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Finland's Secret Service Says Frequency of Cable Incidents Is 'Exceptional'.

Finland's intelligence service has reported an "exceptional" rise in cable incidents within the Baltic Sea, attributing these breaches to heightened regional tensions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. While ongoing investigations are probing specific incidents, the chief of Finland's security agency emphasized that state actors possess more sophisticated methods for underwater sabotage than simple anchor dragging. The situation has prompted increased military vigilance from NATO, highlighting the strategic significance of underwater infrastructure amid concerns of a Russia-backed "shadow fleet" operating in the area.

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Finland's Intelligence Service Closely Watches US Russia Position Δ1.81

Finland's security and intelligence service Supo is closely watching how U.S. intelligence positions itself towards Russia under the Trump administration, with Finns concerned about potential shifts in U.S.-Russia relations that could impact Finland's national security. Supo has named Russia as the biggest threat to Finland since joining NATO in 2023, amidst a growing war in Ukraine. The agency is also monitoring how changes in U.S. policy affect its own intelligence cooperation with Western allies.

UK's Royal Navy Monitors Russian Warship, Latest to Sail Through Channel Δ1.80

The UK's Royal Navy closely monitored a Russian warship and merchant vessel this week as they transited the English Channel and North Sea. Britain's navy has been tracking potential threats to national security, including critical infrastructure such as undersea cables or pipelines. The Royal Navy routinely conducts shadowing missions to monitor suspicious vessels.

Finland to Release Oil Tanker Suspected of Power Cable Breach Δ1.79

Finland will release an oil tanker suspected of breaking a Baltic Sea power cable and four internet lines late last year, and will escort the vessel to international waters even as the investigation continues. The Cook Islands-registered Eagle S was boarded by Finland's coast guard on December 26 and has been held in custody while authorities probed the case, which remains under investigation on suspicion of sabotage. Three crew members remain subject to a travel ban and are not allowed to leave Finland.

Democrats Question Pause in Offensive US Cyber Ops Against Russia. Δ1.76

Democratic lawmakers are seeking clarification from the Pentagon regarding its decision to halt offensive cyber operations against Russia amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations concerning the Ukraine conflict. This pause, while not uncommon during sensitive diplomatic efforts, has raised alarms among Democrats who view it as a strategic error that undermines U.S. cybersecurity strength against Moscow. The situation highlights tensions within U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the balance between diplomacy and maintaining a robust defensive posture.

Russia Trying to Gain Foothold in Ukraine's Sumy Region, Border Guard Says Δ1.75

Russian forces are attempting to create an active fighting zone in Ukraine's northeastern region of Sumy, across the border from Russia's Kursk region, amid increased pressure on Ukrainian troops. The situation is part of a broader escalation of tensions between the two nations, with both sides accusing each other of aggression. Ukraine's military has been working to repel Russian attacks and prevent the establishment of a hostile zone.

Russian Special Forces Attack Ukrainian Forces in Kursk via Gas Pipeline Δ1.75

Russian special forces reportedly infiltrated a gas pipeline near Sudzha to launch a surprise attack on Ukrainian forces, intensifying military actions in the Kursk region. This tactic follows Ukraine's territorial gains in Kursk last August, which aimed to leverage their position in future negotiations with Russia. As battles escalate, concerns grow regarding the shifting dynamics of the conflict, particularly in light of U.S. policy changes affecting military support for Ukraine.

Russia Exceeds Sanctions with Diesel Shipment to Syria Δ1.75

The latest shipment of diesel from Russia to Syria via a tanker under U.S. sanctions marks the first direct supply to the Middle Eastern country in over a decade, highlighting the complex web of international relations and sanctions in place. The delivery is set to bolster Russia's military presence in Syria, where it has two main installations that are under threat following the sudden fall of Bashar al-Assad last year. As U.S. sanctions on Russia aim to limit revenues from its oil and gas industry, this shipment raises questions about the effectiveness of these measures.

