Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in the UK on Saturday (1 March) ahead of a key European defence summit set to take place on Sunday. Footage showed his convoy leaving the runway at London Stansted Airport.
Sir Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet in Downing Street on Saturday afternoon.
The upcoming summit aims to secure a "lasting and enforced" peace in Ukraine.
Before the summit, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled to hold talks at Downing Street with Zelenskyy and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-trump-meet-us-president-donald-trump-wanted-a-thank-you-zelensky-gave-him-four-in-first-remarks-after-fiery-debate-8766881">'Thanks and thanks': Trump wanted a &lsquo;thank you,&rsquo; Zelensky gives him four in first remarks after fiery debate</a>
A Downing Street spokesperson reaffirmed the UK&rsquo;s commitment to supporting Ukraine, saying on Friday, &ldquo;The UK has made it clear that we&rsquo;ll play our full part in ensuring a just and lasting peace deal on Ukraine&rsquo;s terms, backed up by strong security guarantees.&rdquo;
The spokesperson added, "Just this week we demonstrated our commitment to that, confirming we&rsquo;ll increase defence spending to 2.5% by 2027. But that peace deal has to come first and as you know the prime minister will meet President Zelensky before convening European leaders in London on Sunday to continue those discussions."
"The deal has to come first, but our teams are going to be talking about how we make sure that deal sticks and is lasting and enforced," They further said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Before the meeting, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled to hold talks at Downing Street with Zelenskyy and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Sunday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in the UK on Saturday (1 March) ahead of a key European defence summit set to take place on Sunday. Footage showed his convoy leaving the runway at London Stansted Airport. Sir Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet in Downing Street on Saturday afternoon. The upcoming summit aims to secure a "lasting and enforced" peace in Ukraine. Before the summit, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled to hold talks at Downing Street with Zelenskyy and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday. Also read: 'Thanks and thanks': Trump wanted a ‘thank you,’ Zelensky gives him four in first remarks after fiery debate A Downing Street spokesperson reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, saying on Friday, “The UK has made it clear that we’ll play our full part in ensuring a just and lasting peace deal on Ukraine’s terms, backed up by strong security guarantees.” The spokesperson added, "Just this week we demonstrated our commitment to that, confirming we’ll increase defence spending to 2.5% by 2027. But that peace deal has to come first and as you know the prime minister will meet President Zelensky before convening European leaders in London on Sunday to continue those discussions." "The deal has to come first, but our teams are going to be talking about how we make sure that deal sticks and is lasting and enforced," They further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's Zelensky arrives in UK after dismal meeting with Trump at White House

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 27) insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin would honour a peace deal for Ukraine, suggesting the US having a multibillion dollar stake in Kyiv's rare earths sector would serve as a deterrent against future Russian aggression.
During a high-profile meeting at the White House with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the US president expressed confidence that Putin would not violate any agreement, which could involve restoring as much as possible the Ukrainian territory seized during the three-year conflict.
However, while Trump spoke optimistically about peace prospects, he stopped short of committing to deploying US troops to support a European-led peacekeeping force, though he assured that Washington would "always" support Britain's military if necessary.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keir-starmers-white-house-visit-us-president-donald-trump-greets-uk-pm-says-we-can-we-will-on-ukraine-peace-8763175">Keir Starmer&rsquo;s White House visit: Trump greets UK PM, says &lsquo;We can, we will&rsquo; on Ukraine peace</a>
<h2>Starmer pushes Trump for security assurances for Ukraine</h2>
The meeting took place amid heightened European security concerns, with Trump's administration forging closer ties with Russia, disrupting the long-standing transatlantic consensus on Ukraine.&nbsp;
Just 24 hours ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the US, Starmer pressed Trump on security assurances for Kyiv.
Following their discussions, Starmer stated: "We've discussed a plan today to reach a peace that is tough and fair. That Ukraine will help shape. That's backed by strength to stop Putin coming back for more".
He also stated that the UK was ready to "put boots on the ground and planes in the air to support a deal."
"Working together with our allies, because that is the only way that peace will last," he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-calls-trumps-suggestion-to-cut-defence-budget-in-half-a-good-proposal-8754915">Putin calls Trump's suggestion to cut defence budget in half a 'good proposal'</a>
<h2>Trump on Putin</h2>
Trump downplayed concerns about future Russian aggression, maintaining that securing an agreement was the hard part while sustaining peace would be "the easy part." Rather than offering firm military commitments, he argued that US investments in Ukraine's rare earths sector would act as a sufficient deterrent.
"We'll be working there. We'll have a lot of people working and so, in that sense, it's very good. It's a backstop, you could say," Trump said. "I don't think anybody's going to play around if we're there with a lot of workers and having to do with rare earths and other things which we need for our country."
On the prospect of Russia returning occupied territory, Trump remained vague: "We will certainly try and get as much as we can back."
Disagreeing with Starmer's assessment that security guarantees were necessary to prevent future invasions, Trump asserted: "I don't think so. I think when we have a deal, it's going to be the deal."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-deflects-after-calling-ukraines-zelensky-a-dictator-uk-pm-keir-starmer-8763318">'Did I say that? I can't believe...': Trump disowns remark calling Zelensky a 'dictator'</a>
Referring to his relations with the Russian President, Trump added: "I think he'll keep his word. I've known him for a long time now, and I think he will. I don't believe he's going to violate his word. I don't think he'll be back when we make a deal. I think the deal is going to hold now."
Trump reaffirmed his commitment to NATO's collective defence principle. "I support it. I don't think we're gonna have any reason for it. I think we're going to have a very successful peace."
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | Discover the dynamics of Trump's meeting with UK PM Starmer, focusing on European security concerns and the potential for US military involvement in Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 27) insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin would honour a peace deal for Ukraine, suggesting the US having a multibillion dollar stake in Kyiv's rare earths sector would serve as a deterrent against future Russian aggression. During a high-profile meeting at the White House with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the US president expressed confidence that Putin would not violate any agreement, which could involve restoring as much as possible the Ukrainian territory seized during the three-year conflict. However, while Trump spoke optimistically about peace prospects, he stopped short of committing to deploying US troops to support a European-led peacekeeping force, though he assured that Washington would "always" support Britain's military if necessary. Also read | Keir Starmer’s White House visit: Trump greets UK PM, says ‘We can, we will’ on Ukraine peace Starmer pushes Trump for security assurances for Ukraine The meeting took place amid heightened European security concerns, with Trump's administration forging closer ties with Russia, disrupting the long-standing transatlantic consensus on Ukraine. Just 24 hours ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the US, Starmer pressed Trump on security assurances for Kyiv. Following their discussions, Starmer stated: "We've discussed a plan today to reach a peace that is tough and fair. That Ukraine will help shape. That's backed by strength to stop Putin coming back for more". He also stated that the UK was ready to "put boots on the ground and planes in the air to support a deal." "Working together with our allies, because that is the only way that peace will last," he added. Also read | Putin calls Trump's suggestion to cut defence budget in half a 'good proposal' Trump on Putin Trump downplayed concerns about future Russian aggression, maintaining that securing an agreement was the hard part while sustaining peace would be "the easy part." Rather than offering firm military commitments, he argued that US investments in Ukraine's rare earths sector would act as a sufficient deterrent. "We'll be working there. We'll have a lot of people working and so, in that sense, it's very good. It's a backstop, you could say," Trump said. "I don't think anybody's going to play around if we're there with a lot of workers and having to do with rare earths and other things which we need for our country." On the prospect of Russia returning occupied territory, Trump remained vague: "We will certainly try and get as much as we can back." Disagreeing with Starmer's assessment that security guarantees were necessary to prevent future invasions, Trump asserted: "I don't think so. I think when we have a deal, it's going to be the deal." Also read | 'Did I say that? I can't believe...': Trump disowns remark calling Zelensky a 'dictator' Referring to his relations with the Russian President, Trump added: "I think he'll keep his word. I've known him for a long time now, and I think he will. I don't believe he's going to violate his word. I don't think he'll be back when we make a deal. I think the deal is going to hold now." Trump reaffirmed his commitment to NATO's collective defence principle. "I support it. I don't think we're gonna have any reason for it. I think we're going to have a very successful peace." (With inputs from agencies)

Trump insists Putin will honour peace deal with Ukraine, refuses to commit to US forces on ground

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> on Thursday (Feb 27) played down his previous remark referring to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a "dictator."
When questioned about whether he still believed Zelensky was a dictator, Trump responded, "Did I say that? I can't believe I would say that."
Trump made these comments during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer&rsquo;s visit to the White House.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-probe-finds-complete-failure-in-preventing-hamas-oct-7-attack-idf-gaza-war-8763275" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Overconfidence, missed warnings&rsquo;: Israel&rsquo;s probe finds &lsquo;complete failure&rsquo; in preventing Hamas&rsquo; Oct 7 attack</a>
<h2>Did Trump call Zelensky a dictator?</h2>
Yes, he did. Trump&rsquo;s comments came after Zelensky criticised a meeting between the US and Russia hosted by Saudi Arabia. In response, Trump called the Ukrainian leader a "dictator without elections" and warned that he "better move fast" or risk losing his country.
Trump&rsquo;s statements followed Zelensky&rsquo;s claim that the US president was caught in a "disinformation bubble" created by Russia.
Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, &ldquo;Think of it, a modestly successful comedian, Volodymyr Zelensky, talked the United States of America into spending $350 Billion Dollars, to go into a War that couldn&rsquo;t be won, that never had to start, but a War that he, without the US and &lsquo;TRUMP,&rsquo; will never be able to settle.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-to-sign-trumps-mineral-deal-what-we-know-so-far-8763228" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Zelensky to sign Trump&rsquo;s mineral deal. What we know so far</a>
He added, "A Dictator without Elections, Zelensky better move fast&nbsp;or he is not going to have a Country left."
<h2>International reaction</h2>
Trump&rsquo;s comments sparked reactions from leaders worldwide, with many voicing their support for Zelensky. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was among those who backed the Ukrainian leader.
Downing Street confirmed that Starmer held discussions with Zelensky, recognising him as Ukraine&rsquo;s "democratically elected leader."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keir-starmers-white-house-visit-us-president-donald-trump-greets-uk-pm-says-we-can-we-will-on-ukraine-peace-8763175" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Keir Starmer&rsquo;s White House visit: Trump greets UK PM, says &lsquo;We can, we will&rsquo; on Ukraine peace</a>
According to Number 10, Starmer reassured Zelensky that suspending elections during wartime was "perfectly reasonable," referencing the UK&rsquo;s decision to do the same during World War II.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: When questioned about whether he still believed Zelensky was a dictator, Trump responded, "Did I say that? I can't believe I would say that."

