EU-UK diplomacy, security and global affairs
The Russian-flagged tanker Forwarder has passed through the English Channel, becoming the first shadow fleet vessel to make the transit since UK authorities boarded the Smyrtos last month. Its journey from the Baltic port of Primorsk is being closely watched by maritime analysts and enforcement agencies.
A Russian warship moving through the English Channel has triggered a sharp response from Downing Street. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as deeply concerning and called for a full review of the situation.
A retired British couple have spoken to BBC Newsnight about the moment a Russian warship fired warning shots near their sailing boat in the English Channel. David and Lid Bowen described the experience as ‘surreal’ and say they had already changed course before the shots were fired.
Mondelez International CEO Dirk Van de Put has defended the Cadbury owner’s continued presence in Russia, calling it the “right decision” despite sustained pressure over the Ukraine war. The company employs around 3,000 people in Russia and shows no signs of leaving.
Newly elected union leader Andrea Egan has warned that Labour is handing an open door to Reform UK by failing to deliver for working people. Her shock election victory, she says, was members screaming to be heard.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for closer cooperation with the European Union, arguing that renewed ties are vital for Britain’s security and economic growth. The move marks a significant shift in approach, though rejoining the single market remains off the table.
The Royal Navy has intercepted a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker operating in the English Channel, intensifying concerns over Moscow’s sanctions-evading operations. The vessel was detained as part of Britain’s crackdown on illicit maritime activity.
A scathing parliamentary report reveals Britain’s economic security frameworks are dangerously outdated and can’t handle modern threats. MPs say the government’s response to critical vulnerabilities has been wholly inadequate.
France, Germany and the UK sent top diplomats to Moscow in a coordinated push to restart Ukraine peace negotiations. The surprise visit marks the most significant Western diplomatic effort since fighting intensified last month.
Dozens of charities registered in England and Wales have donated millions of pounds to support illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, a Guardian investigation has revealed. The findings raise serious questions about oversight of charitable donations flowing to contested territories.
