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Congressman Calls on Marco Rubio To Issue US Visa for Vozinha’s Mom

Congressman Calls on Marco Rubio To Issue US Visa for Vozinha’s Mom

Summary

A U.S. lawmaker asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio to help the mother of Cape Verde’s World Cup goalkeeper, Vozinha, get a visa to attend her son’s games in the U.S. Vozinha’s mother has faced delays and difficulties with the visa process, but the State Department says it is now working to assist her.

Key Facts

  • Vozinha is a 40-year-old goalkeeper for Cape Verde’s national team and a star player at the 2026 World Cup.
  • His mother, Ana Candida Evora, has struggled to obtain a U.S. visa to watch him play.
  • House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries contacted Secretary of State Marco Rubio to seek help for her visa.
  • The U.S. State Department said there was originally no visa application on file for Evora.
  • Relatives of players can get waivers for visa bond fees, which can cost up to $15,000 and make travel costly.
  • The State Department is actively working with Vozinha’s family to support visa processing.
  • Cape Verde’s next World Cup match is against Uruguay in Miami, followed by a game versus Saudi Arabia in Houston.
  • A fundraiser was started to help cover costs to bring Vozinha’s mother to the matches.
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Status quo at Jerusalem's holiest site under threat as Israeli nationalists flout rules

Status quo at Jerusalem's holiest site under threat as Israeli nationalists flout rules

Summary

Some Israeli nationalists are challenging long-standing rules that limit religious activities at Jerusalem's al-Aqsa mosque compound, a site sacred to both Muslims and Jews. They want to build a new Jewish temple there, which breaks agreements meant to keep peace. Officials from Israel and the U.S. have reportedly discussed changes, but Israeli leaders say the current arrangements remain.

Key Facts

  • The al-Aqsa mosque compound, also called the Temple Mount by Jews, is a very important religious site for Muslims and Jews.
  • For about 1,400 years, only Muslims have been allowed to pray inside the al-Aqsa mosque. Non-Muslims can visit but not pray there.
  • A Jordanian Islamic group called the Waqf manages the site, following an agreement called the Status Quo.
  • Some Israeli nationalists, including Moshe Feiglin, pray at the site despite rules forbidding Jewish prayer there.
  • Reports suggest Israel may want to change the site's status to a "multi-faith centre" allowing more Jewish prayer and control, but Israeli officials deny this.
  • Control of East Jerusalem, including al-Aqsa, was taken by Israel in the 1967 Middle East War; most countries do not recognize this annexation.
  • Islamic leaders warn that changing the current arrangements could cause serious conflict.
  • U.S. officials have unclear or conflicting statements about any plans to change the Status Quo at al-Aqsa.
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WW2 soldier's brain buried with body 85 years after his death

WW2 soldier's brain buried with body 85 years after his death

Summary

Donnie MacRae, a Scottish soldier who died in a German prisoner of war hospital in 1941, had his brain removed for research and separated from his body for nearly 80 years. Recently, researchers found this fact and arranged for his brain to be buried with his remains in a military cemetery in Berlin, allowing his family to honor and remember him.

Key Facts

  • Donnie MacRae was a Scottish soldier captured in France in 1940 and died in a German POW hospital in 1941.
  • His brain and part of his spinal cord were removed during a post-mortem and sent to a German psychiatric research institute.
  • His family did not know his brain had been taken until researchers uncovered the records almost 80 years later.
  • About 2,000 brains, including some from Holocaust victims and prisoners, were taken by German institutes during World War Two for research.
  • The Ministry of Defence helped find MacRae's relatives, who traveled to Germany for a ceremony.
  • MacRae’s brain slices were kept at the Max Planck Institute for Psychiatry in Munich until recently.
  • His body was buried in a Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery in Berlin after the war.
  • A blessing ceremony was held to reunite his brain with his body and honor his sacrifice.
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In pictures: The Palace of Versailles, Macron's beloved soft power tool

In pictures: The Palace of Versailles, Macron's beloved soft power tool

Summary

French President Emmanuel Macron hosted U.S. President Donald Trump at a dinner in the Palace of Versailles to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence during the 2026 G7 summit. Macron has used the Palace of Versailles multiple times to host important foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Japanese Emperor Naruhito, and King Charles III of the United Kingdom.

