Dávka - Your daily dose of Slovak news
♥ Support DávkaNewsletter
Last refreshed: 28/07/2026 05:39 · 38 articles added
Stories are refreshed at 05:30, 10:30, 15:30, and 21:30 UTC.

International Politics

View all3273 stories
International Politics

Ukrainian Drones Strike Key Crimea Bridge for Second Consecutive Day

Ukrainian forces conducted a second consecutive drone attack on the strategically important Chonhar Bridge connecting occupied Crimea to the Kherson region on Tuesday. The bridge, which serves as a crucial gateway between the annexed peninsula and Russian-controlled territory, has been damaged and closed to traffic following the strikes. The attacks are part of Ukraine's systematic campaign to isolate occupied Crimea from Russian supply routes and logistics networks, targeting key infrastructure that supports Moscow's military operations in the region.

Aktuality
|
International Politics

US adds Chinese tech giants BYD and Alibaba to military-linked companies blacklist

The United States has added Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD and e-commerce giant Alibaba to its list of companies allegedly connected to China's military. The designation currently carries no immediate legal consequences for most of the listed firms, though it signals growing US concerns about Chinese companies' potential ties to Beijing's defense apparatus. The blacklist, maintained by the US Department of Defense, identifies foreign companies that American officials believe support China's military modernization efforts, though inclusion does not automatically trigger sanctions or investment restrictions.

SME
|
International Politics

China and North Korea Agree to Expand Cooperation Across Multiple Sectors

Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sealed an agreement to significantly expand bilateral cooperation across politics, economics, science, and defense during a meeting Tuesday in Pyongyang. The agreement marks a new chapter in relations between the two neighboring communist nations, strengthening ties that have historically served as North Korea's primary economic and diplomatic lifeline. China remains North Korea's largest trading partner and key ally, providing crucial economic support amid international sanctions imposed over Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program. The expanded cooperation comes as both countries face increasing geopolitical tensions with the United States and its allies in the region.

Aktuality
|
International Politics

US Army Apache helicopter crashes near Strait of Hormuz, crew rescued

A US Army Apache attack helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, but both crew members were safely rescued by emergency teams. The cause of the crash remains unknown, with officials uncertain whether the aircraft was shot down by Iranian fire, suffered a mechanical failure, or encountered another type of problem. The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically vital waterway between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula through which about one-fifth of global oil shipments pass, making it a frequent area of military tension between the United States and Iran.

AktualityTASR/Teraz
|
International Politics

Historians Criticize Trump Defense Pick's Speech at Normandy Anniversary as 'Grotesque Stupidity'

Historians and British politicians have sharply criticized a speech delivered by Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump's nominee for U.S. Defense Secretary, at a D-Day anniversary commemoration in Normandy. The speech has been described by critics as displaying "grotesque stupidity," while British politicians characterized it as lacking appropriate dignity for the solemn occasion. The controversy highlights concerns about Hegseth's suitability for the defense role, as his remarks at the commemoration of the Allied forces' 1944 landing in Nazi-occupied France drew widespread condemnation for their perceived inappropriateness.

SME
|
International Politics

France and Germany Express Regret Over Collapse of Joint Fighter Jet Program

France and Germany have expressed regret over the failure of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, according to AFP sources. The ambitious joint defense project was launched in 2017 with the goal of developing a next-generation fighter aircraft to replace France's Rafale jets and the Eurofighter aircraft currently used by Germany and Spain. The collapse represents a significant setback for European defense cooperation and the continent's efforts to develop independent military capabilities outside of American defense systems.

TASR/Teraz
|
International Politics

Slovakia and Croatia Sign Defense Cooperation Agreement

Slovakia and Croatia signed a new defense cooperation agreement on Monday in Zagreb, significantly deepening their military and economic ties in the defense industry sector. Defense Ministers Robert Kaliňák of Slovakia and Ivan Anušič of Croatia formalized the bilateral partnership that will expand cooperation into new strategic areas. Under the agreement, Slovakia will provide Croatia with ammunition and armored vehicles, while Slovakia is already utilizing Croatian expertise and capabilities, particularly in securing specialized fabrics for new uniforms for the Slovak Armed Forces. The deal represents a major expansion of defense industry cooperation between the two Central European nations, both of which are NATO members and have been strengthening their military capabilities since joining the alliance.

SMEAktualityTASR/Teraz
|
International Politics

Slovakia Joins 20-Nation Statement Supporting Humanitarian Organizations in Gaza

Slovakia joined a joint declaration signed by 20 countries and the European Commission expressing concern over the ongoing humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. The statement demonstrates international support for humanitarian organizations working in the region amid the continuing crisis. The declaration reflects broader international diplomatic efforts to address the deteriorating conditions in Gaza, where humanitarian groups have faced significant challenges in delivering aid to the Palestinian population.

TASR/Teraz
|
International Politics

Iran Willing to Negotiate with US But Demands Change in American Behavior

Iran expressed willingness to engage in negotiations with the United States but insisted that American behavior must change first, according to Iranian officials. The statement reflects Iran's position that US President Donald Trump has not been truthful during peace negotiations. The comments highlight the ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington, with Iran setting preconditions for any diplomatic engagement while questioning the credibility of American negotiating positions under Trump's leadership.

