Newsflash

Russia uses new ballistic missile in major attack on Kyiv and warning to the West

Russia launched a significant attack on Kyiv, deploying a new hypersonic ballistic missile capable of flying at ten times the speed of sound, which officials claim is impervious to air defenses. The strike, which coincided with escalating tensions between Moscow and Washington, targeted civilian infrastructure and killed at least four people, including an emergency medical worker. The attack also damaged the Qatari Embassy, disrupting water and heat supplies across the city.

The missile, identified as the Oreshnik, was fired from Russia’s Kapustin Yar test range and struck the Lviv region in western Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously described the Oreshnik as unstoppable, likening its speed to a meteorite. The attack was framed by Moscow as retaliation for a purported Ukrainian drone strike on one of Putin’s residences, a claim denied by both the U.S. and Ukraine.

The assault comes amid growing international concern over Russia’s military capabilities and its willingness to escalate tensions. European leaders condemned the strike as "escalatory and unacceptable," with NATO and EU officials calling for a strong response. Ukrainian officials have demanded urgent action from the international community, including an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council and a session of the Ukraine-NATO Council.

The attack has intensified calls for a diplomatic resolution, with Pope Leo XIV urging an immediate ceasefire and dialogue to end the conflict. Meanwhile, residents of Kyiv and Lviv expressed resilience in the face of the ongoing war, emphasizing their determination to withstand further aggression. The strike underscores the volatile geopolitical climate and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. 🌍💥

Trump’s jungle rules

In 2026, the United States, under President Donald Trump, is poised to become the primary source of global instability, actively dismantling the postwar global order it once led. Trump’s foreign policy is characterized by a transactional approach, where nations are either targets or potential partners based on their ability to retaliate. This strategy was evident in the recent capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, a move that demonstrated Trump’s willingness to use military force and economic coercion to assert dominance in the Western Hemisphere. Trump’s "Donroe Doctrine" replaces traditional alliances and multilateral institutions with unilateral power, prioritizing personal gain and short-term victories over long-term stability.

Trump’s approach extends beyond Latin America, as seen in his dealings with China, where he backed down from tariffs after Beijing retaliated with export restrictions on critical minerals. Europe is also in Trump’s crosshairs, with threats to Greenland and support for far-right factions threatening to further destabilize the continent. The administration’s unpredictable and aggressive tactics are forcing nations to seek leverage and impose costs on the U.S. to protect their interests. While some, like China, may benefit from America’s self-sabotage, the long-term damage to U.S. alliances and credibility could be irreversible.

Trump’s disregard for diplomatic norms and alliances risks weakening America’s global standing, with consequences that will outlast his presidency. The erosion of trust and partnerships may take generations to rebuild, leaving a lasting impact on global stability. As 2026 approaches, the world braces for a pivotal year where the U.S. may redefine its role, potentially reshaping the international order in unpredictable ways. 🌍🔥

The Europeans at their Rubicon

Europe stands at a pivotal moment, facing the erosion of international law and the global order that has maintained peace and stability for decades. The aggressive policies of the United States, particularly under Donald Trump, and the expansionist ambitions of Russia and China, threaten to plunge the world into a chaotic power struggle. Trump’s "Trump Corollary" to the Monroe Doctrine signals a new era of U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere, while Russia and China are emboldened to assert control over their perceived spheres of influence. This shift undermines global stability and emboldens authoritarian regimes, leaving smaller nations vulnerable to invasion and coercion.

For Europe, the stakes are high. The continent must decide whether to accelerate its political, economic, and defense unification to safeguard its freedom and prosperity or risk surrendering to the whims of autocratic leaders. Trump’s recent actions have demonstrated his willingness to act unilaterally, disregarding the interests of allies. Meanwhile, Putin’s aggression in Ukraine underscores the urgent need for a united European front. The future of liberal democracy and global stability hinges on Europe’s ability to defend its values and assert its sovereignty. The time for decisive action is now, as the continent stands at its Rubicon, poised to either rise as a united force or succumb to external domination. 🌍🇪🇺

‘I don’t need international law’: Trump’s Wild West doctrine freezes European brains

