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The 'strongman' PM who inspired Trump's playbook - but now finds his power crumbling

BBC Two treated images, with Orban at the forefront, and Trump and Vance as smaller figures behindBBC

Hungarians have a popular saying: "Visszanyal a fagyi". Translation: "The ice-cream licks back." In other words, watch out, because what you enjoy devouring, might enjoy devouring you.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has assiduously attacked a liberal world view for at least two decades, transforming the country into what he has variously called an "illiberal democracy" and nation of "Christian liberty".

Meanwhile he has drawn admirers around the world, including US Deputy President JD Vance and Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. US President Donald Trump has called Orban "smart" and "a tough person".

"One of the most respected men, they call him a strong man," Trump said in September 2024.

Ahead of the next Hungarian election in April 2026, the LGBTQ community appear to be among Orban's targets – his Fidesz party rubber stamped a new law that sought to ban Pride from going ahead. And yet between 100,000 and 200,000 people turned out last month - up from just 35,000 last year.

But watching huge crowds march through Budapest to celebrate gay pride, free speech and the right to assemble - all in defiance of the ban - many wonder: could the liberal worldview bite back?

Attila Kisbenedek via Getty A mass of people at Budapest pride, with a large LGBT flag being carried by the crowdAttila Kisbenedek via Getty
Thousands of people turned out for Budapest Pride in defiance of the ban

And in some ways, that in itself is the wrong question. Orban's power is indeed now under threat, but not in the way – or from the people – one might expect.

As the real challenge comes not from the liberal left, but the centre right.

A surprise challenger from Orban's own circle

Peter Magyar, a 44-year-old formerly of Orban's own circle, appeared as a surprise challenger in February 2024.

This followed a scandal involving a decision to pardon a man convicted of covering up child sexual abuse that led to President Katalin Novak resigning on live television. Justice Minister Judit Varga (Magyar's ex-wife) also resigned - and the scandal dealt a blow to Orban's claim to stand for traditional family values.

Magyar gave a long interview to Partizan, the flagship opposition YouTube channel, blasting what he called the nepotism and corruption of the governing party.

Janos Kummer/Getty Images Peter Magyar holds the Hungarian flag at a campaign rally Janos Kummer/Getty Images
Peter Magyar appeared as a surprise challenger in February 2024

Robert Puzser, an opposition activist who heads a new, non-party initiative called Citizens Resistance, says that Magyar is treading carefully, amid Fidesz officials and certain quarters of the media trying to portray him as a liberal or leftist.

Magyar, he argues, is trying to avoid alienating his conservative base in the countryside, which until recently was Orban's undisputed heartland. And he has created his own powerful narrative – of a Hungary that is collapsing.

Most national polls put Tisza, Hungary's main opposition party led by Magyar, between 9% and 18% ahead of Orban's party. Only one, the pro-government thinktank Viewpoint Institute, still puts Fidesz narrowly ahead.

The parlous state of state hospitals, state schools, and state railways are all being used against Orban by Magyar and his party. Now, Orban's long-established playbook, so admired abroad, is starting to fail at home – and it leaves Hungary closer than ever to ousting a man who has ruled it for the past 15 years.

Orban's tried-and-tested strategy

Orban has been in power for 19 of the 35 years since the fall of Communism in 1990, making him one of the most experienced leaders in the EU. In the early 1990s, Fidesz broke away from its liberal roots, and Orban instilled a new conservative, nationalist, right-wing identity.

In 2015, as scores of people travelled to Europe asking for asylum, Orban referred to them as part of "a migratory movement composed of economic migrants, refugees and also foreign fighters". He has opposed military support for Ukraine since the full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022, and also opposes Ukraine's bid for EU membership.

A cornerstone of Orban's playbook has been his ability to identify what his voters fear: this was true of each of his landslide victories, in 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022.

Reuters/Lisa Leutner Someone with a mask of a treated image of Orban on the back of their head, with a LGBT flag in the backgroundReuters/Lisa Leutner
Viktor Orban lost power in 2002 then returned to office in 2010

A public opinion survey by the Publicus agency carried out from 23-25 June found 45% of people were in favour of the Pride march in Budapest and 48% were against. Just 8% of Fidesz voters approved, however, so it was a flag to rally his own camp behind.

Since the march, Fidesz supporters have shared some provocative images from Budapest Pride, including nudity and the tale of a man arrested by police for masturbating in public.

After the event, folk singer Marianna Majorosi, whose song was performed during a drag queen show at the Pride event, said, "it deeply upsets me that as a performer I have no right to prevent someone from doing this to my voice". Orban expressed his support for her on Facebook.

In 2022, the government organised a referendum on child protection to coincide with the general election. The questions included: "Do you support allowing children in public schools to participate in sexual orientation classes without parental consent?" And, "do you support the promotion of gender reassignment for minors?"

A total of 3.7 million Hungarians took part, with the vast majority voting, "No". Government officials have since cited that referendum result as proof that Hungarians oppose what Pride stands for.

The winner takes all

Another key to Orban's playbook is that the winner takes all. Orban lost power in 2002 then returned to office in 2010, and in a new electoral law of 2011 he shrank Parliament from 386 seats to 199 and abolished the second round of elections, effectively channelling votes to the strongest party.

While the fractious opposition parties fought for the crumbs, Fidesz took the cake. They took 45% of the vote in 2014, which translated to 67% of seats in Parliament. The former system of proportional representation was replaced by something closer to the first-past-the-post system, as used in the UK.

He has also appointed Fidesz-friendly judges to the Constitutional and Supreme Court.

Tim Sloan/ AFP via Getty A dated image of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban answering questions during a press conference Tim Sloan/ AFP via Getty
Defeat for Orban, who has ruled Hungary for the past 15 years, would be monumental

In 2014 he said that the "illiberal state" he was constructing "does not reject the fundamental principles of liberalism such as freedom… but it does not make this ideology the central element of state organisation".

Orban is still struggling to find the right name for his invention. András Lánczi, a philosopher widely considered a strong influence on the prime minister, calls it "political realism… Ideas based on experience rather than the utopias and moralising that leftists like so much".

How he won over world leaders

Orban rules by bullet-points, simple messages culled from unpublished opinion surveys commissioned by his government to find out what is worrying the public. Pro-government media, social media, and nationwide billboards then act as an echo chamber for these messages.

Some leaders overseas appear to admire his approach, while many MAGA Republicans love Orban for confronting "woke" culture.

Reuters/Carlos Barria Orban and Trump shaking handsReuters/Carlos Barria
Trump has said of Orban: "They call him a strong man. He's a tough person"

The Slovak and Georgian prime ministers are also seemingly firm admirers, as are Alice Weidel (Alternative for Germany), Geert Wilders (Dutch Party for Freedom), and Herbert Kickl (Austrian Freedom Party).

Orban has instilled in his countryfolk "a new self-confidence", Mr Lánczi suggests, after centuries of foreign rule. "This nation has become stronger, and we would like to believe that we are not inferior to any other nations."

But just as he reaches the height of his fame abroad, the carpet is apparently being tugged from under his feet at home.

Are cracks starting to appear?

Peter Magyar has toured the country almost continuously, attacking the government for conditions in hospitals, a failing rail network and public service wages that are among the lowest in Europe.

He draws large crowds, and his visits to hospitals, schools or care homes are broadcast live on Facebook, with many attracting tens of thousands of views.

"We will re-build this country together, brick by brick," Magyar repeats. "Brick by brick!" chant the crowds, in unison.

Fidesz publicists have dismissed him as a hollow "messiah", or a traitor from their own ranks. But Magyar has given the public an alternative vision of repairing the homeland.

Orban has himself started to make some mistakes, like backing the ultra-nationalist candidate George Simion in the recent Romanian presidential election, despite a long history of anti-Hungarian remarks. He considered him to be a useful ally in the European Parliament where he shares Orban's message that "Christian Europe" is under threat. But Simion was the surprise loser of the second round of that election.

Orban's failure to stop Pride, after he promised his supporters it would not take place, also suggests some weakening of his power.

SOPA Images via Getty People celebrate at Budapest pride, some are wearing bright clothing and waving flagsSOPA Images via Getty
Viktor Orban has ruled Hungary for the past 15 years

But perhaps most seriously, the Hungarian economy, heavily dependent on the German market, especially German cars manufactured in Hungary, is stagnating. Orban can no longer deliver an improved standard of living.

Even András Lánczi, who believes Orban will win the next election, says: "Unavoidably, there are so many conflicts during such a long time [in power]", conflicts that "erode trust, erode respect, erode a lot of positive things that unite that political community."

Battle for the soul of Hungary

Defeat for Orban, who has ruled Hungary for the past 15 years, would be monumental.

"Orban is able to mobilise his core electorate, which is about two million people, but it's not enough to win the elections," says Zoltan Kiszelly, a political analyst close to Fidesz.

The Tisza party now also has about two million supporters. More than five million Hungarians voted in the 2022 election, with a 69% turnout - so the election in April 2026 will likely be decided by those who are currently undecided.

"We are looking for policy issues that can attract these 500,000 to one million more voters who are needed to outnumber the opposition," Mr Kiszelly explained.

