the telecommunications cable. 🚢🔍

1.5C higher than usual: Norway sees hottest year on record in 2025

The Arctic town of Longyearbyen in the Svalbard archipelago reached a record high of 4°C on December 22, 2025, surpassing temperatures in Seville and Ankara, which were 3°C and 1°C, respectively. This extreme warmth is another clear indicator of human-driven climate change. According to Hans Olav Hygen, a climatologist at the Norwegian Meteorological Institute, 2025 was a record-setting year for Norway, with temperatures 1.5°C above the 1991-2020 average and 2.8°C higher than pre-industrial levels. The country experienced a scorching summer, particularly in July, followed by an unusually warm late autumn and early winter.

Amalie Skalevag, another researcher at the institute, noted that such high temperatures are expected to become more frequent in the future. Northern Europe, including southeastern Finland, faced a severe heatwave in July, forcing emergency services to respond to heat-related incidents and municipalities to convert ice rinks into cooling centers. In Norway, cities like Oslo and Trondheim celebrated Christmas without snow, with temperatures reaching a mild 6°C. Across the North Sea, Britain also recorded its hottest year in 2025, according to the Met Office. These trends underscore the urgent need for global action to address climate change. 🌡️🌍