TASR/Teraz
|
International Politics

Trump Warns Netanyahu Against Renewed Attacks on Iran, Threatens to Leave Israel Alone

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a harsh warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, telling him he was "crazy" and discouraging him from renewing attacks on Iran. In an interview with Axios, Trump stated that if Israel resumes open warfare with Iran, the United States might leave Israel to fight alone. The warning represents a significant shift in the traditionally strong U.S.-Israel alliance and highlights Trump's apparent reluctance to support Israeli military operations against Iran. The comments come amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, with Israel having previously conducted strikes against Iranian targets and proxy forces in the region.

Aktuality
|
International Politics

Disagreements Scrap Billion-Dollar European Fighter Jet Development Program

A multibillion-dollar European fighter jet development program has been cancelled due to disagreements between participating countries. Both Paris and Berlin have expressed regret over the termination of the project. The program was viewed as a crucial test of European efforts to deepen cooperation in defense matters, representing a significant setback for the European Union's ambitions to develop greater strategic autonomy in military capabilities and reduce dependence on non-European defense suppliers.

SME
|
International Politics

Cameroon Condemns Use of Its Flag by Russian Shadow Fleet Vessel

Cameroon has condemned the unauthorized use of its flag by a vessel belonging to Russia's shadow fleet. The ship was traveling from the Russian port of Murmansk to the Cameroonian coastal city of Limbe when the French navy decided to verify the legitimacy of its use of the Cameroonian flag. Russia has increasingly relied on a shadow fleet of vessels operating under foreign flags to circumvent international sanctions imposed following its invasion of Ukraine. These ships often use flags of convenience from various countries to disguise their origins and avoid detection while transporting oil and other goods.

TASR/Teraz
|
International Politics

Cyprus and France Sign Agreement for French Military Deployment on Island

Cyprus and France have signed a defense agreement allowing French troops to be stationed on the Mediterranean island. Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides announced the deal would strengthen the strategic partnership and cooperation between the two countries. The agreement is designed to deepen bilateral defense relations and enhance the European Union's strategic autonomy in the region. Cyprus, an EU member since 2004, has been divided since 1974 when Turkey occupied the northern third of the island following a coup backed by Greece's military junta. The French military presence adds a new dimension to the complex security dynamics in the eastern Mediterranean, where tensions have periodically flared between EU member Cyprus and NATO ally Turkey over territorial disputes and energy exploration rights.

SMEAktualityTASR/Teraz
|
International Politics

Ukrainian President Zelensky Meets with British King Charles III

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held an audience with British King Charles III. In accordance with established royal protocol, members of the British royal family do not publicly comment on political matters, meaning no official statements were released regarding the substance of their meeting.

TASR/Teraz
|
International Politics

King Charles III Receives Ukrainian President Zelensky at Windsor Castle

King Charles III received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Windsor Castle to discuss how the United Kingdom can help Ukraine withstand winter attacks on its energy infrastructure and strengthen its air defense systems. The meeting focused on British support for Ukraine as the country prepares for what is expected to be another difficult winter amid Russia's ongoing military campaign targeting critical infrastructure. The discussions addressed both immediate energy supply needs and longer-term air defense capabilities to protect Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure from aerial bombardment.

Aktuality
|
International Politics

Slovak Foreign Minister Delivers Material Humanitarian Aid to Kenya

Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár delivered material humanitarian assistance to Kenya during an official visit. Slovakia has provided humanitarian aid to Kenya totaling approximately 680,000 euros between 2019 and 2025, representing a sustained commitment to supporting the East African nation. The delivery of material aid demonstrates Slovakia's ongoing development cooperation efforts in Africa, extending beyond financial assistance to include tangible resources for humanitarian needs.

TASR/Teraz
|
International Politics

Netanyahu Says Attacks on Iran Have Stopped But Conflict with Tehran and Hezbollah Continues

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that attacks on Iran have ceased, claiming that retaliatory strikes have deterred Tehran from launching further assaults. Netanyahu reported a pause in fighting with Iran, stating that Israel's recent military responses successfully discouraged additional Iranian attacks. However, the Israeli leader warned that his country remains prepared to strike again if necessary, indicating that the broader conflict with Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah is far from over. The statement suggests a temporary de-escalation in the direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran, though tensions remain high across the region.

Aktuality
|
International Politics

Ceasefire Halts War But Not Underlying Conflict

A ceasefire has ended active hostilities but has not resolved the underlying conflict, leaving lasting peace still distant. Iran is simultaneously preparing for both negotiations and potential renewed warfare, indicating the fragile nature of the current cessation of fighting. The situation remains volatile as parties position themselves for either diplomatic resolution or military escalation.

Dennik N
|
International Politics

EU Member States Adopt Maritime Industrial Strategy Conclusions

European Union member states have approved conclusions on a new maritime industrial strategy that highlights the bloc's strengths in shipbuilding and marine engineering. The strategy emphasizes the EU's competitive advantages in ship design and construction, as well as vessel repair, conversion, maintenance, modernization, and recycling. The conclusions also recognize European expertise in maritime equipment manufacturing and ocean engineering. The maritime industrial strategy represents part of the EU's broader effort to strengthen its industrial competitiveness and maintain technological leadership in strategic sectors.

TASR/Teraz
|