In 2022, amid the war in Ukraine, Orban portrayed himself as the "peace" candidate, and claimed the opposition would drag Hungary into war. It was a successful tactic in a country, often overrun in its history by foreign armies. In 2026, Ukraine could help Orban win again, Mr Kiszelly believes.

Valery Sharifulin via Getty Orban and Putin shake hands Valery Sharifulin via Getty
He depicts his good relations with Putin as a guarantee of cheap Russian gas and oil

Yet if the war in Ukraine is over by then, Orban "the political realist" will be able to claim credit as the Western leader who warned that Ukraine cannot defeat the might of Russia. Or, if the war continues, Fidesz could step up its campaign against Manfred Weber, leader of the European People's Party (EPP), which supports continued Western military supplies for Ukraine.

"Orban can present himself, once again, as the dove of peace," Mr Kiszelly explains.

Orban also depicts his good relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin as a guarantee of cheap Russian gas and oil for Hungarian consumers - constantly under threat from EU sanctions against Russia. (Though Orban has not successfully blocked any of the 18 packages of EU sanctions against Russia so far.)

But his opponents hope that Tisza, and Magyar, can maintain their polling lead. Mr Puzser, the opposition activist, believes Tisza will win "sooner or later".

He describes Hungary as being at a crossroads. "There is a path leading to a democratic transition from this semi-authoritarian, semi-constitutional system," he argues, "and there is a despotic path leading to a dictatorship."

As for Orban, he said in March that there was a struggle "for the soul of the Western world" – some see next April's election as a battle for the soul of Hungary.

Top image credits: Anna Moneymaker/ Leon Neal/ Pierre Crom via Getty

BBC InDepth is the home on the website and app for the best analysis, with fresh perspectives that challenge assumptions and deep reporting on the biggest issues of the day. And we showcase thought-provoking content from across BBC Sounds and iPlayer too. You can send us your feedback on the InDepth section by clicking on the button below.

Europe's freedom faces greatest 'threat' since WW2, says Macron

Reuters France's President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech to army leaders. He is standing in front of a French and EU flag and is gesturing with his left hand as he speaks. Reuters

French President Emmanuel Macron has outlined plans for a big increase in defence spending, warning Europe's liberty is facing a "greater threat" than at any time since the end of World War Two.

In a speech to the armed forces in Paris, he said "we are living in a pivotal moment" due to complex geopolitics.

Macron called for France's defence spending to rise by €3.5bn (£3bn) next year and then by a further €3bn in 2027.

Referencing the threat from Russia, he denounced "imperialist policies" and "annexing powers".

Fighting has raged since Moscow launched its full scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Macron pledged to double France's military budget by 2027, three years earlier than originally planned.

In 2017, his country's defence budget stood at €32bn and under the plans would rise to €64bn in two years time. The proposals still need to be approved by the French government.

"To be free in this world, you must be feared. To be feared, you must be powerful," he said in the speech, which fell on the eve of Bastille Day.

Macron said the world was witnessing the return of nuclear power and the "proliferation of major conflicts".

He also referenced the US bombing of Iran, fighting between India and Pakistan and what he called the "ups and downs in American support for Ukraine".

Last month, Nato members agreed to commit to spending 5% of GDP annually on defence, up from the previous target of 2%.

The UK also announced its own defence review, with Defence Secretary John Healey saying it would send a "message to Moscow".

On Friday, the head of the French army, Thierry Burkhard, said Russia saw France as its "main adversary in Europe".

Russia posed a "durable" threat to Europe, Burkhard said, adding that the "rank of European countries in tomorrow's world" was being decided in Ukraine.

France's Prime Minister Francois Bayrou is expected to outline next year's budget on Thursday.

Southend airport to remain closed after fireball plane crash

Frazer Brooks Thick dark smoke is billowing into the blue sky from the incident - which cannot be seen in the image. Frazer Brooks
The East of England Ambulance Service and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service were also at the scene

An aircraft has crashed at London Southend Airport, police have confirmed.

Essex Police said it was alerted to a 12-metre plane on fire at the site in Southend-on-Sea shortly before 16:00 BST on Sunday.

The East of England Ambulance Service said four crews were at the scene including a rapid response vehicle, a hazardous area response vehicle and a senior paramedic.

The Labour MP for Southend West and Leigh, David Burton-Sampson, said on X: "My thoughts are with everyone involved."

Police said, as a precaution, officers have evacuated the Rochford Hundred Golf Club and Westcliff Rugby Club due to its proximity to the incident.

Contributed A photo of a screen in the airport with flight departures. There is one to Alicante, Faro and Palma de Mallorca. All three say cancelled. Contributed
Following the crash all flights from Southend Airport have been cancelled

A spokesperson for Essex Police said: "We are working with all emergency services at the scene now and that work will be ongoing for several hours.

"We would please ask the public to avoid this area where possible while this work continues."

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to the incident at 15:58.

The service has asked people to avoid the area if possible.

A spokesperson said: "Crews from Southend (two), Rayleigh Weir and Basildon (two), along with off-road vehicles from Billericay and Chelmsford attended.

"We are continuing to work at the scene with our emergency services and aviation partners."

The 'strongman' PM who inspired Trump's playbook - but now finds his power crumbling

BBC Two treated images, with Orban at the forefront, and Trump and Vance as smaller figures behindBBC

Hungarians have a popular saying: "Visszanyal a fagyi". Translation: "The ice-cream licks back." In other words, watch out, because what you enjoy devouring, might enjoy devouring you.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has assiduously attacked a liberal world view for at least two decades, transforming the country into what he has variously called an "illiberal democracy" and nation of "Christian liberty".

Meanwhile he has drawn admirers around the world, including US Deputy President JD Vance and Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. US President Donald Trump has called Orban "smart" and "a tough person".

"One of the most respected men, they call him a strong man," Trump said in September 2024.

Ahead of the next Hungarian election in April 2026, the LGBTQ community appear to be among Orban's targets – his Fidesz party rubber stamped a new law that sought to ban Pride from going ahead. And yet between 100,000 and 200,000 people turned out last month - up from just 35,000 last year.

But watching huge crowds march through Budapest to celebrate gay pride, free speech and the right to assemble - all in defiance of the ban - many wonder: could the liberal worldview bite back?

Attila Kisbenedek via Getty A mass of people at Budapest pride, with a large LGBT flag being carried by the crowdAttila Kisbenedek via Getty
Thousands of people turned out for Budapest Pride in defiance of the ban

And in some ways, that in itself is the wrong question. Orban's power is indeed now under threat, but not in the way – or from the people – one might expect.

As the real challenge comes not from the liberal left, but the centre right.

A surprise challenger from Orban's own circle

Peter Magyar, a 44-year-old formerly of Orban's own circle, appeared as a surprise challenger in February 2024.

This followed a scandal involving a decision to pardon a man convicted of covering up child sexual abuse that led to President Katalin Novak resigning on live television. Justice Minister Judit Varga (Magyar's ex-wife) also resigned - and the scandal dealt a blow to Orban's claim to stand for traditional family values.

Magyar gave a long interview to Partizan, the flagship opposition YouTube channel, blasting what he called the nepotism and corruption of the governing party.

Janos Kummer/Getty Images Peter Magyar holds the Hungarian flag at a campaign rally Janos Kummer/Getty Images
Peter Magyar appeared as a surprise challenger in February 2024

Robert Puzser, an opposition activist who heads a new, non-party initiative called Citizens Resistance, says that Magyar is treading carefully, amid Fidesz officials and certain quarters of the media trying to portray him as a liberal or leftist.

Magyar, he argues, is trying to avoid alienating his conservative base in the countryside, which until recently was Orban's undisputed heartland. And he has created his own powerful narrative – of a Hungary that is collapsing.

Most national polls put Tisza, Hungary's main opposition party led by Magyar, between 9% and 18% ahead of Orban's party. Only one, the pro-government thinktank Viewpoint Institute, still puts Fidesz narrowly ahead.

The parlous state of state hospitals, state schools, and state railways are all being used against Orban by Magyar and his party. Now, Orban's long-established playbook, so admired abroad, is starting to fail at home – and it leaves Hungary closer than ever to ousting a man who has ruled it for the past 15 years.

Orban's tried-and-tested strategy

Orban has been in power for 19 of the 35 years since the fall of Communism in 1990, making him one of the most experienced leaders in the EU. In the early 1990s, Fidesz broke away from its liberal roots, and Orban instilled a new conservative, nationalist, right-wing identity.

In 2015, as scores of people travelled to Europe asking for asylum, Orban referred to them as part of "a migratory movement composed of economic migrants, refugees and also foreign fighters". He has opposed military support for Ukraine since the full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022, and also opposes Ukraine's bid for EU membership.

A cornerstone of Orban's playbook has been his ability to identify what his voters fear: this was true of each of his landslide victories, in 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022.

Reuters/Lisa Leutner Someone with a mask of a treated image of Orban on the back of their head, with a LGBT flag in the backgroundReuters/Lisa Leutner
Viktor Orban lost power in 2002 then returned to office in 2010

A public opinion survey by the Publicus agency carried out from 23-25 June found 45% of people were in favour of the Pride march in Budapest and 48% were against. Just 8% of Fidesz voters approved, however, so it was a flag to rally his own camp behind.