US Cuts Intelligence Sharing for Ukraine, Adding Pressure for Russia Peace Deal Δ1.74

The US has paused intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, CIA Director John Ratcliffe said on Wednesday, piling pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to cooperate with U.S. President Donald Trump in convening peace talks with Russia. The suspension could cost lives by hurting Ukraine's ability to defend itself against Russian missile strikes. Trump has pivoted to a more conciliatory approach to Moscow from previously strong US support for Ukraine, leaving European allies concerned about the future of the NATO alliance.

The Weekend: When Europe's Do-or-Die Moment Sent Defence Stocks Soaring Δ1.74

Europe is scrambling to boost its military firepower as any realistic hopes of being able to rely on the US to protect Ukraine from Russia fade. Donald Trump's now-infamous clash with Volodymyr Zelensky was followed by a withdrawal of US military aid for Ukraine and a growing sense of panic among European leaders. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, swiftly unveiled the ReArm Europe plan, declaring that it could "mobilise close to €800bn (£667bn)" to protect the continent.

Advanced Cyber Threats on Network Devices Worry Global Internet Security Δ1.74

Sophisticated, advanced threats have been found lurking in the depths of the internet, compromising Cisco, ASUS, QNAP, and Synology devices. A previously-undocumented botnet, named PolarEdge, has been expanding around the world for more than a year, targeting a range of network devices. The botnet's goal is unknown at this time, but experts have warned that it poses a significant threat to global internet security.

Trump Threatens Russia with Sanctions Until Ukraine Peace Reached Δ1.74

Trump's threats of large-scale sanctions on Russia follow a pause in US military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine, as he calls for both countries to negotiate a peace deal. Russian forces have almost surrounded thousands of Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region, leading to concerns about the stability of the situation. The US president has expressed a willingness to ease sanctions on Russia's energy sector if Moscow agrees to end the Ukraine war.

French Reaper Drone Target of Russian Intimidation, Defence Minister Says Δ1.73

A French Reaper drone on a surveillance mission in international airspace over the eastern Mediterranean was the target of intimidation by a Russian SU-35 fighter jet, France's Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said on Tuesday. The incident reflects growing tensions between Western nations and Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as European countries seek to bolster their defence capabilities. France has vowed to defend freedom of navigation in international airspace.

Trump's Russia Pivot Unlikely to Bring Peace to Ukraine, Says Finland's Foreign Minister Δ1.73

Finland's foreign minister Elina Valtonen said that Washington's pivot towards Russia is unlikely to bring an end to the war in Ukraine, and that President Donald Trump would likely discover this in the end. She expressed concerns about a recent U.S. order to pause offensive cyber operations against Russia during negotiations aimed at ending the Ukraine war. In her view, this approach should not work and President Trump's team will eventually notice its limitations.

Euro Rebounds From 2-1/2-Week Low, Ukraine and Defence Spending in Focus Δ1.73

The euro rebounded as EU leaders drew up a Ukraine peace plan, which may boost future growth and support the currency. A likely increase in fiscal spending by euro zone countries could provide some boost to future growth, supporting the currency. The renewed push for peace in Ukraine and possible increase in defence spending are monitoring closely by investors.

Norway Stands Firm on Fuel Supplies Amid US Navy Boycott Δ1.73

Norway has reaffirmed its commitment to supplying fuel for U.S. Navy ships, despite a call from a private marine fuel supplier to stop doing so in response to concerns over Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's treatment at the White House. The country's defense minister stated that American forces will continue to receive the supply and support they require from Norway, underscoring the close ties between the two nations. This decision sets a significant precedent for NATO member states in their relations with the United States.

Cyberattack Detected at Polish Space Agency, Minister Says Δ1.73

Polish cybersecurity services have detected unauthorized access to the Polish Space Agency's (POLSA) IT infrastructure, Minister for Digitalisation Krzysztof Gawkowski said on Sunday. The incident has raised concerns about national security and the potential vulnerability of critical government systems. Authorities are working to identify the source of the attack and take corrective measures to prevent future breaches.

Russia Says Repelled Ukrainian Drone Attack on Turkstream Pipeline Compressor Station Δ1.73

Russian air defences on Saturday repelled an attack by three Ukrainian drones on a compressor station that is part of the Turkstream pipeline system taking Russian gas to Europe, allowing operations to return to normal. The compressor station, known as Russkaya, was targeted by the drones in southern Russia's Krasnodar region, but all were shot down at a safe distance. The attack highlights ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine over energy infrastructure.