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 27) played down his previous remark referring to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a "dictator." When questioned about whether he still believed Zelensky was a dictator, Trump responded, "Did I say that? I can't believe I would say that." Trump made these comments during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to the White House. Also read: ‘Overconfidence, missed warnings’: Israel’s probe finds ‘complete failure’ in preventing Hamas’ Oct 7 attack Did Trump call Zelensky a dictator? Yes, he did. Trump’s comments came after Zelensky criticised a meeting between the US and Russia hosted by Saudi Arabia. In response, Trump called the Ukrainian leader a "dictator without elections" and warned that he "better move fast" or risk losing his country. Trump’s statements followed Zelensky’s claim that the US president was caught in a "disinformation bubble" created by Russia. Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Think of it, a modestly successful comedian, Volodymyr Zelensky, talked the United States of America into spending $350 Billion Dollars, to go into a War that couldn’t be won, that never had to start, but a War that he, without the US and ‘TRUMP,’ will never be able to settle.” Also read: Zelensky to sign Trump’s mineral deal. What we know so far He added, "A Dictator without Elections, Zelensky better move fast or he is not going to have a Country left." International reaction Trump’s comments sparked reactions from leaders worldwide, with many voicing their support for Zelensky. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was among those who backed the Ukrainian leader. Downing Street confirmed that Starmer held discussions with Zelensky, recognising him as Ukraine’s "democratically elected leader." Also read: Keir Starmer’s White House visit: Trump greets UK PM, says ‘We can, we will’ on Ukraine peace According to Number 10, Starmer reassured Zelensky that suspending elections during wartime was "perfectly reasonable," referencing the UK’s decision to do the same during World War II. (With inputs from agencies)

'Did I say that? I can't believe...': Trump disowns remark calling Zelensky a 'dictator'

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has arrived at the White House for his meeting with US President Donald Trump.
Unlike French President Emmanuel Macron, who was received by a protocol officer on Monday, Starmer was personally greeted by Trump outside the West Wing.
As the British leader stepped out of his vehicle, a journalist called out, "Can you get a peace deal done on Ukraine?" Trump replied confidently, "We can, we will."
Inside the Oval Office, Trump described Starmer&rsquo;s visit as a &ldquo;great honour.&rdquo; He said: &ldquo;It&rsquo;s a great honor to have Prime Minister Starmer in the Oval Office. It&rsquo;s a very special place, and he&rsquo;s a special man.&rdquo;
He went on to praise the UK, saying, &ldquo;The United Kingdom is a wonderful country that I know very well. I&rsquo;m there a lot, and I&rsquo;ll be going, and we expect to see each other in the near future. We&rsquo;ll be announcing it.&rdquo;
The two leaders are set to discuss a range of issues, including Russia, Ukraine, and trade. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to be discussing many things today. We&rsquo;ll be discussing Russia, Ukraine, we&rsquo;ll be discussing trade and lots of other items, and I think we can say that we&rsquo;re going to be getting along on every one of them," Trump stated.
During their meeting, Starmer formally invited Trump to make a state visit to the UK, handing him what he described as a "really special" invitation from King Charles. Trump accepted, saying he would visit Britain in the "near future."
When questioned about his stance on EU trade and whether Starmer could persuade him not to impose tariffs, Trump was critical of the European Union. He pointed out past disputes, saying, &ldquo;The EU has sued American companies," citing Apple as an example.
Trump also suggested he could support Starmer&rsquo;s Chagos Islands deal. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to have some discussions about that very soon, and I have a feeling it&rsquo;s going to work out very well. I think we&rsquo;ll be inclined to go along with your country,&rdquo; he said.
Turning to Ukraine, Trump revealed plans for a new agreement with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, describing it as a security "backstop."
He said, "President Zelensky is coming to see me on Friday morning. And we&rsquo;re going to be signing really a very important agreement for both sides because it&rsquo;s really going to get us into that country, working there."
Explaining the term, he added, "It&rsquo;s a backstop, you could say," referencing how some European leaders have used the word to describe the security guarantees they seek from the US.
On Russia, Trump voiced confidence that Vladimir Putin would not invade Ukraine again if a peace deal were reached. "He does not think Putin would invade again if there is a peace deal. He thinks Putin will keep his word. A deal with Russia would hold. Putting security into Ukraine is the easy part, the deal is the hard part," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Unlike French President Emmanuel Macron, who was received by a protocol officer on Monday, Starmer was personally greeted by Trump outside the West Wing.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has arrived at the White House for his meeting with US President Donald Trump. Unlike French President Emmanuel Macron, who was received by a protocol officer on Monday, Starmer was personally greeted by Trump outside the West Wing. As the British leader stepped out of his vehicle, a journalist called out, "Can you get a peace deal done on Ukraine?" Trump replied confidently, "We can, we will." Inside the Oval Office, Trump described Starmer’s visit as a “great honour.” He said: “It’s a great honor to have Prime Minister Starmer in the Oval Office. It’s a very special place, and he’s a special man.” He went on to praise the UK, saying, “The United Kingdom is a wonderful country that I know very well. I’m there a lot, and I’ll be going, and we expect to see each other in the near future. We’ll be announcing it.” The two leaders are set to discuss a range of issues, including Russia, Ukraine, and trade. “We’re going to be discussing many things today. We’ll be discussing Russia, Ukraine, we’ll be discussing trade and lots of other items, and I think we can say that we’re going to be getting along on every one of them," Trump stated. During their meeting, Starmer formally invited Trump to make a state visit to the UK, handing him what he described as a "really special" invitation from King Charles. Trump accepted, saying he would visit Britain in the "near future." When questioned about his stance on EU trade and whether Starmer could persuade him not to impose tariffs, Trump was critical of the European Union. He pointed out past disputes, saying, “The EU has sued American companies," citing Apple as an example. Trump also suggested he could support Starmer’s Chagos Islands deal. “We’re going to have some discussions about that very soon, and I have a feeling it’s going to work out very well. I think we’ll be inclined to go along with your country,” he said. Turning to Ukraine, Trump revealed plans for a new agreement with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, describing it as a security "backstop." He said, "President Zelensky is coming to see me on Friday morning. And we’re going to be signing really a very important agreement for both sides because it’s really going to get us into that country, working there." Explaining the term, he added, "It’s a backstop, you could say," referencing how some European leaders have used the word to describe the security guarantees they seek from the US. On Russia, Trump voiced confidence that Vladimir Putin would not invade Ukraine again if a peace deal were reached. "He does not think Putin would invade again if there is a peace deal. He thinks Putin will keep his word. A deal with Russia would hold. Putting security into Ukraine is the easy part, the deal is the hard part," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Keir Starmer’s White House visit: Trump greets UK PM, says ‘We can, we will’ on Ukraine peace

The United Kingdom is facing its toughest fiscal test in decades. The country's debt-to-GDP ratio now nears 100 per cent, up from 45 per cent before the 2008 financial crisis. Bond markets are showing signs of strain, and the foreign exchange reserves are dwindling. How is the government tackling this slump? By boosting defence spending!
While this may seem out of place on the surface, this boost is expected to help Starmer when he visits US President Donald Trump on February 27. Starmer, along with other European leaders, is trying to manage what we call the 'Trump effect.' The UK is no exception to Trump's tariff onslaught, as it looks to tackle external challenges along with domestic stagnation. While Trump recently advocated for reduced global military spending, the President has been pressuring NATO allies to increase defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP.
<h2>UK hikes defence spending to highest since Cold War</h2>
The UK's defence spending is set to rise to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2027. The government has also outlined the long-term goal of increasing it to 3 per cent in the next parliament. This move marks the highest military budget increase since the Cold War. While Starmer believes this boosts the country's defences in the aftermath of the Ukraine war, the broader goal seems to align with Trump's strategies.
However, the defence hike for the UK is tougher, considering the economic challenges gripping the country. Consumers and businesses already oppose the recent tax hike introduced in the budget, with few options for the government to boost their vaults. The question remains...where will the extra money come from?
According to Starmer, it will come by making tough choices. In this case, it means cutting the overseas development aid and diverting that money to the military. &lsquo;In the short term, it can only be funded through hard choices, and in this case, that means we will cut our spending on development assistance, moving from 0.5 per cent of GNI today to 0.3 per cent in 2027, fully funding our increased investment in defence. I want to be clear to the house that is not an announcement I am happy to make,' he said.
How will this move impact the talks between Starmer and Trump? Can the UK become the leader of Europe's collective defence? We will have to wait for the meeting to conclude.

Business & Economy, While Trump recently advocated for reduced global military spending, he has been pressuring NATO allies to increase defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP.

The United Kingdom is facing its toughest fiscal test in decades. The country's debt-to-GDP ratio now nears 100 per cent, up from 45 per cent before the 2008 financial crisis. Bond markets are showing signs of strain, and the foreign exchange reserves are dwindling. How is the government tackling this slump? By boosting defence spending! While this may seem out of place on the surface, this boost is expected to help Starmer when he visits US President Donald Trump on February 27. Starmer, along with other European leaders, is trying to manage what we call the 'Trump effect.' The UK is no exception to Trump's tariff onslaught, as it looks to tackle external challenges along with domestic stagnation. While Trump recently advocated for reduced global military spending, the President has been pressuring NATO allies to increase defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP. UK hikes defence spending to highest since Cold War The UK's defence spending is set to rise to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2027. The government has also outlined the long-term goal of increasing it to 3 per cent in the next parliament. This move marks the highest military budget increase since the Cold War. While Starmer believes this boosts the country's defences in the aftermath of the Ukraine war, the broader goal seems to align with Trump's strategies. However, the defence hike for the UK is tougher, considering the economic challenges gripping the country. Consumers and businesses already oppose the recent tax hike introduced in the budget, with few options for the government to boost their vaults. The question remains...where will the extra money come from? According to Starmer, it will come by making tough choices. In this case, it means cutting the overseas development aid and diverting that money to the military. ‘In the short term, it can only be funded through hard choices, and in this case, that means we will cut our spending on development assistance, moving from 0.5 per cent of GNI today to 0.3 per cent in 2027, fully funding our increased investment in defence. I want to be clear to the house that is not an announcement I am happy to make,' he said. How will this move impact the talks between Starmer and Trump? Can the UK become the leader of Europe's collective defence? We will have to wait for the meeting to conclude.

Military vs aid: Starmer shifts spending priorities ahead of Washington visit

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged Tuesday to boost defence spending to 2.5 per cent of the economy by 2027, as uncertainty reigns over US President Donald Trump's commitment to European security.
Starmer expressed an intent to eventually reach three per cent, a rise of 0.7 per cent from current spending that would mark the biggest increase since the end of the Cold War.
His announcement comes ahead of key talks on Ukraine with Trump in Washington on Thursday.
It will be seen as an attempt to appease the US president, who has demanded that European powers pay more for their own security.
The UK spent 2.3 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) on defence in 2023/24.
Starmer's Labour government had previously committed to increasing defence spending to 2.5 percent, but had not set a timeline.
The prime minister told parliament the increase would be funded by cutting overseas development aid from 0.5 per cent of gross national income (GNI) to 0.3 per cent.
Starmer added he hopes to hike spending to three per cent of GDP in the next parliament, which would fall during a five-year period after elections expected in 2029.
The initial rise of 0.2 per cent would cost the government &pound;13.4 billion ($16.9 billion) more every year from 2027, said Starmer.
That will mean some "extremely difficult and painful choices", he told lawmakers, but added it would contribute to the "biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War".
The government would "set a clear ambition for defence spending to rise to 3 per cent of GDP in the next parliament," he added.
Trump has demanded that NATO allies more than double their defence spending targets to five percent of economic output.
<h2>'Modernise'&nbsp;</h2>
The United States currently spends around 3.3 per cent on defence.
When he meets Trump, Starmer faces a difficult balancing act between backing Ukraine while not annoying the US leader.
He has indicated he will reaffirm support for Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelensky and insist that Kyiv is at the heart of negotiations for a truce with Russia.
Trump has opened discussions with Moscow to bring an end to the war,&nbsp;
Starmer will hope that his announcement helps to convince Trump to provide security guarantees for any European peacekeepers sent to Ukraine to monitor any ceasefire that is agreed.
The UK premier and France's President Emmanuel Macron have said they are willing to send British and French troops to Ukraine, but they would require a US backup.
Security guarantees would likely take the form of air cover, intelligence and logistics.
"The nature of warfare has changed significantly. That is clear from the battlefield in Ukraine, and so we must modernise and reform our capabilities as we invest," Starmer said.
"This investment means that the UK will strengthen its position as a leader in NATO and in the collective defence of our continent, and we should welcome that role."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: It will be seen as UK PM Keir Starmer's attempt to appease US President Donald Trump, who has demanded that European powers pay more for their own security.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged Tuesday to boost defence spending to 2.5 per cent of the economy by 2027, as uncertainty reigns over US President Donald Trump's commitment to European security. Starmer expressed an intent to eventually reach three per cent, a rise of 0.7 per cent from current spending that would mark the biggest increase since the end of the Cold War. His announcement comes ahead of key talks on Ukraine with Trump in Washington on Thursday. It will be seen as an attempt to appease the US president, who has demanded that European powers pay more for their own security. The UK spent 2.3 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) on defence in 2023/24. Starmer's Labour government had previously committed to increasing defence spending to 2.5 percent, but had not set a timeline. The prime minister told parliament the increase would be funded by cutting overseas development aid from 0.5 per cent of gross national income (GNI) to 0.3 per cent. Starmer added he hopes to hike spending to three per cent of GDP in the next parliament, which would fall during a five-year period after elections expected in 2029. The initial rise of 0.2 per cent would cost the government £13.4 billion ($16.9 billion) more every year from 2027, said Starmer. That will mean some "extremely difficult and painful choices", he told lawmakers, but added it would contribute to the "biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War". The government would "set a clear ambition for defence spending to rise to 3 per cent of GDP in the next parliament," he added. Trump has demanded that NATO allies more than double their defence spending targets to five percent of economic output. 'Modernise' The United States currently spends around 3.3 per cent on defence. When he meets Trump, Starmer faces a difficult balancing act between backing Ukraine while not annoying the US leader. He has indicated he will reaffirm support for Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelensky and insist that Kyiv is at the heart of negotiations for a truce with Russia. Trump has opened discussions with Moscow to bring an end to the war, Starmer will hope that his announcement helps to convince Trump to provide security guarantees for any European peacekeepers sent to Ukraine to monitor any ceasefire that is agreed. The UK premier and France's President Emmanuel Macron have said they are willing to send British and French troops to Ukraine, but they would require a US backup. Security guarantees would likely take the form of air cover, intelligence and logistics. "The nature of warfare has changed significantly. That is clear from the battlefield in Ukraine, and so we must modernise and reform our capabilities as we invest," Starmer said. "This investment means that the UK will strengthen its position as a leader in NATO and in the collective defence of our continent, and we should welcome that role." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK PM pledges to spend 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence by 2027

