Newsflash

Data: Starlink offering free internet in blacked-out Iran

In Iran, reports confirm that internet access has been restored through Starlink satellite connections, despite an almost total blockade of telephone and internet services imposed by the regime since Thursday. Ahmad Ahmadian, head of the American group Holistic Resilience, and Amir Rashidi of the Miaan Group, along with an anonymous Starlink-connected source, have verified these developments. Starlink terminals, which are banned in Iran, are reportedly being smuggled into the country, with estimates suggesting over 50,000 terminals are now in use. SpaceX, the company behind Starlink, has not commented on these reports. The regime has also disrupted satellite communications for the first time in peacetime, according to AFP. 🌐🛰️

Cartoon (13/01/2026)

Finland's far-right Blue-Black Movement has been reinstated as a registered political party, despite its openly racist and fascist ideologies. The group, founded by former members of the Finns Party, was initially removed from the register in 2024 after the Supreme Administrative Court ruled its program violated constitutional and human rights laws. However, following a review, the Justice Ministry deemed its updated rules and program acceptable, allowing it to re-register with the required 5,000 supporter signatures.

The Blue-Black Movement traces its roots to the Lapua Movement, a radical nationalist and fascist group active in Finland during the late 1920s and early 1930s. The group's recent activities include a May Day event in Tampere, where participants carried Finnish flags and a banner reading "May Day is White." The movement's return to the political landscape has sparked concerns about the rise of extremist ideologies in Finland. 🇫🇮⚠️

Trump to attend Davos as global cooperation cast into doubt

Donald Trump will be the standout figure at this year’s World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, despite his policies often clashing with the forum’s traditional emphasis on global cooperation. WEF chief executive Børge Brende expressed enthusiasm about Trump’s attendance, noting that he will lead the largest U.S. delegation ever to the event. The delegation will include five cabinet secretaries, key administration officials, and a bipartisan group of U.S. Congress members. Trump’s presence is expected to draw significant attention, even as his approach to international relations continues to spark debate. 🌍🗣️

As Trump threatens US takeover of Greenland, NATO downplays risk to the alliance's survival

As tensions escalate, former U.S. President Donald Trump has raised the possibility of a U.S. takeover of Greenland, a move that has sparked concerns about its implications for NATO and global stability. Trump's remarks come amid a broader shift in U.S. foreign policy, which increasingly prioritizes transactional deals over long-standing alliances and democratic values. This approach has left Europe vulnerable, particularly as Russia continues its aggressive military buildup along Finland's border.

NATO, meanwhile, has downplayed the risks to the alliance's survival, emphasizing its commitment to collective defense. However, the uncertainty surrounding U.S. support has prompted Europe to accelerate its own defense capabilities. European leaders are pushing for increased defense spending, with discussions underway to raise NATO's target from 2% to 3% of GDP. Additionally, there are calls for greater investment in strategic enablers such as satellite systems, intelligence, and heavy transport to reduce dependence on the U.S.

The geopolitical landscape is evolving rapidly, with Europe facing the challenge of balancing its security needs with the shifting priorities of its traditional ally. As the situation unfolds, the need for a more self-reliant and unified European defense strategy becomes increasingly clear. 🌍🔍

Le Pen’s concession in court signals shift in high-stakes appeal

Marine Le Pen, the prominent figure of France's far-right National Rally party, has acknowledged that she may have inadvertently violated the law during the opening day of her appeals trial. This trial is crucial as it will decide whether she can run in the upcoming 2027 presidential election, following a five-year ban imposed after her conviction for misusing European Parliament funds. The case has significant implications for her political future, as it could determine whether she or her protégé, Jordan Bardella, will lead the party in the presidential race. Both are currently leading in the polls, making the trial's outcome a pivotal moment for the far-right movement in France. 🇫🇷🏛️

Swedish Armed Forces buying Finnish satellites for ultra-precise imaging of ground surfaces

Finnish space technology company Iceye has secured a significant contract with the Swedish Armed Forces to supply advanced reconnaissance and surveillance satellites. The agreement includes software and radar satellite technology, enabling Sweden to monitor environments and track adversaries in all weather conditions, a critical capability for Nordic defense. Iceye, a global leader in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, emphasizes the system's ability to operate effectively in challenging weather, such as cold, fog, and snow, making it ideal for Northern Europe and Arctic regions.