Key Facts

  • Macron invited President Trump to a dinner at Versailles to mark 250 years since the U.S. became independent.
  • The dinner aimed to keep Trump in France until the end of the G7 summit for important talks on digital technology and artificial intelligence.
  • Versailles is a historic and luxurious palace frequently used by Macron to host foreign leaders.
  • Previous notable guests at Versailles include Vladimir Putin in 2017, Naruhito (then Crown Prince, now Emperor of Japan) in 2018, and King Charles III in 2023.
  • Macron said the dinner was to celebrate friendship between France and the U.S., and not just a formal gala.
  • Trump had left early from the previous year’s G7 summit in Canada, so this dinner was meant to encourage him to stay longer.
  • The G7 summit lasted several days and included discussions on important global issues.
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AFP investigates banner stunt during Pauline Hanson’s National Press Club speech

AFP investigates banner stunt during Pauline Hanson’s National Press Club speech

Summary

The Australian Federal Police is investigating a protest during Pauline Hanson’s speech at the National Press Club. A banner appeared behind Hanson accusing her of opposing worker pay rises while giving herself a pay increase. The political group GetUp took responsibility for the stunt.

Key Facts

  • The protest happened about 20 minutes into Pauline Hanson’s speech at the National Press Club.
  • A banner showed a black-and-white image of Hanson with words accusing her of opposing pay rises for workers but giving herself a $100,000 pay rise.
  • The National Press Club said two people entered the building without permission and set up equipment to display the banner.
  • GetUp, a political activist group, said they organized the stunt to highlight Hanson’s voting record on wage rises and social support.
  • The Australian Federal Police received a complaint and are investigating the unauthorized access and interference at the venue.
  • David Sharaz, a former journalist and GetUp worker, was present and filmed the incident but has not yet been interviewed by police.
  • The press club apologized to Hanson and said no staff or contractors were involved in the protest.
  • Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce suggested the incident could have been an “inside job,” implying someone familiar with the club helped.
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Pauline Hanson makes clear what a One Nation government would be like – it’s an ugly picture

Pauline Hanson makes clear what a One Nation government would be like – it’s an ugly picture

Summary

Pauline Hanson, leader of One Nation in Australia, gave a speech outlining her party’s plans if elected. She criticized multiculturalism, immigration, climate change efforts, and certain rights, and proposed major policy changes including cutting government departments and changing worker protections.

Key Facts

  • Pauline Hanson spoke at the National Press Club in Canberra about One Nation’s policies.
  • She supports making Australia a monocultural society and wants to reduce migration.
  • Hanson advocates for more coal, gas, and nuclear energy while cutting climate change and Indigenous affairs departments.
  • She opposes transgender rights and compares them to Islamic extremism.
  • Hanson wants to close public media channels like SBS and reduce the ABC’s role.
  • She suggested cutting paid parental leave and reducing workers’ rights to help small businesses.
  • Hanson criticized countries like Britain, Canada, France, and Germany for issues linked to migration.
  • During the event, Hanson responded aggressively to journalist questions and threatened to ban certain reporters.
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Seven-year-old Abdiqadir was hit in a US airstrike. Without a $750 operation, he may lose his ability to walk

Seven-year-old Abdiqadir was hit in a US airstrike. Without a $750 operation, he may lose his ability to walk

Summary

A seven-year-old boy named Abdiqadir was injured by a US airstrike in Somalia, with shrapnel still lodged in his body that may cause him to lose the ability to walk without surgery. His family cannot afford the £750 operation, and the US government has not acknowledged civilian harm or offered compensation from the attack.

Key Facts

  • Abdiqadir was hit by shrapnel during a US airstrike in Jamaame, Somalia, in November 2025.
  • The airstrike killed at least 12 civilians, including eight children.
  • Abdiqadir’s shrapnel wounds are in his back and upper thigh, requiring urgent surgery.
  • His mother fled with him and two other injured children to safer areas but struggled to find medical help.
  • The family traveled 60 miles to Jilib, then to Mogadishu, where doctors said the surgery is needed to prevent permanent disability.
  • The operation costs about £750 ($1,000), which the family cannot afford.
  • The US has not admitted civilian casualties or offered compensation related to the strike.
  • The airstrike targeted the militant group al-Shabaab, but civilians were hit despite apparent drone surveillance.
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Why Steven Spielberg Alone Is Enough To Sell 'Disclosure Day'

Why Steven Spielberg Alone Is Enough To Sell 'Disclosure Day'

Summary

Steven Spielberg is the main selling point for the new movie "Disclosure Day," even over the stars Emily Blunt and Josh O’Connor. The film marks Spielberg’s return to alien stories, a theme he has explored successfully for decades.

