The Requirements for a Lasting Peace in the Middle East

A British initiative to gain access to the EU single market through a mutual recognition agreement on product standards has been dismissed by Brussels ahead of a pivotal summit in London. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's requests, including a deal on illegal migration and improved access for British artists, faced skepticism from EU diplomats, particularly regarding the rejection of mutual recognition without accepting EU rules. While discussions continue, both parties aim to finalize a broader...

The EU is willing to make significant concessions in negotiations that could allow British and European 18- to 30-year-olds to travel and work freely in the UK, signaling a potential reset in relations with Brussels. This proposed post-Brexit scheme is a crucial demand from Europe in discussions aimed at reaching an agreement with the UK, focusing on defense, energy, and migration. The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation and mobility between the UK and...

Rachel Reeves emphasizes the importance of Britain's trading relationship with Europe over that with the US, advocating for a reset in EU relations, including a youth travel scheme and alignment with EU rules to reduce trade barriers. As she prepares for discussions in Washington, Downing Street clarifies that both the EU and US are vital trading partners, with the EU accounting for 41.2% of British exports in 2023. The upcoming May 19 summit aims to...

President Trump's upcoming visit to the Vatican for Pope Francis's funeral occurs during a politically tense period, marked by his "America first" agenda that has strained US alliances and trade relationships. This trip, his first international engagement of his second term, raises concerns about potential confrontations with global leaders amidst the solemnity of the papal rites. With ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, along with contentious immigration policies, the funeral could serve as a significant...

The US Department of Justice (DoJ) is considering the elimination of corporate monitorships, which oversee compliance after criminal cases, as part of a shift in corporate enforcement policies. This review follows high-profile cases like Raytheon's $950 million settlement and Glencore's early termination of its monitorship, reflecting a broader trend of loosening oversight under the Trump administration. Advocates warn that removing monitors could lead to a lack of accountability for companies with histories of serious misconduct,...

The UK is expected to pay a fee to access a €150bn EU weapons fund as part of a broader defence and security pact set to be signed at a May 19 summit. This agreement necessitates a detailed bilateral deal for UK companies like BAE Systems to secure contracts under the Security Action For Europe (Safe) fund, which aims to bolster EU defence spending in light of security concerns. Negotiations are ongoing, with an emphasis...