Ukraine-Russia latest: Putin arrives to red carpet in China for summit
Vladimir Putin has arrived in the northern Chinese port city of Tianjin, Chinese and Russian state media reported, for a regional security summit that China hopes can counter Western influence in global affairs.
For the rare four-day visit to Russia‘s neighbour and largest trading partner, Putin arrived to a red carpet welcome, received on the tarmac by top-ranking city officials, a livestream of the event by Russia’s TASS showed.
President Xi Jinping will host about 20 world leaders in Tianjin, also including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the two-day summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the largest gathering since the group was established in 2001 among six Eurasian nations.
It comes as Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Kyiv was planning “deep strikes”, a reference to using long-range missiles either to strike Russia or occupied Ukraine.
“We will continue our active operations in exactly the way needed for Ukraine’s defence. The forces and resources are prepared. New deep strikes have also been planned,” Zelensky said on X after meeting Ukraine’s top general, Oleksandr Syrskyi, without giving further details of the plans.
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German leader says peace cannot come at Ukraine’s expense
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Sunday that the war in Ukraine could still last for a long time and ending it quickly at the country’s expense was not an option.
In an interview with German public broadcaster ZDF, Merz, when asked whether a ceasefire might be possible this year, said he hasn’t lost hope but “harbors no illusions,” and emphasized that supporting the country to defend itself against Russia was an “absolute priority.”
“We are trying to end it as quickly as possible. But certainly not at the price of Ukraine’s capitulation. You could end the war tomorrow if Ukraine surrendered and lost its independence,” Merz said.
Read the full article here:
German leader says peace cannot come at Ukraine’s expense
Watch: Ukraine hit by over 500 drones, 45 missiles in overnight Russian attack, Zelensky says
Zelensky says new ‘deep strikes’ being prepared against Russia
Russian drone attacks on power facilities in northern and southern Ukraine overnight left nearly 60,000 customers without electricity, with President Volodymyr Zelensky vowing to retaliate by ordering more strikes deep inside Russia.
Three and a half years into the war, Russia and Ukraine have both intensified airstrikes in recent weeks. Russia has targeted Ukraine’s energy and transport systems, while Ukraine has been attacking Russian oil refineries and pipelines.
“We will continue our active operations in exactly the way needed for Ukraine’s defence. The forces and resources are prepared. New deep strikes have also been planned,” Zelenskiy said on X after meeting Ukraine’s top general, Oleksandr Syrsky, without giving further details of the plans.
Ukraine’s largest private energy company, DTEK, said Russian drones had attacked four energy facilities in the Odesa region during the night, and local authorities reported that 29,000 people were left without electricity early on Sunday.
Von der Leyen says Europe is drawing up ‘precise’ plans to send troops to Ukraine, FT reports
Europe is drawing up “pretty precise plans” for a multinational troop deployment to Ukraine as part of post-conflict security guarantees that will have the backing of U.S. capabilities, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told the Financial Times in an interview published Sunday.
President Trump reassured us that there will be (an) American presence as part of the backstop, von der Leyen told the FT.
The deployment is set to include potentially tens of thousands of European-led troops, backed by assistance from the U.S., including control and command systems and intelligence and surveillance assets, the report said, adding that this arrangement was agreed at a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and senior European leaders last month.
European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Sir Keir Starmer, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and von der Leyen are expected to gather in Paris on Thursday, at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, to continue the high-level discussions on Ukraine, the FT reported, citing three diplomats briefed on the plans.
Recap: Putin, Xi discussed recent Russia-U.S. contacts, Kremlin says
Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping discussed on Sunday recent contacts between Russia and the United States, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov told Russian media without elaborating.
Putin held talks in Alaska with U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this month.
Xi and Putin met on the sidelines of a summit of the Shanghai Coooperation Organisation in the northern Chinese port city of Tianjin.
Covert drone strikes, airport sabotage and nuclear plant fires: All of Ukraine’s boldest attacks on Russia
All Ukraine’s bold attacks on Russia after nuclear plant hit in Kursk
Watch: China’s Xi Jinping rolls out ‘red carpet’ for Russia’s Vladimir Putin
UK secures £10bn deal to supply Norway with warships in face of growing Russian threat
UK secures £10bn deal to supply Norway with warships
Germany’s Merz expects Ukraine war to last a long time
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Sunday he was braced for the Ukraine war to last a long time given that wars usually end in military defeat or economic exhaustion, scenarios he does not see on the horizon for either Kyiv or Moscow.