United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Wednesday (Feb 19) defended the Ukrainian leader against&nbsp;US President Donald Trump's claims that he is "a dictator without elections."
In other news, BJP leader Rekha Gupta is set to become the chief minister of Delhi, with a grand oath-taking ceremony scheduled on Thursday (Feb 20).
Meanwhile, Panama is currently holding nearly 300 deportees from various countries in a hotel after they were deported from the United States.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-starmer-compares-zelensky-to-winston-churchill-defends-ukraine-prez-against-trumps-dictator-allegations-8738197">UK PM Starmer defends Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' allegations, compares Ukraine Prez to Winston Churchill</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/l5vgCxlf8bunKqiQ5vZq.png" alt=" United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump Photograph: (Combination created using images from Reuters) ">
United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Wednesday (Feb 19) drew a comparison between Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and Winston Churchill, as he stepped in to defend the Ukrainian leader against US President Donald Trump's claims that he is "a dictator without elections."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-rekha-gupta-next-chief-minister-of-delhi-set-to-take-oath-on-feb-20-8737332">Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/19/T6XVhQrUaUzCBxebfbqI.jpg" alt=" Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi Photograph: (ANI) ">
The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Legislative Party on Wednesday (Feb 19) elected Rekha Gupta as its leader. She is set to become the chief minister of Delhi, with a grand oath-taking ceremony scheduled on Thursday (Feb 20).
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indians-among-300-us-deportees-plead-for-help-from-panama-hotel-windows-not-safe-in-our-country-8738257">Indians among 300 US deportees pleading for help from Panama hotel windows; 'not safe in our country'</a>
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Panama is currently holding nearly 300 deportees from various countries in a hotel after they were deported from the United States.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/criminal-trial-against-south-koreas-ousted-ousted-president-yoon-suk-yeol-begins-in-seoul-8738126">Criminal trial against South Korea's ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol begins in Seoul</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/11/G2yaS6eKbCl1vSUJc1BY.png" alt=" South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol (top L) attends a hearing of his impeachment trial over his short-lived imposition of martial law at the Constitutional Court in Seoul on February 11, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
South Korea's ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol on Thursday (Feb 20) became the nation's first head of state to face criminal proceedings in the nation's history.
Watch | ICC Champions Trophy 2025: New Zealand beat Pakistan by 60 runs in the opening game
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Start your mornings informed with WION's concise news brief, offering a snapshot of top stories to keep you updated before your day begins.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Wednesday (Feb 19) defended the Ukrainian leader against US President Donald Trump's claims that he is "a dictator without elections." In other news, BJP leader Rekha Gupta is set to become the chief minister of Delhi, with a grand oath-taking ceremony scheduled on Thursday (Feb 20). Meanwhile, Panama is currently holding nearly 300 deportees from various countries in a hotel after they were deported from the United States. Click on the headlines for more UK PM Starmer defends Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' allegations, compares Ukraine Prez to Winston Churchill United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Wednesday (Feb 19) drew a comparison between Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and Winston Churchill, as he stepped in to defend the Ukrainian leader against US President Donald Trump's claims that he is "a dictator without elections." Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20 The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Legislative Party on Wednesday (Feb 19) elected Rekha Gupta as its leader. She is set to become the chief minister of Delhi, with a grand oath-taking ceremony scheduled on Thursday (Feb 20). Indians among 300 US deportees pleading for help from Panama hotel windows; 'not safe in our country' Panama is currently holding nearly 300 deportees from various countries in a hotel after they were deported from the United States. Criminal trial against South Korea's ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol begins in Seoul South Korea's ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol on Thursday (Feb 20) became the nation's first head of state to face criminal proceedings in the nation's history. Watch | ICC Champions Trophy 2025: New Zealand beat Pakistan by 60 runs in the opening game

Morning news brief: Starmer backs Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' claims; Rekha Gupta to be sworn in as Delhi CM and more

Spain has ruled out any immediate discussion on deploying troops to Ukraine as part of a potential future peacekeeping mission, saying that the priority remains achieving peace first.
"It is too early at the moment to talk about deploying troops in Ukraine. There is no peace at the moment, and the effort has to be to achieve it as soon as possible," Spanish Foreign Minister Jos&eacute; Manuel Albares said on Monday (Feb 17) during a joint press conference with his Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-peace-talks-live-europe-plays-catch-up-in-paris-as-marco-rubio-arrives-in-saudi-arabia-for-talks-with-russia-without-zelensky-8729487">Ukraine peace talks LIVE: Kyiv will not accept US-Russia talks outcome if not involved, says Zelensky</a>
Albares stressed that any future deployment would require careful consideration. 
"When we have peace, we will have to see what conditions that peace requires. And whenever there is talk of any kind of deployment of forces, we have to consider what the mission is, who can make it up, under what flag, with what mandate," he added.
<h2>Germany and Poland oppose sending troops</h2>
Germany has also signalled reluctance to send troops to Ukraine, with a government source in Berlin saying that any European deployment must involve the US.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-asks-supreme-court-to-let-him-fire-watchdog-chief-for-no-reason-in-major-test-of-executive-power-8729979" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump asks Supreme Court to let him fire watchdog chief for no reason in major test of executive power</a>
"We will not participate in scenarios in which European and American security (policy) diverges, for example, if European soldiers are deployed without full US involvement," the source said.
Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk made it clear that Poland would continue supporting Ukraine financially and militarily but had no plans to send troops.
"When it comes to Poland's support, the matter is settled... We are not planning to send Polish troops to Ukrainian territory," Tusk told reporters ahead of a security meeting in Paris.
<h2>UK signals readiness for deployment</h2>
The statements from Spain, Germany, and Poland come after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that he was willing to send troops if necessary.
On Sunday, Starmer said the UK was prepared to put "our own troops on the ground if necessary" to ensure security in Europe.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-prime-minister-keir-starmer-to-meet-us-president-donald-trump-next-week-after-us-freezes-europe-out-of-ukraine-talks-8729776" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">UK's Keir Starmer to meet Trump next week after US freezes Europe out of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;talks</a>
His comments come amid growing uncertainty over Western support for Ukraine following a major policy shift from Washington. Last week, US President Donald Trump bypassed Kyiv and its European allies by speaking directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin about starting peace negotiations.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "It is too early at the moment to talk about deploying troops in Ukraine. There is no peace at the moment, and the effort has to be to achieve it as soon as possible," the Spanish Foreign Minister said.

Spain has ruled out any immediate discussion on deploying troops to Ukraine as part of a potential future peacekeeping mission, saying that the priority remains achieving peace first. "It is too early at the moment to talk about deploying troops in Ukraine. There is no peace at the moment, and the effort has to be to achieve it as soon as possible," Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said on Monday (Feb 17) during a joint press conference with his Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira. Also read: Ukraine peace talks LIVE: Kyiv will not accept US-Russia talks outcome if not involved, says Zelensky Albares stressed that any future deployment would require careful consideration. "When we have peace, we will have to see what conditions that peace requires. And whenever there is talk of any kind of deployment of forces, we have to consider what the mission is, who can make it up, under what flag, with what mandate," he added. Germany and Poland oppose sending troops Germany has also signalled reluctance to send troops to Ukraine, with a government source in Berlin saying that any European deployment must involve the US. Also read: Trump asks Supreme Court to let him fire watchdog chief for no reason in major test of executive power "We will not participate in scenarios in which European and American security (policy) diverges, for example, if European soldiers are deployed without full US involvement," the source said. Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk made it clear that Poland would continue supporting Ukraine financially and militarily but had no plans to send troops. "When it comes to Poland's support, the matter is settled... We are not planning to send Polish troops to Ukrainian territory," Tusk told reporters ahead of a security meeting in Paris. UK signals readiness for deployment The statements from Spain, Germany, and Poland come after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that he was willing to send troops if necessary. On Sunday, Starmer said the UK was prepared to put "our own troops on the ground if necessary" to ensure security in Europe. Also read: UK's Keir Starmer to meet Trump next week after US freezes Europe out of Ukraine talks His comments come amid growing uncertainty over Western support for Ukraine following a major policy shift from Washington. Last week, US President Donald Trump bypassed Kyiv and its European allies by speaking directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin about starting peace negotiations. (With inputs from agencies)

'Too soon': Europe split on Ukraine troop deployment as Trump courts Putin for peace talks

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will visit Washington next week for talks with US President Donald Trump, a UK government spokesperson confirmed on Monday (Feb 17). 
The discussions are expected to cover a "wide range of issues," marking the first official meeting between the two leaders since Trump began his second term in office.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/committed-to-trumps-gaza-plan-for-a-different-gaza-says-israeli-pm-netanyahu-8729775" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu</a>
The meeting takes place against the backdrop of ongoing US-Russia talks on the Ukraine war and growing European concerns following a controversial speech by US Vice President JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference. 
Vance&rsquo;s comments have sparked fears across Europe that the US may not always prioritise its allies' best interests.
<h2>Emergency summit in Paris</h2>
Before heading to Washington, Starmer will attend an emergency summit in Paris, organised by French President Emmanuel Macron. The gathering of key European leaders comes after Trump excluded European nations from direct involvement in the latest Ukraine peace negotiations, prompting urgent discussions on Europe's role in the conflict.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-peace-talks-live-europe-plays-catch-up-in-paris-as-marco-rubio-arrives-in-saudi-arabia-for-talks-with-russia-without-zelensky-8729487" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ukraine peace talks LIVE: Europe plays catch-up in Paris as Rubio arrives in Saudi for talks with Russia</a>
Speaking in Bristol on Monday, Starmer stressed the need for any Ukraine peace agreement to be &ldquo;just and enduring.&rdquo;
"We need to have realistic and credible answers to how any ceasefire &hellip; will be lasting, just and enduring," he told reporters.
He warned against a temporary pause in fighting that could allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to regroup.
"The last thing I want to see is a pause in the fighting that simply gives Putin the chance to come again," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gates-of-hell-will-be-opened-israeli-prime-minister-netanyahu-warns-hamas-on-hostage-release-8727978" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Gates of hell will be opened&rsquo;: Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warns Hamas on hostage release</a>
<h2>Call for stronger European response</h2>
Ahead of the Paris talks, Starmer urged European nations to take greater responsibility for Ukraine&rsquo;s defence.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cant-do-a-thing-tehran-slams-netanyahu-for-vowing-to-finish-the-job-against-iran-with-trumps-help-8729162" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help</a>
"Europe needs to step up in terms of our collective response," he stated. He stressed that European countries must play a full role in ensuring Ukraine&rsquo;s sovereignty is protected in any potential peace agreement.
(With inputs from agencies)
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World: The meeting takes place against the backdrop of ongoing US-Russia talks on the Ukraine war and growing European concerns following a controversial speech by US Vice President JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will visit Washington next week for talks with US President Donald Trump, a UK government spokesperson confirmed on Monday (Feb 17). The discussions are expected to cover a "wide range of issues," marking the first official meeting between the two leaders since Trump began his second term in office. Also read: 'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu The meeting takes place against the backdrop of ongoing US-Russia talks on the Ukraine war and growing European concerns following a controversial speech by US Vice President JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference. Vance’s comments have sparked fears across Europe that the US may not always prioritise its allies' best interests. Emergency summit in Paris Before heading to Washington, Starmer will attend an emergency summit in Paris, organised by French President Emmanuel Macron. The gathering of key European leaders comes after Trump excluded European nations from direct involvement in the latest Ukraine peace negotiations, prompting urgent discussions on Europe's role in the conflict. Also read: Ukraine peace talks LIVE: Europe plays catch-up in Paris as Rubio arrives in Saudi for talks with Russia Speaking in Bristol on Monday, Starmer stressed the need for any Ukraine peace agreement to be “just and enduring.” "We need to have realistic and credible answers to how any ceasefire … will be lasting, just and enduring," he told reporters. He warned against a temporary pause in fighting that could allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to regroup. "The last thing I want to see is a pause in the fighting that simply gives Putin the chance to come again," he said. Also read: ‘Gates of hell will be opened’: Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warns Hamas on hostage release Call for stronger European response Ahead of the Paris talks, Starmer urged European nations to take greater responsibility for Ukraine’s defence. Also read: 'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help "Europe needs to step up in terms of our collective response," he stated. He stressed that European countries must play a full role in ensuring Ukraine’s sovereignty is protected in any potential peace agreement. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Keir Starmer to meet Trump next week after US keeps Europe out of Ukraine talks