Key Facts

  • The movie "Disclosure Day" stars Emily Blunt and Josh O’Connor.
  • Steven Spielberg’s name alone is used to promote the film, without highlighting the actors.
  • Spielberg is known for popular alien-themed movies like "E.T." and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."
  • Alien stories in Spielberg’s films focus more on human themes than the aliens themselves.
  • Spielberg has made alien movies for over 50 years.
  • The article expects "Disclosure Day" to be a major hit this summer.
  • Christopher Nolan is mentioned as another director who can attract audiences by name.
  • Spielberg’s films often create strong cultural moments beyond their initial release.
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The Silent Casualty of War: Conflict's Hidden Environmental Toll

The Silent Casualty of War: Conflict's Hidden Environmental Toll

Summary

War causes serious damage not only to people and buildings but also to the environment. Explosions, machinery, and deliberate destruction harm soil, water, forests, and farms, with effects lasting long after fighting stops. International laws exist to protect the environment during conflicts, but they are often broken.

Key Facts

  • War damages the environment through explosions, heavy machinery, and chemical contamination from explosives.
  • Landmines and unexploded bombs pollute soil with harmful substances like heavy metals and TNT.
  • Forests, grazing lands, and farms are often destroyed either intentionally or as a side effect of fighting.
  • International laws such as the Environmental Modification Convention and Geneva Conventions aim to protect essential civilian infrastructure like wells and dams.
  • These protections are sometimes ignored; for example, the destruction of the Kakhovka dam in Ukraine flooded farmland and caused environmental damage.
  • A 2025 UN report found severe environmental harm in Gaza, including mass debris, loss of crops, and collapsed water and sanitation systems.
  • Similar environmental damage has been recorded in Ukraine, with pollution from oil fires, shelling, and damaged infrastructure.
  • Groups use satellite images and field reports to monitor ongoing environmental damage in conflict zones.
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Geena Davis Says TV Show 'The Boroughs' Is Redefining Retirement

Geena Davis Says TV Show 'The Boroughs' Is Redefining Retirement

Summary

The new Netflix show The Boroughs, created by the Duffer Brothers, focuses on retirees living in a retirement community with a mix of sci-fi and monsters. Actress Geena Davis plays a character who embodies the idea that aging does not change who you are, and the show challenges how society views retirement.

Key Facts

  • The Boroughs is a Netflix series created by the Duffer Brothers.
  • The show features retirees living in a retirement community with some supernatural elements.
  • Geena Davis stars as Renee Joyce, a character who is true to herself regardless of age.
  • The show reflects changing views on retirement as more people remain active and independent.
  • By 2030, many baby boomers will be entering retirement, influencing culture and communities.
  • Geena Davis highlights that getting older does not mean becoming a different person.
  • The show includes scenes that challenge typical ideas about aging and sexuality.
  • The Boroughs presents retirement as a new beginning, not the end of life’s adventure.
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The Register: New Bands, Dead Shows and Power Couples

The Register: New Bands, Dead Shows and Power Couples

Summary

A New York music duo called Fcukers has released a new album titled Ö and will open for Harry Styles on his tour. NBC is ending several TV shows like The Kelly Clarkson Show and Law & Order: Organized Crime to focus on programs with higher viewer interest. Other entertainment news includes new films featuring RuPaul, a new essay book by David Sedaris, and celebrities Justin Trudeau and Katy Perry attending events together.

Key Facts

  • Fcukers is a New York electro-pop duo consisting of Shanny Wise and Jackson Walker Lewis.
  • Their new album Ö is gaining attention and they will open for Harry Styles on his Together, Together tour.
  • NBC is canceling shows such as The Kelly Clarkson Show, Karamo, Law & Order: Organized Crime, Brilliant Minds, and Stumble.
  • The network says these cancellations help match viewer preferences better.
  • RuPaul stars as the president of the United States in a new film discussed by actors Ginger Minj and Jujubee.
  • David Sedaris released a new essay collection called The Land and Its People.
  • Justin Trudeau and Katy Perry appeared together publicly at the Tribeca Festival.
  • Justin Trudeau’s father, Pierre Trudeau, dated Barbra Streisand in the 1960s.
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Trump backs G7 leaders’ call for wider talks on Iranian missile programme

Trump backs G7 leaders’ call for wider talks on Iranian missile programme

Summary

President Donald Trump supports a G7 leaders’ statement that welcomes a new deal with Iran but calls for broader talks to address Iran’s ballistic missile program. The agreement, set to be signed soon, will lift some US sanctions on Iran, while the G7 also backs efforts to secure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Key Facts

