Russians, Belarussians suspected of foreign interference barred from Paris Games – POLITICO

Reform UK MP James McMurdock was jailed 18 years ago for repeatedly kicking his girlfriend, a crime he had not disclosed before the election. Court records show he was detained for 21 days in a young offenders' institution for the assault, which took place in 2006. Mr McMurdock initially downplayed the incident as a "teenage indiscretion" but later apologised for the assault, which was described as a "serious nature of the offence" requiring immediate punishment....

Last night, an explosion in Deurne damaged a home, possibly linked to the 30% rise in drug violence in Antwerp this year. Drugs coming through the port have led to gang wars and violence, with Brussels also seeing a record 74 drug-related shootings. Antwerp is facing an increase in drug-related crimes, with no signs of decline, including hidden violence like kidnappings and threats. Full Article

Police detonated a suspicious package near the US Embassy in central London in a controlled explosion, causing a loud bang. The embassy was placed on lockdown as armed officers arrived at the scene in Nine Elms and carried out the controlled explosion. Cordons remained in place as investigations into the package continued, with residents in the area unable to access their homes. Full Article

Between 2014 and 2023, Spain issued nearly 250,000 'special' residence permits to non-EU citizens, including golden visas and digital nomad visas. This data highlights Spain's success in attracting foreign talent and capital, showcasing its ability to capture a diverse range of individuals seeking to reside in the country. The issuance of these permits demonstrates Spain's commitment to welcoming and integrating non-EU citizens into its workforce and economy. Full Article

The family of 11-year-old Britain’s Got Talent contestant Evan Rothwell, who tragically died in a car crash outside his school in Chester, are calling for the 40mph speed limit on the road to be lowered to prevent similar incidents. Evan, who was airlifted to Alder Hey Hospital after the accident and passed away four days later, was known for his talent and ability to bring joy to others through his performances and humor. His family...

King Charles and Sir Tony Blair paid tribute to former deputy prime minister John Prescott, who passed away at 86 after battling Alzheimer’s. The King praised Prescott's decades of public service and remembered his unique character and sense of humor. As a pivotal figure in Blair's New Labour project, Prescott served as deputy prime minister for 10 years, mediating the relationship between Blair and Gordon Brown while representing Kingston upon Hull East for 40 years....