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    Roberta Metsola Signs EU’s €90 Billion Support Loan for Ukraine

    6:00 pm

    Get you up to speed: Roberta Metsola Signs EU’s €90 Billion Support Loan for Ukraine

    ELECTORAL SUPPORT LOAN
    European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has signed the EU’s €90 billion support loan for Ukraine amid Hungary’s opposition and misinformation regarding the legislative process.

    EU RESPONSE
    European Parliament President Roberta Metsola confirmed the loan’s signing, emphasizing that it remains subject to unanimous approval, specifically not overruling Hungary’s current veto.

    EU LOAN STATUS
    Metsola’s signature on the €90 billion Ukraine support loan does not progress implementation due to Hungary’s veto blocking any unanimous agreement among member states.

    What we know so far

    A post on X by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has triggered a wave of misinformation linked to the EU’s €90 billion support loan to Ukraine. This loan is designed to help Kyiv meet its general budget and defence needs amid Russia’s ongoing invasion.

    Hungary said earlier this week that it would block both the loan, which was agreed by EU leaders in December, and a new EU sanctions package against Moscow amid a dispute over oil supplies.

    Shortly afterwards, Metsola posted on X that she had signed the Ukraine support loan on behalf of the parliament. She stated the funds would be used to maintain essential public services, support Ukraine’s defence, protect shared European security, and anchor Ukraine’s future within Europe.

    The announcement triggered a wave of reactions online, with some claiming Hungary’s veto had been ignored; however, this is incorrect. Metsola did sign the loan on behalf of the European Parliament, but this is only one step in the EU’s legislative process. Her signature does not mean the loan has been definitively implemented.

    How the process works

    In December, after failing to reach an agreement on using frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s war effort, the European Council agreed in principle to provide €90 billion to help Kyiv meet its budgetary and military needs over the next two years.

    On 14 January, the European Commission put forward a package of legislative proposals to ensure continued financial support for Ukraine in 2026 and 2027. These included a proposal to establish a €90 billion Ukraine support loan, amendments to the Ukraine Facility, and changes to the EU’s multiannual financial framework so the loan could be backed by any unused budgetary “headroom”.

    Under EU law, these proposals must be adopted by both the European Parliament and the European Council. Since the loan requires amendments to EU budgetary rules, it ultimately needs unanimous approval from all member states.

    Metsola’s signature therefore does not equate to a final decision, nor does it override Hungary’s veto.

    The oil dispute behind Hungary’s opposition

    Budapest claims its objections are linked to a dispute over the Druzhba pipeline, a Soviet-era route that carries Russian oil via Ukraine to Hungary and Slovakia.

    According to the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), Hungary and Slovakia imported an estimated €137 million worth of Russian crude through the pipeline in January under a temporary EU exemption.

    Oil flows reportedly stopped in late January after a Russian air strike that Kyiv claims damaged the pipeline’s southern branch in western Ukraine. Hungary disputes this, with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán accusing Ukraine of blocking it from being used.

    Speaking in Kyiv alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated the pipeline had been damaged by Russia, not Kyiv. He added that repairs were dangerous and could not be carried out quickly without putting Ukrainian servicemen in danger.

    Tensions escalated further after reports that Ukraine struck a Russian pumping station serving the pipeline. Orbán responded by ordering increased security at critical infrastructure sites, claiming Kyiv was attempting to disrupt Hungary’s energy system.

    Roman-Era Staircase Discovered During Excavation in Cologne’s Historic Centre

    4:53 pm

    Get you up to speed: Roman-Era Staircase Discovered During Excavation in Cologne’s Historic Centre

    Archaeologists in Cologne have uncovered well-preserved Roman remains during excavations for a new underground visitor route at the MiQua LVR Jewish Museum. The findings include a lararium, a household shrine dedicated to the Lares, and the foundations of a large, multi-aisled Roman basilica dating from the 4th century. Additionally, a staircase from the late 1st century was discovered, connecting a low area near the Rhine to the praetorium.

    Archaeologists in Cologne have uncovered a lararium, a household shrine dating from the 2nd century, which is the first of its kind found in Northern Europe. The City of Cologne reported that this significant discovery was made during preparations for a new subterranean visitor route at the MiQua LVR Jewish Museum. The excavations also revealed the foundations of a 4th-century Roman basilica and a late 1st-century staircase, both of which are expected to feature prominently in the upcoming exhibition when the museum opens to the public.