A heavy snowfall blanketed Brussels this week as European officials returned from their holidays to a dramatically altered geopolitical landscape. The shock came swiftly: Donald Trump’s aggressive move to oust Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro left EU leaders stunned and silent. Trump’s subsequent actions—questioning NATO’s future, threatening Cuba and Iran, and claiming U.S. ownership of Greenland against the will of its current overseers—sent shockwaves through European capitals. In a bold statement to the New York Times, Trump declared, "I don’t need international law," signaling a stark departure from traditional diplomatic norms. The rapid succession of these events has left Europe grappling with uncertainty and a need to redefine its stance in an increasingly unpredictable world. ❄️🌍

Trump stalled it for a year — now a 'game-changer' bill could hit Russia's oil profits

U.S. President Donald Trump has finally endorsed a significant sanctions bill targeting Russia’s oil and gas revenues, a move that could dramatically impact Moscow’s funding for its war in Ukraine. The legislation aims to impose secondary sanctions on countries, including China, India, and Brazil, that continue purchasing Russian energy, thereby cutting off a key revenue stream for the Kremlin. If enacted, the bill would penalize foreign states buying Russian oil, gas, uranium, or petroleum products, potentially imposing tariffs of up to 500% on goods from these countries entering the U.S. market.

This shift in Trump’s stance marks a strategic pivot toward combining economic pressure with diplomatic efforts. The bill, championed by Senator Lindsey Graham, seeks to raise the cost of obstruction for Russia by tying sanctions to Moscow’s willingness to engage in peace talks. While some analysts believe the bill could be a game-changer if enforced rigorously, others remain skeptical about its full implementation. The legislation comes amid stalled diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, with Russia continuing to create obstacles and refusing to accept a proposed peace framework. If passed, the bill could provide Trump with a powerful economic tool to pressure Moscow as the conflict persists. 💸🛢️

Kyiv mayor calls for temporary evacuation after Russian strikes cause power outages

In response to devastating Russian strikes that caused widespread power outages in Kyiv, Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko urged residents to temporarily evacuate the city as sub-zero temperatures plummeted further. The attacks, which included the use of the feared Oreshnik ballistic missile near Ukraine’s EU border, drew strong condemnation from international leaders. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres decried the strikes, emphasizing their violation of international humanitarian law and the severe humanitarian impact on civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of using cold weather as a weapon of terror and highlighted the missile strike’s proximity to the EU as a deliberate intimidation tactic.

The Oreshnik missile, deployed for only the second known time, reportedly carried inert warheads and struck a workshop in Lviv, causing minor damage. Meanwhile, Russia claimed control of the village of Zelenyi in the Zaporizhzhia region, while Ukraine reported attacks on cargo ships in the Black Sea, resulting in the death of a Syrian crew member. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) called for a ceasefire zone near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant to allow critical repairs amid heightened military activity.

Diplomatic reactions varied, with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni advocating for renewed EU-Russia dialogue, while the UK, France, and Germany condemned the Oreshnik strike as escalatory. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha demanded strong international responses to Russia’s actions, emphasizing the threat posed to European security. The attacks also damaged the Qatar embassy in Kyiv, prompting Zelensky to call for global accountability.

Russia’s assault involved 242 drones and 36 missiles, with Ukrainian air defenses intercepting most. The Oreshnik missile, touted by Putin as unstoppable, underscores Russia’s escalating military tactics. As the conflict persists, the humanitarian and geopolitical stakes remain critically high. 🌍💥

Russia hits Lviv with rare Oreshnik missile, SBU says

On the night of January 9, Russia launched its new Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile at the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, near the Polish border. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed the attack was retaliation for an alleged Ukrainian drone strike on one of President Vladimir Putin's residences, a claim Ukraine denies. The missile, designed to carry nuclear weapons but not equipped with them in this instance, targeted energy infrastructure and drone production facilities, according to Russia. Ukraine's Deputy Energy Minister confirmed damage to gas distribution pipelines.

Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) displayed fragments of the missile, identifying it as an Oreshnik, and is investigating the attack as a war crime. In response, Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha announced plans to initiate an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council and sessions with NATO, the European Union, the Council of Europe, and the OSCE. He condemned the strike as a grave threat to European security and urged the international community to adopt tougher measures against Russia, including targeting its oil revenues and freezing its assets.

