Martin Rowson on Keir Starmer in the aftermath of Donald Trump’s visit – cartoon

DUP leader Gavin Robinson has pointed out that while the Northern Ireland Assembly has its flaws, the idea that people would be better off under Keir Starmer's leadership is misguided. This statement highlights the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of unionism in Northern Ireland and the challenges faced by political leaders in addressing public concerns.

This weekend, dive into six captivating reads that explore a range of intriguing topics, from personal experiences in couples therapy to the political maneuvers aimed at dethroning Keir Starmer. These articles not only entertain but also provoke thought about relationships and the implications of technology in our lives, making them essential reads for anyone looking to engage with current issues.

US President Donald Trump has expressed a desire to regain control of the former Bagram air base in Afghanistan. This move could signify a shift in US military strategy and its ongoing relationship with Afghanistan, highlighting the complexities of international military presence and security in the region.

In a significant move, President Donald Trump has blocked a weapons deal with Taiwan, a decision that could have far-reaching implications for U.S.-Taiwan relations and regional security. This action reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China, as Taiwan seeks to bolster its defense capabilities amid increasing pressure from Beijing. The decision may also impact the U.S.'s strategic stance in the Asia-Pacific region, raising concerns among allies about the commitment to support Taiwan.

Erik Siebert, the federal prosecutor for Virginia, has resigned following pressure from President Donald Trump, who expressed a desire for him to step down. This resignation comes after Siebert's investigation found no sufficient evidence to charge New York Attorney General Letitia James, a political opponent of Trump, with any wrongdoing. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and its critics, raising concerns about political influence over legal proceedings.

Donald Trump has claimed that the United States is profiting from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a statement that raises eyebrows about the motivations behind U.S. involvement in international affairs. This assertion highlights the complex dynamics of war and finance, suggesting that some may view conflict as an opportunity for economic gain rather than a humanitarian crisis. Trump's comments could influence public perception and debate regarding U.S. foreign policy and its implications for global stability.

Donald Trump has announced a new military strike in the Caribbean, claiming it targeted a boat involved in drug trafficking. This action, which resulted in the deaths of three individuals, raises significant concerns about the ongoing war on drugs and the implications of military intervention in such operations. Trump's assertion that the strike was carried out 'on my orders' highlights his direct involvement in military decisions, which could have far-reaching consequences for U.S. foreign policy and its approach to narcotics.

Donald Trump recently announced that he and Xi Jinping have reached a preliminary agreement regarding TikTok, marking their first direct communication since June. While this development could signal progress in the ongoing discussions about the app's future in the U.S., the lack of specific details about the agreement leaves many questions unanswered. This news is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China over technology and data privacy.

In a recent statement, a UK minister firmly rejected US President Donald Trump's suggestion to deploy the military to address illegal migration. This response highlights the ongoing tensions between the UK and the US regarding immigration policies and the differing approaches to handling migration issues. The minister's stance is significant as it underscores the UK's commitment to managing its borders independently, while also reflecting the complexities of international relations in the context of migration.

Donald Trump has announced a significant increase in application fees for skilled foreign worker visas, proposing a hefty $100,000 fee. This move raises concerns about the impact on the labor market and the ability of companies to attract top talent from abroad. Many argue that such a high fee could deter skilled workers from coming to the U.S., potentially stifling innovation and economic growth.

A British couple detained by the Taliban has been released and reunited with their family, a development welcomed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This positive outcome not only brings relief to the couple's loved ones but also highlights ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the situation in Afghanistan.

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair is reportedly developing a plan for post-war Gaza, as indicated by British and Israeli media. While there has been no official response from Israel, the situation could become complicated if US President Donald Trump endorses the initiative, making it difficult for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to decline. This development is significant as it highlights international involvement in the region's recovery efforts and the potential for diplomatic negotiations.

Estonia has called for consultations with NATO following reports of Russian jets allegedly violating its airspace. This incident comes amid heightened tensions, as Russia also faced accusations of drone incursions into the airspace of two other NATO member countries. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges in regional security and the importance of NATO's collective defense commitments.

Tony Abbott is calling on conservative voters to rally behind the Liberals, urging them to give the party 'one last chance' amidst internal conflicts. This appeal comes as key figures like Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Warren Mundine emphasize the importance of unity within the conservative movement. Abbott's message is significant as it highlights the challenges the Liberals face and the need for a cohesive front to regain support, especially in light of factional disputes that threaten their stability.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson has pointed out that while the Northern Ireland Assembly has its flaws, the idea that people would be better off under Keir Starmer's leadership is misguided. This statement highlights the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of unionism in Northern Ireland and the challenges faced by political leaders in addressing public concerns.

Poland has taken proactive measures to secure its airspace by deploying aircraft in response to recent Russian strikes on western Ukraine. This move highlights Poland's commitment to national security and its readiness to protect its borders, especially given the escalating tensions in the region. The Polish military's swift action demonstrates a strong defense posture, reassuring citizens and allies alike.

The recent Optus network outage has raised serious concerns after it was revealed that the disruption lasted eight hours longer than initially reported, impacting 600 customers' ability to call emergency services. Tragically, this outage is linked to three incidents involving fatalities, highlighting the critical importance of reliable communication networks. This situation not only affects those directly involved but also raises questions about the accountability and preparedness of telecommunications providers in emergencies.

This week, Cillian Murphy delivers a standout performance in a gripping high school drama that balances brutality with hope, while Joy Crookes, the talented singer-songwriter from south London, makes a vibrant return with her unique style. These highlights from the Guardian's top reviews showcase the exciting developments in culture, reflecting the dynamic creativity in the arts that resonates with audiences.