    Excavations in Cologne have uncovered Roman remains, including a lararium and the foundation of a 4th-century basilica, during preparations for an underground visitor route at the MiQua LVR Jewish Museum. The finds, which will be accessible to the public for the first time, are expected to form a central part of the museum’s upcoming subterranean tour. City officials note that this discovery provides valuable insights into daily life in Roman Cologne, expanding knowledge of architectural elements rarely preserved in urban settings.

    What we know so far

    2,000-year-old ancient Roman staircase accidentally discovered

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    Roman-Era Staircase Discovered During Excavation in Cologne’s Historic Centre
    Excavations in a historic square in Cologne, Germany, threw up a surprise when workers accidentally stumbled upon Roman-era finds. It includes the remains of an ancient Roman staircase which dates back to the late 1st century, making it around 2,000 years old. The finds were buried underneath the LVR Jewish Museum in the Archaeological Quarter of the city, and the preserved stretch of stairs shows how movement through a Roman palace adapted to the terrain, being so near the Rhine river. (Picture: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic M)

    BY MARK WORGAN Archaeologists working beneath the historic centre of Cologne have uncovered exceptionally well-preserved Roman remains, including a rare shrine to domestic gods that is the first ever found in Northern Europe. The find was made during excavations linked to a new underground visitor route at the MiQua ??? LVR Jewish Museum in the Archaeological Quarter of Cologne, city officials have said. The most striking discovery is a lararium - a household shrine dedicated to the Lares, the protective deities of the home - found within the former Roman praetorium, the governor???s palace that once symbolised imperial power in the province of Germania Inferior. Lararia were widespread in Roman homes across the Mediterranean. This one dating from the 2nd century is unique north of the Alps, with comparable examples previously found only in Roman cities buried by volcanic eruptions, such as Pompeii. The team involved in excavations say the Cologne find is almost unprecedented, with traces of original wall painting still visible inside the altar niche. Small nail holes above and beside the niche indicate that garlands once decorated the shrine. Below it, a clear break line marks where the altar table had originally been set. That stone slab was also recovered during the excavation and is expected to be restored to its original position. The discoveries were made during work carried out by the City of Cologne as part of preparations for the museum???s subterranean tour. Because sections of the new route descend to unusual depths, archaeologists have been able to identify structures that are normally lost, having been destroyed by later building work. In this case, the remains survived because they had already been buried in Roman times. Their position on and beneath the former slope of the River Rhine meant they were sealed by embankments early in antiquity, shielding them from later disturbance. Among the other significant finds is the foundation of an apse belonging to a large, multi-aisled Roman basilica dating from the 4th century. Measuring up to four metres thick, it was initially thought to be made of Roman cast concrete, known as opus caementicium. Detailed examination revealed instead a layered construction of tuff, basalt and limestone, bonded with an exceptionally strong mortar of brick and gravel. Before the excavation, the structure appeared on Cologne???s town hall square only as a slight depression. It is now accessible to visitors for the first time. Archaeologists have also uncovered a staircase from the late 1st century, revealed only during the current works. The steps once connected a low-lying area near the Rhine with higher ground associated with the early praetorium. The precise point at which the staircase ended remains unknown. Staircases are rarely preserved in Cologne???s archaeology, as most Roman buildings survive only at foundation level. Specialists say this example endured thanks to favourable topographical conditions, with early Roman structures buried through backfilling during the Roman period itself. The finds are expected to form a central part of the underground tour when the MiQua museum opens to the public. Featuring: Detail of Roman staircase from the 1st century. Where: Cologne, Germany When: 24 Feb 2026 Credit: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic Museum, Franziska Bartz/Cover Images **All usages and enquiries, please contact info@cover-images.com - +44 (0)20 3397 3000EDITORIAL USE ONLY. MATERIALS ONLY TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDITORIAL STORY. THE USE OF THESE MATERIALS FOR ADVERTISING, MARKETING OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. MATERIAL COPYRIGHT REMAINS WITH STATED SUPPLIER.**
    The excavation work focused on an underground visitor passage beneath Rathausplatz, in the heart of Cologne’s city centre. The staircase discovered once led from a large palace called the praetorium, which was typically used as a residence for Roman commanding officers or governors. (Picture: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic M)