  • President Trump backs a G7 statement that welcomes a deal with Iran but says more talks are needed on Iran’s missile program.
  • The deal to be signed includes lifting US sanctions on Iran’s oil exports and related industries immediately.
  • A $300 billion fund for Iran’s reconstruction will be created, but the US said it might not contribute financially.
  • The G7 supports involving more regional and international partners, including the UN nuclear agency (IAEA), in future negotiations.
  • The G7 endorses a plan led by France and the UK to protect ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran has been negotiating mainly with the US and likely will reject involving Europe or escort missions for ships.
  • The agreement postpones talks on reducing or destroying Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
  • G7 leaders call for continuing pressure on Russia over Ukraine with sanctions and arms deliveries to Kyiv.
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Vietnam police rescue more than 400 cats from animal theft crime ring

Vietnam police rescue more than 400 cats from animal theft crime ring

Summary

Police in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, rescued over 400 stolen cats from a crime ring that trades cat meat. The police caught nine people and returned more than 40 cats to their owners, but some cats died due to poor conditions.

Key Facts

  • Police found about 400 live cats and 80 dead cats during the raid.
  • Nine suspects were arrested for trapping and collecting cats across southern Vietnam over three years.
  • More than 40 cats were reunited with their owners after the rescue.
  • Several cats died because of harsh conditions while in captivity.
  • The cat meat trade in Vietnam involves stealing pets or street animals for meat consumption.
  • Eating dog and cat meat is legal in Vietnam, but vendors need permits to prove where the animals come from.
  • Some cities like Hoi An are working with animal welfare groups to reduce dog and cat meat eating.
  • After South Korea banned dog meat in 2024, Vietnam announced plans to improve laws to protect pets and owners’ rights.
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Iranian tankers exit US blockade zone before talks to end war

Iranian tankers exit US blockade zone before talks to end war

Summary

Several Iranian oil tankers have crossed the U.S. blockade in the Strait of Hormuz just before new talks begin to end the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. The talks aim to reach an agreement on Iran’s nuclear program and to lift sanctions, and an initial framework deal has already been electronically signed by leaders from both sides.

Key Facts

  • Iranian tankers Diona and Hero 2, carrying 3.8 million barrels of oil, passed the U.S. blockade line on Tuesday.
  • Another tanker, Stream, was sailing toward Iranian ports on Wednesday.
  • The tanker Sonia I, carrying 1 million barrels of crude, also crossed the U.S. blockade line in the Gulf of Oman.
  • The talks to end the war start on Friday at a resort in Switzerland and will last about 60 days.
  • The talks follow U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.
  • The talks aim to finalize Iran’s nuclear program agreement and plan to lift sanctions.
  • An initial framework agreement was electronically signed by President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi, and Iran’s lead negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
  • The U.S. plans to allow Iran to start selling oil and fuel immediately after signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU), including waivers for banking, transportation, and insurance services.
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G7 leaders to boost Ukraine air defences, tighten sanctions on Russia

G7 leaders to boost Ukraine air defences, tighten sanctions on Russia

Summary

The G7 leaders promised to help Ukraine by providing more air defense systems and allowing Ukraine to produce its own military equipment. They also agreed to increase sanctions on Russia's oil and gas sectors to pressure Russia’s war economy. The G7 supports the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe international trade and called for a ceasefire in Lebanon.

Key Facts

  • G7 includes Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, the US, and the European Union.
  • Leaders committed to increasing air defense support and long-range missile capabilities for Ukraine.
  • Ukraine may receive licenses to build its own interceptors to address shortages.
  • President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in the summit and held talks with President Donald Trump and others.
  • The G7 will tighten sanctions on Russian oil and gas following a US-Iran deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The leaders support a defensive maritime initiative by the UK and France to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • They called for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and the disarmament of Hezbollah to protect Lebanon's security.
  • France is leading efforts at the summit to address global supply issues related to critical minerals and reduce dependence on China.
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US Blockade Over? Iranians Ships Sail Out of Strait of Hormuz

US Blockade Over? Iranians Ships Sail Out of Strait of Hormuz

Summary

Iranian oil tankers recently passed through a U.S. naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz carrying millions of barrels of crude oil. This event comes just before a U.S.-Iran peace deal is scheduled to be announced, which aims to keep the Strait open and prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

