Photo : army.mil
22 August 2023, Tuesday | NIAS Europe Daily Brief #601
War in Ukraine: Day 544
By Rishika Yadav
War on Ground
On 21 August, according to Ukrianska Pravda, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine's President, announced Greece's participation in the aircraft coalition during talks with Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greece's Prime Minister. Greece will aid in training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, bolstering Ukraine's defence capabilities. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Greece's support in safeguarding Ukraine's freedom.
On 21 August, according to Greece's Prime Minister office, Zelenskyy arrived in Athens for an official visit. Zelenskyy emphasized joint efforts to protect freedom in Europe. This concludes his European visits after Sweden, Netherlands, and Denmark. Mitsotakis met Balkan leaders, hosting a commemorative dinner attended by Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President and Charles Michel, European Council chief. The gathering celebrated 20 years since a pivotal Thessaloniki summit. Greece's stance shifted under Mitsotakis, unequivocally condemning Moscow's invasion. Greece offered to reconstruct the Mariupol maternity hospital in Ukraine. Zelenskyy's parliamentary appeal for Mariupol and Odesa aid gained Greek support, except from Communist Party of Greece (KKE) and National Party-Greek.
On 21 August, in an interview with BBC, Zelenskyy assessed the June offensive, emphasizing the importance of steady progress. He urged NATO to clarify Ukraine's membership prospects, tying its post-war direction to this. Insisting on no talks until Russian troop withdrawal, Zelenskyy downplayed the nuclear threat from Putin. Despite possible Vilnius summit absence, he saw the NATO invitation as a foundation for Ukraine's future. Zelenskyy rejected talks until full territorial restoration, rejecting frozen conflict prospects, calling them a trap. Dismissing Putin's nuclear threat, he surmised the Russian leader's concern for personal safety.
The Moscow View
Claims by Russia
On 21 August, according to TASS, around 50 flights experienced delays at Moscow airports due to temporary flight restrictions due to two drone attacks by Ukraine. Sheremetyevo had 14 delays, Domodedovo 13, Vnukovo 20, and Zhukovsky 3. Amid the delays, 50 planes were diverted to other airports. The Russian Defence Ministry reported repelling two drone attacks in the Moscow region, one suppressed by electronic warfare and another shot down.
On 21 August, according to Zawya, Russia's envoy to Denmark criticized the country's decision to supply Ukraine with American F-16 jets as an "escalation" of the conflict. The Russian ambassador expressed concern that the move heightened the conflict and pushed Ukraine into a continued military confrontation. Moscow has previously labelled F-16s a potential "nuclear" threat.
The West View
Responses from the US and Europe
On 21 August, according to Reuters, the US State Department greenlit a potential USD 12 billion deal for Poland to acquire 96 AH-64E Apache helicopters, along with related equipment like 1,844 Hellfire missiles and 508 Stinger missiles. The request comes amid Poland's efforts to bolster its military post-Russia's Ukraine invasion. While approved, the notification to Congress does not confirm the contract signing. Boeing and Lockheed Martin are the main contractors for the deal.
On 21 August, according to the UK's Ministry of Defence, Russia formed the 18th Combined Arms Army (18 CAA) to bolster military efforts in southern Ukraine. This likely involves reorganizing units in Kherson Oblast, including the 22nd Army Corps stationed in Crimea. Primarily composed of mobilized personnel, the 18 CAA is expected to focus on defensive operations, possibly freeing experienced units for critical fronts. Notably, airborne forces have been moved from Kherson to the contested Orikhiv sector.
References
"Greece to train Ukrainian troops on F-16," Ukrianska Pravda, 21 August 2023
"Zelensky In Athens To Meet EU, Balkan Leaders: Greek Officials," Barron's, 21 August 2023
"Volodymyr Zelensky in an interview with the BBC: "We will not agree to a frozen conflict"," BBC, 21 August 2023
"About 50 flights delayed at Moscow airports," TASS, 21 August 2023
"Statement by Russian Defence Ministry," Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation, 21 August 2023
"Danish F-16s for Ukraine an 'escalation': Russian envoy," Zawya, 21 August 2023
"US State Dept OKs possible sale of Apache helicopters to Poland for $12 bln -Pentagon," Reuters, 21 August 2023
"Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – 21 August 2023," Twitter, 21 August 2023
In Brief
By Rishika Yadav
FINLAND
Calls to ban swastika and hammer and sickle
On 21 August, according to Politico, amidst a series of racism scandals, Ben Zyskowicz, Finland's MP, proposed a ban on swastikas and hammer and sickle symbols, part of a broader effort to combat discrimination and racism. The working group's proposals, formed in response to scandals involving the Finns Party, seek concrete actions against racism. Petteri Orpo, Finland's Prime Minister, asserts "zero tolerance" for racism, and the parliament is set to vote on the proposal in September. The proposed ban on symbols associated with hate and extremism reflects efforts to address deep-rooted racism and intolerance, demonstrating the government's commitment to upholding fundamental principles of equality and countering the rise of discriminatory ideologies. (Laura Hulsemann, "Finland considers swastika ban after racism scandals rock government," Politico, 21 August 2023)
FRANCE
Extreme heat warnings as temperatures soar
On 21 August, France issued "red alerts" in southern regions due to scorching temperatures, with Rhone expected to reach 41 degree Celsius. Meteo France also issued "orange alerts" for half the country, as temperatures climbed to 35-38 degree Celsius. Europe has faced record-breaking heatwaves this summer, with Southern Europe experiencing high temperatures and deadly wildfires. Scientists highlight the link between human-caused greenhouse gas emissions and intensifying heatwaves. ("France issues' red alert' warning amid extreme heat," Deutsche Welle, 21 August 2023)