Merz’s comments come a day before the expiry of a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump for a meeting between the presidents of Russia and Ukraine with a view to paving the way for peace talks. Trump has threatened “consequences” if the meeting does not take place.
Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have said the fault lies with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and have urged the U.S. to impose tougher sanctions on Moscow.
“I am preparing myself inwardly for this war to last a long time,” Merz said in an interview with public broadcaster ZDF.
Efforts are being made through intensive diplomatic initiatives to end the war as quickly as possible, but this cannot be “at the price of Ukraine’s capitulation” because Russia would then simply target another country, he said.
“And then the day after tomorrow it will be us,” Merz added. “That is not an option.”
He refused to be drawn in the interview on the issue of a possible deployment of German troops to Ukraine as part of security guarantees in the event of a peace deal.
Britain and France are spearheading a proposal for a “reassurance force” to deter potential future Russian aggression within that context, but the prospect of Germany joining them has sparked unease in a country scarred by its Nazi past.
The Kremlin said on Sunday that European powers were hindering Trump’s peace efforts, and that Russia would continue its operation in Ukraine until Moscow saw real signs that Kyiv was ready for peace.
Rudy Giuliani seriously injured in car accident: spokesperson
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, 81, was injured in a New Hampshire car accident, his spokesperson said.
Giuliani’s car was hit from behind on Saturday night, according to Michael Ragusa, his spokesperson and head of security. The 81-year-old was taken to a nearby trauma center, where physicians discovered he had a “fractured thoracic vertebrae,” and multiple cuts and bruises, Ragusa said. He was also injured on his left arm and lower leg.
Shortly before the crash, the spokesperson said Giuliani had been helping a woman who was injured in a domestic violence incident.
“Prior to the incident, he was flagged down by a woman who was the victim of a domestic violence incident. Mayor Giuliani immediately rendered assistance and contacted 911,” Ragusa said. “He remained on scene until responding officers arrived to ensure her safety.”
“Following this, while traveling on the highway, Mayor Giuliani’s vehicle was struck from behind at high speed,” he added. “He was transported to a nearby trauma center, where he was diagnosed with a fractured thoracic vertebrae, multiple lacerations and contusions, as well as injuries to his left arm and lower leg.”
The Independent has contacted the New Hampshire Highway Patrol for more information.
Giuliani’s “business partner and medical provider” were contacted and have since arrived at the hospital to oversee his care, according to Ragusa. The ex-mayor is now “in good spirits and recovering tremendously,” Ragusa added in a post on X.
Giuliani’s son Andrew, who currently leads the White House’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Task Force, urged people to keep his father in their prayers, the New York Post reports. Giuliani’s fellow Republicans have also wished him well on social media.
Far-right activist Laura Loomer posted: “Pray for his recovery.” Conservative podcaster Benny Johnson shared a similar message on X, writing, “Please pray for America’s Mayor.”
He is expected to stay at a Manchester-area hospital for a few more days to undergo tests, and then wear a brace for the broken vertebrae, according to the Post.
Giuliani served as New York City mayor from 1994 through 2001. He later served as President Donald Trump’s lawyer during his first term in the White House, and has peddled false claims that the 2020 presidential election was stolen.
In January, Giuliani settled with two Georgia election workers who sued him in 2023 for defamation after he falsely claimed the pair had manipulated 2020 election results. A jury awarded the pair $148 million in damages.
Harry Potter director says reunion ‘won’t happen’ due to Rowling
Harry Potter director Chris Columbus has said there cannot be a reunion due to JK Rowling’s controversial trans views.
Columbus, who made the first two films, previously suggested he’d like to adapt the play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child for the big screen, but said “it’s never going to happen” with the original child stars.
“It’s gotten so complicated with all the political stuff,” Columbus said, referencing the fact Potter star Daniel Radcliffe and Hermione actor Emma Watson spoke out against Rowling’s stance on trans rights.
“Everyone in the cast has their own opinion, which is different from her opinion, which makes it impossible,” the Thursday Murder Club director toldThe Times.
Columbus said he hasn’t spoken to Rowling in a decade or so, adding: “I have no idea what’s going on with her.”
But he keeps very close contact with Radcliffe and still has “a great relationship with all the kids in the cast”.
In the last five years, Rowling has repeatedly come under fire for various comments about gender ideology, with many, including stars of the Potter film adaptations, accusing her of transphobia.
The author has become ostracised from the former child actors due to her views – and she previously said she would not forgive the actors for criticising her opinions, telling them to “save their apologies”.