Since the march, Fidesz supporters have shared some provocative images from Budapest Pride, including nudity and the tale of a man arrested by police for masturbating in public.

After the event, folk singer Marianna Majorosi, whose song was performed during a drag queen show at the Pride event, said, "it deeply upsets me that as a performer I have no right to prevent someone from doing this to my voice". Orban expressed his support for her on Facebook.

In 2022, the government organised a referendum on child protection to coincide with the general election. The questions included: "Do you support allowing children in public schools to participate in sexual orientation classes without parental consent?" And, "do you support the promotion of gender reassignment for minors?"

A total of 3.7 million Hungarians took part, with the vast majority voting, "No". Government officials have since cited that referendum result as proof that Hungarians oppose what Pride stands for.

The winner takes all

Another key to Orban's playbook is that the winner takes all. Orban lost power in 2002 then returned to office in 2010, and in a new electoral law of 2011 he shrank Parliament from 386 seats to 199 and abolished the second round of elections, effectively channelling votes to the strongest party.

While the fractious opposition parties fought for the crumbs, Fidesz took the cake. They took 45% of the vote in 2014, which translated to 67% of seats in Parliament. The former system of proportional representation was replaced by something closer to the first-past-the-post system, as used in the UK.

He has also appointed Fidesz-friendly judges to the Constitutional and Supreme Court.

Tim Sloan/ AFP via Getty A dated image of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban answering questions during a press conference Tim Sloan/ AFP via Getty
Defeat for Orban, who has ruled Hungary for the past 15 years, would be monumental

In 2014 he said that the "illiberal state" he was constructing "does not reject the fundamental principles of liberalism such as freedom… but it does not make this ideology the central element of state organisation".

Orban is still struggling to find the right name for his invention. András Lánczi, a philosopher widely considered a strong influence on the prime minister, calls it "political realism… Ideas based on experience rather than the utopias and moralising that leftists like so much".

How he won over world leaders

Orban rules by bullet-points, simple messages culled from unpublished opinion surveys commissioned by his government to find out what is worrying the public. Pro-government media, social media, and nationwide billboards then act as an echo chamber for these messages.

Some leaders overseas appear to admire his approach, while many MAGA Republicans love Orban for confronting "woke" culture.

Reuters/Carlos Barria Orban and Trump shaking handsReuters/Carlos Barria
Trump has said of Orban: "They call him a strong man. He's a tough person"

The Slovak and Georgian prime ministers are also seemingly firm admirers, as are Alice Weidel (Alternative for Germany), Geert Wilders (Dutch Party for Freedom), and Herbert Kickl (Austrian Freedom Party).

Orban has instilled in his countryfolk "a new self-confidence", Mr Lánczi suggests, after centuries of foreign rule. "This nation has become stronger, and we would like to believe that we are not inferior to any other nations."

But just as he reaches the height of his fame abroad, the carpet is apparently being tugged from under his feet at home.

Are cracks starting to appear?

Peter Magyar has toured the country almost continuously, attacking the government for conditions in hospitals, a failing rail network and public service wages that are among the lowest in Europe.

He draws large crowds, and his visits to hospitals, schools or care homes are broadcast live on Facebook, with many attracting tens of thousands of views.

"We will re-build this country together, brick by brick," Magyar repeats. "Brick by brick!" chant the crowds, in unison.

Fidesz publicists have dismissed him as a hollow "messiah", or a traitor from their own ranks. But Magyar has given the public an alternative vision of repairing the homeland.

Orban has himself started to make some mistakes, like backing the ultra-nationalist candidate George Simion in the recent Romanian presidential election, despite a long history of anti-Hungarian remarks. He considered him to be a useful ally in the European Parliament where he shares Orban's message that "Christian Europe" is under threat. But Simion was the surprise loser of the second round of that election.

Orban's failure to stop Pride, after he promised his supporters it would not take place, also suggests some weakening of his power.

SOPA Images via Getty People celebrate at Budapest pride, some are wearing bright clothing and waving flagsSOPA Images via Getty
Viktor Orban has ruled Hungary for the past 15 years

But perhaps most seriously, the Hungarian economy, heavily dependent on the German market, especially German cars manufactured in Hungary, is stagnating. Orban can no longer deliver an improved standard of living.

Even András Lánczi, who believes Orban will win the next election, says: "Unavoidably, there are so many conflicts during such a long time [in power]", conflicts that "erode trust, erode respect, erode a lot of positive things that unite that political community."

Battle for the soul of Hungary

Defeat for Orban, who has ruled Hungary for the past 15 years, would be monumental.

"Orban is able to mobilise his core electorate, which is about two million people, but it's not enough to win the elections," says Zoltan Kiszelly, a political analyst close to Fidesz.

The Tisza party now also has about two million supporters. More than five million Hungarians voted in the 2022 election, with a 69% turnout - so the election in April 2026 will likely be decided by those who are currently undecided.

"We are looking for policy issues that can attract these 500,000 to one million more voters who are needed to outnumber the opposition," Mr Kiszelly explained.

In 2022, amid the war in Ukraine, Orban portrayed himself as the "peace" candidate, and claimed the opposition would drag Hungary into war. It was a successful tactic in a country, often overrun in its history by foreign armies. In 2026, Ukraine could help Orban win again, Mr Kiszelly believes.

Valery Sharifulin via Getty Orban and Putin shake hands Valery Sharifulin via Getty
He depicts his good relations with Putin as a guarantee of cheap Russian gas and oil

Yet if the war in Ukraine is over by then, Orban "the political realist" will be able to claim credit as the Western leader who warned that Ukraine cannot defeat the might of Russia. Or, if the war continues, Fidesz could step up its campaign against Manfred Weber, leader of the European People's Party (EPP), which supports continued Western military supplies for Ukraine.

"Orban can present himself, once again, as the dove of peace," Mr Kiszelly explains.

Orban also depicts his good relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin as a guarantee of cheap Russian gas and oil for Hungarian consumers - constantly under threat from EU sanctions against Russia. (Though Orban has not successfully blocked any of the 18 packages of EU sanctions against Russia so far.)

But his opponents hope that Tisza, and Magyar, can maintain their polling lead. Mr Puzser, the opposition activist, believes Tisza will win "sooner or later".

He describes Hungary as being at a crossroads. "There is a path leading to a democratic transition from this semi-authoritarian, semi-constitutional system," he argues, "and there is a despotic path leading to a dictatorship."

As for Orban, he said in March that there was a struggle "for the soul of the Western world" – some see next April's election as a battle for the soul of Hungary.

Top image credits: Anna Moneymaker/ Leon Neal/ Pierre Crom via Getty

BBC InDepth is the home on the website and app for the best analysis, with fresh perspectives that challenge assumptions and deep reporting on the biggest issues of the day. And we showcase thought-provoking content from across BBC Sounds and iPlayer too. You can send us your feedback on the InDepth section by clicking on the button below.

Europe's freedom faces greatest 'threat' since WW2, says Macron

Reuters France's President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech to army leaders. He is standing in front of a French and EU flag and is gesturing with his left hand as he speaks. Reuters

French President Emmanuel Macron has outlined plans for a big increase in defence spending, warning Europe's liberty is facing a "greater threat" than at any time since the end of World War Two.

In a speech to the armed forces in Paris, he said "we are living in a pivotal moment" due to complex geopolitics.

Macron called for France's defence spending to rise by €3.5bn (£3bn) next year and then by a further €3bn in 2027.

Referencing the threat from Russia, he denounced "imperialist policies" and "annexing powers".

Fighting has raged since Moscow launched its full scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Macron pledged to double France's military budget by 2027, three years earlier than originally planned.

In 2017, his country's defence budget stood at €32bn and under the plans would rise to €64bn in two years time. The proposals still need to be approved by the French government.

"To be free in this world, you must be feared. To be feared, you must be powerful," he said in the speech, which fell on the eve of Bastille Day.

Macron said the world was witnessing the return of nuclear power and the "proliferation of major conflicts".

He also referenced the US bombing of Iran, fighting between India and Pakistan and what he called the "ups and downs in American support for Ukraine".

Last month, Nato members agreed to commit to spending 5% of GDP annually on defence, up from the previous target of 2%.

The UK also announced its own defence review, with Defence Secretary John Healey saying it would send a "message to Moscow".

On Friday, the head of the French army, Thierry Burkhard, said Russia saw France as its "main adversary in Europe".

Russia posed a "durable" threat to Europe, Burkhard said, adding that the "rank of European countries in tomorrow's world" was being decided in Ukraine.

France's Prime Minister Francois Bayrou is expected to outline next year's budget on Thursday.

The deepening water shortage row between the US and Mexico

BBC Water in Lake Toronto reservoir are very lowBBC
Water levels in Lake Toronto, a reservoir in the north of Mexico, are said to be critically low

After the thirtieth consecutive month without rain, the townsfolk of San Francisco de Conchos in the northern Mexican state of Chihuahua gather to plead for divine intervention.

On the shores of Lake Toronto, the reservoir behind the state's most important dam – called La Boquilla, a priest leads local farmers on horseback and their families in prayer, the stony ground beneath their feet once part of the lakebed before the waters receded to today's critically low levels.

Among those with their heads bowed is Rafael Betance, who has voluntarily monitored La Boquilla for the state water authority for 35 years.

