Newsflash

European leaders discuss role at Munich Summit

European leaders convened at the Munich Summit to deliberate on the continent's evolving role in global affairs, particularly in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics. The discussions underscored the urgent need for Europe to strengthen its strategic autonomy and defense capabilities amidst growing uncertainties. Leaders emphasized the importance of fostering a more unified and resilient Europe, capable of addressing both internal and external challenges. The summit highlighted the necessity for increased defense spending, collaborative procurement of critical military assets, and the development of new institutions to support these efforts. The overarching goal is to ensure Europe's security and sovereignty in an increasingly complex and multipolar world. 🌍💡

Ukrainian drones hit key Russian oil port, local governor says

Ukrainian drone strikes targeted one of Moscow's key export hubs overnight, causing significant damage to an oil depot, a warehouse, and terminals in the Black Sea port of Taman, near the Crimean peninsula. The port, a crucial facility for exporting Russian fossil fuels, grain, and fertilizers, was hit in the attack. Veniamin Kondratyev, governor of Russia's Krasnodar region, reported on Telegram that firefighters were battling blazes at the port and that the strikes also damaged two nearby villages, injuring two people. The attack underscores the ongoing tensions and strategic strikes in the region. 💥🌊

Poland should ‘begin work’ on nuclear defenses, Nawrocki says

Polish President Karol Nawrocki has expressed strong support for his country developing nuclear defenses in response to the ongoing threat from Russia. In a recent interview with Polsat television, Nawrocki emphasized the importance of Poland joining a nuclear project and aligning its security strategy with nuclear capabilities. He stressed that this approach, while respecting international regulations, is essential for Poland's safety, given its proximity to an armed conflict and Russia's aggressive stance. Nawrocki urged the nation to work toward this goal to bolster its defense and ensure long-term security. 🇵🇱💣

Hungary PM Orbán gives inflammatory speech before April elections

Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán delivered a controversial speech ahead of the April elections, sparking widespread criticism and concern. In his address, Orbán made inflammatory remarks that many interpreted as divisive and xenophobic, further intensifying the political climate in Hungary. His speech, which focused on themes of national sovereignty and cultural preservation, was seen by critics as an attempt to rally his base by stoking fears of immigration and external threats. The remarks have drawn condemnation from both domestic opponents and international observers, who warn that such rhetoric could deepen societal divisions and undermine democratic values. Orbán's government has faced repeated accusations of authoritarianism and erosion of democratic institutions, and this latest speech has only amplified those concerns. As Hungary prepares for its elections, the political landscape remains tense, with Orbán's inflammatory rhetoric likely to shape the campaign and its aftermath. 🗳️🔥

Ukrainian drones strike key oil terminal in Russia's Krasnodar region

Ukraine has claimed responsibility for a drone attack on a key oil terminal in Russia's southern Krasnodar region, causing a significant fire. The strike targeted the Tamanneftegaz oil terminal near the village of Volna, close to Moscow-annexed Crimea. Russian officials confirmed the attack, reporting that dozens of drones were shot down and two people were injured. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to face severe energy challenges, with around 1,600 buildings in Kyiv still without heat due to recent Russian attacks on energy infrastructure.

In other developments, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting Slovakia and Hungary to strengthen ties with leaders who have warm relations with President Donald Trump. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico accused Ukraine of using the Druzhba oil pipeline as political leverage to pressure Hungary over its stance on Ukraine's EU membership. Additionally, Romanian President Nicusor Dan announced he would attend the first meeting of Trump's "Board of Peace" in Washington.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that allies have agreed to provide new energy and military aid packages by February 24, the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion. Meanwhile, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that Russia is not a superpower and has suffered significant casualties in its war against Ukraine. She also rejected US claims of Europe facing "civilizational erasure," asserting that Europe and the US remain intertwined.

In a concerning development, Russia's army chief claimed that Russian forces seized a dozen eastern villages in February, though these claims could not be independently verified. The conflict continues to escalate, with Ukraine reporting that it struck a Pantsir-S1 air defense system in Crimea. The war's impact on global security and energy supplies remains a critical concern. 🌍💥

Rubio calls report on Navalny poisoning ‘troubling’

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed concern over the findings from five European governments that Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a toxin derived from a poison dart frog, leading to his death in a Russian penal colony two years ago. France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United Kingdom jointly concluded that Russia was responsible for the poisoning. Moscow has vehemently denied these accusations. Rubio, speaking at a press conference in Slovakia, acknowledged the troubling nature of the report and affirmed that the U.S. has no reason to doubt the findings. The case underscores ongoing tensions and allegations of human rights abuses linked to the Kremlin. 🇷🇺💀

When the salary lasts for 18 days

In 1984, British MP Matthew Parris attempted to live on the meager unemployment benefits of £26.80 per week, a challenge inspired by Margaret Thatcher's belief that such benefits were sufficient to cover basic needs. Parris failed, highlighting the inadequacy of the support. This experiment resurfaced in my mind as I listened to recent claims by New Democracy ministers in Greece, who boasted about significant salary increases in 2026. However, these increases are minimal for most employees, offering only modest relief, particularly for families with three or more children.

