A global conflict swarm in the early 19th century
The UK has restarted large‑calibre barrel production with a Rheinmetall factory in Telford, delivering up to 245 barrels a year and possibly expanding to 1,000. Defence chiefs say this rapid reindustrialisation strengthens Britain’s sovereign capacity as Europe readies for renewed threats.
Voters have rejected a plan to enshrine a narrowly defined, “perpetual and armed” neutrality in the Swiss constitution, defeating the far-right SVP-backed initiative. Projections show a majority backed preserving flexible neutrality, allowing sanctions and NATO cooperation as needed. Outcome preserves government discretion amid evolving European security pressures.
Swiss voters have rejected a proposal to enshrine a strictly defined, armed neutrality in the constitution, with final results showing about 70% opposing the measure. The government and major parties had warned this would curb flexibility in applying neutrality amid sanctions regimes and NATO ties.