Newsflash

Mass attack that plunged Kyiv into darkness cost Russia over $130 million, Ukrainian intelligence says

On January 20, Russia launched a massive air attack on Kyiv, deploying 33 missiles and 339 drones, which severely damaged the city's electrical and heating infrastructure. The assault, which occurred during the coldest stretch of winter, left thousands of residents without power and heat as temperatures plummeted below freezing. Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) reported that the attack cost Russia over $131 million, involving a mix of ballistic and cruise missiles, repurposed naval missiles, and long-range drones based on the Iranian-made Shahed design.

The strike has had a devastating impact on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread outages across multiple regions, including Odesa, Dnipropetrovsk, Chernihiv, Zhytomyr, Sumy, Kharkiv, Kyiv, Kirovohrad, Poltava, and Cherkasy. Ukraine's state-grid operator, Ukrenergo, has urged residents to conserve electricity due to the strain on the grid and the ongoing threat of further Russian attacks. Repairs and reconnections are underway, but the energy emergency persists, highlighting the severe consequences of Russia's relentless assaults. 💡🇺🇦

1 killed, 4 injured in Kyiv as Russia launches mass attack following peace talks

Overnight on January 24, Russia launched a devastating attack on Kyiv, resulting in one fatality and injuring four others. Explosions began at 1:20 a.m. local time, with Ukrainian air defenses intercepting multiple drones and a ballistic missile. The assault caused significant damage across several districts, including Holosiivskyi, where a fire erupted after a building was struck. Two of the injured were hospitalized in serious condition, and the attack left parts of the city without heating and running water.

This latest assault occurs amid Ukraine's ongoing winter energy crisis, exacerbated by repeated Russian strikes on critical infrastructure. The deliberate targeting of energy facilities has left major cities struggling with power outages and freezing temperatures. The attack also follows recent trilateral peace talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States, highlighting the persistent humanitarian challenges facing the region. 💥🏙️

One dead, at least 15 injured after new attacks in Ukraine

Russian forces launched a series of drone attacks on Ukraine, targeting Kyiv and the eastern city of Kharkiv. In Kyiv, one person was killed, and several others were injured as fires erupted in multiple locations following drone strikes on various buildings. These attacks occurred shortly after a round of talks involving representatives from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States in Abu Dhabi, with further discussions scheduled to resume the following day. The ongoing violence underscores the persistent tensions and the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict. 💥🇺🇦

Ukraine strikes oil depot in Russia's Penza Oblast, other military sites, General Staff confirms

Ukraine's General Staff confirmed that Ukrainian forces conducted strikes on multiple Russian military and energy facilities on January 23. In Penza Oblast, a Ukrainian drone attack targeted an oil depot, sparking a fire. Governor Oleg Melnichenko reported no casualties but noted mobile data restrictions were implemented during the incident. The Penzanefteprodukt oil depot, which supplies Russian forces, was identified as the target.

Additionally, Ukrainian forces struck a "Podlyot" radio-location station in occupied Crimea near Frunze, as well as Russian military positions in occupied Donetsk Oblast and Russia's Belgorod Oblast. Ukraine considers these energy sites legitimate military targets due to their role in funding Russia's war efforts. Kyiv has been consistently targeting deep within Russia and occupied territories to weaken the Kremlin's military capabilities.

Earlier, on January 21, an oil terminal near Volna in Russia's Krasnodar Krai was hit, resulting in a large fire, three deaths, and eight injuries, according to Governor Veniamin Kondratyev and independent media reports. The blaze involved four oil product tanks, with emergency services working to contain the damage. 🔥🛢️

Merz, Meloni rally behind disinfo-fighting center that Trump thinks is ‘wasteful’

Germany and Italy have reaffirmed their commitment to combating hybrid threats and disinformation by endorsing the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats. This decision comes shortly after the United States withdrew from the organization, labeling it as "wasteful." The move underscores the growing concern over Russia's aggressive tactics, which have included cyberattacks, sabotage of infrastructure, disinformation campaigns, drone incursions, and even assassination attempts. These hybrid attacks are seen as efforts to undermine European support for Ukraine amid the ongoing war.