Seppo Aaltonen, Vice President Nordics & NATO at Iceye, expressed pride in partnering with the Swedish Armed Forces, highlighting the importance of enhancing security and resilience along NATO's northeastern flank. The multi-year, multi-million-euro deal will see the first batch of SAR satellites delivered to Sweden this year. Finland also acquired a similar, though smaller, satellite system from Iceye last autumn for €158 million, with plans to collaborate on space projects with Sweden, the Netherlands, Poland, and potentially other allies. The second of Finland's three satellites was successfully launched into space last Sunday, further strengthening regional defense capabilities. 🛰️🌍

'A series of loud explosions' — Ukraine 'destroys' key Russian drone factory in Taganrog, SBU says

Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) reported a successful overnight strike on a key Russian drone factory in Taganrog, Rostov Oblast, on January 13. The attack targeted the Atlant Aero plant, which produces "Orion" drones, electronic warfare systems, and components for strike drones. The strike reportedly caused a massive fire and a series of loud explosions, significantly damaging the facility. The SBU claimed this disruption will reduce Russia's drone production, weakening its reconnaissance and strike capabilities against Ukraine. The plant had been previously targeted by Ukraine in June 2023.

This attack is part of an escalating Ukrainian "deep strike" campaign, which has increasingly focused on Russian military targets and infrastructure. The SBU's Alpha Special Operations Center, in collaboration with Ukrainian Navy forces, has been instrumental in these operations. Earlier in January, long-range drones operated by the SBU successfully damaged an ammunition depot and oil facility in central Russia. These strikes highlight Ukraine's growing domestic production of long-range attack drones and its strategic efforts to counter Russian military advancements. 🚁💥

Russia 'going all in' to destroy Ukraine's energy system as 70% of Kyiv left without power

Russia has intensified its assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, launching a massive attack that has left around 70% of Kyiv without electricity. Deputy Energy Minister Mykola Kolisnyk warned that Russia is "going all in" to destroy Ukraine's energy system, with strikes occurring just five days after the last major assault. The latest attack comes as Ukraine faces severe power shortages amid freezing temperatures, with forecasts predicting a drop to -22°C in the coming days.

The capital was hit by ballistic missile explosions early on January 13, followed by additional strikes later in the morning. Kyiv's suburbs of Bucha, Hostomel, and Irpin were left without power and running water, while emergency outages were implemented across Kyiv and parts of Kyiv Oblast. Vitaliy Zaichenko, CEO of Ukrenergo, stated that Russia aims to "disconnect the city" and force residents to flee. He also warned of an impending wave of cruise missile attacks.

Ukraine's largest private energy company, DTEK, reported damage to its thermal power plant, marking the eighth such attack since October. The energy crisis has forced supermarket chains to close stores and Kyiv authorities to replace electric tram services with buses. Russia's Air Force launched 18 ballistic missiles, seven cruise missiles, and 293 Shahed-type drones, targeting energy infrastructure in Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Dnipropetrovsk oblasts. A combined missile and drone attack near Kharkiv killed at least four people and injured six others.

