Author: Amara Evans

Britain’s ability to respond to international crises is being questioned after a thinktank argued that the country should rejoin the European Union. The proposal has renewed debate about how the United Kingdom can protect its independence while working closely with neighbouring countries on security, trade and foreign policy. The argument centres on the difference between formal sovereignty and practical influence. Supporters of closer European cooperation say that a country may have the legal power to act alone but still struggle to shape events if it lacks strong partnerships. International crises often require shared intelligence, coordinated sanctions, joint diplomacy and long-term…

Latvia has called for a wider European Union ban on tourist visas for Russian citizens, arguing that tighter travel rules could help reduce security risks. Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs says European countries should take a stronger approach to what he describes as hybrid threats linked to Russia, including espionage and other hostile activities. The proposal has reopened a debate inside the EU over how to balance security with travel rights. Some European governments have continued to issue visas to Russian citizens, while others have imposed tighter restrictions since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Latvia argues that a…

Tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran have risen as attacks linked to Yemen’s Houthi movement increase concerns about security across the region. Saudi officials accuse Tehran of providing military support and intelligence that have helped the Houthis carry out more advanced operations. Iran and the Houthis have disputed claims about the extent of their cooperation. The dispute matters beyond the two countries. Saudi Arabia is a major oil producer, while the surrounding region includes shipping routes that are important to global trade. Any attack on energy facilities or ports can affect supplies, raise insurance costs and push oil prices higher.…

A senior Saudi diplomat has accused Iran of encouraging a rise in attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement, adding to tensions across the Middle East. The allegations come as strikes have reportedly targeted important sites in Saudi Arabia, including energy facilities and transport infrastructure. The accusations have increased pressure on regional governments to respond while keeping diplomatic channels open. Saudi Arabia’s deputy minister for public diplomacy, Rayed Krimly, said the attacks had caused deaths and damage and described them as serious violations. He also criticised the Houthis for rejecting a Saudi invitation to take part in peace talks in Oman. The…

European Union leaders are discussing ways to address high energy prices as governments face pressure from households and businesses. The issue is a major part of the summit in Brussels, where leaders are also considering trade with China and the bloc’s next long-term budget. Energy costs have become a serious concern because they affect household bills, factory output and the wider competitiveness of European businesses. High energy prices can increase the cost of making goods, moving products and providing services. Manufacturers may find it harder to compete with companies operating in countries where energy is cheaper. Families can also face…

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy travelled to London to meet British Prime Minister Andy Burnham as Ukraine sought further help in defending itself against Russian attacks. The meeting came during a difficult period for Kyiv, following renewed strikes on energy facilities and uncertainty about the future level of American support. European governments have been working to maintain assistance as the war continues. Britain has pledged to provide additional air defence support and has considered further measures against Russia. Air defence systems are important because they can help protect cities, energy facilities and other infrastructure from missiles and drones. Damage to power…

The International Monetary Fund has warned that the conflict in the Middle East could cause deeper economic losses if energy supplies and shipping routes remain disrupted. The organisation said high oil prices were already putting pressure on the global economy, even as investment in artificial intelligence helped support growth. A longer conflict could make the situation worse by raising costs for households, companies and governments. The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for global energy shipments. Any prolonged disruption can affect the movement of oil and other goods, forcing buyers to seek alternative supplies. These changes can increase shipping…

The International Monetary Fund says strong investment in artificial intelligence is helping keep global economic growth near three percent. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said the spending on AI infrastructure was providing a boost to several economies, including countries that supply the chips and other equipment needed to build advanced systems. Her comments came during the IMF and World Bank annual meetings in Bangkok. The AI boom has created demand for advanced semiconductors, computing equipment and data centres. Countries that manufacture these products may gain from increased exports and new investment. The benefits can extend to other businesses that provide…

Yemen’s Houthi movement has warned airlines and travellers against using Saudi airports after a deadly attack on Riyadh’s international airport. The warning came as the conflict between the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces grew more intense. The threat has raised concern about civilian travel, regional security, and the risk that the fighting could spread to more transport hubs. The attack on Riyadh airport killed at least 12 people and injured more than 300, according to reports. It was described as the deadliest attack in Saudi Arabia in more than a decade. The Houthis later warned that Saudi airports and airspace could…

Signs of progress in talks between the United States and Iran have raised hopes that the conflict disrupting the Middle East could move toward a less dangerous phase. President Donald Trump said Washington was having productive discussions with Tehran and that the United States would not attack Iran before the November midterm elections. The comments helped ease some fears about an immediate escalation, although major questions remain unresolved. The conflict has caused serious disruption to energy markets because the Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important routes for oil shipments. When shipping through the area becomes dangerous,…