US economy added more jobs than forecast in September, after shock losses in August – business live

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has stated that some migrants in the UK may face a wait of up to 20 years for settled status. Mahmood emphasized that becoming part of the UK is a privilege that must be earned, not a right. This announcement reflects a significant shift in the government's approach to immigration and asylum policies.

Musician Joy Crookes has expressed concern over the rise of far-right politics in the UK and Ireland, describing the current climate as a 'dark time.' She noted that the recent display of national flags during her visits to London and Dublin made her feel unsafe, drawing parallels to the 1970s when the National Front was prominent. Crookes recently performed two sold-out shows at the O2 Academy in Brixton.

The UK is experiencing severe winter weather, with significant snowfall, ice, and freezing temperatures affecting various regions. The Met Office has issued multiple yellow weather warnings, indicating potential travel disruptions and power outages. Hundreds of schools are closed, and many roads are hazardous due to the adverse conditions, marking the first major winter blast of the season.

The US job market added 119,000 jobs in September, surpassing analysts' expectations of 51,000. The report, delayed by a federal government shutdown, shows that the unemployment rate remained steady at 4.4%. This stronger-than-anticipated job growth indicates resilience in the US economy amid ongoing uncertainties.

US and Russian officials have drafted a plan to end the Ukraine war that requires Kyiv to cede territory and significantly reduce its military forces. This proposal is likely to be perceived as a capitulation by Ukraine, facing opposition from the EU. Additionally, Donald Trump has signed a bill to release more documents related to Jeffrey Epstein.

South Africa has accused the US of 'coercion by absentia' following the announcement that the US would boycott the G20 meeting in Johannesburg. The US stated that no final statement could be issued without its presence and that the summit's priorities conflicted with its policy views. This marks the first G20 summit to be held in Africa, scheduled for November 22-23, 2025.

Brussels has expressed frustration at being excluded from a rumored US-Russia peace plan for Ukraine. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized that any successful plan must include European involvement. Reports indicate the draft may require Ukraine to cede territory in the Donbas, reduce its military forces, and limit US military aid—conditions that Kyiv has labeled as unacceptable, raising concerns about European security and its role in the peace process.

In the US, a baby is born in withdrawal every 18 minutes, often ending up in foster care. Stephanie Rosell, eight months pregnant and homeless, sought treatment at Holy Family Hospital for an infection. Struggling with fentanyl addiction, she experienced withdrawal symptoms during her hospital stay. Fortunately, she found support at Maddie's Place, where mothers can recover with their infants, allowing them to leave together in recovery.