Independent readers want UK to prioritise EU relations – not US relationship

Donald Trump criticized European leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer, for their talks over Ukraine, launching a furious attack on Volodymyr Zelensky for saying a peace deal is far away. Despite UK MPs urging to shun Trump, Sir Keir emphasized America's importance in peace efforts. Trump threatened to withdraw military aid to Ukraine and questioned the strength of European leaders in dealing with Russia, deepening the diplomatic crisis after Zelensky was bullied in the White House....

Our world is facing turbulence and unpredictability, with conflict and divided societies on the rise, according to Türk at the Human Rights Council. He highlighted the use of civilians as weapons of war, the devastating impact on non-combatants, and the urgent need for global action to protect human rights and international norms. Türk also addressed specific crises in Sudan, Ukraine, Gaza, and the West Bank, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogues, respect for human rights,...

Nigel Farage has been accused of acting as “Donald Trump’s spokesman in Britain” for defending Trump's behavior towards Volodymyr Zelensky. Farage blamed Zelensky for the White House meeting going poorly and accused him of disrespecting Trump. Critics, including Keir Starmer and Ed Davey, condemned Farage for prioritizing Trump and Musk's interests over British interests and for parroting White House talking points. Full Article

Christina Haynes, the ex-girlfriend of multimillionaire Mark Austin, lost her court battle over the £18m family house after a judge ruled that the promise made during a lunch on a mountain was merely an "elaborate performance" to appease her. Despite being in a relationship for 18 years and having two children together, they never married, leading to her claim for half the house value being denied by the court. Mr. Austin, 71, agreed to pay...

European Commissioner Hadja Lahbib emphasized the need for increased cooperation in disaster management, preparedness, and climate change with Bangladesh, highlighting the EU's willingness to exchange good practices. The EU plans to provide 68 million euros for the Rohingya response in Bangladesh and Myanmar, acknowledging the need for peace to address the humanitarian crisis. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus expressed support for the Rohingya crisis and renewable energy initiatives during the meeting with the Commissioner. Full...

"Cursi" is a Spanish adjective used to describe something or someone as kitsch, corny, or cheesy, with a negative connotation. Originating in the early 19th century, the word may come from the exaggerated fashion style of the Sicur sisters in Cádiz or from the calligraphy style of cursive. Similar to words like hortera or cutre, cursi denotes something mawkishly tacky, such as a room fully decorated in pink or over-the-top romantic gestures, reflecting pretentiousness or...