The attack on Lviv was part of a broader assault involving drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, resulting in at least four civilian deaths and 25 injuries. This marks the second use of the Oreshnik missile against Ukraine, following a previous strike on Dnipro in November 2024. Defense experts suggest the Oreshnik may be based on the older RS-26 Rubezh missile, which has a range of 5,800 kilometers and can carry multiple warheads. 💥🇷🇺🇺🇦

Russia 'must feel consequences' — Zelensky denounces Oreshnik strike near Poland's border

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky strongly condemned Russia's recent missile and drone attacks, which included the use of the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile near Poland's border. The strike on Lviv, just 60 kilometers from Poland, marked the first time the city faced a ballistic missile attack. Zelensky emphasized the need for a global response, stating that Russia must face consequences for its actions and prioritize diplomacy. He warned that the deployment of such missiles poses a threat to Europe, including capitals like Warsaw, Bucharest, and Budapest.

The attack caused significant damage, including power outages and infrastructure destruction, amid freezing temperatures. In Kyiv, at least four people were killed, and 25 were injured, including medical personnel. The strike also damaged residential buildings and the Qatari Embassy. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 226 drones and 18 missiles out of the 242 drones and 35 missiles launched by Russia.

Zelensky called for a robust collective defense system to counter Moscow's aggression, expressing doubts about the current level of European preparedness. He plans to discuss the attack with international partners to determine the necessary response. The use of the Oreshnik missile, capable of carrying nuclear warheads, underscores the escalating threat posed by Russia's military actions. 🚨🌍

Ukraine war latest: Russia tops global ranking for internet shutdowns in 2025, Top10VPN reported

Russia has emerged as the world's leading perpetrator of internet shutdowns in 2025, according to a report by Top10VPN. The country imposed 57 major internet outages, totaling 37,166 hours of disruptions, under the guise of protecting against Ukrainian attacks. However, experts suggest these shutdowns are part of a broader strategy to restrict access to independent information. The economic impact of these disruptions was severe, with Russia accounting for over half of the global economic losses, estimated at $11.9 billion. Unlike other countries, Russia's shutdowns were systematic and technically sophisticated, often targeting specific platforms like WhatsApp to gradually degrade their functionality.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has awarded a key lithium mining project to a consortium of investors, including a company backed by the U.S. government and a close associate of U.S. President Donald Trump. This move is part of Ukraine's strategy to attract American investment and maintain U.S. support. In other developments, Russia has continued its attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, striking civilian vessels near Odesa, a hospital in Kherson, and using a new intermediate-range ballistic missile to hit Lviv. These attacks have resulted in significant casualties and damage, leaving thousands without heat, power, or water amid freezing temperatures. Despite these challenges, Ukraine is pushing forward with its defense and economic strategies, seeking to strengthen its position both militarily and diplomatically. 🌍💻⚡

Russia will take over Greenland if US doesn't get there first, Trump claims

U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that an American takeover of Greenland is essential to prevent Russia or China from seizing the territory. He asserted that the U.S. will act unilaterally if necessary, stating, "We are going to do something with Greenland, whether they like it or not." Trump also justified the recent U.S. military intervention in Venezuela, claiming it was necessary to prevent Russian or Chinese influence in the region. The comments were made during a meeting with leaders of major U.S. oil and gas companies, where Trump outlined plans to seize control of Venezuela's oil industry following the overthrow of President Nicolás Maduro.

Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, is strategically vital due to its Arctic location, mineral wealth, and potential fossil fuel reserves. Despite Denmark's NATO membership, the White House has not ruled out using military force to take control of the island. Trump compared the situation to real estate, arguing that ownership is crucial for defense. While he expressed a preference for a negotiated deal, he emphasized that the U.S. would act decisively, "either the nice way or the more difficult way," to prevent Russian or Chinese occupation.

Trump also addressed the possibility of extending U.S. policy to arrest foreign dictators, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, but downplayed the necessity, citing his past rapport with Putin. He did not comment on Russia's recent mass attack against Ukraine or its deployment of an intermediate-range ballistic missile near the EU border. 🌍💥

Home alone in a hostile world: Is 2026 the year Europe will fend for itself?

As 2026 begins, Europe faces a precarious geopolitical landscape, caught between the aggressive posturing of the U.S. and Russia. The U.S. seizure of Venezuela's leader and President Donald Trump's threats to use military force to acquire Greenland, a territory of NATO member Denmark, have left European leaders questioning their ability to defend their own sovereignty. Meanwhile, Europe remains dependent on U.S. support for Ukraine, even as Russian President Vladimir Putin rejects security guarantees and vows to continue fighting until victory.