The reality for the majority of Greek workers is stark. Approximately 1.5 million private sector employees, or 60.7% of the workforce, earn up to €1,200 monthly. Recent tax reforms granted them increases ranging from €10 to €50 per month, depending on family size. While any increase is welcome, these amounts are negligible, especially given the rising costs of living, including soaring food prices and exorbitant rents in major cities. In Athens, studio apartments now cost what two-room units in affluent suburbs did just a few years ago. A recent survey by the Labor Institute of the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) revealed that 60% of Greeks struggle to make ends meet, with salaries lasting only 18 days. Additionally, 83.5% of workers cannot save any money, and 24.9% have overdue debts to the state. Eurostat data shows that 19% of Greeks cannot adequately heat their homes, the highest rate in the EU.

While Greece has created 563,000 new jobs since 2019 and seen a slight increase in average private sector salaries, wages remain lower than in 2009, before the country's debt crisis. The economic growth and prosperity of recent years have not significantly benefited the majority of workers, still recovering from the financial strain of bailouts and austerity measures. Instead of celebrating minor improvements, the government should focus on addressing the real financial struggles of its citizens. 💸🏠

Baltic athletes making their mark at the 2026 Winter Olympics

The Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Games have seen the Baltic nations of Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania achieve notable success across various winter sports. Latvia has already secured two medals: Elīna Ieva Bota won silver in women’s singles luge, and Roberts Krūzbergs earned bronze in men’s 1500 m short-track speed skating, marking Latvia’s first Olympic medal in the event. Additionally, the Latvian men’s ice hockey team secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over Germany, their first Olympic hockey win since 2014. Latvian athletes have also performed well in biathlon, skeleton, and alpine skiing, with several top-20 finishes.

Estonia, though yet to reach the podium, has delivered strong performances in biathlon, curling, and skiing. The Estonian biathlon mixed relay team finished 15th, demonstrating their skill in a demanding event. In curling, Estonia made history with their mixed doubles pair, scoring four points in a dramatic match against Switzerland. Estonian athletes have also achieved top-30 finishes in alpine and Nordic combined events.

Lithuania’s 17-athlete team has competed across biathlon, cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, and figure skating. While no medals have been won yet, Allison Reed and Saulius Ambrulevičius delivered a strong performance in ice dance, placing competitively in a talented field. Lithuanian biathletes and cross-country skiers continue to perform well, with the men’s 4×7.5 km biathlon relay standing out as one of their best results.

As the Games progress, athletes from Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania remain focused on achieving personal bests, historic breakthroughs, and potential medal opportunities in upcoming events. 🏅🏒⛷️

FM Valtonen begins visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories

Finland's Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen embarked on a two-day visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, where she met with key political figures, including Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Minister for Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa'ar, and Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and advancing Finland's long-term policy of supporting a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Valtonen also engaged with Palestinian civil society actors and visited the World Holocaust Remembrance Center Yad Vashem.

Prior to her trip, Valtonen participated in the Munich Security Conference alongside Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen. During the conference, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio publicly thanked Finland for its efforts in encouraging NATO allies to meet defense spending commitments. Valtonen had earlier praised Rubio's emphasis on the importance of U.S.-Europe relations. 🇫🇮🤝🇮🇱🤝🇵🇸

No ‘business as usual’ with US, says Latvian PM

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa has called for Europe to assert itself as a strong geopolitical force, speaking "directly and clearly" to the U.S. as transatlantic relations undergo a reset. In an interview at the Munich Security Conference, Siliņa emphasized that Europe must be taken seriously as a collective entity, especially in light of recent tensions, such as U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to annex Greenland. She highlighted that Europe's unified stance in supporting Greenland and Denmark has already shifted dynamics, signaling a need for stronger, more cohesive European leadership on the global stage. 🌍🗣️

Several dead in Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon

On Sunday, Israel conducted airstrikes in eastern Lebanon near the Syrian border, targeting members of the Islamic Jihad group. According to a statement from the Israeli military, the operation specifically aimed at Islamic Jihad members. The state-run Syrian news agency NNA reported that four individuals were killed when a car was struck by an Israeli drone. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the Israeli military's targeted actions against perceived threats. 🇮🇱💥

