Starmer backs Zelensky after Trump calls him 'dictator'
Sir Keir Starmer has backed Volodymyr Zelensky, calling him a 'democratically elected leader', after Donald Trump described him as a dictator. Starmer reassured Zelensky that suspending elections during wartime, as the UK did in World War Two, was 'perfectly reasonable’. He is set to meet Trump in Washington next week, aiming to secure a US backstop to deter further Russian aggression. He has said he is prepared to deploy British troops to Ukraine as part of a peace agreement, with Western officials suggesting under 30,000 troops could be sent to provide reassurance. Meanwhile, Trump's comments have sparked criticism from Sweden’s prime minister, German chancellor Olaf Scholz, and former US vice president Mike Pence, among others. Some Western officials are discussing using drones and intelligence aircraft to monitor Ukraine rather than deploying large numbers of troops.
More American bombers arrive in Britain to deter Russia
Four US air force bombers have arrived at RAF Fairford as part of its Bomber Task Force Europe, reinforcing NATO’s deterrence posture amid rising tensions with Russia. The bombers have already participated in joint missions with Finland, France, and Sweden to enhance allied air force interoperability. Major-general Joseph Campo highlighted the mission’s strategic significance, stating that Bomber Task Force missions project US combat power, ensuring lethality and readiness in an evolving security landscape. Another commander said that training with NATO allies strengthens operational cohesion and enhances the ability to deploy decisive capabilities whenever needed. The bombers will participate in joint exercises across Europe, showcasing agility and rapid-response capabilities. This deployment affirms US commitment to deterring Russian aggression and maintaining a robust defence presence in the region.
UK inflation jumps to a ten-month high
Inflation in the UK has surged to 3% in January, reaching a ten-month high, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The rise was driven by higher plane fares, increased food costs, and a sharp jump in private school fees. Analysts had expected a smaller increase of 2.8%. An ONS official explained that airfare prices did not drop as usual after the holiday season, food prices rose, and private school fees jumped significantly due to recent tax changes. Rachel Reeves defended the Government's economic strategy, stating that wage growth is outpacing inflation, putting an extra £1,000 a year in people’s pockets on average. She highlighted her focus on economic growth, cutting regulations, and investing in infrastructure. However, shadow chancellor Mel Stride blamed the Government’s 'record tax hikes and excessive spending', arguing that this rise will cause higher prices, prolonged high interest rates, and financial struggles for families.
First person charged in Scotland under abortion buffer zone law
A 74-year-old woman has become the first person charged in Scotland under the new Abortion Services Act 2024. The law, which came into force in September, bans anti-abortion protests within 200 metres of hospitals and clinics where terminations are performed. The police arrested and charged the woman after reports of a demonstration outside a Glasgow hospital. The case will be referred to the procurator fiscal. Scottish Greens MSP Gillian Mackay, who introduced the legislation, called the protests 'shameful' and thanked the police for their swift response. She argued that the law is necessary to protect women from intimidation while accessing healthcare. The incident follows controversial remarks by US vice-president JD Vance, who falsely claimed that Scots could be prosecuted for private prayer in their homes. The Scottish government dismissed his comments as misinformation, reaffirming that private prayer is not prohibited. Mackay urged potential demonstrators to 'think again', warning that future protests will be stopped, and legal consequences will follow.
