UK economy shrank unexpectedly by 0.1% in October

The UK has imposed sanctions on four senior commanders of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) due to their alleged involvement in mass killings of civilians in El Fasher. These sanctions include asset freezes, while the UK has refrained from taking action against the RSF's key backer, the United Arab Emirates, or its chief commander, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti.

Kim Leadbeater, the MP leading the assisted dying bill, has criticized the House of Lords for proposing over 1,150 amendments, which she describes as unnecessary and cruel, aimed at delaying the legislation. One particularly contentious amendment suggests that terminally ill individuals should be filmed during the assisted death process.

Otters, once rare in urban areas of the UK, are increasingly spotted in cities like Lincoln and London, showcasing a remarkable conservation success story. Recent sightings include an otter dragging a large fish along a river-boat dock in Canary Wharf, highlighting their return to urban environments after decades of conservation efforts.

The UK government has announced a new strategy aimed at addressing violence against women, with a focus on changing attitudes among boys and young men. This initiative is part of a broader effort to tackle the root causes of gender-based violence and promote healthier relationships from a young age.

The Trump administration has proposed a policy requiring visa applicants from 42 countries, including the UK, Australia, and Germany, to disclose their social media, phone, and email histories for vetting before entering the US. Critics have labeled this move as a form of censorship that undermines civil liberties and could deter tourism, particularly ahead of major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As the United States pressures Ukraine to accept a peace plan favoring Russia, President Zelensky is seeking support from European allies. The UK, France, and Germany are spearheading the 'Coalition of the Willing' to provide military backing and counterbalance U.S. influence, while the EU is advocating for the release of €200 billion in frozen Russian assets to bolster Ukraine's defense.

European leaders from the 'Coalition of the Willing' are set to hold a videoconference on Thursday to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine, with President Zelensky participating. This meeting comes as European nations face challenges in compensating for reduced U.S. aid, leading to a decline in overall support for Ukraine in 2025. While France, Germany, and the UK have increased their contributions, Italy and Spain have reduced or halted their aid.

Eight more universities in the UK have severed recruitment ties with the fossil fuel industry, bringing the total to 18 institutions that now refuse to advertise roles in this sector. This marks an 80% increase in such commitments since last year, as highlighted in the latest higher education league table.