During a meeting in Rome, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz adopted a joint plan for strategic bilateral and EU cooperation. The plan emphasizes the importance of bolstering the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats, highlighting the need for a united front against Russia's multifaceted aggression. The collaboration between Germany and Italy signals a strong commitment to safeguarding European security and stability in the face of evolving threats. 🇪🇺🛡️

First meeting since start of Ukraine war between US, Ukraine and Russia to take place in UAE

A significant diplomatic meeting is set to take place in the United Arab Emirates, bringing together representatives from the United States, Ukraine, and Russia for the first time since the onset of the Ukraine war. This high-stakes gathering aims to facilitate discussions on potential pathways to de-escalation and conflict resolution. The meeting underscores the UAE's growing role as a neutral mediator in international disputes and highlights the urgent need for dialogue amid ongoing hostilities. While the specifics of the agenda remain undisclosed, the event represents a crucial step toward fostering communication between the involved parties and exploring avenues for peace. 🕊️🇺🇳

Zelensky criticises the EU"s lack of "political will" in countering Putin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sharply criticized the European Union for its lack of "political will" in effectively countering Russian President Vladimir Putin's aggression. Zelensky's remarks highlight growing frustration with the EU's perceived reluctance to take decisive action against Russia, despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He emphasized that stronger, more coordinated measures are necessary to address the security threats posed by Putin's regime. Zelensky's criticism underscores the urgency for Europe to bolster its defense capabilities and political resolve to safeguard regional stability and uphold democratic values. 🇪🇺💥

Document reveals EU-US pitch for $800B postwar Ukraine ‘prosperity’ plan

The U.S. and EU are collaborating on an ambitious 10-year plan to mobilize $800 billion in public and private investments to rebuild Ukraine once Russia's full-scale invasion concludes. This comprehensive strategy, outlined in an 18-page document, aims to secure Ukraine's recovery and fast-track its path to EU membership. The European Commission shared these plans with EU member states ahead of a leaders' summit, where the document was discussed. However, the success of this plan hinges on achieving a ceasefire, which remains uncertain, leaving Ukraine's economic future vulnerable as long as the conflict persists. 🇺🇸🇪🇺💰

Abu Dhabi: Russia, Ukraine and US to hold first trilateral talks

In a significant diplomatic development, Russia, Ukraine, and the United States are set to hold their first-ever trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi. This high-level meeting marks a crucial step toward fostering dialogue between the three nations amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The discussions are expected to cover a range of critical issues, including efforts to de-escalate the conflict in Ukraine and explore potential pathways to a lasting peace. While the specifics of the agenda remain undisclosed, the talks represent a rare opportunity for direct engagement between the parties, raising hopes for constructive outcomes. The international community will be closely watching these negotiations, as they could shape the future of regional stability and global security. 🌍🤝

Power cuts and freezing temperatures test Kyiv's resilience after Russian attacks

In Kyiv, residents are enduring a brutal winter marked by relentless Russian attacks on the city’s energy infrastructure, leaving nearly half a million people without reliable heat, electricity, or water. The harshest winter in years, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, has intensified the struggle for survival. Many, like Nadia, a 31-year-old professional, are forced to work in layers of clothing, relying on fingerless gloves to type on their laptops in near-freezing apartments. Others, such as Sofia and Olga, face prolonged outages, forcing them into survival mode as they navigate daily challenges like cooking on gas stoves and rationing water.

The recent surge in attacks has left thousands of Kyiv residents seeking refuge in schools and heating points, where generators provide temporary relief. Despite efforts to restore power and water, many high-rise buildings still lack heating, and upper floors remain without water due to damaged booster pumps. The constant threat of power cuts has disrupted daily life, with residents relying on backup generators and makeshift heating methods. The psychological toll is heavy, with many feeling exhausted, angry, and uncertain about the future. As the city grapples with these challenges, the resilience of its people is tested daily, with hope flickering like the intermittent power supply. 🌬️💡

'Without a million Ukrainians, you won't manage" — Zelensky wants Ukraine to form core of envisioned European army

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized the critical role of Ukraine's military in forming the core of a proposed European joint army, stating that "without a million Ukrainians, you won't manage." Speaking to journalists, Zelensky highlighted the need for a European force of at least 3 million personnel to counter the growing Russian threat, which he estimates could reach 2.5-3 million troops by 2030. He underscored the effectiveness of Ukraine's army, which has successfully utilized European and American weapons against Russian forces, and argued that Ukraine's military experience and capability are indispensable in any future European defense strategy.

Zelensky's vision for a European army comes amid ongoing negotiations and tensions with Russia, which has demanded that Ukraine limit its peacetime military to 600,000 personnel—a condition Kyiv rejects. Reports suggest Ukraine has agreed to cap its peacetime military at 800,000, still making it the second-largest force in Europe after Russia. Zelensky first proposed the idea of a European joint army at the Munich Security Conference in February 2025, but European leaders have yet to take concrete steps toward implementation. He expressed hope that recent geopolitical challenges, including U.S. President Donald Trump's actions in Greenland, might spur greater European cooperation on defense.