This dual challenge presents a moral and political dilemma for Europe. While the continent seeks to uphold its values and principles, it must also navigate the realities of power politics. The uncertainty surrounding U.S. commitments and Russia's unyielding stance raises questions about Europe's ability to assert its influence in a world where brute force often prevails. As Europe grapples with these challenges, the critical question remains: Can it carve out a path that safeguards its interests, principles, and sovereignty in an increasingly volatile global landscape? 🌍⚖️

Is Trump doing a good job? Only 12 percent of Germans think so.

A recent survey by ARD DeutschlandTrend reveals a significant decline in German trust toward the U.S. and President Donald Trump. Only 12% of respondents rated Trump's performance positively, while a mere 15% considered the U.S. a trustworthy partner for Germany, marking the lowest confidence level in the survey's history. Russia, at 9%, was the only country viewed as less trustworthy. The survey results are closely linked to Trump's recent military actions in Venezuela, including the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, which have sparked widespread disapproval among Germans. 🇩🇪🇺🇸

Cartoon (09/01/2026)

Finland's far-right Blue-Black Movement, known for its openly 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's incompatibility with constitutional and human rights laws, successfully re-registered after gathering the required 5,000 supporter signatures. The Justice Ministry confirmed that the group's revised rules and program were deemed acceptable, allowing its return to the political landscape.

The Blue-Black Movement, founded by former members of the Finns Party, draws inspiration from the Lapua Movement, a radical nationalist and fascist group active in Finland in the late 1920s and early 1930s. The group's recent activities include a May Day event in Tampere, where participants displayed Finnish flags and a banner reading "May Day is White." The movement's re-emergence raises concerns about the rise of extremist ideologies in Finland's political sphere. 🇫🇮⚠️

Meloni joins Macron in urging European talks with Russia

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called for Europe to appoint a special envoy to engage in dialogue with Russia, echoing a similar proposal by French President Emmanuel Macron. Meloni emphasized the importance of Europe speaking directly with both sides in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, stating that limiting communication to only one party would restrict Europe's ability to contribute effectively to a resolution. She noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with Macron, signaling a potential opening for diplomatic efforts. Meloni's call underscores the need for a balanced and inclusive approach to addressing the crisis. 🇮🇹🇪🇺🇷🇺

Cypriot authorities suspect video is disinformation operation

Cypriot authorities are investigating a controversial video circulating on the X platform, which questions the campaign financing of President Nikos Christodoulides. The video is suspected to be part of an organized hybrid disinformation operation aimed at harming the Republic of Cyprus. Security sources suggest that the video shares similarities with Russian disinformation campaigns previously targeting EU member states, though the origin remains undetermined.

The timing of the video's release raises concerns, as it coincides with Cyprus's EU presidency, potentially indicating a broader effort to disrupt stability during this period. Investigators note that the video aligns with Russia’s "Doppelganger" campaign, a coordinated disinformation effort known to have targeted multiple countries, including France, the United States, Germany, and Israel. The video's editing and narration appear designed to promote a specific corruption narrative, aiming to undermine the credibility of individuals and institutions. 🕵️‍♂️📹

Deep wage and purchasing power gap in Greece, Eurostat data highlight

Greece faces significant economic challenges, as highlighted by recent Eurostat data. In 2024, Greece ranked second-lowest in the EU for average annual adjusted full-time wages, at €18,000, just above Bulgaria's €15,400. Greek wages are approximately 55% lower than the EU average, and when purchasing power is considered, Greece ranks lowest in the EU, with a purchasing power roughly 46% below the EU average. This combination of low wages and reduced purchasing power places sustained financial pressure on households, gradually eroding living standards.