    BY MARK WORGAN Archaeologists working beneath the historic centre of Cologne have uncovered exceptionally well-preserved Roman remains, including a rare shrine to domestic gods that is the first ever found in Northern Europe. The find was made during excavations linked to a new underground visitor route at the MiQua ??? LVR Jewish Museum in the Archaeological Quarter of Cologne, city officials have said. The most striking discovery is a lararium - a household shrine dedicated to the Lares, the protective deities of the home - found within the former Roman praetorium, the governor???s palace that once symbolised imperial power in the province of Germania Inferior. Lararia were widespread in Roman homes across the Mediterranean. This one dating from the 2nd century is unique north of the Alps, with comparable examples previously found only in Roman cities buried by volcanic eruptions, such as Pompeii. The team involved in excavations say the Cologne find is almost unprecedented, with traces of original wall painting still visible inside the altar niche. Small nail holes above and beside the niche indicate that garlands once decorated the shrine. Below it, a clear break line marks where the altar table had originally been set. That stone slab was also recovered during the excavation and is expected to be restored to its original position. The discoveries were made during work carried out by the City of Cologne as part of preparations for the museum???s subterranean tour. Because sections of the new route descend to unusual depths, archaeologists have been able to identify structures that are normally lost, having been destroyed by later building work. In this case, the remains survived because they had already been buried in Roman times. Their position on and beneath the former slope of the River Rhine meant they were sealed by embankments early in antiquity, shielding them from later disturbance. Among the other significant finds is the foundation of an apse belonging to a large, multi-aisled Roman basilica dating from the 4th century. Measuring up to four metres thick, it was initially thought to be made of Roman cast concrete, known as opus caementicium. Detailed examination revealed instead a layered construction of tuff, basalt and limestone, bonded with an exceptionally strong mortar of brick and gravel. Before the excavation, the structure appeared on Cologne???s town hall square only as a slight depression. It is now accessible to visitors for the first time. Archaeologists have also uncovered a staircase from the late 1st century, revealed only during the current works. The steps once connected a low-lying area near the Rhine with higher ground associated with the early praetorium. The precise point at which the staircase ended remains unknown. Staircases are rarely preserved in Cologne???s archaeology, as most Roman buildings survive only at foundation level. Specialists say this example endured thanks to favourable topographical conditions, with early Roman structures buried through backfilling during the Roman period itself. The finds are expected to form a central part of the underground tour when the MiQua museum opens to the public. Featuring: Detail of Roman staircase from the 1st century. Where: Cologne, Germany When: 24 Feb 2026 Credit: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic Museum, Franziska Bartz/Cover Images **All usages and enquiries, please contact info@cover-images.com - +44 (0)20 3397 3000EDITORIAL USE ONLY. MATERIALS ONLY TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDITORIAL STORY. THE USE OF THESE MATERIALS FOR ADVERTISING, MARKETING OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. MATERIAL COPYRIGHT REMAINS WITH STATED SUPPLIER.**
    The staircase led from the Praetorium down to the Rhine river, though nobody knows exactly where the staircase ended or began. Archaeologists say that usually staircases like this are not so well-preserved but later Roman building work covered part of the stairs, which actually helped to protect them for centuries. (Picture: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic M)

