Russian president and former intelligence officer
The government has designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Right (IMCR) and Russia’s GRU Volunteer Corps as national security threats. Ministers have said the measures will criminalise support, extend policing powers and allow prosecutors to pursue those who carry out or direct sabotage in the UK. Police have arrested a suspect, Vahid Aberi, and carried out searches in Liverpool and Birmingham; he will appear in court in London.
President Donald Trump has posted that Benjamin Netanyahu "will not be arrested, in any way, shape, or form, while in the United States," after New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani said his administration is consulting the city Law Department about whether existing law allows detaining Netanyahu if he visits for the UN General Assembly. The ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu in November 2024; Israel and the US reject the court's jurisdiction.
President Trump has begun flying a $400m Boeing 747-8 donated by Qatar but used an older Air Force One during a July NATO trip after officials raised security concerns. The White House has defended the new jet as "state-of-the-art," while the FBI and a White House-led probe have sought to identify leaks about the plane's defensive capabilities; The New York Times reporters have been subpoenaed.
The new prime minister has unveiled a 10-year plan and pledges to tackle the cost of living, rough sleeping, and housing. He is appointing a cabinet and outlining how to fund his priorities while keeping to defence spending commitments.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has carried out a surprise cabinet reshuffle that has removed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, nominated Serhii Koretskyi as prime minister and named SBU head Yevhenii Khmara as acting defence minister while parliament prepares confirmation votes. The removals have provoked mass protests, at least one senior military resignation and wider concern about unity in Kyiv's war effort.
Andy Burnham has become Labour leader and is set to be prime minister next week. He pledges unity, a tougher stance on cost-of-living, and 100% backing for Ukraine, while outlining a plan to reshape government power and tackle rough sleeping. The transition follows Keir Starmer’s departure after a rapid leadership contest.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point as the U.S. indicates it will reinstate a blockade around Iran’s shipping, proposing a 20% toll on all cargo. Markets react as oil prices jump and analysts assess supply-chain implications amid a strained ceasefire.
Ukraine has announced a high-level leadership reshuffle amid protests and ongoing war, appointing Mykhailo Drapati as head of the armed forces and reintroducing Mykhailo Fedorov in a government role. The moves come as Kyiv vows continued strikes on Russia and battles on multiple fronts.
Leaders gather in Paris as Macron hosts a Coalition of the Willing to bolster Ukraine’s defence, with Zelenskyy in attendance. The day also features a large, unified military parade across Paris as Europe showcases its unity against Russia amidst heatwaves across France.
U.S. President Donald Trump has offered to help end the Russia-Ukraine war in a nearly 90-minute call with Vladimir Putin and has agreed with Volodymyr Zelenskyy to continue negotiations at next week’s NATO summit in Ankara. Ukraine has struck oil and naval facilities near St. Petersburg, and Russia has responded with heavy missile and drone strikes on Kyiv.
NATO leaders have met in Ankara after months of U.S. threats to scale back forces in Europe and repeated U.S. demands that allies raise defence spending to 5% of GDP by 2035. Tensions over the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and U.S. troop reviews have strained transatlantic ties, while European governments are increasing procurement and planning to assume more conventional defence responsibilities.
Ukraine’s long-range strikes have hit oil refineries and energy facilities across Russia, fueling a fuel shortage in several regions. Attacks have disrupted refining capacity from Omsk to Yaroslavl, triggering rationing and price pressures while Moscow promises restoration efforts.
President Donald Trump has publicly taunted Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over a G7 photo, posting a meme that said "Restraining order needed" and repeating that she "begged" for a picture. European leaders have rallied to Meloni, and Washington is reviewing U.S. force posture in Europe after allies refused base access for strikes on Iran.
Armenia has received EU support to diversify its trade away from Russia as Moscow’s sanctions bite. The EU will grant tariff-free access to about 80% of Armenian exports and supply an additional 18 million euros to bolster trade, while Armenia seeks to expand ties with Brussels amid broader regional tensions.
Ukraine's prosecutor general has released restored surveillance footage of a June 29 parcel bombing in Monaco that wounded tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev, his partner and their teenage son. Investigators have traced transfers of cash and cryptocurrency linking a suspected bomber, Anastasiia Berezovska, to two detained men in Ukraine; Berezovska was later found shot dead near Kyiv.
Trump marks the 250th anniversary with a Capitol rally and a national mall event, touting achievements while warning of a communist threat. The event faced heat and a weather evacuation, with global leaders sending messages of support and criticism of the administration’s approach to the celebration.
