The PM and Labour’s ruling body blocked Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham from contesting the Reddish & Denton by-election, halting a return to Westminster mid-term. MPs, unions and donors warned of deepening rifts and urged a rethink amid leadership‑challenge speculation.

Keir Starmer condemned Donald Trump for remarks seen as belittling Nato troops’ sacrifices, especially those who served in Afghanistan. He urged an apology to bereaved families, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to the alliance, and said such comments undermine security and duty to service personnel.

At Davos, Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Europe to “stand up for yourselves,” criticising “Greenland mode” complacency and reliance on Washington. He called for tougher, united measures against aggression, stronger energy support, and sustained aid to rebuild and protect infrastructure.