While some European nations, such as the U.K. and France, have discussed forming a "Coalition of the Willing" to support Ukraine, no firm commitments for post-war military presence have been made. Zelensky's call for a unified European defense force remains a pressing issue as the continent navigates an increasingly uncertain security landscape. 🌍💥

Zelensky 'counting on' more US air defense missiles, security guarantees following meeting with Trump at Davos

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism following a "positive" meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Zelensky highlighted the importance of their discussion, particularly regarding Ukraine's urgent need for additional air defense missiles, specifically the PAC-3s, which are crucial for defending against Russian ballistic missiles like Kinzhals and Iskanders. He emphasized that these systems are the only reliable defense against such threats, leaving Ukraine vulnerable without them.

The meeting comes at a critical time, as Ukraine's air defense capabilities have been severely strained due to reduced U.S. aid under Trump's administration, unlike the extensive support provided during Joe Biden's presidency. The lack of air defense has left Ukraine exposed to devastating Russian strikes, disrupting energy infrastructure and leaving millions without electricity and heat during one of the coldest winters of the war.

Zelensky also discussed security guarantees for Ukraine, stating that a treaty is ready for signing and awaiting Trump's decision on the timing and location. The agreement is expected to cover security assurances on land, sea, and air, potentially involving foreign military contingents. While a European "Coalition of the Willing," led by the U.K. and France, has been in talks, concrete commitments, such as deploying troops, remain uncertain. Zelensky hopes for long-term security guarantees, extending beyond the initial 15-year offer from the U.S. The next step involves finalizing the document at the highest level. 🇺🇸🇺🇦

US, Ukraine and Russia meet in Abu Dhabi for first trilateral peace talks

Negotiators from Russia, Ukraine, and the United States convened in Abu Dhabi for the first direct trilateral talks aimed at ending the nearly four-year-long war in Ukraine. The discussions, initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, focused on a proposed peace plan, with the disputed Donbas region in eastern Ukraine remaining a major point of contention. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that territory is the key issue, as Russia insists on Ukraine withdrawing from the Donbas, a demand Kyiv has rejected.

The two-day talks, facilitated by the UAE, follow recent diplomatic efforts, including a meeting between Trump and Zelensky at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Despite ongoing negotiations, Moscow and Kyiv remain at odds over territorial control, with Russia threatening to achieve its objectives by force if diplomacy fails. Both sides acknowledge that resolving the Donbas dispute is critical to any potential settlement. While the U.S. has pushed for a deal, the outcome remains uncertain, with both sides urged to seize the opportunity for peace. 🇺🇸🇷🇺🇦

How Sweden could defend Greenland

NATO members, including Denmark and Sweden, are stepping up efforts to bolster military presence in Greenland amid growing concerns over Arctic security. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed confidence that the alliance can quickly strengthen its footprint in the region, with plans to enhance surveillance and monitoring capabilities to counter potential threats from Russia and China. Sweden, now part of NATO’s JFC Norfolk operations, is set to deploy fighter jets, advanced radar reconnaissance aircraft, and possibly submarines to monitor Arctic airspace and shipping lanes. Denmark has also invested in new ice-going ships, drones, and satellite surveillance to bolster its presence in Greenland.

The U.S. has long pressured allies to increase their military engagement in the Arctic, with Greenland playing a crucial role in America’s missile defense strategy, including the potential deployment of radar stations and anti-aircraft missiles. Despite recent advancements, experts argue that these efforts come late and underscore the need for sustained investment and coordination to ensure regional security. The Danish sled patrols in Greenland, though limited in defensive capabilities, serve as a visible deterrent, demonstrating control over the territory. As geopolitical tensions rise, NATO’s focus on the Arctic highlights the strategic importance of the region in maintaining global security. 🌍🛡️

Crucial auction for the Vertical Corridor

The upcoming auction for the Vertical Corridor natural gas system, connecting Alexandroupoli to Ukraine, is a critical event aimed at bolstering the commercial viability of this strategically important project. Scheduled for Monday, the auction seeks to secure LNG transport capacity to meet Ukraine's February needs, following the unsuccessful December auction, which resulted in zero participation—a concerning outcome that could undermine the project's credibility. Supported by the U.S. but met with EU reservations, the Vertical Corridor faces challenges, including regulatory uncertainties surrounding its three proposed routes and Ukraine's limited gas demand due to infrastructure damage from Russian attacks.

