Shortages of petrol and diesel are crippling Russian regions, particularly agricultural areas, leading to significant price increases. Farmers report difficulties securing fuel for harvest machinery, with the government's response centred on export restrictions rather than addressing underlying market dysfunctions exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.
A Ukrainian man on trial for allegedly targeting a car linked to Sir Keir Starmer told the Old Bailey he was misled into being at the scene, believing he was assisting with luggage. Petro Pochynok, 35, denies involvement in a conspiracy to damage property by fire, asserting he viewed Sir Keir as a "friend" to Ukraine. The incident involved a Toyota previously owned by Sir Keir, set alight in May 2025.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has received approval from Labour's National Executive Committee to seek selection as the party's candidate in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. This decision follows a previous rejection in January and opens a path for Burnham's potential return to Westminster, fuelling speculation about a future challenge to the current Labour Prime Minister.