"This should all be underwater," he says, motioning towards the parched expanse of exposed white rocks.

"The last time the dam was full and caused a tiny overflow was 2017," Mr Betance recalls. "Since then, it's decreased year on year.

"We're currently at 26.52 metres below the high-water mark, less than 14% of its capacity."

Volunteer water monitor Rafael Betance looks at the camera, standing in front of very parched-looking countryside
Rafael Betance says that water levels in the reservoir have fallen for the past eight years

Little wonder the local community is beseeching the heavens for rain. Still, few expect any let up from the crippling drought and sweltering 42C (107.6F) heat.

Now, a long-running dispute with Texas over the scarce resource is threatening to turn ugly.

Under the terms of a 1944 water-sharing agreement, Mexico must send 430 million cubic metres of water per year from the Rio Grande to the US.

The water is sent via a system of tributary channels into shared dams owned and operated by the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC), which oversees and regulates water-sharing between the two neighbours.

In return, the US sends its own much larger allocation (nearly 1.85 billion cubic metres a year) from the Colorado River to supply the Mexican border cities of Tijuana and Mexicali.

Mexico is in arrears and has failed to keep up with its water deliveries for much of the 21st Century.

The US and Mexico have a long-standing water sharing agreement

Following pressure from Republican lawmakers in Texas, the Trump administration warned Mexico that water could be withheld from the Colorado River unless it fulfils its obligations under the 81-year-old treaty.

In April, on his Truth Social account, US President Donald Trump accused Mexico of "stealing" the water and threatened to keep escalating to "TARIFFS, and maybe even SANCTIONS" until Mexico sends Texas what it owes. Still, he gave no firm deadline by when such retaliation might happen.

For her part, the Mexican President, Claudia Sheinbaum, acknowledged Mexico's shortfall but struck a more conciliatory tone.

Since then, Mexico has transferred an initial 75 million cubic metres of water to the US via their shared dam, Amistad, located along the border, but that is just a fraction of the roughly 1.5 billion cubic metres of Mexico's outstanding debt.

Feelings on cross-border water sharing can run dangerously high: in September 2020, two Mexican people were killed in clashes with the National Guard at La Boquilla's sluice gates as farmers tried to stop the water from being redirected.

Amid the acute drought, the prevailing view in Chihuahua is that "you can't take from what isn't there", says local expert Rafael Betance.

But that doesn't help Brian Jones to water his crops.

A fourth-generation farmer in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, for the past three years he has only been able to plant half of his farm because he doesn't have enough irrigation water.

"We've been battling Mexico as they've not been living up to their part of the deal," he says. "All we're asking for is what's rightfully ours under the treaty, nothing extra."

Mr Jones also disputes the extent of the problem in Chihuahua. He believes that in October 2022 the state received more than enough water to share, but released "exactly zero" to the US, accusing his neighbours of "hoarding water and using it to grow crops to compete with us".

Farmers on the Mexican side read the agreement differently. They say it only binds them to send water north when Mexico can satisfy its own needs, and argue that Chihuahua's ongoing drought means there's no excess available.

Beyond the water scarcity, there are also arguments over agricultural efficiency.

Walnut trees and alfalfa are two of the main crops in Chihuahua's Rio Conchos Valley, both of which require a lot of watering – walnut trees need on average 250 litres a day.

Traditionally, Mexican farmers have simply flooded their fields with water from the irrigation channel. Driving around the valley one quickly sees walnut trees sitting in shallow pools, the water flowing in from an open pipe.

The complaint from Texas is obvious: the practice is wasteful and easily avoided with more responsible and sustainable farming methods.

A field of walnut trees in
Many Mexican walnut farmers flood their fields with irrigation water

As Jaime Ramirez walks through his walnut groves, the former mayor of San Francisco de Conchos shows me how his modern sprinkler system ensures his walnut trees are properly watered all year round without wasting the precious resource.

"With the sprinklers, we use around 60% less than flooding the fields," he says. The system also means they can water the trees less frequently, which is particularly useful when the Rio Conchos is too low to allow local irrigation.

Mr Ramirez readily admits, though, that some of his neighbours aren't so conscientious. As a former local mayor, he urges understanding.

Some haven't adopted the sprinkler method because of the costs in setting it up, he says. He's tried to show other farmers that it works out cheaper in the long run, saving on energy and water costs.

But farmers in Texas must also understand that their counterparts in Chihuahua are facing an existential threat, Mr Ramirez insists.

Jaime Ramirez touching one of his walnut trees
Walnut farmer Jaime Ramirez admits that some of his neighbours are wasteful with water

"This is a desert region and the rains haven't come. If the rain doesn't come again this year, then next year there simply won't be any agriculture left. All the available water will have to be conserved as drinking water for human beings," he warns.

Many in northern Mexico believe the 1944 water-sharing treaty is no longer fit for purpose. Mr Ramirez thinks it may have been adequate for conditions eight decades ago, but it has failed to adapt with the times or properly account for population growth or the ravages of climate change.

Back across the border, Texan farmer Brian Jones says the agreement has stood the test of time and should still be honoured.

"This treaty was signed when my grandfather was farming. It's been through my grandfather, my father and now me," he says.

"Now we're seeing Mexico not comply. It's very angering to have a farm where I'm only able to plant half the ground because I don't have irrigation water."

Trump's tougher stance has given the local farmers "a pep in our step", he adds.

Meanwhile, the drought hasn't just harmed farming in Chihuahua.

With Lake Toronto's levels so low, Mr Betance says the remaining water in the reservoir is heating up with uncommon speed and creating a potential disaster for the marine life which sustains a once-thriving tourism industry.

The valley's outlook hasn't been this dire, Mr Betance says, in the entire time he's spent carefully recording the lake's ups and downs. "Praying for rain is all we have left," he reflects.

Additional reporting by Angélica Casas.

'Royal peace talks' and 'Sinner takes it all'

The headline on the front page of the Sun reads: “Time to clear the heir, papa”.’
"Time to clear the heir, papa" says the front page of The Sun, reporting on the so-called "peace summit" between aides of the King and Prince Harry.
The headline on the front page of the Daily Mirror reads: “King backs Harry peace talks”.
The Mirror also leads with what it's called a "royal exclusive" with the headline "King backs Harry peace talks", however, the paper warns "huge obstacles remain". The Princess of Wales is pictured alongside her daughter, Princess Charlotte, fanning themselves in the royal box at Wimbledon on Sunday. They watched Jannick Sinner beat Carlos Alcaraz in four sets in the men's final.
The headline on the front page of the Guardian reads: “Warning over Israeli 'ethnic cleansing' plan for Gaza”.
A beaming photo of the Wimbledon champion clutching his new Wimbledon trophy, features on the Guardian's front page, with the headline "Sinner's redemption". Their main story says former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has warned of an "ethnic cleansing" plan for Gaza, with Olmert suggesting that a proposed humanitarian city in Rafah would be tantamount to a "concentration camp". Israel has previously denied all allegations of ethnic cleansing in Gaza.
The headline on the front page of the Times reads: “Bank could cut rates if job markets slows down”.
Sinner is pictured kissing the golden Wimbledon trophy on the front page of The Times. Its lead story is a warning from the governor of the Bank of England that it could make larger cuts to interest rates if the UK jobs market slows down.
The headline on the front page of the Daily Telegraph reads: “Tax raid looms for middle classes”.
"Tax raid looms for middle classes", warns The Daily Telegraph. The paper quotes Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander promising not put up taxes for people on "modest incomes" and saying Labour would base its policy on "fairness".
The headline on the front page of the Financial Times reads: “Germany urges weapons suppliers to speed up European rearmament”.’
"Germany urges weapons suppliers to speed up European rearmament" reads the The Financial Times' headline. The FT has interviewed German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, who is calling for weapons production to increase as Europe seeks to deter Russian aggression. The front page image shows North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shaking hands with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, after pledging "unconditional support" for the Kremlin's goals in the war in Ukraine over the weekend.
The headline on the front page of the Metro reads: “Politicians? We don't trust any of you”.’
The Metro states "Politicians? We don't trust any of you". Its lead story says 90% of people questioned in a poll said they had little to no faith in the political class. The most common word they used to describe the UK was "broken".
The headline on the front page of the Daily Mail reads: “Labour's doctors strike hypocrisy”.
The Daily Mail's headline is "Labour's doctors strike hypocrisy" as it turns its attention to the proposed strike by resident doctors. The paper says the government's Employment Rights Bill would make future strikes even easier with the repealing of the minimum turnout requirement for trade unions. A government spokesperson told the paper the bill represents the "biggest upgrade to workers' rights in a generation".
The headline on the front page of the Daily Express reads: “'Toothless' new sex abuse laws won't protect children”.’
The headline of the Daily Express warns "'Toothless' new sex abuse laws won't protect children". The Joint Committee on Human Rights - made up of MPs and peers - has said a proposed new Crime and Policing Bill could be "ineffective" if there are no criminal repercussions for people who fail to report child sex abuse. A Home Office spokesperson told the paper the introduction of mandatory reporting will mark a "significant step" in strengthening child protection by creating "a culture of openness".
The headline on the front page of the Independent reads: “Measles surge fears for summer holidays after child dies amid low jab uptake”.
The i newspaper leads with a "measles surge". It reports doctors and health chiefs are warning that cases in the UK could rise as people return from holidays in France, Spain and Italy. It is after a child died at a Liverpool hospital after contracting the disease.
The headline on the front page of the Daily Star reads: “School Jollydays”.’
"School jollydays" exclaims the Daily Star. It reports there will be a fourth heatwave, with temperatures predicted to hit 31C later this month.
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Samuel Abt, Tour de France Writer for 30 Years, Dies at 91

He wrote about the elite cycling race for The New York Times and The International Herald Tribune. He said he was smitten by the Tour from the first day.

