Donald Trump urged the PM not to proceed with a deal over the Chagos Islands, arguing the Diego Garcia base is crucial for UK–US security operations in the region. He warned a handover to Mauritius would weaken Western defence. Downing Street says no decision has been taken.

Rachel Reeves has rejected MoD pleas for extra funds, despite warnings of a £28bn equipment shortfall. Military chiefs say capabilities could be pared back without a near-term uplift. The PM faces pressure before the Budget to set a path to 2.5% of GDP on defence.

The PM has dropped plans to postpone local elections affecting about 4.6m voters after legal advice warned the move would be unlawful. Ballots will proceed as scheduled, following criticism from councils and campaigners that the proposal risked undermining democratic accountability.

The US is preparing to offer refuge to a man on trial in Britain for burning the Koran, framing it as a free‑speech case. The State Department is in talks to admit him if he loses in court, a move that could strain relations with London and test public‑order laws.