European allies back Zelensky at London talks after criticism from Trump

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced his readiness for elections in Ukraine, responding to increasing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has called for a national vote amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

UK gilt yields have seen a slight decrease compared to other major economies, indicating a potential shift in the bond markets as Chancellor Rachel Reeves navigates fiscal challenges. Despite this drop, the UK still faces a significant premium on borrowing costs, with 10-year government gilt yields rising compared to US Treasury bonds and eurozone counterparts since the last general election.

The first serving member of the British armed forces has been killed in Ukraine since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion, marking a significant and tragic milestone in the ongoing conflict. This incident underscores the perilous conditions faced by foreign military personnel operating in the region, as confirmed by the Ministry of Defence.

Former President Donald Trump has urged Ukraine to accept a peace deal with Russia, claiming that the country is losing the ongoing conflict. He criticized European leaders as weak and suggested that Russia holds significant leverage in negotiations. This statement reflects Trump's ongoing influence in U.S. foreign policy discussions regarding Ukraine.

The US and European nations have called on Rwanda and the M23 rebel group to cease their offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following the recent signing of a peace agreement in Washington. This appeal comes as M23 fighters have taken control of the strategic city of Uvira, prompting a mass exodus of civilians into Burundi.

The United States and Russia convened a business dialogue in Dubai aimed at establishing a long-term agenda for enhanced cooperation, as outlined in a joint statement. This meeting signifies a potential thaw in relations between the two nations, which have been strained in recent years due to geopolitical tensions.

The ACLU has filed a lawsuit seeking a legal basis for former President Trump's military strikes on alleged drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean, which have been criticized for their minimal impact on drug flows. Experts argue that these actions have resulted in significant loss of life without effectively addressing the drug trade.

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced his readiness to hold new elections in Ukraine, coinciding with his plans to submit revised proposals to Washington aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. This announcement comes amid increasing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been advocating for a national vote as part of the peace process.