Currently, Ukraine relies heavily on imports from Hungary and Poland, which offer cost advantages over the Vertical Corridor, with smaller contributions from Lithuania. The Polish operator Gaz-System's recent upgrade of the Hermanowice station, increasing transmission capacity to Ukraine, highlights the competitive landscape. Meanwhile, a letter of intent signed in November between DEPA and Naftogaz for gas supplies in early 2025 remains on hold, pending further developments. The success of the upcoming auction will be pivotal in determining the future of this geopolitically significant energy initiative. 🔥💨

Assault on Volos journalist widely condemned

The assault on a journalist in Volos, Greece, has sparked widespread condemnation from various institutions, political groups, and individuals across the region. Dimitris Kareklidis, owner of the Magnesia newspaper, was attacked by two masked men outside his home on Thursday evening. The assailants pushed him to the ground and punched him in the face and head before fleeing. Kareklidis reported the incident to the police and received medical treatment at Volos Hospital.

Expressing gratitude for the public's overwhelming support, Kareklidis announced his intention to file a lawsuit against the unknown perpetrators. The Journalists’ Union of Thessaly, Central Greece, and Evia strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a "mafia-like" assault on freedom of expression, press freedom, and democracy, unprecedented in the city's history. The Thessaly Regional Authority also denounced the "unprovoked attack," noting that past assaults on journalists have often been linked to their investigative work. 📰🚨

Davos is back — but the world it once championed is gone

As the World Economic Forum concludes in Davos, the event has reaffirmed its relevance amid a shifting global landscape. The gathering witnessed significant geopolitical developments, including a reversal by Donald Trump on Greenland, discussions on Ukraine, and the launch of the Board of Peace—a body that has raised concerns about its potential impact on the United Nations. While the forum's future appears secure, the international order it once thrived in faces serious challenges, leaving its long-term role in question. The elite gathering has once again proven its ability to bring together key political and business leaders, but the world it operates in is increasingly uncertain. 🌍✈️

Worker claims coverup pressure in Euroferry fire

An Italian crew member of the ferry Euroferry Olympia has accused the Grimaldi Group of attempting to cover up the origins of a deadly 2022 fire that claimed 11 lives. Plumber Gianni Nasole testified that a company lawyer pressured him to falsely report the fire's starting point, instructing him to claim it began in garage 3 rather than garage 2. Nasole initially told Greek authorities he was unsure where the fire started but later expressed doubts about the translation and impartiality of interpreters. He also alleged that safety protocols were ignored to maximize profits, with trucks stacked too closely together. Greek investigators ultimately determined the fire originated in garage 2, near a power socket, contradicting earlier reports. 🚢🔥

BoG head: 2026 a turning point

Greece's central bank governor, Yannis Stournaras, emphasized the critical need for increased investments to sustain economic growth, warning that reliance solely on consumption is unsustainable. In 2025, investments reached 17% of GDP, a significant rise from 11% in 2019, though still lagging behind the eurozone average of 21%. While the end of the Recovery and Resilience Fund (RRF) in 2026 will moderate investment growth, continued support from EU Structural Funds, foreign direct investment, and domestic initiatives will mitigate the impact. New EU funds for green transition, energy upgrades, and social cohesion will further bolster economic activity through 2032, with RRF loans supporting businesses until 2029.

Stournaras identified 2026 as a pivotal year, urging Greece to accelerate its development and maintain political stability, which he called the country's most valuable intangible asset. He also cautioned about potential risks from geopolitical tensions, including tariffs and stock market fluctuations, which could limit demand for Greek exports. To mitigate these risks, he stressed the importance of diversifying Greece's production model, particularly given tourism's vulnerability to global instability. 🌍💡

Minister rejects claims custody law change was tailored to her case

Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni has firmly rejected claims that a recent legislative amendment was tailored to benefit her personal custody dispute. The provision, introduced as a rider to unrelated legislation, allows parents to request a retrial in custody cases, bypassing the standard appeal process. Kefalogianni, who lost sole custody of her children shortly before the amendment was passed, was the first to invoke it, sparking allegations of favoritism.

Kefalogianni defended her use of the provision, emphasizing that she voted for the legislation alongside 179 other MPs, believing it to be fair and in the best interests of children. She described the current custody arrangement, which requires her four-year-old children to switch homes every two days, as emotionally and mentally taxing for them. As both a mother and a government official, she asserted her right to seek the best outcome for her children, prioritizing their well-being above all else.

Justice Minister Giorgos Floridis also supported the provision, stating that it had faced no criticism during its legislative process. He argued that the amendment benefits all citizens by addressing a fundamental right, rather than serving any single politician’s interests. Both ministers emphasized that family matters, particularly those involving minors, should not be exploited for political gain. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦⚖️