Max Melzer

Ukraine carried out long-range drone strikes on the Novokuibyshevsk oil refinery and an Ozon logistics site in Russia's Samara region, roughly 1,000 kilometres from the front line. The refinery's annual capacity and existing fuel shortages mean the damage could further strain Russia's energy supply and war finances. The attacks occurred amid Russian fears of a recurring “black August” associated with national disasters and conflict. Analyst Scott Lucas said Ukraine's expanding strike capability and pressure on Russian fuel supplies could worsen Moscow's position over the winter, although Russia is unlikely to return to peace talks while maintaining maximal territorial and military demands. The report also details deadly Russian attacks in Kryvyi Rih and Kyiv, including an alleged “double tap” strike on emergency responders, and situates them within broader accusations of attacks on civilians, torture, forced deportation of children and other war crimes.

Gianni Infantino faces renewed scrutiny after reports alleged that UEFA paid a former employee a six-figure departure settlement and MBA fees following an alleged relationship with him. Infantino and FIFA categorically deny the allegations, while UEFA confirms the payment was made under rules in force at the time. The controversy comes as Infantino struggles to retain support after abandoning a plan to create a private-investor-backed commercial subsidiary for FIFA events, a proposal condemned by UEFA and criticized by former and current FIFA officials. FIFA's presidential election campaign, calls for leadership review, reported plans to expand the World Cup to 64 teams and possible procedures for removing Infantino further increase pressure on his position.

Gianni Infantino is facing renewed scrutiny after reports alleged that UEFA paid a former employee with whom he was purportedly involved, while FIFA and Infantino strongly deny any wrongdoing. UEFA confirmed that a departure payment and MBA fees were provided, saying they complied with the rules at the time. The controversy adds to pressure over Infantino's abandoned plan to create a private-investment-backed FIFA commercial subsidiary for major events, which UEFA condemned and several officials and confederations criticized. The article outlines possible mechanisms for removing him, including an emergency FIFA Council meeting or an extraordinary congress, although significant voting thresholds and Infantino's influence could make either route difficult.

A New Mexico judge ordered Meta to pay $567 million (£421 million) over harms to children, with most of the money allocated to treatment services. Facebook and Instagram must introduce measures including limits on notifications and usage, removal of like counts for under-18s, stronger age assurance, restrictions on adult-to-child messaging, and bans on nudity exchanges involving minors. The ruling could influence social media regulation internationally if it survives appeal, although age-verification flaws, enforcement difficulties and the risk of driving young users to less-regulated platforms remain significant concerns.

Abdul Ballout, the chief suspect in a vehicle-ramming attack at a Christopher Street Day Pride gathering in Berlin, was shot and killed by police after a 20-hour manhunt. The attack killed one woman and injured 29 people, including three critically. Authorities said Ballout rushed at officers with a bladed weapon and that no further suspects were being sought, although possible accomplices remained under investigation. The incident prompted scrutiny of German security services because Ballout had prior convictions, alleged links to Islamist extremism and had been ordered to attend a deradicalisation programme. German leaders condemned the attack and pledged to defend Berlin’s tolerant and open society.

Wildfires in southwest France have prompted the evacuation of more than 220,000 people, with flames approaching Bordeaux and authorities considering a total evacuation of the city. Extreme heat, drought and unpredictable fire-generated winds have overwhelmed firefighters, prompting France to deploy 1,500 military personnel. Fires have also caused mass evacuations in Spain and Italy, including areas near Madrid and Valencia. Officials issued conflicting tourism advice, while travel organizations urged visitors to follow local authorities and check insurance coverage. The destruction is linked to increasingly hot and dry conditions associated with climate change, alongside land-use changes and limited prevention resources.

A Ryanair-operated flight from Thessaloniki to Memmingen returned to Greece after a cabin window reportedly shattered following a loud bang and rapid depressurisation. Witnesses said a passenger was partially pulled through the window but was restrained by his wife and fellow passengers, while the airline said the aircraft landed normally and one passenger received medical assistance. Reports attributed the incident to engine failure, but investigators had not confirmed that explanation. The aircraft, operated by Ryanair subsidiary Malta Air, had also diverted the previous day because of a disruptive passenger; the airline said that event was unrelated.