Cyberattack Wreaks Havoc on European Air Travel; Flights Cancelled, Delayed at Major Airports – 9/21/2025, 12:25:06 PM

The latest world news as of September 21, 2025, includes a major Russian missile and drone attack on Ukraine, a significant cyberattack disrupting European air travel, and heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran and the United States.

• Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack across Ukraine, killing at least three people and wounding dozens more. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that over 600 drones and missiles targeted nine regions, hitting both infrastructure and residential areas. In response, Ukraine struck two Russian oil refineries as part of a campaign against Russian oil and gas infrastructure[1][6].

• A cyberattack on a third-party airline system provider caused widespread flight disruptions and delays at major European airports including London Heathrow, Brussels, and Berlin. Flights were canceled or delayed as airports reverted to manual check-in procedures, with authorities warning of further impacts on flight schedules[1][2].

• Iran announced it will halt cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) after the UN Security Council refused to permanently lift sanctions. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council criticized the actions of Britain, France, and Germany regarding its nuclear program, which Tehran insists is peaceful[2][8].

• US President Donald Trump issued a warning to Afghanistan’s Taliban government, demanding the return of Bagram Airbase to US control and threatening unspecified consequences if not complied with. Trump also called on Venezuela to take back prisoners or face an “incalculable” price[2][4].

• In Israel and the Palestinian territories, Israeli forces detained the mayor of a northern West Bank town, continuing a wave of arrests targeting Palestinian officials since August. Meanwhile, the Congressional Progressive Caucus in the US endorsed legislation to halt arms transfers to Israel amid ongoing conflict in Gaza[2].

• Additional notable events:

  • An anti-immigration demonstration in The Hague turned violent, with rioters setting a police vehicle on fire and blocking a highway[1].
  • Police in Malawi arrested eight election officials for alleged vote manipulation during the ongoing election count[2].
  • Russia hosted its first Intervision international song contest in Moscow as an alternative to Eurovision[2].
  • A rare crescent sunrise solar eclipse was visible on September 21, 2025[7].

These developments reflect ongoing military conflicts, cybersecurity threats, diplomatic standoffs, and significant domestic political movements across multiple regions.