    BY MARK WORGAN Archaeologists working beneath the historic centre of Cologne have uncovered exceptionally well-preserved Roman remains, including a rare shrine to domestic gods that is the first ever found in Northern Europe. The find was made during excavations linked to a new underground visitor route at the MiQua ??? LVR Jewish Museum in the Archaeological Quarter of Cologne, city officials have said. The most striking discovery is a lararium - a household shrine dedicated to the Lares, the protective deities of the home - found within the former Roman praetorium, the governor???s palace that once symbolised imperial power in the province of Germania Inferior. Lararia were widespread in Roman homes across the Mediterranean. This one dating from the 2nd century is unique north of the Alps, with comparable examples previously found only in Roman cities buried by volcanic eruptions, such as Pompeii. The team involved in excavations say the Cologne find is almost unprecedented, with traces of original wall painting still visible inside the altar niche. Small nail holes above and beside the niche indicate that garlands once decorated the shrine. Below it, a clear break line marks where the altar table had originally been set. That stone slab was also recovered during the excavation and is expected to be restored to its original position. The discoveries were made during work carried out by the City of Cologne as part of preparations for the museum???s subterranean tour. Because sections of the new route descend to unusual depths, archaeologists have been able to identify structures that are normally lost, having been destroyed by later building work. In this case, the remains survived because they had already been buried in Roman times. Their position on and beneath the former slope of the River Rhine meant they were sealed by embankments early in antiquity, shielding them from later disturbance. Among the other significant finds is the foundation of an apse belonging to a large, multi-aisled Roman basilica dating from the 4th century. Measuring up to four metres thick, it was initially thought to be made of Roman cast concrete, known as opus caementicium. Detailed examination revealed instead a layered construction of tuff, basalt and limestone, bonded with an exceptionally strong mortar of brick and gravel. Before the excavation, the structure appeared on Cologne???s town hall square only as a slight depression. It is now accessible to visitors for the first time. Archaeologists have also uncovered a staircase from the late 1st century, revealed only during the current works. The steps once connected a low-lying area near the Rhine with higher ground associated with the early praetorium. The precise point at which the staircase ended remains unknown. Staircases are rarely preserved in Cologne???s archaeology, as most Roman buildings survive only at foundation level. Specialists say this example endured thanks to favourable topographical conditions, with early Roman structures buried through backfilling during the Roman period itself. The finds are expected to form a central part of the underground tour when the MiQua museum opens to the public. Featuring: Close-up of lararium. Where: Cologne, Germany When: 24 Feb 2026 Credit: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic Museum, Michael Wiehen/Cover Images **All usages and enquiries, please contact info@cover-images.com - +44 (0)20 3397 3000EDITORIAL USE ONLY. MATERIALS ONLY TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDITORIAL STORY. THE USE OF THESE MATERIALS FOR ADVERTISING, MARKETING OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. MATERIAL COPYRIGHT REMAINS WITH STATED SUPPLIER.**
    The site also revealed the foundations to what would have been a 4th century Roman basilica, or church, and a small private household altar from the 2nd century, BBC reports. This kind of altar is called a lararium, which would be built into a wall. Small figurines would then be placed inside as well as food offerings for their household gods. (Picture: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic M)

    BY MARK WORGAN Archaeologists working beneath the historic centre of Cologne have uncovered exceptionally well-preserved Roman remains, including a rare shrine to domestic gods that is the first ever found in Northern Europe. The find was made during excavations linked to a new underground visitor route at the MiQua ??? LVR Jewish Museum in the Archaeological Quarter of Cologne, city officials have said. The most striking discovery is a lararium - a household shrine dedicated to the Lares, the protective deities of the home - found within the former Roman praetorium, the governor???s palace that once symbolised imperial power in the province of Germania Inferior. Lararia were widespread in Roman homes across the Mediterranean. This one dating from the 2nd century is unique north of the Alps, with comparable examples previously found only in Roman cities buried by volcanic eruptions, such as Pompeii. The team involved in excavations say the Cologne find is almost unprecedented, with traces of original wall painting still visible inside the altar niche. Small nail holes above and beside the niche indicate that garlands once decorated the shrine. Below it, a clear break line marks where the altar table had originally been set. That stone slab was also recovered during the excavation and is expected to be restored to its original position. The discoveries were made during work carried out by the City of Cologne as part of preparations for the museum???s subterranean tour. Because sections of the new route descend to unusual depths, archaeologists have been able to identify structures that are normally lost, having been destroyed by later building work. In this case, the remains survived because they had already been buried in Roman times. Their position on and beneath the former slope of the River Rhine meant they were sealed by embankments early in antiquity, shielding them from later disturbance. Among the other significant finds is the foundation of an apse belonging to a large, multi-aisled Roman basilica dating from the 4th century. Measuring up to four metres thick, it was initially thought to be made of Roman cast concrete, known as opus caementicium. Detailed examination revealed instead a layered construction of tuff, basalt and limestone, bonded with an exceptionally strong mortar of brick and gravel. Before the excavation, the structure appeared on Cologne???s town hall square only as a slight depression. It is now accessible to visitors for the first time. Archaeologists have also uncovered a staircase from the late 1st century, revealed only during the current works. The steps once connected a low-lying area near the Rhine with higher ground associated with the early praetorium. The precise point at which the staircase ended remains unknown. Staircases are rarely preserved in Cologne???s archaeology, as most Roman buildings survive only at foundation level. Specialists say this example endured thanks to favourable topographical conditions, with early Roman structures buried through backfilling during the Roman period itself. The finds are expected to form a central part of the underground tour when the MiQua museum opens to the public. Featuring: Breakthrough in the apse. Where: Cologne, Germany When: 24 Feb 2026 Credit: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic Museum, Michael Wiehen/Cover Images **All usages and enquiries, please contact info@cover-images.com - +44 (0)20 3397 3000EDITORIAL USE ONLY. MATERIALS ONLY TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDITORIAL STORY. THE USE OF THESE MATERIALS FOR ADVERTISING, MARKETING OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. MATERIAL COPYRIGHT REMAINS WITH STATED SUPPLIER.**
    The lararium found in Cologne revealed traces of painted plaster and nail holes above and beside the opening ,which would be where garlands of ribbons were once hung during rituals. The city says these discoveries are similar to those found from Pompeii – one of the more famous Roman sites in the world. (Picture: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic M)

