Here’s a summary of the front page:
1. Putin Tries to Recruit Afghan War Heroes Abandoned by the UK
- A special investigation reveals that Russian President Vladimir Putin is attempting to recruit former Afghan special forces who were trained by the UK but left behind after the withdrawal from Afghanistan. These elite soldiers, once critical to Western efforts, are reportedly being offered positions in the Russian army.
2. Ukraine Uses British Missiles Against Russia for the First Time
- Ukraine has fired British-made Storm Shadow long-range missiles into Russian territory, marking a significant escalation. Photos allegedly showing missile fragments in Russia’s Kursk region have surfaced online. This comes amid increasing Western military support for Ukraine and follows the deployment of North Korean troops alongside Russia in the conflict.
3. Harrods Boss Accused of Sexual Abuse Comparable to Jimmy Savile
- A headline refers to allegations of sexual abuse against the Harrods owner, described as being “on the scale of Jimmy Savile.”
‘Starmer supports arrest of Netanyahu’ – Paper Talk UK
The ICC has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the former defence minister, Yoav Gallant. The European leaders – including PM Keir Starmer – have backed the arrest of Netanyahu, and several papers note if the Israeli prime minister steps foot in the UK, he’ll be arrested.
Several papers pay tribute to the ex-deputy prime minister John Prescott who died at 86. Other domestic stories include the latest death in the alcohol poisonings in Laos, this time a 28-year-old British woman. There is ongoing coverage of the farm tax fallout and No 10’s vow to stand with Ukraine features.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the use of US and UK missiles by Ukraine means the West is now involved in his war against Ukraine.