Long-term income trends reveal that Greece and Italy were the only EU countries to experience a decline in real income per capita between 2004 and 2024, with Greece seeing the sharpest drop of 5%, largely due to austerity measures imposed during bailout packages. In contrast, all other EU member states saw real income growth over the same period. Social indicators further reflect these economic strains, with Greece having the highest share of citizens who feel poor (67%) and one of the worst rates of energy poverty. In 2024, 19% of Greeks struggled to adequately heat their homes, a figure matched only by Bulgaria and significantly higher than the EU average of 9%. These challenges underscore the ongoing economic difficulties facing Greece. 💸📉

'It relies on paracetamol': Why foreigners find Norway's health system below par

A recent study by forskning.no, part of the "ExitNorway" research project led by Aadne Aasland, reveals that dissatisfaction with Norway's healthcare system is a significant factor driving foreign residents to leave the country. The findings highlight widespread dissatisfaction among various immigrant groups, citing the restrictive nature of the Norwegian healthcare system as a major concern. Many foreign residents, particularly those from the U.S. and other European countries, find the system overly bureaucratic and slow, with general practitioners often acting as gatekeepers who hinder access to specialists and necessary medications. This perception of the healthcare system as dismissive and inefficient has led many to reconsider their stay in Norway.

Foreign residents have shared their frustrations, describing long wait times, a lack of accountability, and a system that prioritizes cost-saving over patient care. Some have even resorted to seeking medical treatment abroad due to a lack of confidence in the Norwegian healthcare system. Common criticisms include the need for more efficient diagnosis and treatment, lower medication costs, and the inclusion of dental care in the national insurance scheme. Additionally, many residents have expressed a desire for better aftercare and more accessible GP appointments. The study underscores the need for reforms to address these issues and improve the overall satisfaction and well-being of foreign residents in Norway. 🏥💊

Poland fails in bid to block EU’s Mercosur trade deal, as farmers protest in Warsaw

The European Union has approved a significant free trade agreement with the South American Mercosur bloc, despite opposition from Poland, France, Austria, Hungary, and Ireland. The deal, which eliminates tariffs on most trade between the two regions, was approved by a qualified majority of EU member states. However, Poland has announced plans to challenge the agreement in the EU’s top court, citing concerns over its potential impact on European agriculture. The approval comes as farmers across Europe, including Poland, France, Belgium, Spain, and Greece, protested against the deal, fearing it will lead to cheaper, lower-standard imports that could harm local producers and consumers. The EU has included a safeguard clause to protect domestic producers, but Poland remains firm in its opposition, with its government and president expressing support for the protesting farmers. 🌍🚜

'Not what you see on the map': French ambassador to Ukraine challenges Russia's victory narrative

France's ambassador to Ukraine, Gaël Veyssière, challenges Russia's claims of military success in the ongoing war, emphasizing that the Kremlin's narrative is increasingly detached from reality. Speaking to FRANCE 24, Veyssière highlights that despite Russia's aggressive tactics, open-source data reveals that Russian forces captured less than 1% of Ukrainian territory in 2025, debunking Moscow's assertions of significant battlefield victories. He asserts that Russia's version of events is "not what you see on the map," underscoring the disconnect between Kremlin propaganda and actual military progress.

The ambassador also addresses geopolitical dynamics, noting that the recent U.S. covert operation in Venezuela has left Russia "embarrassed" and cautious. Moscow must navigate the loss of a key ally while avoiding direct confrontation with U.S. President Donald Trump, who remains a critical player in any potential Ukraine peace negotiations. Veyssière dismisses the idea that the Venezuela operation grants Russia a free hand in its "sphere of influence," asserting that Trump views the U.S. as the world's dominant power, with no true rivals.

On the issue of security guarantees for Ukraine, Veyssière insists they are essential for lasting peace. While he acknowledges that Russia may use the issue as leverage to obstruct a ceasefire, he is clear that Ukraine will not cede its territories. If Putin insists on fighting until his territorial demands are met, Veyssière warns, there would be "no possibility of a ceasefire." The ambassador's remarks underscore the complexities of the conflict and the critical role of international support in securing Ukraine's future. 🌍⚔️

6-way bidding war emerges for ECB vice presidency

A competitive race is underway for the European Central Bank’s vice presidency, with Croatia, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, and Portugal all vying for the position. This contest marks the beginning of a broader struggle for seats on the ECB’s influential six-person executive board, which shapes the eurozone’s economic and monetary policies. Over the next two years, four of the board’s seats, including the presidency, will become vacant, intensifying the competition. Larger eurozone economies are expected to push for their influence, leaving smaller nations to contend for the remaining spots. The outcome will significantly impact the future direction of the eurozone’s economic governance. 🏛️💼