UK immigration enforcement teams made over 600 arrests in January, a 73 percent increase on the same period a year ago, as part of the new Labour government's plan to tackle undocumented migration and people smuggling gangs, officials said on Monday.
The 609 arrests, compared to 352 in January 2024, were made during visits to over 800 premises including nail bars, restaurants, car washes and convenience stores, a government statement said.
On taking office last year Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmerimmediately scrapped his Conservative predecessor Rishi Sunak's plan to deter undocumented migration to the UK by deporting new arrivals to Rwanda.
Instead he pledged to "smash the gangs" to bring the numbers down.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said employers had for too long been able to "exploit illegal migrants and too many people have been able to arrive and work illegally with no enforcement action ever taken".
"We are boosting enforcement to record levels alongside tough new legislation to smash the criminal gangs that undermine our border security and who have been getting away with it for far too long," she said.
Undocumented migration by people who take small, perilously unsafe boats across the English Channel from northern France to southern England was a major issue at last July's general election which brought Starmer's Labour Party to power.
Regular migration, which is currently running at historically high levels, estimated at 728,000 for the year to June 2024, was also a hot button issue at the polls.
Starmer needs to reduce both legal and undocumented migration to fend off growing support for Nigel Farage's anti-immigration Reform UK party, which won roughly four million votes during the July 4 poll -- an unprecedented haul for a far-right party.
Some 36,816 people were detected in the Channel in 2024, a 25 percent increase from the 29,437 who arrived in 2023, provisional figures from the interior ministry showed.
As part of his plan to reduce undocumented migration, Starmer has also set up a new Border Security Command and strengthened cooperation with European partners, including Europol.
Britain has signed joint action plans with Germany and Iraq aimed at tackling the smuggling gangs. They build on earlier agreements signed under the previous Conservative government, including with France and Albania.
The government also points to an increase in the return of irregular migrants to their countries of origin, the highest since 2017.
Its new Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, designed to give law enforcement officials "counter-terror style powers" to break up gangs bringing irregular migrants across the Channel, is due to get its second reading in parliament on Monday.&nbsp;

Learn about Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer's strategy to combat illegal work and migration by dismantling people smuggling gangs, replacing previous deportation plans.

UK immigration enforcement teams made over 600 arrests in January, a 73 percent increase on the same period a year ago, as part of the new Labour government's plan to tackle undocumented migration and people smuggling gangs, officials said on Monday. The 609 arrests, compared to 352 in January 2024, were made during visits to over 800 premises including nail bars, restaurants, car washes and convenience stores, a government statement said. On taking office last year Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmerimmediately scrapped his Conservative predecessor Rishi Sunak's plan to deter undocumented migration to the UK by deporting new arrivals to Rwanda. Instead he pledged to "smash the gangs" to bring the numbers down. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said employers had for too long been able to "exploit illegal migrants and too many people have been able to arrive and work illegally with no enforcement action ever taken". "We are boosting enforcement to record levels alongside tough new legislation to smash the criminal gangs that undermine our border security and who have been getting away with it for far too long," she said. Undocumented migration by people who take small, perilously unsafe boats across the English Channel from northern France to southern England was a major issue at last July's general election which brought Starmer's Labour Party to power. Regular migration, which is currently running at historically high levels, estimated at 728,000 for the year to June 2024, was also a hot button issue at the polls. Starmer needs to reduce both legal and undocumented migration to fend off growing support for Nigel Farage's anti-immigration Reform UK party, which won roughly four million votes during the July 4 poll -- an unprecedented haul for a far-right party. Some 36,816 people were detected in the Channel in 2024, a 25 percent increase from the 29,437 who arrived in 2023, provisional figures from the interior ministry showed. As part of his plan to reduce undocumented migration, Starmer has also set up a new Border Security Command and strengthened cooperation with European partners, including Europol. Britain has signed joint action plans with Germany and Iraq aimed at tackling the smuggling gangs. They build on earlier agreements signed under the previous Conservative government, including with France and Albania. The government also points to an increase in the return of irregular migrants to their countries of origin, the highest since 2017. Its new Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, designed to give law enforcement officials "counter-terror style powers" to break up gangs bringing irregular migrants across the Channel, is due to get its second reading in parliament on Monday.

Over 600 arrested for working illegally in UK, says government

<div>A Labour Party lawmaker on Saturday (Feb 8) said he regretted "badly misjudged" comments after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer sacked him as a minister.</div>
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<div>It is the latest bump in the road Starmer's government has hit in its first seven months in power despite a landslide election victory in July 2024.</div>
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<div>The premier dismissed Andrew Gwynne as a junior health minister as soon as he became aware of the comments, the domestic PA news agency said.</div>
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<div>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-claims-us-treasury-annually-pays-100-billion-to-unidentified-individuals-8704233">Musk claims US Treasury annually pays $100 billion to unidentified individuals</a></div>
<div></div>
<div>He has also been suspended from the Labour Party, with a report alleging that Gwynne made anti-Semitic, racist, and sexist remarks.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>"I deeply regret my badly misjudged comments and apologise for any offence I've caused," Gwynne said on X.</div>
<div></div>
<div>"I entirely understand the decisions the PM and the party have taken," he added.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Gwynne posted messages in a WhatsApp group which he shares with more than a dozen Labour councillors, party officials, and at least one other MP, the Mail on Sunday reported.</div>
<div></div>
<div>He also joked about a constituent being "mown down" by a truck, the newspaper said.</div>
<div> Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ill-leave-him-alone-donald-trump-on-why-he-wont-deport-prince-harry-8704075">&lsquo;I'll leave him alone&rsquo;: Donald Trump on why he won&rsquo;t deport Prince Harry</a></div>
<div></div>
<div>In another comment, he said he hoped a 72-year-old woman who asked a colleague about rubbish bin collection would soon be dead.</div>
<div></div>
<div>"The Prime Minister is determined to uphold high standards of conduct in public office and lead a government in the service of working people," a government spokesperson said.</div>
<div></div>
<div>"He will not hesitate to take action against any minister who fails to meet these standards, as he has in this case," the spokesperson added.</div>
<div></div>
<div>In November, Louise Haigh resigned as transport secretary after revelations that she pleaded guilty to a criminal offence before becoming a member of parliament.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Her resignation was the first by a member of Starmer's cabinet since his Labour party won power at the July 4 general election, ending the Conservative party's 14 years in power.</div>
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<div>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</div>

World: A Labour MP expressed regret for his poorly judged remarks after being dismissed by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, highlighting the political fallout on February th.

A Labour Party lawmaker on Saturday (Feb 8) said he regretted "badly misjudged" comments after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer sacked him as a minister. It is the latest bump in the road Starmer's government has hit in its first seven months in power despite a landslide election victory in July 2024. The premier dismissed Andrew Gwynne as a junior health minister as soon as he became aware of the comments, the domestic PA news agency said. Also read | Musk claims US Treasury annually pays $100 billion to unidentified individuals He has also been suspended from the Labour Party, with a report alleging that Gwynne made anti-Semitic, racist, and sexist remarks. "I deeply regret my badly misjudged comments and apologise for any offence I've caused," Gwynne said on X. "I entirely understand the decisions the PM and the party have taken," he added. Gwynne posted messages in a WhatsApp group which he shares with more than a dozen Labour councillors, party officials, and at least one other MP, the Mail on Sunday reported. He also joked about a constituent being "mown down" by a truck, the newspaper said. Also read | ‘I'll leave him alone’: Donald Trump on why he won’t deport Prince Harry In another comment, he said he hoped a 72-year-old woman who asked a colleague about rubbish bin collection would soon be dead. "The Prime Minister is determined to uphold high standards of conduct in public office and lead a government in the service of working people," a government spokesperson said. "He will not hesitate to take action against any minister who fails to meet these standards, as he has in this case," the spokesperson added. In November, Louise Haigh resigned as transport secretary after revelations that she pleaded guilty to a criminal offence before becoming a member of parliament. Her resignation was the first by a member of Starmer's cabinet since his Labour party won power at the July 4 general election, ending the Conservative party's 14 years in power. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK's Keir Starmer sacks Labour MP over ‘badly misjudged’ comments

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will urge European countries to commit more in defence spending as he heads to Brussels for security talks. Watch this report for more details!

UK PM Keir Starmer to urge EU to boost defence spending

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> has praised UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for his performance, describing it as "very good thus far." He also noted their "very good relationship" during comments given to the BBC on Saturday (Jan 25).
When asked about their interactions, Trump mentioned they were scheduled to hold a phone conversation within 24 hours. The two leaders have previously met several times, including when Sir Keir visited Trump Tower in New York during the US presidential campaign.
"I get along with him well. I like him a lot. He's liberal, which is a bit different from me, but I think he's a very good person and I think he's done a very good job thus far," Trump said of Sir Keir.
"He's represented his country in terms of philosophy. I may not agree with his philosophy, but I have a very good relationship with him," he added.
Aso read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-zelensky-says-us-has-not-stopped-military-aid-to-kyiv-8654837" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ukraine war: Zelensky says US has not stopped military aid to Kyiv</a>
Following Trump&rsquo;s re-election last November, Sir Keir and the US president spoke on the phone. At the time, Downing Street stressed the strength of the UK&mdash;US relationship, saying it remained "incredibly strong" and would "continue to thrive."
<h2>Elon Musk's criticism of Sir Keir Starmer</h2>
Despite Trump's positive comments, billionaire Elon Musk, and self-appointed 'first buddy' of the US president, has been sharply critical of Sir Keir Starmer. Musk has frequently called for the UK leader's removal and has used his social media platform X to voice his opposition.
Earlier this month, Musk publicly criticised Sir Keir in connection with the grooming gangs scandal, accusing the prime minister of being "deeply complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes." Sir Keir, who served as Director of Public Prosecutions from 2008 to 2013, rejected the accusations, calling them "lies and misinformation" and adding he had addressed prosecutions "head-on."
Musk&rsquo;s disputes with Sir Keir&rsquo;s government are not new. He has previously referred to Britain as a &ldquo;police state&rdquo; due to its handling of the Southport riots, which led to violent street clashes during the summer. Musk has repeatedly criticised Starmer on X while expressing support for Reform UK, a political party.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-news-today-joins-germany-afd-rally-germans-to-move-beyond-past-guilt-amid-nazi-salute-controversy-8654678">'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt'</a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2025-live-us-extends-greetings-to-india-on-republic-day-8654335"></a>Musk&rsquo;s alignment with far-right movements is part of a larger pattern. He has supported leaders such as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and even appeared as a guest at an AfD rally in Germany on Saturday.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Despite US President Donald Trump's positive comments, billionaire Elon Musk, a close ally of the US president, has been sharply critical of Sir Keir Starmer.