The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has begun in Manila. Police have deployed around the Senate as pro- and anti-Duterte demonstrators gather. Duterte denies wrongdoing and has appeared via counsel, with the outcome potentially barring her from future office and shaping the 2028 race.
OPEC+ has agreed to increase oil output by 188,000 barrels per day from August, marking the fifth straight monthly rise. While the move signals a cautious unwind of earlier cuts, oil supplies remain constrained by the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing regional tensions. Prices have edged back toward pre-war levels as shipping resumes.
French President Emmanuel Macron has visited Damascus to discuss strengthening bilateral relations as Syria seeks reconstruction after years of civil war. He has met Syrian officials and plans to attend a NATO summit in Ankara, highlighting Europe’s interest in re-engaging with Damascus amid regional stability efforts.
Trump has reiterated his push for the United States to control Greenland, in the context of a NATO summit in Turkey. He says Denmark’s reluctance should not block U.S. security goals, and hints at possible U.S. troop realignments in Europe. Zelenskyy and other leaders are seeking clarity on Ukraine’s security assistance amid continuing war and regional tensions.
The United States has granted Ukraine a license to manufacture Patriot air-defence interceptors, addressing critical shortages but production will take months to years. Ukraine is pressing allies at NATO for faster and larger support amid ongoing Russian ballistic missile strikes that have damaged Kyiv and other cities.
President Donald Trump has overridden the NATO agenda at a summit in Ankara by pressing allies to boost defence spending, threatening trade with Spain, and floating withdrawal of US troops from Europe. He has also signalled he will lift sanctions on Turkey and is considering selling F‑35 jets and engines to Ankara, prompting Israeli and European alarm.
EU and UK sanctions have broadened to seven individuals and two institutes in response to the use of chemical agents, including Novichok and epibatidine, in Salisbury and against Alexei Navalny. Foreign officials condemn Russia’s actions as a violation of international law and vow accountability.
The US and Iran have exchanged fresh strikes this weekend and on Monday, reversing a recent interim ceasefire and re‑opening doubt over control of the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump has declared the ceasefire "over," ordered further strikes and revoked a temporary oil waiver. Oil has jumped into the high $70s–$80s and global markets have fallen.
NATO leaders reaffirm an Article 5 commitment while European defence spending rises. Trump criticises allies over Iran war and defence budgets, threatening trade measures and debates over Greenland. Ukraine receives new aid and weapons deals are announced, but unity appears fragile as divisions persist.
Ukraine has struck oil depots and tankers across Russia, triggering a fuel shortage and rationing in multiple regions. Trump pledges Patriot licenses as Kyiv seeks faster domestic production.
Ukrainian drone forces have intensified attacks on Crimea, targeting vessels, fuel facilities and supply routes in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea. The campaign aims to choke Moscow’s logistics and energy networks, while Russia experiences fuel shortages and defensive shifts.
Kyiv remains under sustained Russian missile and drone strikes, with casualties and damage reported across multiple districts. Ukrainian officials say air defenses are engaged as civilians seek shelter and rescue operations continue.
Sizewell B will continue generating electricity until 2055 after a 20-year life extension, with a contract for difference guaranteeing 370.50 per megawatt-hour from 2035. The move aims to shield billpayers and secure thousands of jobs and clean power, while backing new nuclear projects.
Trump has declared that Spain is a “wasted cause” and a “terrible partner in NATO,” calling for a cut to all trade and visits. At the NATO summit, he has also suggested the Iran ceasefire is over, while insisting the United States remains focused on NATO commitments.
The UK is coordinating with European allies at the Ankara NATO summit to push a deep precision strike programme and boost defence funding. Keir Starmer is leading discussions, while Trump presses allies on spending. Ukraine seeks air defences amid a shifting security landscape.
Ukrainian drone strikes and Russia’s wartime economy are pushing Russia toward a prolonged strain. Inflation, higher taxes, and heavy military spending have tightened civilian life, with analysts predicting years of economic hardship ahead.
The Justice Ministry has designated multiple Russian figures and offices as “foreign agents,” a move that restricts activity and imposes disclaimers on public appearances. The actions come after charges and new designations tied to alleged foreign influence, as authorities emphasize safeguarding state interests.