The recent assault follows a previous attack on January 9, which killed four and injured 24 in Kyiv, leaving the city without electricity, heating, and running water. As of January 12, around 800 residential buildings in Kyiv remain without power. Olena Pavlenko, president of the Kyiv-based think tank DiXi Group, described the current situation as the worst impact seen compared to previous winters. 🏙️⚡

'Cultural, political, social phenomenon': Surge in support for far right in US, UK, France, Italy

The far-right movement is experiencing a significant surge in support across several Western democracies, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy. This rise is not merely a political trend but a broader cultural, political, and social phenomenon that reflects growing discontent with mainstream parties and institutions. In the U.S., far-right ideologies have gained traction through online platforms and grassroots movements, often fueled by economic anxieties and cultural grievances. Similarly, in the UK, far-right parties and groups have capitalized on Brexit-related disillusionment and immigration concerns to expand their influence.

In France, the far-right National Rally (RN) has made substantial electoral gains, positioning itself as a serious contender in national politics. The party's rhetoric on immigration, national identity, and Euroscepticism resonates with a significant portion of the electorate, particularly in regions facing economic decline. Meanwhile, in Italy, the far-right Brothers of Italy party has risen to power, implementing policies that align with its nationalist and conservative agenda. This party's success underscores the broader shift in European politics, where far-right parties are increasingly shaping national debates and policies.

The surge in far-right support is driven by a complex interplay of factors, including economic inequality, cultural backlash against globalization, and a sense of alienation from traditional political elites. Social media and digital platforms have also played a crucial role in amplifying far-right messages and mobilizing supporters. As these movements continue to gain momentum, they pose significant challenges to democratic norms and institutions, raising concerns about the future of political discourse and governance in these countries. The phenomenon highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of the underlying causes and potential consequences of this shift in political landscapes. 🌍🗳️

Finnish foreign minister urges Iranian regime to "immediately stop violence against its own citizens"

Finland’s Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen expressed deep concern over Iran’s oppressive measures against its citizens and the suppression of fundamental rights. She summoned Iranian Ambassador Javad Aghazadeh Khoei for consultations, but due to his absence, Finnish officials engaged with the embassy’s chargé d'affaires instead. Valtonen emphasized the urgency of conveying Finland’s and the EU’s messages to Iran, calling for an immediate end to violence against protesters and respect for freedoms of expression and assembly. She also highlighted Iran’s cooperation with Russia on missile and drone technology, which poses a threat to European and Middle Eastern security.

Meanwhile, in Helsinki, around 100 protesters gathered outside the Iranian embassy, denouncing Iran’s authoritarian regime and demanding U.S. intervention to support the protests. Finnish police were present to maintain order, and authorities are investigating suspected vandalism at the embassy the previous evening. Valtonen is set to attend the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, where she will join President Alexander Stubb and Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio, alongside U.S. President Donald Trump. 🇫🇮🇮🇷🤝

Drone factory in Russia’s Rostov Oblast struck in overnight attack, fire reported

Early on January 13, unidentified drones struck the Russian city of Taganrog, reportedly targeting a drone manufacturing facility identified as Atlant Aero, which produces components for combat drones, control systems, and electronic warfare equipment. Local reports indicated that air defense systems were activated, and videos showed a fire at the site. Rostov Oblast Governor Yuriy Slyusar confirmed the attack but provided no details on the specific facility involved. He stated that air defenses were repelling the aerial assault and that there were no reported civilian casualties, though damage assessments were ongoing.

Rostov Oblast, situated along the Russia-Ukraine border and near Russian-occupied Luhansk and Donetsk Oblasts, is a frequent target for Ukrainian strikes due to its proximity to the front lines. While Ukraine has not officially claimed responsibility, Ukrainian forces have increasingly conducted strikes inside Russian territory to weaken Russia’s military and economic capabilities in the ongoing war. President Volodymyr Zelensky recently reported that Russian forces had launched nearly 1,100 strike drones, 890 guided aerial bombs, and 50 missiles against Ukraine in just the past week. 💥🛩️

Trump administration labels 3 Muslim Brotherhood branches as terrorist organizations

The Trump administration has designated three Middle Eastern branches of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organizations, imposing sanctions on them and their members. The Lebanese branch was labeled a foreign terrorist organization, the most severe designation, while the Jordanian and Egyptian chapters were listed as specially designated global terrorists for their alleged support of Hamas. This move, announced by the Treasury and State departments, aims to disrupt the groups' activities and prevent them from engaging in or supporting terrorism. The administration claims these branches pose a risk to U.S. interests and have been involved in violence and destabilization campaigns.