US President Donald Trump has praised UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for his performance, describing it as "very good thus far." He also noted their "very good relationship" during comments given to the BBC on Saturday (Jan 25). When asked about their interactions, Trump mentioned they were scheduled to hold a phone conversation within 24 hours. The two leaders have previously met several times, including when Sir Keir visited Trump Tower in New York during the US presidential campaign. "I get along with him well. I like him a lot. He's liberal, which is a bit different from me, but I think he's a very good person and I think he's done a very good job thus far," Trump said of Sir Keir. "He's represented his country in terms of philosophy. I may not agree with his philosophy, but I have a very good relationship with him," he added. Aso read: Ukraine war: Zelensky says US has not stopped military aid to Kyiv Following Trump’s re-election last November, Sir Keir and the US president spoke on the phone. At the time, Downing Street stressed the strength of the UK—US relationship, saying it remained "incredibly strong" and would "continue to thrive." Elon Musk's criticism of Sir Keir Starmer Despite Trump's positive comments, billionaire Elon Musk, and self-appointed 'first buddy' of the US president, has been sharply critical of Sir Keir Starmer. Musk has frequently called for the UK leader's removal and has used his social media platform X to voice his opposition. Earlier this month, Musk publicly criticised Sir Keir in connection with the grooming gangs scandal, accusing the prime minister of being "deeply complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes." Sir Keir, who served as Director of Public Prosecutions from 2008 to 2013, rejected the accusations, calling them "lies and misinformation" and adding he had addressed prosecutions "head-on." Musk’s disputes with Sir Keir’s government are not new. He has previously referred to Britain as a “police state” due to its handling of the Southport riots, which led to violent street clashes during the summer. Musk has repeatedly criticised Starmer on X while expressing support for Reform UK, a political party. Also read: 'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt' Musk’s alignment with far-right movements is part of a larger pattern. He has supported leaders such as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and even appeared as a guest at an AfD rally in Germany on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump says UK PM Starmer is doing 'very good job' despite 'first buddy' Elon Musk's criticism

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned that there is a new wave of terrorism, different from what the world has seen before.

Starmer warns of 'new terrorism threat' over Southport inquiry | Gravitas

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the nation following the tragic Southport murders. He expressed condolences and promised a thorough investigation into the incident. Watch this report for more details!

UK: Starmer vows action over Southport stabbing

UK PM Keir Starmer addresses nation over Southport tragedy, vows action

UK PM Keir Starmer vows action over Southport tragedy

It's official. The world has reentered the Donald Trump era. The GOP leader was sworn in as the 47th president on Monday (Jan 20).
Trump has a lot on his table when he takes charge as president with issues ranging from national and international affairs to ongoing wars globally.
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How world leaders are reacting to Donald Trump being sworn in as the 47th President of the United States A thread🧵 <a href="https://t.co/0AGtjaxt9L">pic.twitter.com/0AGtjaxt9L</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1881403327608696934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
As Trump assumes the presidential office, several global leaders have congratulated the new US commander-in-chief.
<h2>Here's a look at what they said:</h2>
&gt; Giorgia Meloni (PM, Italy): Meloni sent "best wishes" to US President Donald Trump Monday for the start of his new mandate. 
"I am certain that the friendship between our nations and the values that unite us will continue to strengthen the collaboration between Italy and the USA, together facing global challenges and building a future of prosperity and security for our peoples," wrote the far-right Meloni on social media, citing Italy's role in "consolidating the dialogue between the United States and Europe".
&gt; Justin Trudeau (PM, Canada):&nbsp;"Congratulations, President Trump. Canada and the U.S. have the world&rsquo;s most successful economic partnership. We have the chance to work together again &mdash; to create more jobs and prosperity for both our nations."
&gt; Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (President, Turkey): "Since Mr. Trump repeatedly said he would end the Russia-Ukraine war, we as Turkey will do whatever necessary in this regard. We need to resolve this issue as soon as possible. This issue will be on our agenda with our talks with Mr. Trump, and we would take our steps accordingly. I wish Mr. Trump's second term would bring good for all humanity."
&gt; Volodymyr Zelensky (President, Ukraine)" "President Trump is always decisive, and the peace through strength policy he announced provides an opportunity to strengthen American leadership and achieve a long-term and just peace, which is the top priority."
&gt; Shehbaz Sharif (PM, Pakistan): "My warmest congratulations to Donald Trump on his assumption of office as the forty-seventh President of the United States of America. I look forward to working with him to strengthen &nbsp;the enduring Pakistan-US partnership."
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My warmest congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> on his assumption of office as the forty-seventh President of the United States of America. I look forward to working with him to strengthen the enduring Pakistan-U.S. partnership. Over the years, our two great countries have&hellip;
&mdash; Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/1881389354754756934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Over the years, our two great countries have worked together closely to pursue peace and prosperity in the region and beyond for our peoples &amp; we shall continue to do so in the future. My best wishes to President Trump for a successful second term in office."
&gt; Benjamin Netanyahu (PM, Israel): Prime Minister Netanyahu said in his message he believed the &ldquo;best days&rdquo; of the US-Israel alliance are ahead.
&ldquo;Your first term as president was filled with groundbreaking moments in the history of the great alliance between our two countries,&rdquo; Netanyahu says in an English-language video message, citing Trump&rsquo;s withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, moving the US embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israeli sovereignty in the Golan Heights.
&ldquo;You brokered the historic Abraham Accords in which Israel made peace with four Arab countries,&rdquo; he adds. &ldquo;I believe that working together again, we will raise the US-Israel alliance to even greater heights&rdquo; and will &ldquo;complete the defeat of Iran&rsquo;s terror axis and usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for our region.&rdquo;
&gt; Olaf Scholz (Chancellor, Germany): Germany's Scholz hoped for 'good' relations with the 'closest ally' US.
"Today President Donald Trump takes office. Congratulations! The US is our closest ally and the aim of our policy is always a good transatlantic relationship. The EU, with 27 members and more than 400 million people, is a strong union."
&gt; Narendra Modi (PM, India):&nbsp;The Indian PM wrote on X he hoped Trump's administration will work to benefit the bilateral ties.
"Congratulations my dear friend President Trump on your historic inauguration as the 47th President of the United States! I look forward to working closely together once again, to benefit both our countries, and to shape a better future for the world. Best wishes for a successful term ahead!&rdquo;
&gt; Vladimir Putin (President, Russia): Putin congratulated Trump on becoming the American president, and said he was open to talks with the upcoming Trump administration on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
"We are also open to dialogue with the new US administration on the Ukrainian conflict," Putin said in televised remarks.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-inauguration-live-updates-jd-vance-live-updates-47th-president-of-the-united-states-today-jan-20-elon-musk-liveblog-8637718" rel="dofollow">Click here to follow all updates on Donald Trump's inauguration</a>
"As for the settlement of the situation itself, I want to emphasise that its goal should not be a brief truce... but a lasting peace based on respect for the legitimate interests of all people," he added.
&gt; Lula da Silva (President, Brazil): Lula said he hoped that the US would remain a historical partner of Brazil.&nbsp;
"I hope that (Trump) has a successful administration and that the Americans continue to be the historical partner of Brazil," Lula said at a ministerial meeting.
&gt; Keir Starmer (Prime Minister, United Kingdom): Starmer wished Trump warmest congratulations on becoming the US president for a second time.
"We will continue to build upon the unshakeable foundations of our historic alliance," Starmer said in a statement.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-inauguration-where-to-watch-trump-inauguration-jd-vance-all-you-need-to-know-jan-20-8638192" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump Inauguration: Exact time, where to watch, and all you need to know</a>
&gt; Iran:&nbsp;While congratulating Trump, Iran's foreign ministry said it hoped that the approaches and policies of the (new) US government would be realistic and based on international law and respect for the interests and desires of the nations of the region, including the Iranian nation.&nbsp;
&gt; Xi Jinping (President, China): Last weekend, Xi held a telephone conversation with Trump where both leaders vowed to take a positive approach to improving ties between Beijing and Washington.
Xi said he hoped for a "good start" to relations with Trump, who in turn said, "It is my expectation that we will solve many problems together."&nbsp;

World: While congratulating Trump, Putin said he was open to talks with the upcoming Trump administration on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.

It's official. The world has reentered the Donald Trump era. The GOP leader was sworn in as the 47th president on Monday (Jan 20). Trump has a lot on his table when he takes charge as president with issues ranging from national and international affairs to ongoing wars globally. How world leaders are reacting to Donald Trump being sworn in as the 47th President of the United States A thread🧵 pic.twitter.com/0AGtjaxt9L — WION (@WIONews) January 20, 2025 As Trump assumes the presidential office, several global leaders have congratulated the new US commander-in-chief. Here's a look at what they said: > Giorgia Meloni (PM, Italy): Meloni sent "best wishes" to US President Donald Trump Monday for the start of his new mandate. "I am certain that the friendship between our nations and the values that unite us will continue to strengthen the collaboration between Italy and the USA, together facing global challenges and building a future of prosperity and security for our peoples," wrote the far-right Meloni on social media, citing Italy's role in "consolidating the dialogue between the United States and Europe". > Justin Trudeau (PM, Canada): "Congratulations, President Trump. Canada and the U.S. have the world’s most successful economic partnership. We have the chance to work together again — to create more jobs and prosperity for both our nations." > Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (President, Turkey): "Since Mr. Trump repeatedly said he would end the Russia-Ukraine war, we as Turkey will do whatever necessary in this regard. We need to resolve this issue as soon as possible. This issue will be on our agenda with our talks with Mr. Trump, and we would take our steps accordingly. I wish Mr. Trump's second term would bring good for all humanity." > Volodymyr Zelensky (President, Ukraine)" "President Trump is always decisive, and the peace through strength policy he announced provides an opportunity to strengthen American leadership and achieve a long-term and just peace, which is the top priority." > Shehbaz Sharif (PM, Pakistan): "My warmest congratulations to Donald Trump on his assumption of office as the forty-seventh President of the United States of America. I look forward to working with him to strengthen the enduring Pakistan-US partnership." My warmest congratulations to @realDonaldTrump on his assumption of office as the forty-seventh President of the United States of America. I look forward to working with him to strengthen the enduring Pakistan-U.S. partnership. Over the years, our two great countries have… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) January 20, 2025 "Over the years, our two great countries have worked together closely to pursue peace and prosperity in the region and beyond for our peoples & we shall continue to do so in the future. My best wishes to President Trump for a successful second term in office." > Benjamin Netanyahu (PM, Israel): Prime Minister Netanyahu said in his message he believed the “best days” of the US-Israel alliance are ahead. “Your first term as president was filled with groundbreaking moments in the history of the great alliance between our two countries,” Netanyahu says in an English-language video message, citing Trump’s withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, moving the US embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israeli sovereignty in the Golan Heights. “You brokered the historic Abraham Accords in which Israel made peace with four Arab countries,” he adds. “I believe that working together again, we will raise the US-Israel alliance to even greater heights” and will “complete the defeat of Iran’s terror axis and usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for our region.” > Olaf Scholz (Chancellor, Germany): Germany's Scholz hoped for 'good' relations with the 'closest ally' US. "Today President Donald Trump takes office. Congratulations! The US is our closest ally and the aim of our policy is always a good transatlantic relationship. The EU, with 27 members and more than 400 million people, is a strong union." > Narendra Modi (PM, India): The Indian PM wrote on X he hoped Trump's administration will work to benefit the bilateral ties. "Congratulations my dear friend President Trump on your historic inauguration as the 47th President of the United States! I look forward to working closely together once again, to benefit both our countries, and to shape a better future for the world. Best wishes for a successful term ahead!” > Vladimir Putin (President, Russia): Putin congratulated Trump on becoming the American president, and said he was open to talks with the upcoming Trump administration on the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. "We are also open to dialogue with the new US administration on the Ukrainian conflict," Putin said in televised remarks. Click here to follow all updates on Donald Trump's inauguration "As for the settlement of the situation itself, I want to emphasise that its goal should not be a brief truce... but a lasting peace based on respect for the legitimate interests of all people," he added. > Lula da Silva (President, Brazil): Lula said he hoped that the US would remain a historical partner of Brazil. "I hope that (Trump) has a successful administration and that the Americans continue to be the historical partner of Brazil," Lula said at a ministerial meeting. > Keir Starmer (Prime Minister, United Kingdom): Starmer wished Trump warmest congratulations on becoming the US president for a second time. "We will continue to build upon the unshakeable foundations of our historic alliance," Starmer said in a statement. Also read | Donald Trump Inauguration: Exact time, where to watch, and all you need to know > Iran: While congratulating Trump, Iran's foreign ministry said it hoped that the approaches and policies of the (new) US government would be realistic and based on international law and respect for the interests and desires of the nations of the region, including the Iranian nation. > Xi Jinping (President, China): Last weekend, Xi held a telephone conversation with Trump where both leaders vowed to take a positive approach to improving ties between Beijing and Washington. Xi said he hoped for a "good start" to relations with Trump, who in turn said, "It is my expectation that we will solve many problems together."