Key Facts

  • Two Iranian tankers named Diona and Hero 2 passed the U.S. blockade, carrying about 3.8 million barrels of crude oil.
  • A third Iranian tanker carrying 1 million barrels also exited the blockade.
  • The blockade was set by President Donald Trump in April after peace talks in Pakistan failed.
  • The blockade aimed to stop Iran from blocking the Strait of Hormuz and disrupting shipping.
  • A peace deal between the U.S. and Iran is planned to be signed in Switzerland soon.
  • President Trump said the Strait of Hormuz will be fully open under the new agreement.
  • The deal includes Iran agreeing not to develop nuclear weapons and allowing inspections.
  • The announcement comes amid changes in oil prices and global markets linked to Middle East developments.
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Starmer slams Russian warship's ‘reckless’ warning shots in English Channel

Starmer slams Russian warship's ‘reckless’ warning shots in English Channel

Summary

A Russian warship fired warning shots near a British civilian yacht in the English Channel to avoid a possible collision. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the action reckless, while the British defense ministry said it was an isolated event unrelated to recent security operations.

Key Facts

  • The Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich fired warning shots at a UK-flagged yacht in the English Channel on Tuesday.
  • The shots were meant to prevent a collision after radio contact attempts with the yacht failed.
  • The incident happened about 20 nautical miles south of the Isle of Wight, outside UK territorial waters, in foggy conditions.
  • No one was injured, and the yacht changed course after the warning shots.
  • UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as reckless and concerning.
  • The British defense ministry said the event was isolated and not connected to British commando actions against a Russian-linked oil tanker recently.
  • In April, the Admiral Grigorovich escorted Russian oil tankers through the English Channel.
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Jeremy Clarkson shares ‘aggressive’ prostate cancer diagnosis

Jeremy Clarkson shares ‘aggressive’ prostate cancer diagnosis

Summary

Jeremy Clarkson revealed he was diagnosed last summer with an aggressive form of prostate cancer and had surgery to remove part of his prostate. He shared the news in the final episodes of his show, explaining the cancer was caught early and expressing hope to continue farming.

Key Facts

  • Clarkson was diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer last summer.
  • He had surgery to remove 10% of his prostate where the cancer was found.
  • The diagnosis came eight months after he had heart surgery for blocked arteries.
  • Clarkson shared the news in the last episodes of his show, Clarkson’s Farm.
  • He said the cancer was found early, improving his chances of recovery.
  • Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in UK men, making up 28% of new male cases.
  • There is no national UK screening program, but men over 50 or with risk factors can ask for a PSA blood test.
  • Clarkson has encouraged men to get prostate checkups to catch cancer early.
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Keir Starmer says he wants to offer Burnham ‘big role’ in government to avoid leadership contest – UK politics live

Keir Starmer says he wants to offer Burnham ‘big role’ in government to avoid leadership contest – UK politics live

Summary

Labour leader Keir Starmer said Labour should not hold a leadership contest while focusing on the upcoming mayoral byelection in Greater Manchester after Andy Burnham steps down. However, Wes Streeting, a Labour politician, stated he plans to challenge Starmer for leadership next week if Starmer does not set a timetable to leave.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, is expected to resign if he wins a byelection tomorrow.
  • A byelection for Burnham’s position will likely take place on July 30.
  • Labour’s candidate for the mayor position may be Bev Craig, leader of Manchester city council.
  • Keir Starmer urges Labour members to support Burnham and focus on the mayoral byelection.
  • Starmer does not want a leadership challenge now but said he will fight if one happens.
  • Wes Streeting plans to challenge Starmer for Labour leadership if Starmer does not announce when he will step down.
  • Streeting has made it clear the leadership contest could happen next week.
  • The situation involves Labour party politics in the UK, with pressure building on Starmer from within his party.
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Russian warship incident in Channel deeply concerning, says Starmer

Russian warship incident in Channel deeply concerning, says Starmer

Summary

A Russian warship fired warning shots near a British yacht in the English Channel, causing concern among UK officials. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the event reckless and said Britain faces daily threats from Russian proxy attacks amid ongoing conflicts discussed at the G7 summit.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened at 11:40 am near the Isle of Wight, in the English Channel.
  • A Russian warship named Admiral Grigorovich fired warning shots after a British yacht called Bright Future came close.
  • The shots were meant to prevent a collision and were not aimed directly at the yacht.
  • Russia said the yacht took a dangerous path and did not respond to attempts to contact it.
  • UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the event as reckless and said the yacht’s crew must have been frightened.
  • Starmer linked the incident to ongoing concerns about Russian aggression and proxy attacks in the UK and Europe.
  • Two men were recently convicted for planning arson attacks on Starmer’s property, connected to Russian-linked online handlers.
  • Starmer emphasized the UK’s role in imposing sanctions on Russia and supporting Ukraine during the G7 summit in France.
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