Ukraine Says Russian Ballistic Missile Hits Ship in Odesa Port Δ1.73

Ukraine said Russia hit the Black Sea port of Odesa with a ballistic missile on Saturday, damaging a civilian vessel and shipping infrastructure. The damaged ship sails under the Panamanian flag and is owned by a European company, regional governor Oleh Kiper said on Telegram without providing more detail. Two port employees were also injured in the strike.

Defence Stocks Surge as Investors Anticipate Europe's Spending Spree Δ1.73

Defence stocks have surged as investors expect governments across Europe to ramp up spending following recent developments in geopolitical tensions. The rally in UK defence stocks on Monday helped propel the FTSE 100 to a record high close of 8,904 points, as European leaders agreed to boost defence spending and announce plans to increase their military aid to Ukraine. Investors are betting that Europe will shoulder more responsibility for its own security following the US decision to pause military aid to Ukraine.

NATO Armies Unprepared for Drone Wars, Ukraine Commander Warns Δ1.73

NATO armed forces are struggling to cope with the rapid evolution of drone warfare, according to Colonel Vadym Sukharevskyi, the head of Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces. The conflict in Ukraine has accelerated the development and deployment of drones, which have become a crucial component of modern warfare. As Kyiv strives to stay ahead of the enemy, it is employing artificial intelligence, deploying more ground drones, and testing lasers to bring down Russian unmanned aerial vehicles.

Starlink Rival Eutelsat Triples on EU Defense Spending Plan Δ1.73

Shares of Eutelsat Communications SA surged over 300% following the European Union's commitment to increase defense spending amid uncertainties surrounding U.S. military aid to Ukraine. This unprecedented jump in stock value was fueled by concerns over the reliability of Starlink services, which are crucial for Ukrainian military operations, prompting EU officials to explore alternative satellite solutions. Eutelsat, which operates a significant portfolio of low-earth orbit satellites, is positioning itself as a viable alternative to SpaceX's Starlink in the defense sector.

Ukraine Can Hold Out on Frontline, Kyiv Says After Trump's Military Aid Pause Δ1.73

Ukraine has maintained its ability to supply its front lines despite the U.S. pause in military aid, while President Zelenskiy remains silent on the issue. The aid freeze has sparked tensions between Washington and Kyiv, with the Kremlin saying it is a step towards peace. Ukraine's military capabilities have been bolstered by EU and other international support since the start of the conflict.

Zelenskiy Hails 'Positive Movement' In Relations with US Δ1.73

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed optimism about improved cooperation with the United States, citing progress on security issues and a planned meeting between officials. The development comes after CIA Director John Ratcliffe announced the pause of intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, sparking concerns about tensions between the two nations. The Ukrainian government has been seeking to repair ties with its top military supporter following public clashes with US President Donald Trump.

Russia Expels Two UK Diplomats as It Negotiates to Restore US Ties Δ1.73

Russia has expelled two British diplomats, accusing them of espionage and providing false information to enter the country, amid deteriorating diplomatic relations with the UK and ongoing negotiations to restore ties with the US. The UK Foreign Office has dismissed these allegations as baseless, highlighting the strained atmosphere exacerbated by Britain's military support for Ukraine. This incident marks a significant moment in post-Cold War diplomacy as Western diplomats face increasing scrutiny and expulsion from Russia amidst geopolitical tensions.

Anger Over JD Vance 'Random Country' Peacekeeping Remark Δ1.73

US Vice President JD Vance has faced backlash for his remarks suggesting that troops from "some random country" would be ineffective in deterring Russia, leading to accusations of disrespect towards British and French forces. His comments coincided with a pause in US military aid to Ukraine and sparked outrage among UK politicians who highlighted the contributions of their troops alongside the US in recent conflicts. Vance's attempt to clarify his statements has not quelled the criticism, raising questions about diplomatic relations and the perception of allied military contributions.