Netanyahu, Modi, other world leaders congratulate Donald Trump on becoming US president

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Ukraine's capital on Thursday with a pledge to help guarantee the country’s security for a century. Watch this report for more details!

UK PM Starmer signs 100-year pact with Zelensky, visits drone exhibition

UK PM Starmer's first official visit to Kyiv since taking office

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesman on Thursday expressed concern after police confirmed they were investigating claims that a drink was spiked in one of the UK parliament's bars.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elianne-andams-murder-teenager-found-guilty-of-killing-15-year-old-girl-in-london-8628288" aria-label="Elianne Andam's murder: Teenager found guilty of killing 15-year-old girl in London">Elianne Andam's murder: Teenager found guilty of killing 15-year-old girl in London</a>
London's Metropolitan Police force said it was probing reports that a female parliamentary researcher had her drink tampered with inside parliament on January 7, the day after MPs returned from their Christmas break.
"These are incredibly concerning reports," Starmer's official spokesman told reporters.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/meet-praise-uncle-who-earns-60-a-day-for-praising-people-on-streets-8628276" aria-label="Meet 'Praise Uncle' who earns $60 a day for praising people on streets">Meet 'Praise Uncle' who earns $60 a day for praising people on streets</a>
"Women have a right to feel safe everywhere. Everyone on the parliamentary estate should feel safe in their workplace," he added.
The case was first reported by the Politico website, which said the alleged incident took place in Strangers' Bar, one of several bars and restaurants at the Westminster site in central London.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-pm-francois-bayrou-survives-first-no-confidence-vote-8627432" aria-label="French PM Francois Bayrou survives first no-confidence vote">French PM Francois Bayrou survives first no-confidence vote</a>
The bar is used by MPs and their guests, parliamentary staff and political journalists.
A spokesperson for the Met said that an "investigation is ongoing and the victim is being supported by officers".
"There have been no arrests at this stage," the spokesperson added. The debate has long raged about excessive drinking in parliament, with MPs sometimes leaving the bar to vote in the chamber during late sittings.
In November, it was reported that a group of Labour MPs proposed recommendations to curb the sale of alcohol to make parliament a healthier workplace.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-grooming-gangs-fresh-investigation-elon-musk-reacts-8628152" aria-label="'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs">'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs</a>
The same month, Starmer announced that spiking would become a new standalone criminal offence in the UK.
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

World | Keir Starmer's spokesperson expressed deep concern over recent reports, emphasising the gravity of the situation and urging for a thorough investigation to ensure accountability.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesman on Thursday expressed concern after police confirmed they were investigating claims that a drink was spiked in one of the UK parliament's bars. Also read | Elianne Andam's murder: Teenager found guilty of killing 15-year-old girl in London London's Metropolitan Police force said it was probing reports that a female parliamentary researcher had her drink tampered with inside parliament on January 7, the day after MPs returned from their Christmas break. "These are incredibly concerning reports," Starmer's official spokesman told reporters. Also read | Meet 'Praise Uncle' who earns $60 a day for praising people on streets "Women have a right to feel safe everywhere. Everyone on the parliamentary estate should feel safe in their workplace," he added. The case was first reported by the Politico website, which said the alleged incident took place in Strangers' Bar, one of several bars and restaurants at the Westminster site in central London. Also read | French PM Francois Bayrou survives first no-confidence vote The bar is used by MPs and their guests, parliamentary staff and political journalists. A spokesperson for the Met said that an "investigation is ongoing and the victim is being supported by officers". "There have been no arrests at this stage," the spokesperson added. The debate has long raged about excessive drinking in parliament, with MPs sometimes leaving the bar to vote in the chamber during late sittings. In November, it was reported that a group of Labour MPs proposed recommendations to curb the sale of alcohol to make parliament a healthier workplace. Also read | 'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs The same month, Starmer announced that spiking would become a new standalone criminal offence in the UK. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK govt expresses concerns over drink-spiking in parliament

The UK government announced a fresh investigation into the grooming gangs scandal, which recently led to a public spat between US tech billionaire Elon Musk and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Reacting to the announcement, Musk posted on X, "I hope this is a proper investigation."
The investigation will include local inquiries in Oldham and up to four other areas. Speaking in Parliament, Interior Minister Yvette Cooper said, &ldquo;As we have seen, effective local inquiries can delve into far more local detail and deliver more locally relevant answers, and change, than a lengthy nationwide inquiry can provide.&rdquo;
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The full truth is horrific <a href="https://t.co/Gsw0DYUG54">https://t.co/Gsw0DYUG54</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1879931240201252875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/almost-every-violent-or-sexual-offence-in-england-wales-went-unsolved-in-2024-report-8618637">Amid spotlight on grooming gang menace in UK, report says most violent or sexual offences went unsolved in 2024</a>
The government&rsquo;s new plan will allow more victims to request case reviews, giving police forces a chance to pursue offenders and ensure justice for survivors. Cooper also announced a "rapid audit" to look at the "current scale and nature of gang-based exploitation across the country."
While announcing the investigation, Cooper criticised the lack of progress made in addressing the issue despite previous inquiries and reports. She said, "Far too little action has been taken, and shamefully little progress has been made. That has to change."
However, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp dismissed the government's plans as "totally inadequate."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistanis-4-times-more-likely-to-be-involved-in-grooming-offences-8608929">Pakistanis 4 times more likely to be involved in grooming offences in UK: Report</a>
The decision for local inquiries and a national audit comes after calls from the opposition for a new nationwide investigation. 
<h2>Musk vs Starmer on Grooming Gangs</h2>
Elon Musk has been outspoken about the need for a fresh investigation into grooming gangs in the UK. He has accused Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-keir-starmer-in-ukraine-to-sign-landmark-100-year-partnership-8627144">Keir Starmer</a> of mishandling the issue during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
In one of his posts, Musk wrote, "In the UK, serious crimes such&nbsp;as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service&rsquo;s approval for the police to charge suspects. Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013."
Musk also claimed that his British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, would have been at risk of "abduction in present-day Britain."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-fresh-jibe-to-starmer-elon-musk-says-his-british-grandmother-might-have-been-abducted-in-present-uk-government-8600084">In fresh jibe at Starmer, Musk says his British grandmother might have been abducted in present UK</a>
The grooming gang scandal involves sex offences going back decades against British girls by men of mostly South Asian origin in various northern English towns.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: UK grooming gang scandal involves sex offences going back decades against British girls by men of mostly South Asian origin. Elon Musk posted on X, "I hope this is a proper investigation."

The UK government announced a fresh investigation into the grooming gangs scandal, which recently led to a public spat between US tech billionaire Elon Musk and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Reacting to the announcement, Musk posted on X, "I hope this is a proper investigation." The investigation will include local inquiries in Oldham and up to four other areas. Speaking in Parliament, Interior Minister Yvette Cooper said, “As we have seen, effective local inquiries can delve into far more local detail and deliver more locally relevant answers, and change, than a lengthy nationwide inquiry can provide.” The full truth is horrific https://t.co/Gsw0DYUG54 — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 16, 2025 Also read: Amid spotlight on grooming gang menace in UK, report says most violent or sexual offences went unsolved in 2024 The government’s new plan will allow more victims to request case reviews, giving police forces a chance to pursue offenders and ensure justice for survivors. Cooper also announced a "rapid audit" to look at the "current scale and nature of gang-based exploitation across the country." While announcing the investigation, Cooper criticised the lack of progress made in addressing the issue despite previous inquiries and reports. She said, "Far too little action has been taken, and shamefully little progress has been made. That has to change." However, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp dismissed the government's plans as "totally inadequate." Also read: Pakistanis 4 times more likely to be involved in grooming offences in UK: Report The decision for local inquiries and a national audit comes after calls from the opposition for a new nationwide investigation. Musk vs Starmer on Grooming Gangs Elon Musk has been outspoken about the need for a fresh investigation into grooming gangs in the UK. He has accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of mishandling the issue during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). In one of his posts, Musk wrote, "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service’s approval for the police to charge suspects. Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013." Musk also claimed that his British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, would have been at risk of "abduction in present-day Britain." Also read: In fresh jibe at Starmer, Musk says his British grandmother might have been abducted in present UK The grooming gang scandal involves sex offences going back decades against British girls by men of mostly South Asian origin in various northern English towns. (With inputs from agencies)

'Full truth is horrific': Elon Musk reacts as UK announces fresh probe into grooming gangs

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a "landmark" 100-year agreement on Thursday (Jan 16), pledging to strengthen defence ties between the two nations.&nbsp;
Starmer, who is currently in Ukraine on his first official visit to Kyiv, said that the deal reflects a new partnership between the UK and Ukraine, highlighting the huge affection that exists between the two countries.
The wide-ranging deal encompasses cooperation in military, energy, scientific, cultural, economic, and other sectors.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-keir-starmer-in-ukraine-to-sign-landmark-100-year-partnership-8627144" rel="dofollow">British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it?</a>
Zelensky called it a "historic day", saying that the relationship between the two countries is closer than ever.&nbsp;
"Today is a truly historic day, our relationship is closer than ever," Zelensky told media after the signing of the deal.
"Our 100-year partnership is a promise that we are with you, not just today or tomorrow, but for a hundred years &ndash; long after this war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again," the British PM shared on X.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Peace through strength. I&rsquo;m in Kyiv with a simple message to the people of Ukraine: Our 100 Year Partnership is a promise that we are with you, not just today or tomorrow, but for a hundred years &ndash; long after this war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again. <a href="https://t.co/sd7BghKz28">pic.twitter.com/sd7BghKz28</a>
&mdash; Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Keir_Starmer/status/1879809119332475273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</blockquote>
Following the signing of the deal, the two leaders held a joint press conference. Starmer said that the UK will be with Ukraine long after this &ldquo;terrible war&rdquo; is over and when the country is &ldquo;free and thriving once again&rdquo;.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosions-heard-in-kyiv-as-british-pm-starmer-visits-ukraine-8627086" rel="dofollow">Explosions heard over Ukraine's presidential palace amid British PM Starmer's visit</a>
Pointing to the recent attacks by Russia, he said that President Vladimir Putin shows no "stomach" for wanting peace.&nbsp;
<h2>UK to deliver new mobile air defence system</h2>
Starmer announced that in 2025, the UK will extend more support to Ukraine than ever, saying that Britain will deliver a new mobile air defence system, designed by Britain and Denmark.&nbsp;
Further, Britain will continue to train Ukrainian troops. While over 50,000 troops have already been trained on British soil since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-backs-rajya-sabha-mp-priyanka-chaturvedis-post-denouncing-pakistani-grooming-gang-8604057" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk and India's MP unite against Starmer's 'Asian' tag for UK child abusers</a>
<h2>'Britain will play a leading part'</h2>
Starmer said Britain will play a &ldquo;leading part&rdquo; when it comes to guaranteeing Ukraine&rsquo;s security without giving away any specifics.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-keir-starmer-slams-elon-musk-for-spreading-lies-and-misinformation-uk-grooming-gang-scandal-8596082" rel="dofollow">UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation'; X boss reacts</a>
Starmer's visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. The UK has already spent around $15 billion in support to Ukraine and has committed to providing around $3.6 billion in military aid every year.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The wide-ranging deal between the two nations encompasses cooperation in military, energy, scientific, cultural, economic, and other sectors.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a "landmark" 100-year agreement on Thursday (Jan 16), pledging to strengthen defence ties between the two nations. Starmer, who is currently in Ukraine on his first official visit to Kyiv, said that the deal reflects a new partnership between the UK and Ukraine, highlighting the huge affection that exists between the two countries. The wide-ranging deal encompasses cooperation in military, energy, scientific, cultural, economic, and other sectors. Also read: British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it? Zelensky called it a "historic day", saying that the relationship between the two countries is closer than ever. "Today is a truly historic day, our relationship is closer than ever," Zelensky told media after the signing of the deal. "Our 100-year partnership is a promise that we are with you, not just today or tomorrow, but for a hundred years – long after this war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again," the British PM shared on X. Peace through strength. I’m in Kyiv with a simple message to the people of Ukraine: Our 100 Year Partnership is a promise that we are with you, not just today or tomorrow, but for a hundred years – long after this war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again. pic.twitter.com/sd7BghKz28 — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) January 16, 2025 Following the signing of the deal, the two leaders held a joint press conference. Starmer said that the UK will be with Ukraine long after this “terrible war” is over and when the country is “free and thriving once again”. Also read: Explosions heard over Ukraine's presidential palace amid British PM Starmer's visit Pointing to the recent attacks by Russia, he said that President Vladimir Putin shows no "stomach" for wanting peace. UK to deliver new mobile air defence system Starmer announced that in 2025, the UK will extend more support to Ukraine than ever, saying that Britain will deliver a new mobile air defence system, designed by Britain and Denmark. Further, Britain will continue to train Ukrainian troops. While over 50,000 troops have already been trained on British soil since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Also read: Elon Musk and India's MP unite against Starmer's 'Asian' tag for UK child abusers 'Britain will play a leading part' Starmer said Britain will play a “leading part” when it comes to guaranteeing Ukraine’s security without giving away any specifics. Also read: UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation'; X boss reacts Starmer's visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. The UK has already spent around $15 billion in support to Ukraine and has committed to providing around $3.6 billion in military aid every year. (With inputs from agencies)