© Tim De Waele/Getty Images

Samuel Abt in 2001. An editor for several newspapers before joining The New York Times, he went to Paris to work for The International Herald Tribune. There that he discovered the beauty of bicycle racing,

South Africa's police minister suspended over organised crime allegations

Gallo Images via Getty Images South Africa's Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. Photo: 13 June 2025Gallo Images via Getty Images
Senzo Mchunu denies all the allegations against him

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on an immediate "leave of absence" after allegations of links to organised crimes were made against him.

In Sunday's live televised speech to the nation, Ramaphosa also announced a judicial commission would probe the claims, which he said undermined the constitution and threatened national security.

He added that law professor Firoz Cachalia had been appointed as interim police minister.

Mchunu denied any wrongdoing, saying in a statement that he "stood ready to respond to the accusations" against him.

In his speech, the president said that the allegations against Mchunu, which include interference in investigations into political killings and corruption within law enforcement agencies, "call for an urgent and comprehensive investigation".

He said the judicial commission, led by the country's deputy chief justice, would examine all the claims.

The commission will also investigate current and former police officials, as well as members of the national executive, Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa has been under growing public pressure to act swiftly over the high-profile case.

Mchunu, 67, is an influential figure in Ramaphosa's African National Congress (ANC) party.

Political analysts have suggested he could run for a leadership position at the ANC's next elective conference in 2027.

In a statement, Mchunu said: "I welcome and respect the president's decision and pledge my commitment to the process.

"Honour and integrity are the virtues I personally subscribe to and which we all need to make efforts to uphold."

The allegations were first made public by KwaZulu-Natal provincial police boss Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi last Sunday.

He claimed Mchunu was receiving financial support from an allegedly corrupt businessman to fund his "political endeavours".

Gen Mkhwanazi also detailed a sequence of events he claimed led to the "orchestrated" disbandment of a task force that was set up in 2018 to investigate the killing of politicians, mainly in KwaZulu-Natal.

He said the team's investigations had uncovered links to high-profile individuals - including politicians, police officials, and businesspeople tied to a drug cartel syndicate - and this is why the team was disbanded.

When he dissolved the unit earlier this year, Mchunu said it was not adding value in the province, despite many cases remaining unsolved.

According to Gen Mkhwanazi, a total of 121 case files were allegedly removed from the unit on the minister's instruction and without the authorisation of his boss, the national police commissioner Gen Fannie Masemola.

"These case dockets have, since March, been sitting at the head office ever since without any investigation work done on them. Five of these dockets already had instructions to [effect] arrests," Gen Mkhwanazi said.

He also alleged Mchunu had ties to a controversial businessman who was "financially supporting" the minister's political career.

Vusimuzi Matlala had a lucrative contract with the police before it was abruptly cancelled when he was arrested for attempted murder in May. Gen Mkhwanazi shared copies of text messages and a payment allegedly made by Mr Matlala to prove this.

Two women killed at Kentucky church as gunman opens fire after shooting officer

Getty Images A photo of the side door of a Kentucky State Police vehicleGetty Images

Two people have been fatally shot at a church in Kentucky by a gunman who had just shot a police officer nearby, officials said.

Two women, aged 72 and 32, died in Sunday's attack at Richmond Road Baptist Church in Lexington, and two male parishioners were injured, said police.

Investigators believe the suspect, who was shot dead by police, had a connection to individuals at the church.

State police said the wounded trooper was receiving medical treatment. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear offered his condolences on social media, saying "violence like this has no place in our commonwealth or country".

The initial shooting occurred at 11:36 local time (15:36 GMT) on Sunday near the Blue Grass Airport, a regional hub in Fayette County.

A state trooper pulled over the suspect's car on Terminal Drive after receiving a registration plate reader alert, Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers told a news conference.

The suspect shot the trooper, "carjacked a vehicle" as he fled and drove towards the church about 16 miles (25km) away, with law enforcement in pursuit.

Lexington Police said the injured trooper was "in stable condition receiving medical treatment".

"The suspect fired his weapon at individuals on church property," Chief Weathers told media.

"Preliminary information indicates that the suspect may have had a connection to the individuals at the church."

Four people - two males and two females - were shot on church grounds. The women were pronounced dead at the scene.

The two male victims were transported to a local hospital, with one sustaining critical injuries and the other in a stable condition.

An official from the Fayette County coroner's office said the church was small and a "majority" of attendees were either related or close friends.

"It's a very tight-knit group of people at the Richmond Baptist Church," official said.

The incident is being investigated by the Kentucky State Police and the department's Public Integrity Unit, police said.

Trump will be hosted by King at Windsor during second state visit

Getty Images King Charles III stands next to US President Donald Trump. Both are in tuxedosGetty Images

Donald Trump has formally accepted an invitation from King Charles III to join him and Queen Camilla for an unprecedented second state visit, Buckingham Palace has said.

The US president will be accompanied by his wife, First Lady Melania Trump, for the trip - which is set to take place from 17 to 19 September - and will be hosted at Windsor Castle.

The location for the state visit was chosen as the typical venue, Buckingham Palace, continues to undergo renovations.

Trump was hosted by Queen Elizabeth II for his first state visit in 2019 during his first term in office.

Traditionally, second-term presidents are not offered a state visit and have instead been invited for tea or lunch with the monarch.

A full programme of events has not yet been announced but, like all visits of this kind, it will include a full ceremonial welcome and a state banquet in St George's Hall in Windsor Castle.

All senior members of the Royal Family will be involved, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, who live in the grounds of the castle.

French President Emmanuel Macron was hosted by the King at Windsor last week, marking the first time a state visit had been held in the Berkshire residence for more than a decade.

Macron and his wife, Brigitte, also took part in a carriage procession through the town of Windsor.

Any visit from a US president brings with it security challenges, and Trump's programme is unlikely to include events that are public-facing.

During his 2019 visit, there was no procession along The Mall for security reasons and Trump was mostly flown between locations instead of travelling by road.

Getty Images Donald Trump shows a letter signed by the King inside the Oval Office after his meeting with Prime Minister Sir Keir StarmerGetty Images
Donald Trump shows off the invitation for a state visit presented to him by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in the Oval Office

It is also unclear whether Trump will have the opportunity to speak to parliamentarians, which is often included in the choreography of a state visit.

The House of Commons will not be sitting at the time of Trump's visit as it will be in recess for party conference season - but the House of Lords will be in session.

In February, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer presented Trump with a letter from the King inviting him for the visit at the White House.

As the pair were sitting next to each other in the Oval Office, Trump said it was a "great, great honour", adding: "And that says at Windsor - that's really something."

The state visit will come several months after the King visited Canada, where he opened the country's parliament to mark the official start of Prime Minister Mark Carney's leadership.

Many Canadians saw the King's two-day visit to Ottawa in May as a symbol of support for the country after Trump imposed tariffs on one of its largest trading partners and threatened to make it the 51st US state.

The lure of a state visit for Trump has the potential to be a powerful tool of soft diplomacy by the British government towards a president who is an ardent monarchist.

Speaking in April, he said: "I'm a friend of Charles, I have great respect for King Charles and the family, William. We have really just a great respect for the family."

The invitation came as Sir Keir sought to influence Trump over the war in Ukraine and lessen the tariffs placed on UK exports to the US - both issues that continue to dominate the so-called special relationship.

The US president is expected to be in Scotland later this month for the opening of his new golf course in Aberdeenshire.

It had initially been thought that the King and Trump would meet informally during that trip.

But it is understood that there were logistical challenges surrounding the dates and there will be no private meeting ahead of his September visit.

Fireball erupts at Southend Airport after plane crash

Frazer Brooks Thick dark smoke is billowing into the blue sky from the incident - which cannot be seen in the image. Frazer Brooks
The East of England Ambulance Service and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service were also at the scene

An aircraft has crashed at London Southend Airport, police have confirmed.

Essex Police said it was alerted to a 12-metre plane on fire at the site in Southend-on-Sea shortly before 16:00 BST on Sunday.

The East of England Ambulance Service said four crews were at the scene including a rapid response vehicle, a hazardous area response vehicle and a senior paramedic.

The Labour MP for Southend West and Leigh, David Burton-Sampson, said on X: "My thoughts are with everyone involved."

Police said, as a precaution, officers have evacuated the Rochford Hundred Golf Club and Westcliff Rugby Club due to its proximity to the incident.

Contributed A photo of a screen in the airport with flight departures. There is one to Alicante, Faro and Palma de Mallorca. All three say cancelled. Contributed
Following the crash all flights from Southend Airport have been cancelled

A spokesperson for Essex Police said: "We are working with all emergency services at the scene now and that work will be ongoing for several hours.

