Labour tensions rose after the PM blocked Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from seeking a Commons return via a by‑election, dashing any near‑term leadership hopes. Burnham backers criticised the decision, while Starmer loyalists said party rules were followed.

After claiming British troops steered clear of the front line in Afghanistan, the PM urged Donald Trump to apologise. Wounded veterans and Prince Harry said the remarks demeaned service members and misrepresented their sacrifice, with cross‑party calls for a retraction.

Donald Trump said UK troops weren’t on the front line in Afghanistan, sparking anger from bereaved families and veterans. Critics note 405 British personnel died during the 20‑year campaign and call his remarks inaccurate and disrespectful.

A former US president used a Davos address to claim admiration from European leaders, threaten tariffs, then swiftly U-turned after talks. He also revived talk of Greenland. The PM insisted Britain would not yield on the issue.