UK to play 'leading role' in defending Ukraine as Starmer, Zelensky ink 100-year agreement

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Ukraine on Thursday (Jan 16) in his first visit since taking office to sign a "landmark 100-year partnership" with the war-affected country. The pact is the formal document of the already promised economic and military support to Ukraine. The visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will discuss essential security guarantees with its key allies like the UK ahead of the reports that Trump plans to push his country for peace talks in his second term in the White House.
UK's ambassador to Ukraine, Martin Harris, and the Ukrainian envoy to London, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, were present at the Kyiv railway station to greet him.&nbsp;
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The pact would cover varied areas, including science and culture, but the primary focus would be on Ukraine's security. It further promises increased assistance in drone technology.&nbsp;
BBC reported that Starmer said in a statement, "This is not just about the here and now; it is also about an investment in our two countries for the next century. "&nbsp;
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He further added that the ambition of the Russian supremo Vladimir Putin to "wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners" has been a monumental strategic failure. He claimed that the particular pact would take the "friendship" between the UK and Ukraine to the next level.&nbsp;
The UK has already spent around $15 billion in support to Ukraine and has committed to providing around $3.6 billion in military aid every year.&nbsp;
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Starner had visited Ukraine last time in 2023, when he was serving as the leader of the opposition.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | UK's ambassador to Ukraine, Martin Harris, and the Ukrainian envoy to London, Valerii Zaluzhnyi were present at the Kyiv railway station to greet PM Keir Starmer. 

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Ukraine on Thursday (Jan 16) in his first visit since taking office to sign a "landmark 100-year partnership" with the war-affected country. The pact is the formal document of the already promised economic and military support to Ukraine. The visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Also read | Explosions heard in Kyiv amid British PM Starmer's visit Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will discuss essential security guarantees with its key allies like the UK ahead of the reports that Trump plans to push his country for peace talks in his second term in the White House. UK's ambassador to Ukraine, Martin Harris, and the Ukrainian envoy to London, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, were present at the Kyiv railway station to greet him. Also read | Netanyahu stalls gaza ceasefire deal until Hamas drops ‘last-minute concessions’; group denies backtracking claims The pact would cover varied areas, including science and culture, but the primary focus would be on Ukraine's security. It further promises increased assistance in drone technology. BBC reported that Starmer said in a statement, "This is not just about the here and now; it is also about an investment in our two countries for the next century. " Also read | Donald Trump inauguration: Key events, attendees and more. All you need to know He further added that the ambition of the Russian supremo Vladimir Putin to "wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners" has been a monumental strategic failure. He claimed that the particular pact would take the "friendship" between the UK and Ukraine to the next level. The UK has already spent around $15 billion in support to Ukraine and has committed to providing around $3.6 billion in military aid every year. Also read | Trump is not the first US president to think about buying Greenland. A look at the geopolitics of the Arctic Starner had visited Ukraine last time in 2023, when he was serving as the leader of the opposition. (With inputs from agencies)

British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it?

Air raid sirens and loud blasts were heard in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Thursday (Jan 16) amid UK Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Keir+Starmer" rel="dofollow">Keir Starmer</a>'s first official visit to the warring nation, AFP reported.&nbsp;
The Ukraine's Marynskyi presidential palace echoed with loud blooms, where the two leaders were due to hold a press conference on Thursday.&nbsp;
Reportedly, the Ukrainian air defence tried to shoot down a drone.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-keir-starmer-in-ukraine-to-sign-landmark-100-year-partnership-8627144" rel="dofollow">British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it?</a>
Air defence systems in the centre of the city were engaging enemy targets after the air force warned of an enemy drone attack, officials in Kyiv said.
The drone, which was possibly a Russian decoy, was seen and heard buzzing above the Marynskyi presidential palace. Notably, the palace is not far from Zelensky's office.&nbsp;
However, it is not clear whether the drone was downed immediately.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-keir-starmer-slams-elon-musk-for-spreading-lies-and-misinformation-uk-grooming-gang-scandal-8596082" rel="dofollow">UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation'; X boss reacts</a>
There have been no casualties in the drone attack, according to the city officials. However, a car was damaged by falling debris in one of the districts.&nbsp;
<h2>Starmer's first visit to Ukraine</h2>
Starmer is currently in Ukraine to sign a so-called "100-year partnership" treaty between Britain and Ukraine.&nbsp;
The pact is the formal document of the already promised economic and military support to Ukraine.
"Putin's ambition to wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners has been a monumental strategic failure," Starmer said, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago.
"Instead, we are closer than ever, and this partnership will take that friendship to the next level," he added.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-vs-starmer-x-boss-wants-king-charles-to-oust-uk-govt-amid-grooming-gangs-row-8590618" rel="dofollow"> Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row</a>
The visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to discuss essential security guarantees with its key allies like the UK ahead of the reports that Trump plans to push his country for peace talks in his second term in the White House.
Starner had visited Ukraine last time in 2023, when he was serving as the leader of the opposition.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Ukraine's Marynskyi presidential palace echoed with loud blooms, where the two leaders were due to hold a press conference on Thursday. 

Air raid sirens and loud blasts were heard in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Thursday (Jan 16) amid UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's first official visit to the warring nation, AFP reported. The Ukraine's Marynskyi presidential palace echoed with loud blooms, where the two leaders were due to hold a press conference on Thursday. Reportedly, the Ukrainian air defence tried to shoot down a drone. Also read: British PM Keir Starmer in Ukraine to sign 'landmark 100-year' partnership. What is it? Air defence systems in the centre of the city were engaging enemy targets after the air force warned of an enemy drone attack, officials in Kyiv said. The drone, which was possibly a Russian decoy, was seen and heard buzzing above the Marynskyi presidential palace. Notably, the palace is not far from Zelensky's office. However, it is not clear whether the drone was downed immediately. Also read: UK PM Keir Starmer slams Elon Musk for spreading 'lies and misinformation'; X boss reacts There have been no casualties in the drone attack, according to the city officials. However, a car was damaged by falling debris in one of the districts. Starmer's first visit to Ukraine Starmer is currently in Ukraine to sign a so-called "100-year partnership" treaty between Britain and Ukraine. The pact is the formal document of the already promised economic and military support to Ukraine. "Putin's ambition to wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners has been a monumental strategic failure," Starmer said, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago. "Instead, we are closer than ever, and this partnership will take that friendship to the next level," he added. Also read: Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row The visit marks the first step by the UK to show support to Ukraine just days before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to discuss essential security guarantees with its key allies like the UK ahead of the reports that Trump plans to push his country for peace talks in his second term in the White House. Starner had visited Ukraine last time in 2023, when he was serving as the leader of the opposition. (With inputs from agencies)

Explosions heard over Ukraine's presidential palace amid British PM Starmer's visit

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a government initiative to use artificial intelligence (AI) to promote economic growth and improve public service delivery.

UK government leverages AI for better public services

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under fire for his past role as the Director of Public Prosecutions. Critics argue his decisions during that time could impact his leadership and political standing in the current government.

UK PM Keir Starmer under fire for his role as Director of Public Prosecutor

Former prime minister of the United Kingdom (UK)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-finance-minister-lifts-taxes-by-518bn-in-first-labour-budget-772080">Liz Truss</a>&nbsp;sent a legal notice to the current PM <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-backs-rajya-sabha-mp-priyanka-chaturvedis-post-denouncing-pakistani-grooming-gang-8604057">Keir Starmer</a> demanding him to stop claiming that she crashed the economy of the country. The six-page letter asks Starmer to stop making "false and defamatory" claims and accused him of harming her reputation. She said Starmer's allegations are contributing to her losing the South West Norfolk seat in the general election.&nbsp;
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The Truss-Starmer row came to the fore when the UK's long-term borrowing costs hit their lowest and the value of the pound dropped as never before.&nbsp; &nbsp; Truss argued in the letter that the market meltdown after her mini budget in October 2022, termed as "disastrous" by many, could not be described as "a crash of the economy". She claimed that the meltdown was not a part of the GDP fall or a rise in unemployment in the UK.&nbsp;
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She cited a report by the economist and rightwing commentator Andrew Lilico for Europe Economics and said that the factors involved in the economic turmoil were not under her control. She said it was the result of economic failures by the Bank of England, and if one describes it as an economic crash, they don't know "basic economics".&nbsp;
Truss&rsquo;s legal letter argued that &ldquo;the LDI (Liability-driven investing) crisis would have happened at some point in any event". She added that it could not be described as &ldquo;a crash of the economy&rdquo;.
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The legal letter is the first attempt by Britain's shortest-serving PM to save her reputation after the economic turmoil the country went through during her term in office.
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(With inputs from agencies)

World | Business & economy: Political leaders face intensified scrutiny as the currency's fall underscores potential missteps in governance, prompting calls for more transparent and effective policy measures.

Former prime minister of the United Kingdom (UK) Liz Truss sent a legal notice to the current PM Keir Starmer demanding him to stop claiming that she crashed the economy of the country. The six-page letter asks Starmer to stop making "false and defamatory" claims and accused him of harming her reputation. She said Starmer's allegations are contributing to her losing the South West Norfolk seat in the general election. Also read | Hungary PM Orban takes break in India amid health speculations The Truss-Starmer row came to the fore when the UK's long-term borrowing costs hit their lowest and the value of the pound dropped as never before. Truss argued in the letter that the market meltdown after her mini budget in October 2022, termed as "disastrous" by many, could not be described as "a crash of the economy". She claimed that the meltdown was not a part of the GDP fall or a rise in unemployment in the UK. Also read | Lebanon elects Army chief Joseph Aoun as president amid West Asia unrest She cited a report by the economist and rightwing commentator Andrew Lilico for Europe Economics and said that the factors involved in the economic turmoil were not under her control. She said it was the result of economic failures by the Bank of England, and if one describes it as an economic crash, they don't know "basic economics". Truss’s legal letter argued that “the LDI (Liability-driven investing) crisis would have happened at some point in any event". She added that it could not be described as “a crash of the economy”. Also read | Video: Men and dog trapped in house as Los Angeles wildfire rage The legal letter is the first attempt by Britain's shortest-serving PM to save her reputation after the economic turmoil the country went through during her term in office. Also read | Russia doubts Trump can resolve Ukraine war swiftly; calls Greenland and Canada plans ‘wild speculations (With inputs from agencies)

'Negligence of basic economics': Liz Truss sends legal letter to Starmer asking him to stop saying she crashed UK's economy

Billionaire Elon Musk backed Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi's views on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's remark on the child sexual abuse scandal in England.
Starmer, on Monday (Jan 6), courted controversy after he used the term "Asian" with reference to the child sexual abuse scandal in northern England by groups comprising of men who mostly belonged to Pakistani origin.
Chaturvedi took to her X account and wrote in a post, &ldquo;Repeat after me, they aren&rsquo;t ASIAN Grooming Gangs but PAKISTANI grooming gangs. Why should Asians take the fall for one absolute rogue nation?"&nbsp;
Musk threw his weight behind the Rajya Sabha MP and responded to her post by saying "True".
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5ozjhw0-whg5rkaq-rq8afkza">
True
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1877001375852212399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Musk accuses Starmer of failing to bring 'rape gangs' to justice</h2>
Earlier, Musk had accused Starmer of failing to bring to justice 'rape gangs' when he was the head of the country's prosecution service.
In a series of posts on his social media platform X, Musk said on Thursday (Jan 2), "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) approval for the police to charge suspects."
"Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013," Musk added.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-launches-scathing-attack-on-george-soros-condemns-him-for-funding-hamas-supporting-ngos-8603398" rel="dofollow">Also read: Elon Musk launches scathing attack on George Soros, condemns him for 'funding Hamas-supporting' NGOs</a>
<h2>The rape gangs or grooming gangs in UK</h2>
For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. Many of these gangs were operated by mainly Pakistan-origin men.&nbsp;
Musk's remarks against Prime Minister Starmer came hours after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for a full national public inquiry into the rape gangs scandal.
"Trials have taken place all over the country in recent years but no one in authority has joined the dots. 2025 must be the year that the victims start to get justice," Badenoch said in a post on X.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-vs-starmer-x-boss-wants-king-charles-to-oust-uk-govt-amid-grooming-gangs-row-8590618" rel="dofollow">Also read: Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row</a>
<h2>Starmer responds to allegations</h2>
The UK PM responding to the allegations said the ones "spreading lies" were not interested in the victims, but themselves.
"We have seen this playbook many times - whipping up of intimidation and of threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it," Starmer said.
"Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they're interested in themselves," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. 