The decision follows an executive order from Trump, which mandated a review of the groups' activities. While some U.S. allies, such as the United Arab Emirates and Egypt, may support this designation, it could strain relations with countries like Qatar and Turkey, where the Brotherhood is tolerated. The designation could also impact visa and asylum claims for individuals associated with the group, potentially making it harder for them to enter the U.S. and other Western nations. This move aligns with pressure from some Trump supporters and Republican-led states, which have also taken steps to designate the Brotherhood as a terrorist organization. 🌐⚖️

Ukraine war latest: Russian troops inch forward near 2 villages in northern Donetsk, DeepState says

In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russian forces have made incremental advances near two villages in northern Donetsk Oblast, according to DeepState, a Ukrainian open-source analysis group. These villages, Shandryholove and Sviato-Pokrovske, have seen Russian troops expanding their control, though the progress is described as slow and localized rather than a significant breakthrough. Meanwhile, the situation in Belgorod Oblast, Russia, has been marked by power outages and potential evacuation plans due to repeated strikes on energy infrastructure, which Russian officials blame on Ukrainian attacks. The strikes have reportedly caused significant disruptions, including power losses affecting thousands of residents.

Elsewhere, unidentified drones struck three Greek-managed oil tankers in the Black Sea near Novorossiysk, causing minor damage and a quickly extinguished fire. The perpetrator remains unknown, though Ukraine has previously targeted Russian oil infrastructure and shadow fleet tankers. Additionally, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) reported a successful overnight strike on a Russian drone factory in Taganrog, Rostov Oblast, resulting in a large fire and explosions.

In recent Russian attacks on Ukraine, at least four people were killed, and 15 others were injured. Russia launched 25 missiles and 293 drones, with Ukrainian air defenses intercepting most but not all. The strikes hit various regions, including Donetsk, Kyiv, Kherson, Odesa, Dnipropetrovsk, and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts, causing casualties and damage to infrastructure. The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported that Russia has lost over 1.22 million troops since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, along with substantial military equipment. The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides experiencing significant losses and disruptions. 🌍💥

South Korea: Kim Jong-Un replaces three chiefs responsible for his personal security

North Korea has recently appointed new leaders to three key government agencies responsible for the security of its leader, Kim Jong-Un. The changes were announced during a military parade in October, as reported by South Korea's Unification Ministry, which oversees inter-Korean relations. Analysts suggest that this reshuffle may be a response to perceived security threats, including potential assassination attempts. Hong Min, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, speculates that Kim Jong-Un may be concerned about increased international scrutiny, particularly following reports of North Korean soldiers being deployed to Ukraine. The reshuffling of security leadership could be a strategic move to bolster Kim Jong-Un's personal safety amid heightened geopolitical tensions. 🌍🔍

Parliament fails to appoint energy minister; Vacancy left open for months as energy crisis deepens

Ukraine's parliament has failed to appoint a new energy minister, leaving the position vacant as the country faces a deepening energy crisis amid ongoing Russian attacks on critical infrastructure. The nomination of former Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal for the role garnered only 210 votes, falling 16 short of the required 226. This vacancy comes as Kyiv and other regions struggle with severe energy shortages, exacerbated by Russia's targeting of power facilities.

The parliament's recent session also saw the approval of several high-profile resignations, including Shmyhal as defense minister, Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, and Security Service (SBU) head Vasyl Maliuk. President Volodymyr Zelensky's proposed government reshuffle included the appointment of Kyrylo Budanov, the military intelligence chief, as the new head of the President's Office, while Oleh Ivashchenko took over Budanov's former role at the Foreign Intelligence Service.

