Year: 2026

Belgium is negotiating with French energy group Engie to take control of its nuclear power plants, aiming to secure energy supplies. Prime Minister Bart de Wever confirmed plans to halt decommissioning operations while advocating for increased use of nuclear energy amid rising energy prices linked to global conflicts.

United States prosecutors have indicted Sinaloa state Governor Ruben Rocha Moya and nine other officials, alleging connections to the Sinaloa drug cartel. The indictment accuses them of facilitating narcotics trafficking in exchange for political support, potentially impacting US-Mexico relations amidst ongoing efforts to combat drug cartels.

President Trump announced that the US blockade of Iranian ports is proving effective, urging Tehran to “just give up” amid escalating tensions. Iran’s Parliament Speaker dismissed the blockade’s impact, stating it has only increased global oil prices, while tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt markets.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

This morning, Kensington and Chelsea council has issued a Section 215 order to Nicholas Halbritter, compelling action on his dilapidated Chelsea property, following resident complaints regarding ongoing issues affecting local home values.

Ukrainian forces claim their first victory capturing Russian positions exclusively with unmanned systems, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. This operation utilised drones and ground robots, marking a significant shift in warfare strategy. Stay updated on the latest developments.

European defence spending surged by 14% in 2025, totalling €739 billion, with Germany becoming the largest investor after increasing its budget by 24% to €97 billion. This rise comes amid US pressure for NATO members to meet 5% GDP targets by 2035, marking the highest growth since the 1950s.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

A tragic incident in Lambeth resulted in the death of a young cyclist following a collision with a lorry yesterday. Authorities are investigating, and a man in his 50s has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Didier Gaspard Owen Maximilien has been charged with mischief and public nuisance in Singapore after a viral stunt involving a vending machine. He faces two years in prison and fines. Maximilien’s court case is set for May 22, following his temporary allowance to leave for a school trip.

Hungarian Prime Minister-elect Péter Magyar indicated that EU funds could soon be released to Hungary following productive talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Their discussions addressed unlocking billions in frozen funding, necessary for economic support, amid a looming August deadline.

Hakima Boukerouis, identified over 20 years after her murder in France, had been found in a rainwater barrel in 2005. Her ex-husband has been arrested on suspicion of ordering her killing. Interpol’s Operation Identify Me led to this breakthrough.