    BY MARK WORGAN Archaeologists working beneath the historic centre of Cologne have uncovered exceptionally well-preserved Roman remains, including a rare shrine to domestic gods that is the first ever found in Northern Europe. The find was made during excavations linked to a new underground visitor route at the MiQua ??? LVR Jewish Museum in the Archaeological Quarter of Cologne, city officials have said. The most striking discovery is a lararium - a household shrine dedicated to the Lares, the protective deities of the home - found within the former Roman praetorium, the governor???s palace that once symbolised imperial power in the province of Germania Inferior. Lararia were widespread in Roman homes across the Mediterranean. This one dating from the 2nd century is unique north of the Alps, with comparable examples previously found only in Roman cities buried by volcanic eruptions, such as Pompeii. The team involved in excavations say the Cologne find is almost unprecedented, with traces of original wall painting still visible inside the altar niche. Small nail holes above and beside the niche indicate that garlands once decorated the shrine. Below it, a clear break line marks where the altar table had originally been set. That stone slab was also recovered during the excavation and is expected to be restored to its original position. The discoveries were made during work carried out by the City of Cologne as part of preparations for the museum???s subterranean tour. Because sections of the new route descend to unusual depths, archaeologists have been able to identify structures that are normally lost, having been destroyed by later building work. In this case, the remains survived because they had already been buried in Roman times. Their position on and beneath the former slope of the River Rhine meant they were sealed by embankments early in antiquity, shielding them from later disturbance. Among the other significant finds is the foundation of an apse belonging to a large, multi-aisled Roman basilica dating from the 4th century. Measuring up to four metres thick, it was initially thought to be made of Roman cast concrete, known as opus caementicium. Detailed examination revealed instead a layered construction of tuff, basalt and limestone, bonded with an exceptionally strong mortar of brick and gravel. Before the excavation, the structure appeared on Cologne???s town hall square only as a slight depression. It is now accessible to visitors for the first time. Archaeologists have also uncovered a staircase from the late 1st century, revealed only during the current works. The steps once connected a low-lying area near the Rhine with higher ground associated with the early praetorium. The precise point at which the staircase ended remains unknown. Staircases are rarely preserved in Cologne???s archaeology, as most Roman buildings survive only at foundation level. Specialists say this example endured thanks to favourable topographical conditions, with early Roman structures buried through backfilling during the Roman period itself. The finds are expected to form a central part of the underground tour when the MiQua museum opens to the public. Featuring: Overview of lararium with remains of the side frames. Where: Cologne, Germany When: 24 Feb 2026 Credit: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic Museum, Michael Wiehen/Cover Images **All usages and enquiries, please contact info@cover-images.com - +44 (0)20 3397 3000EDITORIAL USE ONLY. MATERIALS ONLY TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDITORIAL STORY. THE USE OF THESE MATERIALS FOR ADVERTISING, MARKETING OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. MATERIAL COPYRIGHT REMAINS WITH STATED SUPPLIER.**
    This is actually the first lararium discovered north of the Alps, and is similar in style to those from key Vesuvian cities, like Pompeii. Experts suggest that this altar being inside a Praetorium suggests the prominence of cult worship within official Roman dwellings, while analysis of the masonry shows a different method, not standard Roman concrete, was used in building. (Picture: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic M)

