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- Giant fox appears alongside Andy Burnham during Makerfield results announcement
- Children escape school fire in Tokyo as thick smoke fills building
- US-Iran talks delayed as Israeli military actions continue in Lebanon
- EU leaders support António Costa’s push for diplomacy with Russia
- US Senate passes bipartisan bill to secure funding for infrastructure
- Rutland’s Blue Shirts community patrol programme returns to support local businesses
- Rips appear in new sealant of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool amid algae bloom
- Drone strike on football team bus raises concerns over Belarus’s role in Ukraine conflict
LIVE German 2025 Election Results as they come in and analysi on who will be the next German Chancellor.
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Global Reaction to DE Elections
Giant fox appears alongside Andy Burnham during Makerfield results announcement
9:00 am
Get you up to speed: Why was there a giant fox next to Andy Burnham during the Makerfield results? | News UK
Andy Burnham has been re-elected as the Member of Parliament for Makerfield after securing 24,937 votes, amounting to a 55% majority in the by-election held on 18 June 2026. His closest rival, animal rights campaigner Robert Pownall, received only 18 votes.
The by-election for the Makerfield constituency took place on 18 June, following the resignation of sitting Labour MP Josh Simons. Meanwhile, Protect the Wild’s campaign, featuring Robert Pownall in a fox costume, highlighted concerns over the government’s record on animal welfare and wildlife protection.
Following Andy Burnham’s victory in the Makerfield by-election, he is expected to leverage his position to voice concerns regarding animal rights, a key issue raised by his opponent, Robert Pownall, founder of Protect the Wild. The group has issued statements calling for stronger legislation to protect wildlife and has indicated plans to intensify advocacy efforts to ensure that government commitments are upheld.
What remains unclear — It is not specified whether Andy Burnham plans to pursue leadership ambitions following his by-election win.
Giant fox appears alongside Andy Burnham during Makerfield results announcement
Not many people can say they were in the room when Andy Burnham became the next MP of Makerfield – but a giant furry fox can.
The mayor of Greater Manchester easily defeated more than a dozen other candidates after securing 24,937 votes – a majority of about 55%.
But among his foes was animal rights campaigner Robert Pownall, otherwise known as the tall fox standing next to Burnham this morning.
Pownall, the founder of Protect the Wild, scored just 18 votes in the by-election.
Follow WTX’s live coverage of the Makerfield by-election results here
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He wrote on the newsletter service Substack in May that he would wear a fox suit while out campaigning – and still wear it to Parliament if he won.
As much as the costume is ‘terrifying looking’, he wore it for one reason: ‘Because I simply do not trust this government to deliver for animals.’
‘They’ve already U-turned on banning animal trophy imports, abandoned plans to ban foie gras imports and allowed two more years of badger culling despite manifesto promises suggesting the exact opposite.’
After Pownall’s defeat, Protect the Wild shared a photograph of the candidate holding a sign reading: ‘Protect British Wildlife’.
On Facebook this morning, the group said: ‘We need a Govt that actually takes action for British wildlife, not letting developers do as they please. We need the Hunting Act properly strengthened and enforced.
‘We need a commitment that badger culling will never return. We need to see an end to bird shooting in this country.
‘We need so much better.’
Hunting is not illegal in England – shooting deer, rabbits and some other animals is allowed during hunting seasons – but fox hunting is banned.
But campaigners have long criticised the law for allowing trail hunting, where dogs follow a laid scent trail, usually of fox urine, instead of a fox.
Protect the Wild says hunters claim they have left ‘scent trails’ and are merely following them through the woods with hounds.
Pownall is no stranger to politics – or sweaty animal suits. He stood in the May Scottish parliament elections dressed as a giant gannet.
He threw on the seabird suit to bring attention to the guga hunt, a centuries-old tradition in northern Scotland that sees thousands of gannets being killed for their meat.
Burnham, widely seen as a possible contender to replace Sir Keir Starmer, certainly had some strange company next to him this morning.
To his right (so, the non-fox one) was a towering bin. Count Binface, a joke candidate who has lost against many a prominent politician, hoped to beat Burnham with his pledge to slash taxes.
‘And raise everyone else’s,’ his policy manifesto said.
Count Binface, of the Count Binface Party, also pledged to cap the price of 99 Flake ice-creams to 99p and ensure train wifi actually works.
On his official X account, Count Binface shared a photo of himself on the stage of Edge Wigan with Burnham and Pownall.
‘Wherever there’s a bin in Britain,’ he wrote, ‘a fox is sure to follow.’
Children escape school fire in Tokyo as thick smoke fills building
8:00 am
Get you up to speed: Children cower on a ledge while fleeing fire that engulfed their school | News World
A fire broke out in the music room of Takinogawa Daisan Elementary School in northern Tokyo around 11am on Friday, prompting teachers and pupils to escape through windows. Approximately 300 students and staff were present, with around 10 people injured, although none of the injuries are life-threatening.
The Tokyo Fire Department reported that the blaze consumed approximately 200 square metres and was extinguished within an hour. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, with focus on a room used for storing musical instruments where the fire reportedly originated.
