EU alarm: Firefighter shortage amid worst fire season in decades
The summer of 2025 saw over a million hectares burned in Europe, with Spain and Portugal bearing the brunt of the damage.
Although funding for fire protection has increased, unions warn that the number of firefighters remains "very low," and some states have even reduced staff.
The organizations are calling for more investment, reforms in prevention, and a portion of defense funds redirected to civil defense.
Afghanistan: At least 250 dead after 6.0 magnitude earthquake
A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck Kunar province in Afghanistan, killing at least 250 people and injuring over 500.
The powerful impact, just 8 kilometers deep, collapsed dozens of mud and stone houses in mountainous areas near the border with Pakistan.
Authorities warn that the death toll could rise as rescue teams continue their search in difficult terrain.
Israel claims killing of Hamas' armed wing spokesman
The Israeli military said it had killed Abu Obeida, the longtime spokesman for Hamas' armed wing, during its expanded offensive in Gaza.
Hamas has not yet responded to the claim, while Obeida's latest statement was released on Friday, warning about the fate of hostages in combat zones.
Meanwhile, Israel has intensified bombing in Gaza City and the surrounding area, targeting Hamas tunnel networks.
Lithuania has installed so-called "dragon teeth" on the border with Russia
Lithuania has completed the deployment of so-called "dragon's teeth," anti-tank concrete pyramids, along the border with the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad.
This step is seen as part of a broader defensive plan, aimed at preventing the use of abandoned roads for a ground invasion.
The measures come as the three Baltic states have increased their preparedness following the ongoing Russian threat since the start of the war in Ukraine.