A Chinese delegation led by Wang Yang is visiting Pyongyang to advance agreed cooperation with North Korea, including military and economic ties. The talks follow Xi Jinping’s June visit and aim to implement a blueprint for closer strategic relations. North Korea seeks Beijing’s backing while China hopes to maintain regional stability and influence.
NATO members pledge higher defence spending while President Trump sharpens demands on Greenland and Spain. Mark Rutte labels the alliance stronger, but others warn of lasting tensions as US pressure tests unity.
Ukraine has intensified drone strikes against Russian energy infrastructure and tanker ships in the Sea of Azov and Black Sea, aiming to disrupt Moscow’s fuel supply to Crimea. The operation, named Molochka, has hit dozens of vessels and electricity infrastructure, triggering fuel shortages and a broader energy crisis in Russia.
Marine Le Pen has secured permission to run in France’s 2027 elections after a Paris appeals court shortened her electoral ban while maintaining her conviction for embezzlement. She must wear an ankle monitor during campaigning, and her bid remains subject to possible higher court review.
Fuel shortages persist across Russia as Ukrainian drone strikes disrupt refineries and supply networks. Regions report rationing, long queues at petrol stations, and authorities are imposing export bans while exploring imports to stabilise domestic supply. Prices have risen as the crisis deepens.
Greenland remains at the center of a security debate as the United States seeks control of the Arctic island, citing national security. Denmark and Greenland’s government oppose any U.S. moves, while NATO and European allies push back against escalatory threats amid shifting Arctic power dynamics.
The Philippines has formally objected to a China Daily AI-generated video that dehumanizes Filipinos and mocks the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling. Manila calls for takedown and warns against propaganda that escalates tensions as regional powers urge adherence to UNCLOS.
Sen. Lindsey Graham has died, and the Senate faces a scramble to fill his leadership role. The update narrows sanctions legislation, reshuffles committees, and tests bipartisan cooperation on Ukraine aid and mixed White House-Senate priorities.
Sen. Lindsey Graham has died suddenly, leaving a void in U.S.-Ukraine policy after years of backing sanctions and military aid. He had visited Ukraine multiple times and was pushing a Russia sanctions bill with bipartisan support. Zelenskyy and Ukrainian officials mourn his loss, warning that his absence could affect negotiations with Washington.
Ukraine’s president has announced a cabinet change and indicates a broader political strategy shift. Svyrydenko is stepping down, with potential replacements including Koretskyi or Shmyhal. The leadership change follows a wave of reforms and external pressure as Kyiv reorients its political approach and diplomacy.
EU conferences open for Ukraine, Moldova, Albania and Montenegro mark renewed momentum in enlargement talks. Kyiv partners with Brussels to advance five policy clusters; Hungary's veto persists on two clusters. Ukraine seeks I EU reform alignment amid security concerns as Russia’s war continues.
Keir Starmer has been awarded France’s Legion d’Honneur by Emmanuel Macron for his leadership in establishing the Coalition of the Willing to support Ukraine. The honour marks a historic moment as the first UK prime minister to receive the award.
Ministers have updated the national risk register with seven new crises, including cyber-attacks on infrastructure and foreign interference in democracy. A nationwide public-awareness campaign and the largest home-defence exercise in decades are planned for next year to improve resilience against severe weather, cyber threats, and other disruptions.
The updated Russia sanctions legislation has gained White House backing and is advancing in the Senate, aiming to impose tariffs on the five largest purchasers of Russian oil and gas while allowing waivers for national interests. The bill narrows the scope from a blanket 500% tariff to up to 100% and seeks to pressure Moscow amid ongoing debate over coalition support and timing.
Hungary’s government has announced an inquiry into foreign minister Péter Szijjártó’s relationships with BYD and related subsidies during Orbán’s tenure. Prime Minister Magyar says the review will examine decisions, warnings ignored, and the burden on taxpayers, workers, communities and the environment. Szijjártó has joined BYD in a prestigious executive post.
Ukrainian drone strikes have damaged Russian oil infrastructure, triggering fuel shortages across the country. Authorities report production hiccups, rationing in some regions, and attempts to stabilise supplies amid heightened price pressures. The government has sanctioned imports and redirected shipments to mitigate the impact.
The Guardian, Mirror and Guardian report on CPAC GB, Liz Truss’s UK-hosted version of the US Conservative Political Action Conference. The event features UK and US right-leaning figures, with Liz Truss hosting, Nigel Farage headlining, and mixed audience engagement. Coverage notes uneven attendance, stagecraft, and political messaging as the conference plays out against a backdrop of UK political volatility.