Billionaire Elon Musk backed Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi's views on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's remark on the child sexual abuse scandal in England. Starmer, on Monday (Jan 6), courted controversy after he used the term "Asian" with reference to the child sexual abuse scandal in northern England by groups comprising of men who mostly belonged to Pakistani origin. Chaturvedi took to her X account and wrote in a post, “Repeat after me, they aren’t ASIAN Grooming Gangs but PAKISTANI grooming gangs. Why should Asians take the fall for one absolute rogue nation?" Musk threw his weight behind the Rajya Sabha MP and responded to her post by saying "True". True — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 8, 2025 Musk accuses Starmer of failing to bring 'rape gangs' to justice Earlier, Musk had accused Starmer of failing to bring to justice 'rape gangs' when he was the head of the country's prosecution service. In a series of posts on his social media platform X, Musk said on Thursday (Jan 2), "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) approval for the police to charge suspects." "Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013," Musk added. Also read: Elon Musk launches scathing attack on George Soros, condemns him for 'funding Hamas-supporting' NGOs The rape gangs or grooming gangs in UK For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. Many of these gangs were operated by mainly Pakistan-origin men. Musk's remarks against Prime Minister Starmer came hours after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for a full national public inquiry into the rape gangs scandal. "Trials have taken place all over the country in recent years but no one in authority has joined the dots. 2025 must be the year that the victims start to get justice," Badenoch said in a post on X. Also read: Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row Starmer responds to allegations The UK PM responding to the allegations said the ones "spreading lies" were not interested in the victims, but themselves. "We have seen this playbook many times - whipping up of intimidation and of threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it," Starmer said. "Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they're interested in themselves," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk and India's MP unite against Starmer's 'Asian' tag for UK child abusers

Billionaire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/x-suspends-journalist-for-debunking-conspiracy-that-elon-musks-fan-account-is-musk-himself-heres-what-billionaire-says-8599377">Elon Musk</a> took a dig at the UK government as he shared a personal tale of his grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, who was British. Musk said his grandmother was a working woman and survived poverty during the Great Depression and World War II. He said that she was a great part of his childhood and was "very strict". The post became controversial when the Tesla CEO said, "My Nana was one of the poor working-class girls with no one to protect her who might have been abducted in present-day Britain."&nbsp;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5mqot09-7pw45xyd-iogne3w0">
My British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, was an important part of my childhood. She was very strict, but also kind and I could always count on her. She grew up very poor in England during the Great Depression only to be bombed in WW2. To earn money for food, she cleaned&hellip;
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1876582315062858159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
The post came after Musk slammed the present UK government's approach to handling child grooming gangs. In his post on X, Musk wrote, "She grew up&nbsp;very poor in England during the Great Depression only to be bombed in World War II. To earn money for food, she cleaned houses, leaving me with a lasting respect for those who do so."&nbsp;
Musk has talked about his grandmother multiple times before. His grandmother was born in Mossley Hill, Liverpool, in August 1923 and married Walter Musk in 1944. She later moved to South Africa.&nbsp;
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Musk has accused the Keir Starmer government of being "complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes".&nbsp;
The accusations by Trump revolve around child sex abuse cases, known as the Rotherham grooming scandal that shook the UK and the world in 2014 after a report was published on it. The report found that around 1,400 children were sexually exploited in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013.
Musk has called out Starmer and King Charles III to dissolve the UK parliament and order fresh elections. However, Starmer denied Musk's accusations and has accused Musk of spreading "lies and misinformation".
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(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World | Trending: Musk fondly recalls his childhood, highlighting his grandmother's significant influence during those formative years, emphasising how her presence shaped his upbringing and values.

Billionaire Elon Musk took a dig at the UK government as he shared a personal tale of his grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, who was British. Musk said his grandmother was a working woman and survived poverty during the Great Depression and World War II. He said that she was a great part of his childhood and was "very strict". The post became controversial when the Tesla CEO said, "My Nana was one of the poor working-class girls with no one to protect her who might have been abducted in present-day Britain." Also read | South Korea's transport minister to resign over deadly plane crash incident My British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, was an important part of my childhood. She was very strict, but also kind and I could always count on her. She grew up very poor in England during the Great Depression only to be bombed in WW2. To earn money for food, she cleaned… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2025 The post came after Musk slammed the present UK government's approach to handling child grooming gangs. In his post on X, Musk wrote, "She grew up very poor in England during the Great Depression only to be bombed in World War II. To earn money for food, she cleaned houses, leaving me with a lasting respect for those who do so." Musk has talked about his grandmother multiple times before. His grandmother was born in Mossley Hill, Liverpool, in August 1923 and married Walter Musk in 1944. She later moved to South Africa. Also read | South Korean court re-issues arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Musk has accused the Keir Starmer government of being "complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes". The accusations by Trump revolve around child sex abuse cases, known as the Rotherham grooming scandal that shook the UK and the world in 2014 after a report was published on it. The report found that around 1,400 children were sexually exploited in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013. Musk has called out Starmer and King Charles III to dissolve the UK parliament and order fresh elections. However, Starmer denied Musk's accusations and has accused Musk of spreading "lies and misinformation". Also read | Trump Jr arrives in Greenland, shares video featuring 'mini statue of Donald Trump'. Netizens react (With inputs from agencies)

In fresh jibe at Starmer, Musk says his British grandmother might have been abducted in present UK

As Elon Musk continues to stir political tensions in the UK with his inciting social media posts, his father, Errol Musk, has a piece of advice for those frustrated by the billionaire's commentary: &ldquo;Tell him to get lost.&rdquo;
<h2>What did Elon Musk's father say?</h2>
In an interview with LBC Radio, Errol Musk downplayed his son's influence, stating, &ldquo;He&rsquo;s just a person&hellip; hundreds of thousands of people are tweeting the same things or saying the same things as he is.&rdquo;&nbsp;
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&ldquo;So I wouldn't just because he's a person that stands out more that they can knock him or just don't listen to him, that's all,&rdquo; he said, adding &ldquo;I'd say don't worry about it. Tell him to get lost.&rdquo;
When probed on why the SpaceX CEO was so invested in UK politics, the senior Musk said that his son has a deep connection to England.
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<h2>Musk and UK politics &nbsp;</h2>
The controversy began when Musk used X to criticise UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's over &ldquo;Pakistan grooming gangs scandal,&rdquo; alleging that during his tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions (2008&ndash;2013) &ldquo;Starmer was complicit in the rape of Britain when he was head of Crown Prosecution for 6 years&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Musk also voiced support for jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson and called for King Charles to dissolve parliament.&nbsp;
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Starmer, meanwhile, accused Musk of &ldquo;whipping up intimidation,&rdquo; and said that the SpaceX CEO was &ldquo;desperate for attention&rdquo;. Highlighting threats against ministers, including Labour MP Jess Phillips, the British PM stated that &ldquo;a line has been crossed.&rdquo; He also slammed Musk for &ldquo;cheerleading Tommy Robinson,&rdquo; calling it a &ldquo;playbook&rdquo; designed to incite violence and distraction.
&ldquo;Those who are cheerleading Tommy Robinson are not interested in justice. They're supporting a man who went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, a gang grooming case.&rdquo;
&ldquo;These are people who are trying to get some vicarious thrill from street violence that people like Tommy Robinson promote,&rdquo; he added.
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Labour MP Paul Waugh also criticised the politicisation of child sexual exploitation cases, stating, &ldquo;The name of Rochdale has been used and abused by outsiders who treat child rape as a political game - rather than an appalling crime that needs urgent action.&rdquo; &nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The name of Rochdale has been used and abused by outsiders who treat child rape as a political game - rather than an appalling crime that needs urgent action. <a href="https://t.co/L0ZC5wBe10">pic.twitter.com/L0ZC5wBe10</a>
&mdash; Paul Waugh MP (@paulwaugh) <a href="https://twitter.com/paulwaugh/status/1876418492146327716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Reports suggest Musk is considering donating up to $100 million to Britain's Reform Party, a significant sum in the context of UK political donations. This raises concerns about how his wealth could reshape political dynamics. Critics argue Musk's financial clout makes his opinions more than just rhetoric, with the potential to influence political outcomes directly.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: Elon Musk's controversial remarks on UK politics, including criticism of PM Keir Starmer and support for Tommy Robinson, have sparked significant public debate. 

As Elon Musk continues to stir political tensions in the UK with his inciting social media posts, his father, Errol Musk, has a piece of advice for those frustrated by the billionaire's commentary: “Tell him to get lost.” What did Elon Musk's father say? In an interview with LBC Radio, Errol Musk downplayed his son's influence, stating, “He’s just a person… hundreds of thousands of people are tweeting the same things or saying the same things as he is.” Also read | X suspends journalist for debunking conspiracy that Elon Musk's fan account is Musk himself. Here's what billionaire says “So I wouldn't just because he's a person that stands out more that they can knock him or just don't listen to him, that's all,” he said, adding “I'd say don't worry about it. Tell him to get lost.” When probed on why the SpaceX CEO was so invested in UK politics, the senior Musk said that his son has a deep connection to England. Also read | Jean-Marie Le Pen, controversial France far-right leader, dies at 96. Who was he? Musk and UK politics The controversy began when Musk used X to criticise UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's over “Pakistan grooming gangs scandal,” alleging that during his tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions (2008–2013) “Starmer was complicit in the rape of Britain when he was head of Crown Prosecution for 6 years”. Musk also voiced support for jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson and called for King Charles to dissolve parliament. Also read | After Germany, France accuses Elon Musk of 'direct intervention' in elections; Norway PM terms it 'worrying' Starmer, meanwhile, accused Musk of “whipping up intimidation,” and said that the SpaceX CEO was “desperate for attention”. Highlighting threats against ministers, including Labour MP Jess Phillips, the British PM stated that “a line has been crossed.” He also slammed Musk for “cheerleading Tommy Robinson,” calling it a “playbook” designed to incite violence and distraction. “Those who are cheerleading Tommy Robinson are not interested in justice. They're supporting a man who went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, a gang grooming case.” “These are people who are trying to get some vicarious thrill from street violence that people like Tommy Robinson promote,” he added. Also read | Canada PM race: 'Rock star' central banker Mark Carney considering to run for top job Labour MP Paul Waugh also criticised the politicisation of child sexual exploitation cases, stating, “The name of Rochdale has been used and abused by outsiders who treat child rape as a political game - rather than an appalling crime that needs urgent action.” The name of Rochdale has been used and abused by outsiders who treat child rape as a political game - rather than an appalling crime that needs urgent action. pic.twitter.com/L0ZC5wBe10 — Paul Waugh MP (@paulwaugh) January 7, 2025 Reports suggest Musk is considering donating up to $100 million to Britain's Reform Party, a significant sum in the context of UK political donations. This raises concerns about how his wealth could reshape political dynamics. Critics argue Musk's financial clout makes his opinions more than just rhetoric, with the potential to influence political outcomes directly. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk's father, Errol Musk, urges Brits to ‘ignore him’. Here's why

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