    BY MARK WORGAN Archaeologists working beneath the historic centre of Cologne have uncovered exceptionally well-preserved Roman remains, including a rare shrine to domestic gods that is the first ever found in Northern Europe. The find was made during excavations linked to a new underground visitor route at the MiQua ??? LVR Jewish Museum in the Archaeological Quarter of Cologne, city officials have said. The most striking discovery is a lararium - a household shrine dedicated to the Lares, the protective deities of the home - found within the former Roman praetorium, the governor???s palace that once symbolised imperial power in the province of Germania Inferior. Lararia were widespread in Roman homes across the Mediterranean. This one dating from the 2nd century is unique north of the Alps, with comparable examples previously found only in Roman cities buried by volcanic eruptions, such as Pompeii. The team involved in excavations say the Cologne find is almost unprecedented, with traces of original wall painting still visible inside the altar niche. Small nail holes above and beside the niche indicate that garlands once decorated the shrine. Below it, a clear break line marks where the altar table had originally been set. That stone slab was also recovered during the excavation and is expected to be restored to its original position. The discoveries were made during work carried out by the City of Cologne as part of preparations for the museum???s subterranean tour. Because sections of the new route descend to unusual depths, archaeologists have been able to identify structures that are normally lost, having been destroyed by later building work. In this case, the remains survived because they had already been buried in Roman times. Their position on and beneath the former slope of the River Rhine meant they were sealed by embankments early in antiquity, shielding them from later disturbance. Among the other significant finds is the foundation of an apse belonging to a large, multi-aisled Roman basilica dating from the 4th century. Measuring up to four metres thick, it was initially thought to be made of Roman cast concrete, known as opus caementicium. Detailed examination revealed instead a layered construction of tuff, basalt and limestone, bonded with an exceptionally strong mortar of brick and gravel. Before the excavation, the structure appeared on Cologne???s town hall square only as a slight depression. It is now accessible to visitors for the first time. Archaeologists have also uncovered a staircase from the late 1st century, revealed only during the current works. The steps once connected a low-lying area near the Rhine with higher ground associated with the early praetorium. The precise point at which the staircase ended remains unknown. Staircases are rarely preserved in Cologne???s archaeology, as most Roman buildings survive only at foundation level. Specialists say this example endured thanks to favourable topographical conditions, with early Roman structures buried through backfilling during the Roman period itself. The finds are expected to form a central part of the underground tour when the MiQua museum opens to the public. Featuring: View of the apse before the excavation began. Where: Cologne, Germany When: 24 Feb 2026 Credit: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic Museum, Michael Wiehen/Cover Images **All usages and enquiries, please contact info@cover-images.com - +44 (0)20 3397 3000EDITORIAL USE ONLY. MATERIALS ONLY TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDITORIAL STORY. THE USE OF THESE MATERIALS FOR ADVERTISING, MARKETING OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. MATERIAL COPYRIGHT REMAINS WITH STATED SUPPLIER.**
    These discoveries are useful in expanding our knowledge of daily life in Roman Cologne, with these architectural elements rarely preserved in such an urban context. The finds will form part of a future exhibition, which will offer visitors a chance to see these structures that lay deep beneath the modern city for centuries. (Picture: City of Cologne/Roman-Germanic M)

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    Michael Carrick sends message to Man Utd board over getting defender deal done

    4:46 pm

    Michael Carrick sends message to Man Utd board over getting defender deal done | Football

    TL;DR – Two-minute read

    Michael Carrick emphasised Harry Maguire’s importance to Manchester United ahead of their Premier League match against Crystal Palace, highlighting his value despite entering the final six months of his contract. Since Carrick took over in January, Maguire has been pivotal in the team’s success, helping secure five wins from six matches. Casemiro’s departure at season’s end adds to the leadership void.

    Michael Carrick has emphasised the importance of Harry Maguire to Manchester United amid uncertainty regarding the defender’s contract. On Friday, Carrick highlighted that United “cannot put a price” on Maguire’s contributions, specifically mentioning his leadership attributes as critical to the team’s dynamics.

    Maguire, who recently returned from injury, has started in all six games since Carrick took over in January, with the team winning five of those matches. As he enters the final six months of his contract, the 32-year-old has the option to leave the club on a free transfer this July.

    Carrick confirmed that the squad is already set to lose experienced player Casemiro, who will depart when his contract expires at the end of the season. The manager refrained from confirming any details regarding Maguire’s contract discussions but acknowledged the essential role he plays within the team.

    In discussing the balance of youth and experience within the squad, Carrick stated, “Experience is massive; it’s hard to put a price on how valuable that can be.” He also noted that Maguire’s recent form has been crucial, forming a solid partnership with Lisandro Martinez as the team looks to build momentum.

    Speaking on whether Maguire is in the best form of his career, Carrick noted, “There is a case for that,” suggesting that as players mature, their experiences can enhance their performances on the pitch.

    Manchester United’s next fixture is against Crystal Palace, where the team will aim to extend their positive run of form.

    US and UK Staff Evacuated from Embassies in Iran and Israel

    4:00 pm

    Get you up to speed: US and UK Staff Evacuated from Embassies in Iran and Israel

    REGIONAL SECURITY ALERT
    The US advised embassy officials in Israel to consider leaving due to the ongoing security situation and potential military strikes on Iran.