Tokyo Fire Department officials reported that around 10 people, including students and staff, were treated for smoke inhalation, though none sustained life-threatening injuries. The cause of the fire at Takinogawa Daisan Elementary School remains under investigation, with authorities indicating that further updates will follow as the inquiry progresses.
What remains unclear — The specific cause of the fire at Takinogawa Daisan Elementary School is still under investigation.
Children escape school fire in Tokyo as thick smoke fills building
Teachers and pupils escaped through windows after a fire ripped through a school in Tokyo.
Video footage captured the moment children cowered on a ledge of the building while thick smoke billowed out of the building at around 11am on Friday.
There were around 300 students and staff in the Takinogawa Daisan Elementary School in the north of the city when fire broke out in the music room on the fourth floor.
The fire tore through the fourth floor of the Takinogawa Daisan Elementary School
Firefighters managed to rescue a teacher and schoolchildren, several of which are being treated for smoke inhalation.
Around 10 people were injured but none life-threatening.
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Firefighters at the scene of the school fire in northern Tokyo (Picture: EPA)
The cause is currently under investigation.
It’s understood there was a class being held in the music room when the fire began.
A burning smell came from a room used to store musical instruments, according to The Japan Times.
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US-Iran talks delayed as Israeli military actions continue in Lebanon
7:34 am
Get you up to speed: US-Iran talks postponed as Israel attacks Lebanon
Planned talks in Burgenstock, Switzerland, between the United States and Iran to discuss a ceasefire deal have been postponed due to Israel’s ongoing military operations in southern Lebanon. Israeli strikes have reportedly killed at least 16 people, with Iran-linked Hezbollah reporting intense fighting in the region.
The Swiss Foreign Ministry confirmed that the planned talks in Burgenstock have been postponed, with no new date provided for the discussions involving the US, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan. Vice President JD Vance’s anticipated negotiations were abruptly cancelled due to logistical issues, despite preparations by officials and the media in both Washington and Switzerland.
The Swiss Foreign Ministry confirmed that the planned talks between the United States, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan have been postponed, citing Iran’s delay in sending its delegation due to Israel’s military actions in southern Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that military operations will continue in Lebanon as long as necessary for Israel’s security, with no new date set for the rescheduled discussions.
What remains unclear — A new date for the postponed talks between the US and Iran has not yet been provided by the Swiss foreign ministry.
US-Iran talks delayed as Israeli military actions continue in Lebanon
News|US-Israel war on IranUS-Iran talks postponed as Israel attacks Lebanon
Tehran holds back from talks to cement ceasefire due to ongoing Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon.
Published On 19 Jun 202619 Jun 2026
Planned talks in Switzerland between the United States and Iran to discuss the technical terms of their ceasefire deal have been postponed.
The Swiss Foreign Ministry confirmed early on Friday that the talks, which were scheduled to take place in Burgenstock, would now not go ahead.
Reports suggest that Iran has delayed sending its delegation to discuss the technical issues linked to the ceasefire deal – digitally signed by the two countries on Wednesday – due to Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Lebanon.
Israeli strikes overnight and into Friday have reportedly killed at least 16 people in southern Lebanon, with Iran-linked Hezbollah reporting intense fighting.
Talks postponed
A ceremony followed by talks was expected to be held at the Burgenstock Resort in Stansstad, near Lucerne in central Switzerland.
It is owned by Katara Hospitality, part of Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund, which helped mediate peace in the conflict.
On Friday, in a message to media outlet AFP, the Swiss foreign ministry said: “The planned talks between the US, Iran, Qatar and Pakistan have been postponed”.
“Switzerland remains ready to facilitate these talks. The relevant preparatory work at Burgenstock is continuing,” it added, without providing a new date for the talks.
The announcement followed a report from media outlet Al-Mayadeen that Iran was delaying sending its delegation to Switzerland over Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Lebanon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that Israel’s military will stay in a “security zone” of southern Lebanon as long as “Israel’s security needs require it.”
Israel and Hezbollah are not parties to the agreement, but Iran has insisted Israel must withdraw from the large swath of southern Lebanon it is occupying.
Logistics have never been ‘simple or predictable’
The US push to quickly begin high-stakes talks with Iran hit a snag just two days after the signing of a 14-point memorandum of understanding with the US that sets out a framework for talks during a 60-day negotiation period.
Vice President JD Vance had been prepared to make an overnight flight to meet with his Iranian counterparts at the mountainside resort in the tiny Swiss village of Obburgen.
His staff and a small pack of journalists had even gathered at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington in anticipation of the trip.
Meanwhile, dozens of White House officials, advance staffers and more media gathered in Switzerland to prepare for Vance’s anticipated arrival.
But then, abruptly on Thursday evening, the trip was called off.
The White House issued a statement explaining Vance – who has been tapped by President Donald Trump to lead the negotiations – and his delegation were prepared for talks, but they were unable to finalise plans and the vice president would remain in Washington.
“The logistics of these negotiations have never been simple or predictable,” the statement noted.
