Results for: United Kingdom

A meeting between British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday showcased unity in supporting Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. However, Scholz maintained his refusal to supply long-range Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv, arguing they require German involvement. Both leaders emphasized the need for Europe to enhance its assistance to Ukraine, following the US Congress’ approval of a massive military aid package. Scholz urged other European countries with Patriot missile systems to consider contributing them to Ukraine’s defense. Despite their support, Ukraine faces a shortage of shells and air defense systems, highlighting the ongoing urgency for international aid.

A consortium led by CK Infrastructure Holdings and CK Asset Holdings has agreed to acquire Phoenix Energy, the largest natural gas network company in Northern Ireland, for £757 million ($941 million). The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of this month. Phoenix Energy operates a network that covers nearly half of the local population, including Greater Belfast, and 78% of gas connections in Northern Ireland. The deal marks CK Infrastructure’s first acquisition of an asset in Europe since 2017 and is expected to provide stable cash flow and recurring profits.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has welcomed British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to Berlin with full military honours. The two leaders held a joint news conference afterwards.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced a significant £75 billion increase in defense spending over the next six years, aiming to enhance the UK’s military capabilities amid escalating global tensions. This significant investment will ensure the UK meets its target of allocating 2.5% of GDP to defense by 2030, aligning with the stance set by Boris Johnson in 2022. The increased defense expenditure is driven by concerns over global threats posed by authoritarian states such as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, who are actively destabilizing the world order. This commitment is also influenced by the ongoing war in Ukraine, highlighting the need for increased investment in munitions and military readiness. Sunak emphasizes the importance of bolstering the UK’s defense industry and reducing reliance on external support.

Former military commander Gwyn Jenkins has been appointed as the United Kingdom’s next National Security Advisor. Jenkins, a general with extensive experience in the Royal Marines, will assume the role from Tim Barrow, who may become Britain’s ambassador to the United States. Jenkins has held various positions within the military, including Commander of 3 Commando Brigade, Deputy National Security Adviser, and Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff. He is recognized for his work in Afghanistan and his report on alleged arbitrary executions by British soldiers.

On Tuesday morning, five individuals, including a seven-year-old girl, lost their lives while attempting to cross the English Channel. This tragic incident occurred shortly after the British Parliament approved a contentious law allowing the deportation of asylum seekers to Rwanda. The new legislation aims to combat the influx of migrants utilizing small boats to cross the Channel into the U.K.

The United Kingdom has witnessed a sharp increase in alcohol-related deaths, with experts expressing alarm. According to the Office for National Statistics, there were 10,048 alcohol-specific deaths in 2022, a significant jump from 7,500 in 2019. This increase has highlighted the need for urgent action to address the issue of alcohol harm in the country.

The United Kingdom has announced a £500 million ($618 million) military aid package for Ukraine, the largest-ever single package of equipment from the UK. The package includes 60 boats, 1,600 strike and air defense missiles, 400 vehicles, including armored vehicles and all-terrain vehicles, and nearly 4 million rounds of small arms ammunition. The aid will help Ukraine defend against Russia’s invasion by land, sea, and air.

A UK-based rights group has accused the British government of turning a blind eye and abetting Indonesia’s use of counterterrorism laws to restrict civil liberties. According to the report, the UK government has played a behind-the-scenes role in Indonesia’s anti-extremism policy formulation and funded the training of its anti-terrorism personnel. Indonesia’s counter-extremism programmes have been accused of targeting religious minorities and suppressing peaceful calls for Papuan independence. The report highlights the potential human rights violations caused by Indonesia’s counter-extremism apps and laws, including the blasphemy law and the new criminal code. Despite acknowledging the potential for human rights violations, Indonesian officials defend the government’s record on counterterrorism and deradicalisation.

A slow-moving low-pressure band from the Arctic will bring widespread frost and cold temperatures to the UK this week. Winds gusting up to 28mph will batter the North Sea coast on Wednesday, accompanied by temperatures as low as 4C in East and North Yorkshire. The cold snap will follow a warm weekend, with temperatures reaching nearly 20C in Northern Ireland and over 16C in Pembrokeshire, Wales.