"We would please ask the public to avoid this area where possible while this work continues."

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to the incident at 15:58.

The service has asked people to avoid the area if possible.

A spokesperson said: "Crews from Southend (two), Rayleigh Weir and Basildon (two), along with off-road vehicles from Billericay and Chelmsford attended.

"We are continuing to work at the scene with our emergency services and aviation partners."

Extreme weather is the UK's new normal, says Met Office

PA Media A man and a woman - both with silver hair - are walking inside a row of ring metal structures that are spraying mist on a very sunny day. A man is wearing a checkered blue shirt with short sleeves, jeans and trainers and a woman in white trousers and a loose-fitting shirt.   PA Media
Many parts of the UK are in the throes of their third heatwave

The UK is breaking heat and rainfall records increasingly frequently as its climate continues to warm, the Met Office has warned.

The country's changing weather patterns mean the UK now experiences a "notably different" climate to what it was just a few decades ago, its State of the UK Climate report says.

We now have many more very hot days and many fewer extremely cold nights, according to this latest assessment.

It shows just how much global warming caused by the vast emissions of greenhouse gases our civilisation creates is reshaping the country's climate.

Climate change is bringing more severe weather events like storms and flooding - and inevitably the country's changing climate is having an impact on the natural world, with some species suffering.

The report focuses on 2024, when the UK experienced its second warmest February, warmest May, warmest spring, fifth warmest December, and fifth warmest winter since records began in 1884.

The Met Office highlights that some of these records have already been surpassed in 2025 - more evidence of this trend towards more extreme weather.

This summer many parts of the country are in the throes of their third heatwave with very warm weather reaching into Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland as well as southern England.

The first hosepipe ban of the year was imposed in Yorkshire last week following England's warmest June on record, which came after the country's driest and sunniest spring for 132 years.

Yorkshire and the north west of England were declared in official drought by the Environment Agency in June. At least one region is expected to be added to the list when the UK's National Drought Group meets on Tuesday.

Mike Kendon, a Met Office climate scientist and lead author of the State of the UK Climate report, said: "Every year that goes by is another upward step on the warming trajectory our climate is on.

"Observations show that our climate in the UK is now notably different to what it was just a few decades ago."

Wetter as well as hotter weather

As an island squeezed between the vast Atlantic Ocean and continental Europe, the UK sits at the intersection of a whole series of major air masses. That's why the country's climate is so changeable and that variability also makes mapping some climate changes more difficult.

Rainfall patterns fluctuate much more than temperature, the Met Office says, but it finds that, as well as warming up, the UK is also getting wetter, with rainfall increasing significantly during the winter. Between October and March, rainfall in 2015-2024 was 16% higher than in 1961–1990, it says.

Behind all these changes is the relentless rise in average temperatures driven by climate change, the Met Office says. Global temperatures have risen by over 1.3C since the industrial revolution as humans continue to release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere at an unprecedented rate.

The Met Office calculates that the UK is warming at a rate of around 0.25C per decade, with the 2015-2024 period 1.24C warmer than the period between 1961-1990.

As the UK's national weather service, the Met Office is the custodian of the Central England Temperature record, the longest running weather record in the world, based on measurements taken using thermometers and other instruments. It spans from 1659 to the present and it shows that recent warming has far exceeded any observed temperatures in over 300 years.

The last three years have been in the UK's top five warmest on record, with 2024 the fourth warmest year in records dating back to 1884.

Even a small shift in temperatures can significantly increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, as the graph below shows.

Look how, as the distribution of temperatures shifts, those that were previously extreme are brought into the range and new extremes become significantly more likely.

The graphic shows what's known as a bell curve showing that as the range of daily temperatures shifts to warmer levels - to the right on the scale showing cold on the left to hot on the right with the average in the middle, hotter days become more likely and more intense in a new climate.

We are often talking about how it used to be colder back in the day. Well that is borne out by the Met Office's data. We really are getting increasingly fewer cold days. The Met Office says there were 14 fewer days with air frosts – when the air temperature falls below zero - in the last decade compared to the period 1931 to 1990.

Flood risk growing

As in recent years, floods and storms caused the worst severe weather damage to the UK last year.

A series of named storms that pummelled the UK beginning in the autumn of 2023 helped cause widespread flooding in early January. That contributed to the wettest winter half year – October 2023 to March 2024 - in over 250 years.

Areas particularly badly hit by flooding included eastern Scotland, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and the West Midlands, with some places recording three to four times their usual rainfall for September.

In early January of 2024 the Royal Shakespeare Company had to cancel performances for two evenings in a row because of flooding in Stratford-upon-Avon. In November a wall collapsed in Tenbury Wells in Worcestershire after water in a local brook rose, flooding the town centre.

Met Office Chief Scientist Professor Stephen Belcher said the evidence of the impacts climate change is already bringing showed the urgent need for the UK to adapt to cope with future extremes.

"The climate is likely to continue to change, and we need to prepare for the impacts this will have on the weather we experience," he said.

For the first time this report highlights that UK sea level is rising faster than the global average.

As sea levels continue to rise around the UK, the risk of flooding is only going to increase further, says Dr Svetlana Jevrejeva from the National Oceanography Centre.

"We know from historical events it is only a matter of time until the UK is next in the path of a major storm surge event," she said.

PA Media Two men from a fire and rescue service wearing red gear and helmets are wading in the flooded water and dragging a boat with two people on it. The water comes up to just above the knee level of the two men. We can not see the faces of the two people on the boat but one has a white winter coat and has blond hair tied at the back. PA Media
A severe flood alert was issued for the River Nene in Northampton in January 2024

Nature is changing with the climate

Inevitably the UK's changing climate is having an impact on the natural world.

Spring in 2024 was earlier than the average for 12 of the 13 spring events on record and was the earliest in the series from 1999 for both frogspawn appearing and blackbirds nesting.

The timing of seasonal activity in plants and animals is known as phenology and is collected by a network of volunteers coordinated by the Nature's Calendar citizen science project.

The changing pattern of natural events can have a huge impact. Dormice and hedgehogs – two of the UK's most threatened mammals – are particularly affected when the weather is very warm, for example.

getty A hedgehog faces the camera sitting on gravel with a greenish background blurred outgetty
Hedgehogs - just one of the UK's wild animals that hot weather does not favour

Fruits and nuts ripen earlier in hot weather and that means fewer are available in the autumn when these animals are trying to build up the reserves of fat they need to see them through winter.

At the Alice Holt forest research centre outside London they are investigating how our trees and forests can be made more resilient to the country's future climate.

The sad fact is that many of our current tree species just can't cope, says Dr Gail Atkinson, the head of Climate Change Science at the centre.

"After a drought you can see reduced growth, so trees aren't growing as we would expect them to," she says.

"If you look up in the canopy you can see the leaves looking a little bit raggedy and there are other signs of stress as you're walking through the woodland including extreme examples you might find that the trees have actually died."

Studies at Alice Holt show one species that could do well as the UK continues to get hotter and wetter are coastal redwoods from California. It has been growing trees from different latitudes for the last 60 years to see how they fare in the UK climate.

It means that, in the decades to come, the world's tallest trees could become a common sight here in the UK.

Thin, green banner promoting the Future Earth newsletter with text saying, “The world’s biggest climate news in your inbox every week”. There is also a graphic of an iceberg overlaid with a green circular pattern.

Sign up for our Future Earth newsletter to keep up with the latest climate and environment stories with the BBC's Justin Rowlatt. Outside the UK? Sign up to our international newsletter here.

South Africa's police minister suspended over organised crime allegations

Gallo Images via Getty Images South Africa's Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. Photo: 13 June 2025Gallo Images via Getty Images
Senzo Mchunu denies all the allegations against him

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on an immediate "leave of absence" after allegations of links to organised crimes were made against him.

In Sunday's live televised speech to the nation, Ramaphosa also announced a judicial commission would probe the claims, which he said undermined the constitution and threatened national security.

He added that law professor Firoz Cachalia had been appointed as interim police minister.

Mchunu denied any wrongdoing, saying in a statement that he "stood ready to respond to the accusations" against him.

In his speech, the president said that the allegations against Mchunu, which include interference in investigations into political killings and corruption within law enforcement agencies, "call for an urgent and comprehensive investigation".

He said the judicial commission, led by the country's deputy chief justice, would examine all the claims.

The commission will also investigate current and former police officials, as well as members of the national executive, Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa has been under growing public pressure to act swiftly over the high-profile case.

Mchunu, 67, is an influential figure in Ramaphosa's African National Congress (ANC) party.

Political analysts have suggested he could run for a leadership position at the ANC's next elective conference in 2027.

In a statement, Mchunu said: "I welcome and respect the president's decision and pledge my commitment to the process.

"Honour and integrity are the virtues I personally subscribe to and which we all need to make efforts to uphold."

The allegations were first made public by KwaZulu-Natal provincial police boss Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi last Sunday.

He claimed Mchunu was receiving financial support from an allegedly corrupt businessman to fund his "political endeavours".

Gen Mkhwanazi also detailed a sequence of events he claimed led to the "orchestrated" disbandment of a task force that was set up in 2018 to investigate the killing of politicians, mainly in KwaZulu-Natal.