Opposition lawmakers criticized the resignations, arguing that the outgoing ministers had been effective in their roles. Some suggested that Shmyhal's nomination as energy minister was driven by a lack of viable alternatives, with potential candidates hesitant to take on the challenging position. The parliamentary defense committee initially rejected Maliuk's resignation, citing his strong leadership of the SBU, but the resignation was later approved.

As Ukraine navigates these leadership changes, the energy sector remains in a precarious state, with lawmakers acknowledging its dire condition. The uncertainty surrounding key appointments, including the next digital transformation minister and justice minister, adds to the challenges facing the country. The parliament is set to reconvene to address these vacancies, but the path forward remains uncertain amid political tensions and the ongoing war. 💡🇺🇦

Iran has released Greek tanker seized in 2024, vessel monitoring service says

Iran has released the Greek-owned Suezmax tanker, St. Nikolas, which was seized in January 2024. The vessel, carrying Iraqi crude destined for Turkey, was initially detained in retaliation for a 2023 U.S. seizure of the same ship and its oil under sanctions enforcement operations. The tanker, previously operating under the name Suez Rajan, was freed after Iran warned the U.S. that its actions would not go unanswered. While the exact circumstances of the release remain unclear, the vessel's return marks a significant development in the ongoing tensions between Iran and Western nations. 🚢🌊

Energy minister highlights role of minerals at Saudi-led forum

At the Saudi-led Future Minerals Forum, Greek Minister of Environment and Energy Stavros Papastavrou emphasized the critical role of minerals in energy security and strategic autonomy. The forum, titled "Dawn of a Global Cause: Minerals for a New Era of Development," focused on advancements from the G20 Summit regarding mineral resources, infrastructure, and the establishment of global governance frameworks. Papastavrou highlighted that minerals are essential for artificial intelligence and the energy transition, positioning Greece as a key player in the mineral resources and rare earths sector. 🌍⚡

UK urged to beef up Greenland support amid Trump threats

The British government is facing pressure to demonstrate stronger support for Greenland amid escalating threats from the U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump has recently intensified his rhetoric, stating his desire to acquire the self-governing Danish territory, declaring, "One way or the other, we’re going to have Greenland." In response, the U.K. has joined other nations in defending Greenland's sovereignty, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasizing that the territory's future lies with Greenland and Denmark. The situation underscores growing concerns over Trump's assertive stance on international affairs and the need for a united European response. 🌍🇬🇱

Conflicting information about prisoners released in Venezuela

Venezuela has begun releasing a limited number of prisoners, contrary to earlier claims by officials. While Venezuelan authorities, including President Jorge Rodríguez, had announced the imminent release of a "large number of prisoners," the actual figure stands at only around 60-70 individuals, according to Foro Penal, a Venezuelan organization providing legal support to prisoners. Among those released so far are former presidential candidate Enrique Márquez and several Americans, as confirmed by U.S. authorities. Foro Penal estimates that over 800 political prisoners remain detained in Venezuela, including 175 military personnel, highlighting the ongoing human rights concerns in the country. 🔓🇻🇪

Alcohol too cheap in Europe as health impact mounts, WHO warns

Europeans are among the world's heaviest drinkers, with alcohol consumption posing significant health risks, particularly as a major driver of cancer. A recent World Health Organization (WHO) report highlights that alcohol has become increasingly affordable in many European Union (EU) countries, undermining efforts to curb consumption. Since 2022, beer prices have dropped in 11 EU nations, while spirits have become more affordable in 17 EU countries. Wine, meanwhile, remains untaxed in 14 EU nations, including major producers like Italy and Spain.

The EU is home to seven of the top 10 countries with the highest per-capita alcohol consumption globally, with Romania, Latvia, and Czechia leading the list. Despite these alarming trends, governments have been slow to implement higher taxes as a deterrent. The WHO warns that without stronger regulatory measures, Europe's drinking habits will continue to jeopardize public health. 🍷🍺🚨