GERMANY
Economy to remain stagnant in Q3
On 21 August, according to the Associated Press, Germany, as Europe's largest economy, is predicted, by IMF, to stay stagnant in the current quarter, as the central bank forecasts minimal change in economic output. The country's GDP remained flat in Q2 and has faced consecutive declines in previous quarters due to energy prices, borrowing costs, and weakened Chinese trade. This trend aligns with the IMF's projection that Germany is the only major economy to shrink this year, amidst global economic challenges. The continued stagnation in Germany's economy reflects the broader challenges faced by many countries in maintaining steady growth amidst a complex global economic landscape. ("German central bank sees the economy stagnating again in the 3rd quarter," Associated Press, 21 August 2023)
GREECE
Patrol boats rescue migrants crossing from Turkey
On 21 August, Greek patrol boats saved around 80 migrants in two separate incidents as they attempted to cross from Turkey in inflatable dinghies. Over the weekend, 200 more were rescued, reflecting an increasing trend of dangerous journeys. Migrant arrivals in Greece have surpassed 14,000 this year, attributed to better summer weather and increased Aegean boat traffic. The government maintains control despite the rise. Greece has bolstered patrols since the 2015 migration crisis, and allegations of illegal deportations persist. The ongoing challenges of irregular migration routes across the Aegean Sea highlight the need for coordinated efforts among European nations to address the humanitarian and security concerns associated with such journeys. ("Greek coast guard rescues scores of migrants from boats drifting in the Aegean Sea," Associated Press, 21 August 2023)
Battling wildfires amid heatwave
On 21 August, according to Deutsche Welle, Wildfires erupted in Greece amid scorching temperatures. Evacuations occur in villages near Athens, while a major fire rages near Alexandroupolis. The persistent occurrence of wildfires in the region highlights the urgent need for effective wildfire management strategies and global efforts to address climate change's impact on fire risk. ("Villages evacuated in Greece as wildfires rage," Deutsche Welle, 21 August 2023)
SPAIN
King of Spain initiates government formation consultations
On 21 August, Felipe VI, Spain's King, began consultations with political parties to form a new government. Parties include People's Party (PP) and ruling Socialist Party (PSOE). Neither leader has enough support for a coalition, but PSOE's potential partners provide an advantage. PSOE seeks support from Catalan separatist parties, while PP requires smaller regional parties' backing. If no government is formed, year end general election might be necessary. The consultations reflect Spain's political intricacies, with PSOE holding potential coalition-building advantages over PP due to its broader support base. The inclusion of Catalan separatist parties' potential backing adds a layer of complexity, highlighting the delicate balance of regional and national interests in Spanish politics. ("Spain's king begins meeting parties to form new government," Deutsche Welle, 21 August 2023)
Wildfire rages in Canary Islands
On 21 August, a deliberately started wildfire in the Canary Islands prompted a visit from Pedro Sánchez, Spain's acting Prime Minister. The blaze has scorched 11,600 hectares, forcing 12,000 to evacuate. Despite firefighter progress, the situation remains challenging due to difficult terrain. The islands have faced drought due to climate change, exacerbating fire risks. Though no injuries were reported, the fire is a major concern for local communities and authorities. Arson investigation is ongoing. The ecological and human toll underscores the urgent need for preventive measures and stricter penalties against such intentional acts. ("Wildfires ravage 6% of Canary Islands, as crews tackle blazes in Greece, Italy," Euronews, 21 August 2023)
THE NETHERLANDS
Pieter Omtzigt launches a new party ahead of elections
On 21 August, according to Politico, Pieter Omtzigt, longtime Dutch Christian Democratic appeal member, established the "New Social Contract" party for November's election, aiming to implement good governance and livelihood security proposals. Omtzigt's popularity poses a challenge to various parties, including Labour Party and GreenLeft, as indicated by polls estimating him winning up to 29 per cent of votes. Omtzigt, known for uncovering the child benefits scandal, seeks meaningful change over merely seeking the largest party position. Upcoming elections follow the collapse of Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition in July, fostering a competitive landscape influenced by issues like migration and climate policy. The emergence of Pieter Omtzigt's new party adds complexity to the Dutch political landscape, particularly given his track record in uncovering significant scandals and his ability to resonate with a sizable portion of the electorate. (Claudia Chiappa, "Popular Dutch politician shakes up November election with new party," Politico, 21 August 2023)
THE UK
London police close investigation into allegations involving Prince Charles' charity
On 21 August, London police ended a probe into claims that associates of Prince Charles offered Saudi billionaire knighthood for donations. Metropolitan Police find no evidence to take further action after reviewing documents from The Prince's Foundation and The Times of London's report. The foundation states it's focusing on its education and training programs. The conclusion of the investigation underscores the challenges of navigating potential ethical concerns and maintaining transparency within charitable organizations connected to high-profile individuals. ("UK police to take no action after investigation into cash-for-honors allegation at king's charity," Associated Press, 21 August 2023)