He said the team's investigations had uncovered links to high-profile individuals - including politicians, police officials, and businesspeople tied to a drug cartel syndicate - and this is why the team was disbanded.

When he dissolved the unit earlier this year, Mchunu said it was not adding value in the province, despite many cases remaining unsolved.

According to Gen Mkhwanazi, a total of 121 case files were allegedly removed from the unit on the minister's instruction and without the authorisation of his boss, the national police commissioner Gen Fannie Masemola.

"These case dockets have, since March, been sitting at the head office ever since without any investigation work done on them. Five of these dockets already had instructions to [effect] arrests," Gen Mkhwanazi said.

He also alleged Mchunu had ties to a controversial businessman who was "financially supporting" the minister's political career.

Vusimuzi Matlala had a lucrative contract with the police before it was abruptly cancelled when he was arrested for attempted murder in May. Gen Mkhwanazi shared copies of text messages and a payment allegedly made by Mr Matlala to prove this.

Disappointment as Drake's final Wireless show ends after 40 minutes

Getty Images Drake on a crane platformGetty Images
Drake's Whitney Houston sing-a-long on a crane was used to end two out of three Wireless shows

Drake's three-day residency at London's Wireless Festival concluded on a sour note after the rapper's headline slot ended after 40 minutes.

Appearing on stage ten minutes earlier than scheduled, he told the crowd he would perform until his microphone was cut off - referencing the strict 21:30 curfew.

Fans were also left feeling shortchanged after the 38-year-old's set featured just three special guests - Popcaan, Rema and Vybz Kartel.

Saturday night's show, which ran for 90 minutes, featured 13 special guests, while Friday's show also had a similar runtime and included six surprise acts.

Line-up changes

Earlier in the day, the official setlist had advertised two Drake sets - one at 18:25 and one at 20:55.

The first mysteriously disappeared from the schedule during the course of the afternoon, with planned performances from Vybz Kartel and Burna Boy going ahead in their allotted time slots.

Fans appeared surprised when Drake entered the stage just minutes after Burna Boy had finished, with the Canadian announcing himself to the crowd by speaking to fans.

He appeared agitated, which was a departure from his more upbeat attitude from Friday and Saturday night.

Drake started his set by playing an unreleased collaboration with British rapper Central Cee, who did not appear on stage to perform but instead mouthed the words from his position in the front row, which was projected across the big screens.

The Toronto rapper and singer appeared apologetic throughout, promising to play some of his biggest hits to win over the crowd.

He told the crowd: "London, I will love you for the rest of my life," as he raced through a medley of tracks.

They included Controlla, Find Your Love and One Dance, which were remixed and updated for 2025, but felt slightly rushed, with their new arrangements making it difficult for fans to sing along.

A surprise appearance from Nigerian rapper Rema raised spirits in the crowd, with tracks Calm Down and Fever proving a highlight.

But after a brief cameo from Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, who had performed to a huge crowd earlier in the day, there was only time for two more Drake solo songs.

For the third night in a row, he climbed onto a crane to wave to the 50,000 attendees as Whitney Houston's I Will Always Love You blasted through the speakers.

Getty Images Drake appears in blue with Rema in a hat and fur rimmed jacketGetty Images
Rema (right) provided an energetic surprise guest performance on Sunday evening

After gaining social media traction over the weekend, fans quickly realised it signalled the end of a disappointedly short headline set.

Drake already fell victim to the 22:30 curfew on Friday night, with organisers cutting both his and Lauryn Hill's microphones off and replacing show graphics with information on local train stations.

He did a better job of keeping timings in check during Saturday's show, but it is unknown whether it was his decision to start his Sunday evening set 45 minutes before the event was due to end.

Fans around us expressed their discontent as they shuffled to the exits, with many unaware of the strict local curfews that operate in the park.

Some even told us they had spent longer queuing to get into the venue than they'd seen Drake perform.

Whilst attempting to leave, we were alerted to scenes of distress at the accessible exit.

Fans could be seen and heard pleading with security to let them leave after being told they would have to be held in a restrictive space for ten minutes or until other security gave them the green light.

This led to hysteria, with fans attacking the barriers, shouting and pleading that they were disabled and needed to leave.

Wireless Festival's organisers have been contacted by the BBC for comment.

Biden Says He Made the Clemency Decisions Recorded With Autopen

Donald J. Trump and his allies have begun investigations to support their claims that Joseph R. Biden Jr. was incapacitated and his staff conspired to take presidential actions in his name.

© Tom Brenner for The New York Times

Toward the end of his term as president, Joseph R. Biden Jr. reduced the sentences of nearly 4,000 federal convicts and pre-emptively pardoned dozens of politically prominent people he saw as potential targets of vindictive criminal investigations by his successor.

Excerpts From The Times’s Interview With Biden on Clemency Decisions

The former president said he “made every single one of those” decisions and that Republicans were questioning them because “they’ve done so badly” and wanted to shift the focus.

© Haiyun Jiang for The New York Times

Toward the end of his presidency, Joseph R. Biden Jr. granted large batch commutations to reduce the sentences of three categories of federal convictions.

SA police minister suspended over organised crime allegations

Gallo Images via Getty Images South Africa's Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. Photo: 13 June 2025Gallo Images via Getty Images
Senzo Mchunu denies all the allegations against him

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on an immediate "leave of absence" after allegations of links to organised crimes were made against him.

In Sunday's live televised speech to the nation, Ramaphosa also announced a judicial commission would probe the claims, which he said undermined the constitution and threatened national security.

He added that law professor Firoz Cachalia had been appointed as interim police minister.

Mchunu denied any wrongdoing, saying in a statement that he "stood ready to respond to the accusations" against him.

In his speech, the president said that the allegations against Mchunu, which include interference in investigations into political killings and corruption within law enforcement agencies, "call for an urgent and comprehensive investigation".

He said the judicial commission, led by the country's deputy chief justice, would examine all the claims.

The commission will also investigate current and former police officials, as well as members of the national executive, Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa has been under growing public pressure to act swiftly over the high-profile case.

Mchunu, 67, is an influential figure in Ramaphosa's African National Congress (ANC) party.

Political analysts have suggested he could run for a leadership position at the ANC's next elective conference in 2027.

In a statement, Mchunu said: "I welcome and respect the president's decision and pledge my commitment to the process.

"Honour and integrity are the virtues I personally subscribe to and which we all need to make efforts to uphold."

The allegations were first made public by KwaZulu-Natal provincial police boss Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi last Sunday.

He claimed Mchunu was receiving financial support from an allegedly corrupt businessman to fund his "political endeavours".

Gen Mkhwanazi also detailed a sequence of events he claimed led to the "orchestrated" disbandment of a task force that was set up in 2018 to investigate the killing of politicians, mainly in KwaZulu-Natal.

He said the team's investigations had uncovered links to high-profile individuals - including politicians, police officials, and businesspeople tied to a drug cartel syndicate - and this is why the team was disbanded.

When he dissolved the unit earlier this year, Mchunu said it was not adding value in the province, despite many cases remaining unsolved.

According to Gen Mkhwanazi, a total of 121 case files were allegedly removed from the unit on the minister's instruction and without the authorisation of his boss, the national police commissioner Gen Fannie Masemola.

"These case dockets have, since March, been sitting at the head office ever since without any investigation work done on them. Five of these dockets already had instructions to [effect] arrests," Gen Mkhwanazi said.

He also alleged Mchunu had ties to a controversial businessman who was "financially supporting" the minister's political career.

Vusimuzi Matlala had a lucrative contract with the police before it was abruptly cancelled when he was arrested for attempted murder in May. Gen Mkhwanazi shared copies of text messages and a payment allegedly made by Mr Matlala to prove this.

RSF storms cattle market and prison in 'death trap' Sudanese city

RSF A screengrab of two RSF fighters in el-Fasher's cattle market - one with a belt of ammunition around his neck holds up a victory signRSF
The RSF posted several videos from the livestock market on social media

The Sudanese paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) stormed the besieged city of el-Fasher on Friday in a battle that raged for seven hours, witnesses told the BBC.

RSF fighters managed to capture a cattle market, a prison and a military base while broadcasting videos of their members walking around empty stockyards.

It was the first time RSF fighters had entered the city in large numbers since the siege of el-Fasher - an ongoing battle for control of the western Darfur city - began 15 months ago.

On Saturday morning, the army retaliated and succeeded in pushing the RSF back beyond el-Fasher's limits. But Mathilde Vu, from the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), described the city as a "death trap".

"What we're hearing is stories of horror and terror and weekly shelling, attacks on civilian infrastructure," Ms Vu told the BBC Newshour programme.

"There are local volunteers - they are really struggling, risking their lives every day to try and provide a little bit of food for people who are mostly starving."

Siddig Omar, a 65-year-old resident of el-Fasher, told the BBC the RSF entered the city on Friday from the south and south-west.

The RSF, whose fighters have been mustering in trenches dug around the city, frequently attack el-Fasher. According to the army, this was their 220th offensive.

But this time, during a battle that raged for seven hours, they managed to take control of the city's livestock market, which has been closed for business for several months.

From here, they broadcast videos of their fighters walking around empty stockyards. They also briefly held Shalla prison and the headquarters of the military's Central Reserve Forces.