    TRAVEL ADVISORY
    UK Foreign Office announced a temporary embassy closure in Tehran, emphasizing heightened security concerns amidst ongoing regional tensions, according to a government spokesperson.

    CURRENT STATUS
    UK Foreign Office confirms the British Embassy in Tehran is now operating remotely, while travel advisories against parts of Israel remain in effect.

    What we know so far

    The UK government has withdrawn its staff from Iran as the US advised embassy officials in Israel they can leave while “commercial flights are available.”

    The British government said on Friday the temporary precautionary measure has been taken due to the ongoing security situation in the Middle East.

    Meanwhile, US ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told embassy employees in an email that discussions with officials in Washington had led to a decision authorising departures for those who wished to leave.

    Mr Huckabee said in the email that while there “may be outbound flights over the coming days, there may not be.”

    “Persons may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available,” the US embassy said.

    US and UK Staff Evacuated from Embassies in Iran and Israel
    US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. Pic: AP

    The travel warnings are one of the strongest indications yet that a regional conflict could be imminent, as the threat of US military strikes on Iran looms.

    In a travel advice update on Friday, Britain’s foreign office said the temporary and precautionary measure had been taken because of the “ongoing security situation” in the region.

    “We have temporarily closed the British Embassy in Tehran, this will now operate remotely,” a government spokesperson said.

    “Foreign Office travel advice has now been updated to reflect this change.”

    The UK does not appear to have withdrawn any staff from Israel, but continues to advise against travel to parts of the country over security concerns.

    The warning comes a day after talks between the US and Iran over its nuclear programme ended without an agreement.

    Donald Trump set out his case for a possible attack on Iran in his State of the Union speech on Tuesday.

    The US president said while he preferred a diplomatic solution, he would not allow Tehran to obtain a nuclear weapon.

    Mr Trump has previously threatened to take military action against Iran if a deal is not reached.

    The US has spent the last month amassing a fleet of aircraft and warships in the region.

    This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

    Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

    You can receive breaking news alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News app.

    Zelenskyy invites Slovak PM to Kyiv to discuss Druzhba pipeline tensions

    3:00 pm

    Get you up to speed: Zelenskyy invites Slovak PM to Kyiv to discuss Druzhba pipeline tensions

    REGIONAL SECURITY ESCALATION
    Zelenskyy has invited Slovak PM to Kyiv to address rising tensions following Hungary and Slovakia’s demands to inspect the Druzhba pipeline grounds.

    EU RELATIONS
    Zelenskyy invited Slovak PM for talks in Kyiv following tensions regarding the Druzhba pipeline, as Hungary and Slovakia seek inspection access from Ukraine.

    DIPLOMATIC ENGAGEMENT
    Zelenskyy has invited the Slovak PM to Kyiv for discussions following recent tensions regarding the Druzhba pipeline amid demands for site inspections from Hungary and Slovakia.

    What we know so far

    Zelenskyy discusses pipeline issues

    Zelenskyy has invited the Slovak Prime Minister to Kyiv to discuss ‘all issues’ after a week of tensions over the Druzhba pipeline.

    Earlier, Hungary and Slovakia demanded access from Kyiv to inspect the grounds of the pipeline.

    RAF veteran, banned for being gay, seeks £50,000 compensation from MOD

    2:00 pm

    Get you up to speed: RAF veteran, banned for being gay, seeks £50,000 compensation from MOD

    MINISTRY OF DEFENCE INJUSTICE
    RAF veteran Chris Dennis urges the Ministry of Defence to amend reparations rules for those discharged for their sexuality prior to 1967.

    RAF VETERANS
    Peter Gibson of Fighting With Pride stated that Chris Dennis’s exclusion from reparations demonstrates “grossly unfair” treatment by the Ministry of Defence.

    CURRENT STATUS
    Chris Dennis is urging the Ministry of Defence to extend reparations to veterans discharged prior to 1967, as he was denied compensation despite suffering similar injustices.

    What we know so far

    RAF veteran Chris Dennis who is seeking compensation from the MoD after he was court marshalled for being gay in 1966.
    Chris Dennis served in the RAF for five years, joining when he was just 16 (Picture: SWNS)

    An RAF veteran thrown out of the force for being gay is calling on the MOD to extend reparations for those thrown out of the armed forces for their sexuality.

    80-year-old Chris Dennis joined the RAF as a radar technician straight out of school at 16, in 1961.