Russia avoids confrontation in Arctic, Norwegian official says

Rear Admiral Nils Andreas Stensones highlighted Russia's strategic approach in the Arctic, emphasizing its focus on maintaining low tension while pursuing key interests. These interests include developing commercial routes, energy infrastructure, and securing its nuclear forces. Russia carefully balances its ambitions with the need to avoid escalating tensions with NATO countries. Regarding its submarine fleet, Russia is reducing the total number of vessels but enhancing their efficiency, modernity, and stealth capabilities, making them harder to detect.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized European nations for not adequately protecting the Arctic from Russian and Chinese influence, citing this as a reason for increased U.S. control over Greenland. However, Rear Admiral Stensones clarified that China's military presence in the Arctic is limited, with no evidence of direct military activity. Instead, China has significantly increased its scientific research vessels in the region, particularly near the Pacific side, with numbers rising from one in 2023 to five in 2025. These vessels are monitored due to their potential dual-use capabilities, serving both scientific and military purposes. 🌍🚢

Orbán's challenger says Hungary's place is in Europe

At the Tisza party's election kickoff in Budapest, Péter Magyar emphasized Hungary's essential role in Europe, asserting that the continent needs Hungary just as much as Hungary needs Europe. This perspective contrasts sharply with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's recent remarks, which warned that those who value freedom should be more wary of Brussels than of the East, a reference to Russia and the EU. Magyar also pledged to combat corruption and revitalize Hungary's economy, which he believes is currently stagnant. With public opinion favoring Tisza ahead of the April 12 parliamentary elections, the party appears poised to challenge the ruling Fidesz party's dominance. 🇭🇺🏛️

ELN rebels want to be acquitted of drug charges

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has responded to a request from the National Liberation Army (ELN) for an independent investigation into allegations of drug trafficking. ELN leader Antonio García, in a video, denied direct involvement in cocaine trafficking but acknowledged that the group taxes drug operations in areas under its control. The ELN has long faced accusations of collaborating with drug cartels in both the production and transportation of cocaine. President Petro, a former guerrilla member himself, agreed to the investigation while urging the ELN to support initiatives to replace coca cultivation with alternative crops. This call for dialogue and reform reflects ongoing efforts to address the complex intersections of insurgency, drug trafficking, and economic development in Colombia. 🌿💬

Returning home, left in limbo

Greece’s efforts to attract top scientists back home have hit a roadblock, leaving researchers like Dimitrios Anastasakis and Ioanna Keklikoglou in limbo. Both returned to Greece with impressive academic credentials and secured funding from the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) to establish research teams. However, the Greek government, through the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation (GSRI), has reneged on its commitment to contribute to the funding, leaving these scientists without the necessary support to continue their work.

Anastasakis and Keklikoglou express deep frustration, highlighting the broader impact of this decision. "For my lab and my career, the consequences are dramatic," Keklikoglou says, adding that the lack of support makes it difficult to explain to international colleagues. Anastasakis emphasizes that these programs create jobs, retain talent, and enhance Greek research quality. Both scientists lament the lack of vision and transparency in the GSRI’s operations, with Anastasakis revealing that unofficial advice suggested political connections could have resolved the issue.

Despite Greece’s stated goal of bringing scientists back, the current situation risks driving them away again. The failure to honor funding commitments undermines efforts to build a stronger research community and leaves talented researchers feeling unsupported and disillusioned. 🇬🇷🧪

Rubio visits Slovakia and Hungary to bolster ties with pro-Trump leaders

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio embarked on a two-day visit to Slovakia and Hungary, aiming to strengthen ties with the conservative governments of both nations, which maintain close relations with President Donald Trump despite tensions with other EU partners. In Slovakia, Rubio discussed energy and defense with Prime Minister Robert Fico and President Peter Pellegrini, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and partnership rather than subservience. He pledged to make Central Europe a key component of U.S. engagement, promising concrete actions that benefit both regions.

Rubio's visit comes amid strained transatlantic relations, marked by Trump's criticism of Europe, tariffs on EU countries, and his controversial ambition to acquire Greenland. Despite these tensions, Rubio urged European leaders to unite behind Trump to defend "Western civilization," which he claims is threatened by mass migration and cultural decline. Both Slovakia and Hungary have faced criticism from EU institutions for weakening judicial independence, media freedom, and anti-corruption efforts, as well as for maintaining ties with Moscow and opposing sanctions on Russia.

During his visit, Rubio is expected to address Slovakia's continued reliance on Russian gas and oil, despite U.S. criticism. Slovakia recently signed a nuclear cooperation agreement with the U.S. and aims to secure a deal with Westinghouse to build a new nuclear power plant by 2040. Additionally, Slovakia plans to purchase more F-16 fighter jets to bolster its defense capabilities, aligning with NATO's spending targets. Despite minor disagreements, such as Slovakia's criticism of the U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Rubio emphasized that differing opinions do not hinder friendship or cooperation. 🇺🇸🤝🇸🇰🇭🇺

"Finnish is my native language, yet people still speak to me in English" – How international adoptees feel marginalised in Finland

Sadhi Luokomaa, adopted from Chennai, India, as an infant and raised in Finland, often feels like an outsider despite her deep roots in Finnish culture and language. Her experiences reflect a broader issue among international adoptees in Finland, who frequently face "othering" due to their appearance, despite their fluency in Finnish and adherence to local customs. This marginalization extends to feelings of exclusion from discussions about Finnish identity, immigration, and work life, as many adoptees report being sidelined despite their desire to participate.