In 2020, Radcliffe wrote an essay for The Trevor Project as a way of showing support for the trans community, and apologised “for the pain” Rowling’s comments have caused the Harry Potter fandom.
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Meanwhile, Watson wrote: “I want my trans followers to know that I and so many other people around the world see you, respect you and love you for who you are,” and appeared to make a dig at Rowling at the Baftas in 2022.
Columbus, whose film credits include Home Alone and Mrs Doubtfire, previously told Variety:“ I like to sometimes separate the artist from the art, I think that’s important to do. It’s unfortunate, what’s happened. I certainly don’t agree with what she’s talking about. But it’s just sad, it’s very sad.”
He also questioned the necessity for a new HBO series based on Rowling’s book franchise, calling it “more of the same”.
Columbus’s new film, an adaptation of Richard Osman’s best-selling mystery series The Thursday Murder Club, is on Netflix now. It stars Pierce Brosnan, Helen Mirren, Ben Kingsley and Celia Imrie.
Starmer calls out Reform ‘scaremongering’ as MPs return to Westminster
Sir Keir Starmer has criticised “scaremongering” from Reform and the Tories as he promises his government will make people “feel better off and more secure” as MPs return to Westminster.
The prime minister has said he is “rolling up my sleeves to deliver change” as he seeks to fight back after a summer which has seen protests over the use of hotels to host asylum seekers and a surge in small boat crossings, causing Labour’s poll ratings to tumble.
Sir Keir used a column in The Mirror to turn his fire on Reform and the Tories while promising he will deliver “national renewal”.
“While Reform and the Tories talk down the country at every turn, we’re doing the work to make people’s lives better,” he said. “I’m not interested in scaremongering from the sidelines. I’m rolling up my sleeves to deliver change that makes a difference to you and your family.”
The prime minister is expected to carry out a ministerial reshuffle in the coming weeks, although this may not extend as far as the cabinet.
He will hope that the changes, along with a shake-up of Downing Street officials, can revive the party’s flagging poll ratings, which have seen Reform UK open up a healthy lead over Labour.
Sir Keir said working people had been left “paying the price” for Conservative failures on homes, transport, energy, infrastructure and skills training.
But he insisted: “We’re improving transport infrastructure and building new homes across the country. We’re investing in the future, with new technology, skills training and good, well-paid jobs.
“Renewing Britain will take the skills and talents of everyone in the country, so we are determined to unlock potential and talent whatever someone’s background or upbringing.
“With this government, our drive to deliver national renewal will make every person feel better off and more secure.”
Labour faces challenges as Rachel Reeves will have to make tough choices in her autumn Budget and the Labour conference in late September is looking potentially difficult, while Nigel Farage’s Reform UK rises in popularity.
Reform UK has consistently led in opinion polls since the spring, with the latest BMG poll for The i putting them on 35 per cent, 15 points ahead of Labour.
The government also faces new pressure to scrap the two-child benefit cap by senior faith leaders, including the Church of England’s current senior bishop.
Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell called the failure to tackle child poverty “deeply shaming for us as a nation” and said the two-child limit was “one of the contributing factors”.
Education secretary Bridget Phillipson said on Sky News on Sunday: “We’re looking at every way that we can lift more children out of poverty. That does extend to social security measures alongside that.
“It’s not the only way we can lift children out of poverty, and of course, it does come with a big price tag, but we know that not acting also comes with serious consequences and impact too.”
Met Office gives verdict on whether UK is set for another heatwave
It’s been what is expected to be the hottest summer ever, with the UK seeing record-breaking temperatures, long spells of sunshine and four official heatwaves.
But those hoping for a final hurrah before autumn hits will be disappointed, with experts now predicting that another heatwave is not on the cards.
Reports of a so-called Indian Summer – a period of unseasonably warm and calm weather that occurs in the autumn – had surfaced, with speculation that the mercury could hit 30C in the UK early in September.
But Met Office forecasters said they are expecting moderate conditions, with temperatures more likely to be in the low-twenties – which will still feel warm, but is normal for this time of year.
Met Office meteorologist Craig Snell said the current forecast suggests “nothing like what we have seen during the summer months”.
He told The Independent: “The week after next is a little bit too early to nail down exactly what will go on. Our general trend though, as we go through to the second week of September, is that, on the whole, for the UK, it is probably going to remain on the changeable, unsettled side of the weather.
“It looks like there will be some drier and brighter spells at times… It will be early September, so in any sunnier moments, it will still feel fairly warm out there.”