    Chris was dishonourably discharged five years into his career at the RAF because of his sexuality.

    A £75,000,000 scheme set up by the UK government in 2024 has paid out £50,000 sums to those thrown out of the armed forces because of their sexuality between 1967 and 2000, but Chris missed out on his payment by a matter of months.

    The reparations provide an additional £20,000 available for those who suffered further negative impacts, such as investigations, harassment, or imprisonment.

    But because Chris was thrown out of the RAF at the end of 1966, he’s not eligible for the scheme, and the veteran is now calling on the Ministry of Defence to revise the rules, allowing those outside the ‘arbitrary’ cutoff date to be offered the same compensation packages.

    RAF veteran Chris Dennis who is seeking compensation from the MoD after he was court marshalled for being gay in 1966.
    Chris said the most hurtful part is not feeling as though he belongs (Picture: SWNS)

    In addition to not being paid reparations, Chris says he is not allowed to fully participate in Remembrance Day parades, making him feel as unwelcome as when he was thrown out for his sexuality.

    ‘I enjoyed my job. It was great. Then, in 1966, I was arrested, interrogated by the SIB (Special Investigations Branch) and charged with, essentially, being a homosexual,’ he said.

    ‘I think the actual wording was ‘an act of gross indecency with another man’. I was discharged with ignominy – a dishonourable discharge. A year later, the civilian law changed to decriminalise male homosexuality.’

    The armed forces eventually changed the rules in 2000, making homosexuality legal in the military, but the damage had been done to thousands of soldiers like Chris.

    As well as losing the job he loved, he was also unable to work on government contracts when he got work as a commercial engineer.

    He also claimed that SIB officers had indicated he could receive an ordinary discharge if he gave the names of other gay servicemen, which he refused to do.

    ‘You are suddenly kicked out, and you lose the support, the job, everything. It was a big shock,’ he said.

    ‘The next biggest shock came when I lost my next job. I got a job with a private company as a radar engineer and worked with them for around three weeks.

    ‘But they said, ‘We can’t get security clearance for you’. Any company that has a government contract has to submit details of its employees. They said, ‘Can you tell us the reason we can’t get clearance for you?’. I told them, and they were quite helpful.’

    Non-financial reparations offered to LGBTQ+ veterans include a rainbow pin, known as the Etherton Ribbon, as well as berets and the restoration of medals and rank.

    But despite the Etherton Report extending these reparations, both financial and non-financial, to LGBTQ+ members of the armed forces who served between 1967 and 2000, Chris was denied these due to his being kicked out before that date.

    ‘The government accepted the report that you could only claim if you were discharged between 1967 and 2000,’ he said.

    ‘So I missed out by a matter of months. I still applied and got this letter back saying: ‘You don’t qualify’. It was another kick in the teeth. You see the military people wearing their berets and medals, but I am not allowed to do that. I couldn’t claim them back, the badges and medals.’

    Chris said he’s pleased that other LGBTQ veterans have received reparations, but he still feels like an ‘outcast’.

    ‘People ask me if I’m angry, but there’s no point in getting angry. I am too old for that,’ he added.

    ‘I am disappointed, as much as anything, that it has come to this. [The RAF] is a brilliant life. If I could wind the clock back, knowing what I know now, I would still join up.’

    Though £50,000 would ‘help in his pocket’, being denied the non-financial reparations is even more hurtful, Chris said.

    ‘The emotional side of, ‘You are now accepted back’ – that’s more important. Back in the day, it was difficult being gay. You had to be on your toes all the time, thinking: Do they know? Will they find out? Should I tell them?’

    Mr Dennis and his partner of over 30 years got a civil partnership at a ceremony at the British Embassy in Hanoi, Vietnam, when they were both living in Hong Kong in 2012.

    Peter Gibson, Chief Executive of LGBTQ+ Veteran charity Fighting With Pride, said Mr Dennis not getting his reparations lacks ‘any sense of justice’.

    He said: ‘It is grossly unfair that the MOD will not simply extend even the non-financial reparations to people like Chris. To not provide him with his beret and an Etherton Ribbon is simply mean and unkind, and lacks any sense of justice and fairness.’

    A MOD spokesperson said it does not comment on individual cases, but added: ‘We deeply regret the treatment of LGBT serving personnel between 1967 and 2000, which was wholly unacceptable and does not reflect today’s Armed Forces.

    ‘LGBT veterans have the same right to wear their medals and berets as other veterans.’

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