Met Office issues woolly jumpers alert as Arctic blast brings plummeting temperatures

The government has announced that Grenfell Tower, the site of a tragic blaze in June 2017 that claimed 72 lives, will be demolished over a two-year period and transformed into a memorial. Housing secretary Angela Rayner faced backlash from Grenfell United, representing bereaved families and survivors, who felt their voices were not considered in the decision-making process. Rayner was unable to provide a clear rationale for the demolition, causing shock and disappointment among those affected...

Armenia's "Crossroads of Peace" initiative aims to revitalize transport links, connecting the Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean and the Gulf to Georgia's Black Sea ports, fostering regional cooperation, trade, and stability. The project is built on principles of sovereignty, security, shared access, and equality, with a vision of peace and prosperity for the South Caucasus. Armenia invites global support for this transformative project that could reshape the geopolitical landscape and promote a future of connectivity,...

UK house prices reached a new record average high of £299,138 in January, with a 0.7 per cent month-on-month increase. Annual growth slowed to three per cent, the slowest rate since July 2024, following a market-wide decrease in December. Halifax's head of mortgages, Amanda Bryden, noted the recovery as a positive sign, despite affordability challenges, with strong demand for new mortgages and growth in lending. Full Article

Merz expressed disapproval of interference in Germany's elections by individuals in Trump's circle, amidst accusations of election interference and extremism normalization. Additionally, he emphasized Germany's resistance to potential tariffs on European goods by the U.S., stating Europe would retaliate if necessary. Concerns were also raised regarding U.S. support for Ukraine, with Merz aiming to convince the U.S. government of the importance of backing Ukraine, highlighting the need for an open discussion with Trump. Full Article

Yellow cold health alerts have been issued across the UK as a cold snap approaches, with warnings in place for the northeast, southwest Yorkshire, and the southeast until Tuesday. The colder weather may increase healthcare service use by vulnerable individuals, with temperatures dropping to -7C in some areas. Despite predictions of rain, sleet, and some snow, the Met Office does not anticipate significant disruptions, with drier conditions expected further west and north. Full Article

Your support helps The Independent to report on critical issues like reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech, providing unbiased coverage. Kosovo goes to the polls in a parliamentary election to test Prime Minister Albin Kurti's popularity, with Vetevendosje! expected to lead but coalition government likely. The EU and US are urging Kosovo to engage in normalization talks with Serbia to ease tensions and promote integration paths. Full Article