He said that, as the UK heads into the second week of September, it is likely to see the best of the brighter and drier weather, but there are no indications that temperatures will reach any highs that point towards a heatwave.
“I can’t say it’s not going to completely not happen, but looking at the chances of things happening, I’d say there’s just as much chance of us being as we are now,” he said.
The Met Office said that, between September 4 and 13, it expects “changeable and unsettled weather conditions” across the UK.
“This will mean showers or longer spells of rain will affect much of the UK at times,” it said. “Some heavy rain or showers are expected in places, most often in the west. Thunderstorms and hail are also possible, as are some spells of strong winds if any deep areas of low pressure form in the vicinity of the UK.
“Some short-lived spells of drier and more settled weather are also possible at times, especially later in the period when they may last a little longer. Temperatures will likely be close to average or slightly below overall, but may rise above at times in any drier, sunnier spells.”
The UK has experienced an unprecedented summer, on track for the hottest summer ever recorded. It has seen four consecutive heatwaves this summer, which the Met Office says makes it “almost certainly” the warmest yet.
Over the bank holiday weekend, temperatures hit 29.1C in the village of Hawarden in Flintshire and 24.5C in Magilligan, Londonderry. The previous record for Wales was 26.5C dating back to 1991, and 23.8C for Northern Ireland.
But as the UK faced the aftermath of Hurricane Erin last week, Britons saw an end to the dry spell that brought record-breaking temperatures to the UK all summer.
The double effects of Tropical Storm Fernand and Hurricane Erin meant it was an “unseasonable” rainy weekend for parts of the UK, with the Met Office issuing a yellow weather warning for some areas.
Here is the weather forecast in the UK for the coming days, according to the Met Office.
Today
Rain soon clearing Shetland, leaving a day of sunshine and showers across the UK. Showers most frequent in the west, heavy at times with hail, thunder and gusty winds possible. A windy day generally, with gales along exposed western coasts.
Tonight
Showers affecting western and southern coastal areas, merging into longer spells of rain at times. Sheltered areas of eastern Wales, central and eastern England remaining largely dry with clear spells.
Monday
Another day of sunny spells and scattered showers. Showers starting in the west and spreading eastwards during the day, again possibly heavy with hail and thunder. Still blustery for many.
Outlook for Tuesday to Thursday
Remaining unsettled throughout this period with further showers and longer periods of rain moving across the UK, chiefly in the south. Some brief drier interludes are possible at times.
Make the most of London this summer with this stadium experience
Whether you’re experiencing London for the first time or you’re a family with kids keen to create unforgettable memories during the holidays, a visit to this world-famous stadium in North London is a must.
After 90 years at their beloved Highbury stadium, Arsenal’s ambitions outgrew their original home and in 2006, the club opened the Emirates. With a seating capacity of over 60,000, the Emirates stadium is one of the largest in England. The sheer scale of this field of dreams must be seen to believed — and thanks to its easy-to-reach location, you can hop on a bus or train and get there in no time.
Once there, Arsenal’s award-winning tours open the doors to parts of the stadium that are usually off-limits to the public. For sightseers who prefer to go at their own pace and for those with little ones who tire easily, the club’s self-guided audio-visual tour is a great option.
What to expect on an audio-visual tour
Fans and families can take their time to soak in the atmosphere and stroll in the footsteps of footballing legends, imagining the roar of the crowd as you step into the players’ tunnel. Afterwards, feel the tension rise in the dugout and experience the best seats in the house in the directors’ box.
It’s a rare opportunity to glimpse the inner workings of a prestigious football club and explore normally restricted areas that also include the home and away dressing rooms, the media lounge and the exclusive members-only Diamond Club.
Available in seven languages on a state-of-the-art handheld device, the tour is narrated by Arsenal presenter David Frimpong, otherwise known as ‘Frimmy’, as well as featuring commentary from Arsenal legends Alex Scott and David Seaman.
As well as audio, the tour recreates the electric atmosphere of matchday using 360-degree augmented footage and includes brand new interactive elements. You can also take souvenir photos with iconic Arsenal trophies, including that of the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
What other tours are available?
The Arsenal Legend Stadium Tour is a more bespoke alternative to the self-guided tour, where visitors can explore the stadium for 90 minutes alongside an Arsenal hero. Tour guides include Nigel Winterburn and Perry Groves, as well as former women’s captain Faye White MBE.
During the tour, the Arsenal legend will share memories, anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories from their time on the pitch, offering a unique insider’s perspective on life at the club. Expect plenty of humour, fascinating insights and a chance to hear back-room gossip straight from the legends themselves. There’s also a chance for a Q&A and photo opportunity with your Arsenal legend of choice.