Also on Thursday, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif cancelled his trip to Switzerland, his spokesperson told AFP.
EU leaders support António Costa’s push for diplomacy with Russia
7:00 am
EU leaders support António Costa’s push for diplomacy with Russia
Diplomatic Contacts
António Costa is establishing the groundwork for renewed diplomatic contacts with Russia.
António Costa is establishing the groundwork for renewed diplomatic contacts with Russia.
Diplomatic Shift
Antonio Costa’s initiative to establish diplomatic contacts with Russia signifies a critical engagement effort, potentially reshaping EU foreign relations and altering regional power dynamics.
Antonio Costa’s initiative to establish diplomatic contacts with Russia signifies a critical engagement effort, potentially reshaping EU foreign relations and altering regional power dynamics.
EU Response
“We welcome the initiative to engage in diplomatic dialogue, as consistent communication is essential for stability in our region,” stated European Council President António Costa.
“We welcome the initiative to engage in diplomatic dialogue, as consistent communication is essential for stability in our region,” stated European Council President António Costa.
Newsletter: EU leaders poised for battle over cash
Also in this newsletter: EU leaders react to European Council President António Costa laying the groundwork for diplomatic contacts with Russia; and exclusive comments from Sweden’s EU affairs minister as EU leaders gear up to debate the bloc’s next long-term budget.
US Senate passes bipartisan bill to secure funding for infrastructure
6:01 am
US Senate passes bipartisan bill to secure funding for infrastructure
The Supreme Court is set to hear a significant case on affirmative action today, which could redefine college admissions processes nationwide. The Court’s ruling may impact how institutions balance diversity against merit-based criteria, following challenges against Harvard University and the University of North Carolina’s admissions policies. This decision comes amid increasing scrutiny of educational equity and access across the nation.
In financial markets, futures indicate a volatile day ahead as investors brace for potential shifts in policy stemming from the ruling. Analysts predict that a decision favoring merit-based admissions could lead to a sharp reaction in university endowments and admissions-related stocks. Attention will focus on the Court’s ruling, with implications that may influence broader discussions on institutional diversity strategies.
Key developments across the United States
Trump is an aberration in US politics, scholar says
US POLITICS — A new academic study suggests former President Trump’s influence has deviated from traditional US political norms.
The study highlights how Trump’s tenure reshaped voter behavior and party dynamics, indicating a shift toward populism in American politics. Scholars argue this movement has lasting implications for future elections and governance styles.
DeSantis’s move against Wokeness faces hurdles in Florida
US LAW — Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis faces opposition in implementing strict anti-“woke” policies.
US ECONOMY — Recent data indicates a slowdown in the US labor market’s growth trajectory.
The latest employment statistics reveal fewer job creations, suggesting potential challenges ahead for economic recovery. Analysts caution that dampened growth may affect consumer spending and overall economic optimism.
Major tech firms are laying off employees to cut costs
US BUSINESS — Leading technology companies are reducing their workforce to mitigate financial pressures.
Organizations such as Microsoft and Google are implementing layoffs as a cost-cutting strategy amid economic uncertainties. This trend raises concerns over employment stability and the future of the tech sector.
NATO prepares for increased military presence in Eastern Europe
US DEFENSE — NATO is set to bolster its military presence in Eastern Europe in response to regional tensions.
Recent geopolitical developments have prompted NATO members to reinforce their military capabilities in the region, focusing on deterrence against potential aggressors. This action underscores the alliance’s commitment to collective defense and stability in Eastern Europe.
What to watch — Upcoming policy decisions regarding labor market regulations may be crucial for economic stability.
Further reading from US News sources
Reuters
Trump is an aberration in US politics, former President Bill Clinton says
Associated Press
AP-NORC poll: Gen Z may alter US voting for years to come
New York Times
Darden Restaurants Returns to Earnings Growth, Surpassing Wall Street Forecast
Washington Post
How black women and young people saved the Democrats
Bloomberg
U.S. Jobless Claims Unexpectedly Rise to the Highest in Four Months
Rutland’s Blue Shirts community patrol programme returns to support local businesses
4:00 am
Get you up to speed: Rutland’s ‘Blue Shirts’ return to support businesses, community
Business owners are expressing frustration over ongoing theft, disorder, and makeshift camps in their area. In response, a community patrol program called the “Blue Shirts” is being reinstated.
Authorities are implementing a community patrol programme known as the “Blue Shirts” to address rising concerns over theft and disorder. The initiative aims to restore order while local business owners note an increasing frustration with makeshift camps in the area.
Local business owners have expressed frustration over ongoing theft and disorder, prompting new community initiatives like the revival of the “Blue Shirts” patrol programme. Authorities have indicated plans to enhance security measures in the area, signalling a renewed focus on addressing public concerns.
What remains unclear — The specific measures and goals of the revived community patrol programme, “Blue Shirts,” have not been detailed.
Rutland’s Blue Shirts community patrol programme returns to support local businesses
Business owners say they’re tired of dealing with theft, disorder and makeshift camps
a community patrol program known as the “Blue Shirts” is making a comeback
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