Anu-Rohima Mylläri, an advocate for adoptees and herself adopted from Bangladesh, highlights the frustration and sidelining many adoptees experience. Her book, "Adoptoitu," explores themes of abandonment, prejudice, and racism. Tampere University researcher Anna Rastas emphasizes the unique perspective adoptees bring to societal discussions, noting their heightened awareness of structural inequalities and the narrow definitions of Finnishness often tied to whiteness. This exclusion is evident in job markets, where applicants with foreign-sounding names face significant barriers despite identical qualifications.

University of Helsinki Professor Suvi Keskinen points out that Finnishness is often equated with whiteness, limiting who is accepted as part of the national identity. Unlike Denmark, where adoptees are more included in such discussions, Finland struggles with this narrow definition. Luokomaa and others often encounter expectations of gratitude for being adopted into Finland, a sentiment she finds outdated. She has developed strategies to cope with these incidents, setting boundaries around sharing her personal story.

Rastas warns that Finland's increasingly polarized and exclusionary societal discussions, exacerbated by tightening immigration laws, require broader participation, including adoptees and immigrants. The recent All Points North podcast episode questions whether Finland is making integration too difficult, underscoring the need for more inclusive dialogue. 🌍🤝

Fast-food, fast profits

Greece has overlooked the significant impact of fast-food and gambling on its economy, particularly during the recent energy and inflation crises. These sectors, which account for a substantial portion of consumer spending, were not included in the consumer price index until recently. The Hellenic Statistical Authority has now begun incorporating these areas into its inflation calculations, highlighting their growing influence on the cost of living.

The fast-food delivery market alone generates over €500 million annually, with prices often matching those of dine-in services despite lower labor costs. In some cases, prices for items like souvlaki have nearly doubled since the pre-inflation crisis period. The Bank of Greece identified this sector as a key driver of rising service costs, attributing the price surge to increased demand, delayed price adjustments, and wage hikes. However, the most plausible explanation for the steep price increases remains unchecked profiteering in an unregulated market. 🍔💸

Rubios Rede und Beweise im Mordfall Nawalny

The Munich Security Conference saw key discussions on transatlantic relations, security, and migration, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivering a conciliatory speech that emphasized shared values between Europe and the United States. Analysts Rixa Fürsen and Gordon Repinski highlighted Rubio’s focus on security and migration, noting the absence of any mention of Ukraine. Meanwhile, new findings confirmed that Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny was poisoned, sparking discussions on political responsibility and the possibility of opposition in Russia. Navalny’s widow, Julia, shared insights on these issues during a POLITICO event. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also addressed the conference, setting clear priorities in the ongoing debate surrounding Navalny.

The conference brought together U.S. senators, NATO representatives, and European leaders to discuss defense capabilities, strategic missteps in war predictions, and Europe’s role in a shifting global security landscape. Beyond the formal discussions, the event featured behind-the-scenes interactions with international leaders and the traditional Munich Security Conference soccer tournament. The Berlin Playbook podcast, hosted by Gordon Repinski, offers daily political analysis, while the Berlin Playbook newsletter provides morning updates on key political developments. 🎙️🌍

Anna Benaki-Psarouda, first woman Speaker, dies αt 91

Anna Benaki-Psarouda, a trailblazing figure in Greek politics and academia, has passed away at the age of 91. A distinguished professor at Athens Law School, longtime Member of Parliament, and the first woman elected as Speaker of the Greek Parliament, Benaki-Psarouda left an indelible mark on her nation’s political and legal landscape. She served as Speaker from 2004 to 2007 and held several key Cabinet positions, including Minister of Culture and Minister of Justice. Her contributions extended beyond politics, as she played a pivotal role in constitutional revisions and served as vice-president of the Academy of Athens.

A dedicated educator, Benaki-Psarouda taught criminal law at Athens Law School for nearly four decades, inspiring generations of students, particularly women. She also practiced law and edited the influential legal journal "Poinika Chronika." Born in Athens in 1934, she earned her doctorate in criminal law from the University of Bonn in 1961. Married to historian Linos Benakis, who passed away in 2022, her legacy as a mentor, scholar, and political leader will endure as a testament to her lifelong commitment to justice and education. 🇬🇷📚