What makes this tour special?
Included with every tour ticket is entry into Arsenal’s interactive museum situated right next door to the stadium. Chart the club’s evolution from humble origins in Woolwich in 1886 to its modern powerhouse status with a global following of over 100 million fans.
The museum features two impressive video theatres, showing highlights from the club’s origins to the present day as well as twenty major displays of Arsenal’s proud history. Feast your eyes on silverware from the club’s most successful eras, Michael Thomas’s boots from Anfield 1989 and Jens Lehmann’s goalkeeper gloves worn for every league match of the unbeaten Invincibles season in 2003/4.
For lifelong Gooners, it’s a trip down memory lane. For families and tourists, it’s an eye-opening lesson in why football matters so much to the UK and is the perfect outing to experience London at its most authentic.
This content is brought to you by Living360, a digital lifestyle destination keeping you up to date with health and fitness, food and drink, homes and gardens, beauty, travel, finance trends and more.
Transfers: Martinez to Man Utd, Isak news, Jackson refuses Chelsea
The end of the transfer window is almost here with just a couple of days left for deals to be done – and the Alexander Isak saga still rumbling.
The wantaway Newcastle forward has spent much of the summer angling for a move to Liverpool to no avail, but could there be a late twist? Newcastle have secured one striker signing in Nick Woltemade and remain interested in Yoane Wissa, who has urged Brentford to “keep their word” and allow a move away before Monday’s deadline. A double deal that may yet mean they are able to be persuaded to part with Isak if Liverpool come in with a fresh bid that now seems likely. The Reds have also tabled a £35m bid for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi as their summer spending spree continues.
A potentially pivotal summer at Arsenal may not be finished just yet – Piero Hincapie may bolster Mikel Arteta’s defensive resources before the window closes and the defender has reportedly travelled to London ahead of his proposed move from Bayer Leverkusen.
Elsewhere, Chelsea have called off Nicolas Jackson’s loan move to Bayern Munich after an injury to Liam Delap – but the striker is refusing to return to Chelsea and remains in Germany looking to push through a move, which may lead the Blues to turn to alternatives and approach Sporting for their 20-year-old striker Conrad Harder. Manchester United are likely to hold on to Kobbie Mainoo with the midfielder told to fight for his place.
Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below
Wissa speaks out over transfer stasis
Brentford forward Yoane Wissa said on Sunday that the Premier League club has failed to fulfil its commitment to allow him to leave this summer, amid reported interest from Newcastle United, with the transfer window closing on Monday.
The 28-year-old DR Congo international, who bagged 20 goals across all competitions for Brentford last campaign, has not featured for the London club this season, amid uncertainty over his future.
His Brentford contract expires in June next year.
“I have stayed silent for much of the summer but with just hours remaining of the transfer window I feel compelled to make it clear that I want to leave Brentford,” Wissa posted on social media. “I believe the club are unduly standing in my way despite a series of fair offers throughout the summer.
“Earlier this summer, I held open discussions with the club’s senior management, including key directors and the new head coach. I made clear my intention to explore a new challenge.
“During these conversations, it was confirmed to me and my representatives that the club would not stand in my way if a reasonable offer was received. This was also put in writing.
“Based on this understanding, I sought to find a new club, keeping Brentford informed with full transparency at every step.”
Eddie Howe is convinced club-record £65m signing Nick Woltemade is the answer to Newcastle’s problems in front of goal.
The 23-year-old Germany striker’s move from Stuttgart was completed on Saturday, but not in time for him to make his debut in Newcastle’s 0-0 Premier League stalemate at Leeds.
With Alexander Isak’s future still to be resolved, Howe said 6ft 6in Woltemade has all the attributes his side has lacked in the Swede’s absence so far this season.
Howe said: “Everything that we were probably lacking today, I think he can bring. There will be a period where he has to adapt. It’s always very difficult to come straight into the league.
“I’ve got really high hopes for him. I just don’t want to add to the pressure that he’s going to be under. But I think he can be a difference-maker.”
Enciso back at Brighton after move collapses
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler says Julio Enciso has returned to the club to continue his rehabilitation.
Enciso was expected to join French club Strasbourg for around £20m, with a deal close to being finalised last week.
Asked to clear up Enciso’s situation, Hurzeler said: “It is not a big injury, so he is back in rehab training.
“It is very important that the players now are our plans for the future.
“We have an open conversation with Julio and then we will see what happens in the next days.”
