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Latvian Authorities Uncover Smuggling Tunnel at Belarus Border

Latvian Authorities Uncover Smuggling Tunnel at Belarus Border

Latvian authorities have discovered an underground tunnel used for smuggling migrants from Belarus into Latvia. This tunnel, found near the Silene border crossing, is the first of its kind along this border. The discovery led to the arrest of 15 individuals. Latvia's Interior Minister Janis Dombrava announced plans to enhance border security, including the use of drones and increased military presence. This development is part of broader efforts to curb illegal migration, which Latvia and its neighbors attribute to Belarus's actions.

Latvia Discovers First Migrant Tunnel on Belarus Border, Detains 15

Latvia Discovers First Migrant Tunnel on Belarus Border, Detains 15

Latvia has uncovered its first suspected migrant tunnel on the Belarusian border, leading to the detention of 15 individuals attempting illegal entry. The tunnel was discovered by the Silene Border Guard Unit, highlighting a new method for bypassing border barriers. The detained individuals are undergoing deportation procedures. Interior Minister Jānis Dombrova credited the discovery to the collaborative efforts of the State Border Guard, National Armed Forces, and State Police. In response, Latvia plans to enhance border security by scanning the ground for similar tunnels and increasing surveillance, including the use of drones.

Putin says Russia will start seizing European vessels if its ships targeted

Putin says Russia will start seizing European vessels if its ships targeted

By Andrew Osborn and Felix Light MOSCOW, Aug 12 (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Russia will respond in kind if European countries start to seize Russian merchant vessels and the commander of Russia's Pacific Fleet said his forces were ready to "inspect and detain" foreign

Germany Expands Intelligence Powers Amid Rising Foreign Threats

Germany Expands Intelligence Powers Amid Rising Foreign Threats

Germany's government has approved draft legislation to expand the powers of its intelligence services, the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) and the domestic intelligence service (BfV), in response to increasing threats from foreign powers such as Russia and extremist groups. The new powers will enable these agencies to disable sabotage and hacking attempts, access electronic devices, and take active measures against foreign threats. This move aims to reduce Germany's reliance on intelligence from allies and enhance its own capabilities. The legislation reflects Germany's need to address hybrid attacks and espionage, which have become more prevalent.

Austria Uncovers Network Circumventing EU Sanctions to Supply Russian Military

Austria Uncovers Network Circumventing EU Sanctions to Supply Russian Military

Austria's intelligence agency has uncovered an international network that was circumventing EU sanctions to supply Russian cruise missiles and fighter jets. The Austrian Interior Ministry announced that a shell company was established to export sanctioned goods to Russia, including computer-controlled cutters and specialized metalworking tools. These products were exported through intermediary countries such as Belarus, Hong Kong, and Turkey, using forged end-user certificates to mislead European manufacturers. The goods were destined for companies affiliated with Rostec, a Russian state-owned conglomerate subject to international sanctions.

Latvia finds tunnel under Belarus border, vows to combat people smugglers

Latvia finds tunnel under Belarus border, vows to combat people smugglers

By Andrius Sytas VILNIUS, Aug 11 (Reuters) - Latvia said on Tuesday a tunnel had been discovered under the border with Belarus and announced plans to combat networks that it says are helping a growing number of migrants cross the frontier illegally.

European Union Increases Russian LNG Imports Amid Gas Storage Concerns

European Union Increases Russian LNG Imports Amid Gas Storage Concerns

The European Union has significantly increased its import of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia, with Russian natural gas now accounting for 13.4% of the EU's total gas imports in the second quarter. This increase comes as European gas storage levels have reached a historic low, raising concerns about the upcoming winter season. According to the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), EU countries imported 14% more LNG from Russia in June 2026 compared to the same month the previous year. The revenue from these imports has risen to 60 million euros per day. The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing instability in the global gas market, partly due to geopolitical tensions affecting supply routes.

Global Diesel Shortage Intensifies as Winter Demand Looms

Global Diesel Shortage Intensifies as Winter Demand Looms

Global Diesel Shortage Intensifies as Winter Demand Looms

Moldova Recalls Ambassador After Drone Incident Near Ukraine Border

Moldova Recalls Ambassador After Drone Incident Near Ukraine Border

Moldova has recalled its ambassador to Russia for consultations following an incident where an unidentified drone crashed and exploded near its border with Ukraine. The drone, which contained components matching guided missile technology, crashed near the village of Crocmaz, causing damage to nearby homes. This marks the first time such an aircraft has been detected on Moldovan territory since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Moldova has condemned the incident as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, expressing concerns over the safety of its citizens.

Ukraine to Receive Advanced Weaponry from Turkey in $280 Million Deal

Ukraine to Receive Advanced Weaponry from Turkey in $280 Million Deal

Ukraine is set to receive 12 M270 multiple-launch rocket systems and 70 ATACMS ballistic missiles from Turkey as part of a $280 million arms deal. The transaction, involving Turkish and US defense companies, aims to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia. The deal requires US approval due to the origin of the weapons, with Congress having 15 days to review the transaction.

AfD on pre-election roll in east Germany, despite economists' scepticism

AfD on pre-election roll in east Germany, despite economists' scepticism

By Maria Martinez QUEDLINBURG, Germany, Aug 10 (Reuters) - Lars Gottschligg bought an abandoned building in the east German state of Saxony-Anhalt, covered it with solar panels and transformed it into a sleek black cube that harvests and stores energy, houses data centres and charges electric cars.

Morocco Issues Security Alert Amid Mass Migration to Ceuta

Morocco Issues Security Alert Amid Mass Migration to Ceuta

Morocco has heightened security measures at the Fnideq-Ceuta border following social media calls for a renewed mass crossing into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. This comes weeks after a significant surge saw approximately 49,000 people cross into Ceuta in a single day, highlighting the fragility of Europe's southern frontier. The situation has prompted Spain to deploy military and police reinforcements, with the European Union offering support through Frontex. The Ceuta-Fnideq corridor, known for its shadow economy, plays a crucial role in local livelihoods, complicating border control efforts.