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Ukraine Marks Somber Anniversary as Zelenskyy Vows Resolve Amid Fractured Allied Support

Ukrainians pay tribute to victims of the Russian invasion, on the day marking the fourth anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion. As Ukraine enters another year of full‑scale war, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy used the anniversary to deliver a message of defiance and endurance. Speaking to the nation, he emphasized that Ukraine’s determination to resist Russia has not weakened, even as the conflict grinds on with no clear end in sight. Zelenskyy highlighted the sacrifices made by civilians and soldiers alike, framing Ukraine’s struggle as a fight for national survival and democratic values. His remarks came at a moment when international unity — once a defining feature of the early months of the invasion — shows signs of strain. Several of Ukraine’s key partners remain committed to providing military and financial support, but political divisions, shifting priorities, and domestic pressures in some allied countries have complicated efforts to maintain a cohesive front. Debates...
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Drones Patrol Greek Beaches to Tackle Sunbed Overcrowding


Greek beaches, once synonymous with sunbed-covered shores, are now witnessing a crackdown enforced by drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles are on a mission to restore order and combat overcrowding caused by unauthorized sunbeds and umbrellas.

Overcrowding and Unauthorized Businesses

In recent years, Greek public beaches have fallen victim to fly-by-night businesses that set up sunbeds and umbrellas without proper permits. These establishments charge beachgoers for services while encroaching on public spaces. Locals have grown increasingly frustrated, leading to citizen-led movements like “The Beach Towel Movement” and “Free Beaches for All.”

The Drone Solution: Enforcing New Legislation 

To address this issue, the Greek government introduced legislation in March. Drones now patrol popular beaches, including those on the Athens Riviera, Mykonos, Santorini, and Corfu. Their mission? Detecting illegally placed sunbeds and umbrellas. Citizens also assist by using the MyCoast digital app to report violations.

Legal Requirements and Fines 

The new law mandates that Greek beaches must be 70% sunbed-free (or 85% in protected areas). Violators face hefty fines. For instance, a business operating without a license on Thymari beach received a €220,000 penalty—an hour’s drive south of Athens.

Balancing Tourism and Environment 

Greek Minister of National Economy and Finance Kostis Hatzidakis emphasizes the need to protect both the environment and citizens’ right to free beach access. By enforcing rules, Greece aims to preserve its pristine coastlines while supporting responsible entrepreneurship.

In summary, drones are now the guardians of Greek beaches, ensuring that sunbeds don’t crowd out the natural beauty that draws tourists from around the world. 

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