Crystal Palace keen on Reiss Nelson
Sky Sports News reports that Crystal Palace are in talks with Arsenal over forward Reiss Nelson, who spent last season on loan at Fulham and has not worked his way back into Mikel Arteta’s side.
He did not feature in the Gunners’ squad for either of their opening two games of this season and is into the last two years of his contract.
Malacia expected to depart Old Trafford
Tyrell Malacia could be on his way out of Manchester United.
The 25-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan with PSV Eindhoven, has been linked with moves to Lille, Besiktas and Porto in this window.
However, Dutch publication Voetbal International, says Elche are closing in on a loan move for Malacia instead.
Chelsea submit bid for Fermin Lopez
Chelsea are having a busy final weekend of the transfer window, having submitted a bid worth nearly £37m for Barcelona star Fermin Lopez, Sky Sports News reports.
Attacking reinforcements, bizarrely, are still needed at Stamford Bridge after Liam Delap’s injury meant Nicolas Jackson was recalled from a planned loan move.
Lookman looking to Munich for Atalanta escape
Latest from the Ademola Lookman transfer saga… Will he get his move away?
Bissmouma expected to leave Tottenham
Tottenham are working on two deals as the transfer window deadline looms closer.
18-year-old defender Luka Vuskovic is expected to complete a loan move to Hamburg while Spurs are also in talks with Galatasaray over Yves Bissouma.
The 28-year-old is out of contract at Spurs next summer and is not in Thomas Frank’s plans.
Discussions are being held with Galatasaray over a loan with an obligation to buy.
Glasner confident Palace will add to squad
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is confident the club will bring in new players before tomorrow’s deadline.
He said: “We wanted to bring the players in at the beginning of pre-season, to be in a good position of negotiating and to integrate the players.
“Now having to integrate four or five players delays being successful. This is the missed opportunities to bring in the players early enough.
“Usually when you are busy at the end, you missed something at the beginning. Everywhere is the same.
“I’m still confident we’ll get the right players in.”
United closing in on goalkeeper Martinez
Man United’s deal for Emiliano Martinez looks to be close now, but it depends on Villa recruiting a replacement. Antwerp’s Senne Lammens is their preferred target…
Starmer secures £10bn deal to supply Norway with warships
Keir Starmer has landed a major diplomatic coup after ensuring the UK secured a £10billion deal to build at least five warships for Norway’s navy amid an increasing threat from Russia.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that the Type 26 frigates will be constructed at the BAE Systems yard in the Govan area of Glasgow in what has been described as an “important and historic moment for European security”.
The UK had been competing with Emmanuel Macron and France to land the deal and the intervention of the prime minister on a trip to the Joint Expedition Force summit in May in Oslo, when The Independent got exclusive access, appears to have been crucial in landing the deal.
The deal will allow a fleet of at least 13 anti-submarine ships from the UK and Norway – at least five of which will be Norwegian – to operate jointly in northern Europe as they look to deal with increased Russian activity.
Patrolling the northern passage is now seen as a crucial part of European defence after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and increasing attempts by Vladimir Putin’s navy to encroach on European and British waters with spy vessels and nuclear submarines.
The Scottish yard which will receive the contract is currently building eight frigates for the Royal Navy.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer learned of the decision during a call with his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Store on Saturday night.
A Downing Street spokeswoman said the decision marks an “important and historic moment for European security”.
The contract is expected to support 2,000 job at BAE in the coming years and a further 2,000 in the supply chain into the latter part of the next decade, with 103 Scottish businesses hoped to benefit.
Sir Keir said: “This £10 billion deal is what our Plan for Change is about – creating jobs, driving growth and protecting national security for working people.
“This government has forged new partnerships across the world to deliver for people at home and the export of our world leading Type 26 frigates to Norway will do exactly that, supporting well-paid jobs up and down the United Kingdom, from apprentices to engineers.
“This success is testament to the thousands of people across the country who are not just delivering this next generation capabilities for our armed forces, but also national security for the UK, our Norwegian partners and Nato for years to come.”
Defence Secretary John Healey said the deal “deepens our strategic partnership” with Norway.
“With Norway, we will train, operate, deter, and – if necessary – fight together,” he said.
“Our navies will work as one, leading the way in Nato, with this deal putting more world-class warships in the North Atlantic to hunt Russian submarines, protect our critical infrastructure, and keep both our nations secure.”
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said the decision shows the “tremendous success” of Scotland’s shipbuilding industry and is an example of another “defence dividend” for the country.