On Saturday morning, the army retaliated and succeeded in pushing the RSF back beyond the city limits, saying it had inflicted "heavy losses" on the paramilitary group.

But Mr Omar said RSF shelling - using drones - continued throughout Saturday.

"One of the shells hit a civilian vehicle near my house resulting in the death of five civilians who were inside the car," he said.

Sudan plunged into a civil war in April 2023 after a vicious struggle for power broke out between its army and the RSF.

It has led to a famine and claims of a genocide in the western Darfur region.

More than 150,000 people have died in the conflict across the country, and about 12 million have fled their homes in what the United Nations has called the world's largest humanitarian crisis.

El-Fasher is the only city in Darfur now controlled by the military. But a communications blackout makes it difficult to confirm information from the besieged city, as only those with satellite internet connections are contactable.

The latest RSF offensive followed weeks of artillery and drone attacks. The group recently started using large drone aircraft.

The army accuses the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of funding the RSF, an allegation the oil-rich Gulf state denies.

This weekend's attack comes three months after the RSF overran Zamzam camp on the outskirts of el-Fasher. It had been the largest displacement camp in the country and many of its residents either escaped into el-Fashir or tried to make it to Tawila, 60km (about 40 miles) away.

Ms Vu, NRC's advocacy manager in Sudan, said the team in Tawila has continued to hear horrific stories as people desperately try to find safety.

"People fleeing at night by foot, on donkeys - trying to escape armed men targeting them, maybe raping them," she said.

"We're getting people arriving into Tawila who are thirsty, who haven't eaten for weeks."

Nearly 379,000 people have now fled to Tawila, where they are facing an outbreak of cholera and expected heavy rain is likely to destroy makeshift shelters.

This week, residents of el-Fasher told the BBC Arabic's emergency radio programme more about their dire situation.

"Right now, we are suffering deeply, and everyone around us is facing the same hardship," one man said.

"There is no bread, no food, and no work to be found. Even if you have money, there's nothing available in the markets to buy.

"When someone gets sick, we can't find any medicine or treatment.

"There are no medicines in hospitals. The situation here is truly terrible."

Another man said until recently, residents had been relying on something called "ombaz", a food waste left over after pressing oil from peanut shells.

"We are in a very critical situation," he said.

"Even ombaz is no longer available, as the peanut factories have stopped working.

"We are calling out for help - please, we urgently need assistance."

Ms Vu bemoaned the international community's apathy when it came to engaging with the warring parties and their backers.

"The funding is completely decreasing and the consequence is that you can see it on the ground," she said.

"People [in el-Fasher] just rely on the solidarity of others.

"If they have a little bit of food, they will be sharing it among themselves."

Last week, the International Criminal Court (ICC) said there were "reasonable grounds" to believe war crimes and crimes against humanity are being committed in Darfur.

Allegations of war crimes have persisted throughout the past two years, and in January 2025 the US determined that the RSF and allied militias had committed a genocide against the region's non-Arab population.

You may also be interested in:

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Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent.

Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica

全球贸易局势动荡,美中竞相争夺亚洲影响力

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全球贸易局势动荡,美中竞相争夺亚洲影响力

黄安伟, DAVID PIERSON
中国外交部长王毅上周五在马来西亚吉隆坡出席东南亚国家联盟会议。
中国外交部长王毅上周五在马来西亚吉隆坡出席东南亚国家联盟会议。 Pool photo by Mandel Ngan
在全球贸易局势动荡不安的背景之下,上周在马来西亚首都,美国和中国展开了一场争夺亚洲影响力和忠诚度的较量。
国务卿马可·鲁比奥在马来西亚首都吉隆坡举行的会议上持续向各国高级外交官施压,要求他们支持华盛顿限制对华贸易的努力,并同意对美国有利的关税条款。
在同一场合,中国最高外交官员王毅则敦促各国政府抵制美国的压力,并将北京视为更可靠的合作伙伴。
在上周五,也就是会议正式召开的第二天,鲁比奥在会议间隙与王毅会面。华盛顿和北京在多个问题上存在冲突,包括美国对先进半导体芯片及其他对华出口的限制、美国对台湾的军事援助,以及中国对关键矿产出口的限制和对部分重要供应链的控制。
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鲁比奥对随行记者表示:“我们承认确实存在一些需要解决的问题,不仅仅是贸易方面,还有其他领域。”
他说,但就总体而言,与王毅的会谈“是一场非常具有建设性和积极性的会晤,为我们后续的工作奠定了良好基础”。他表示,双方认为“眼下存在实现战略稳定的机会,并确定了一些可以共同合作的领域,以建立更良好的沟通机制和工作互信。”
当被追问具体合作领域时,鲁比奥没有正面回应,表示将在后续发布正式公告。
鲁比奥在担任佛罗里达州参议员期间,曾在多个问题上公开批评中国,包括北京的军事野心和人权纪录。但为了配合特朗普总统,他已经缓和了公开中国批评的语气。虽然这位美国总统在贸易问题上批评中国,却经常称赞中国领导人习近平,并希望与其达成一项重大协议。
鲁比奥在周五表示,尽管中国坚决反对特朗普总统大幅提高对中国商品的关税(这些关税由美国企业承担),但特朗普与习近平“保持着非常积极的工作关系”。鲁比奥还补充说,特朗普与习近平今年会晤的“可能性很大”。
中国官方的会谈纪要也表示,双方进行了“积极、务实且建设性”的会谈,并同意加强外交合作,探索扩大合作领域。
鲁比奥在周五上午会见了来自日本和韩国的官员,努力巩固华盛顿与盟友的关系。下午,他又与东南亚的高级外交官会面,包括参加了由王毅和俄罗斯外长谢尔盖·拉夫罗夫共同出席的多边论坛。
特朗普总统对14国领导人发出的新关税威胁笼罩着鲁比奥的外交努力,这些威胁激怒了包括此次会议东道主马来西亚在内的多国政府。受关税威胁的另外七国外交官也出席了会议。这些关税威胁甚至针对包括日韩在内的条约盟友,美国对合作伙伴的承诺进一步遭到质疑。
美国国务卿马可·鲁比奥(左)在星期五于吉隆坡举行的会议上与俄罗斯外交部长谢尔盖·拉夫罗夫交谈。
美国国务卿马可·鲁比奥(左)在星期五于吉隆坡举行的会议上与俄罗斯外交部长谢尔盖·拉夫罗夫交谈。 Mohd Rasfan/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
许多受到关税威胁的国家与中国的贸易额超过对美贸易额,因此特朗普总统的施压行动可能会把它们推向北京。而且,许多遭威胁国家的官员已经与美方进行了数月的认真贸易谈判,若美国总统持续威胁,他们或将质疑严肃谈判的意义。
鲁比奥为特朗普的关税政策做出了辩护,称长期存在的贸易失衡对美国工人和产业不公平。他还否认特朗普的政策会无意中促进中国与其他国家的商业关系。
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“你看,我认为各国都会与多个国家进行贸易,”他说。“我们并不认为这给任何人提供了可乘之机。”
“我们将其视为一个机遇,在经历了二三十年的不公平之后,重置全球贸易,使其对美国人更加公平,”他补充道。
王毅则利用与亚洲国家的外交会晤,将中国塑造为受到特朗普贸易政策冲击的发展中国家利益的捍卫者。
王毅在周五与孟加拉国官员会晤时表示,美国对这个“世界上最不发达国家之一”征收35%的关税既“不合理又不道德”。相比之下,他说中国对孟加拉国商品实行零关税政策。(中国每年向孟加拉国出口约180亿美元商品,而进口仅约10亿美元。)
王毅在前一天与该地区外交官会面时表示:“中国一直是动荡世界中最可靠的稳定力量,也是东南亚国家最值得信赖的合作伙伴。”
中国一直在努力争取东南亚,建立抵御特朗普贸易政策的防线。今年4月,习近平访问了马来西亚、越南和柬埔寨,以巩固这些中国商品中转出口国之间的关系。
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北京警告那些受华盛顿施压要求达成贸易协议的国家,如果它们与特朗普政府合作限制中国出口,将面临后果。其中一个被美国拉拢的国家是越南,中国利用越南等邻国绕过美国对其商品加征的关税。
王毅在周四与越南外长裴青山会面时表示,中国反对“经济和贸易霸凌”以及“关税胁迫”。
鲁比奥在周五与裴青山举行了会晤。会后,鲁比奥表示贸易话题有提及,但并非会谈重点,他还特别指出,这次会面恰逢美越恢复外交关系30周年。
无论是共和党还是民主党政府,美国始终难以向亚洲国家展示其制衡中国的战略愿景和坚定承诺。与此同时,大多数亚洲及其他地区国家都不愿被美国或中国逼迫选边站队。
“我们承受不起被视为偏向任何一方的代价,”马来西亚外交部长穆罕默德·哈山周五在新闻发布会上表示。“美国是我们国家最大的投资国,而中国是最大的贸易伙伴。我们必须谨慎处理我们的外交政策,保持中立,并寻求平衡。”
该地区一些国家担心,特朗普政府可能会终止拜登政府推动的多项军事计划。
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五角大楼正在审查一项名为AUKUS的协议,该协议由拜登总统在2021年与澳大利亚和英国领导人达成,旨在向澳大利亚提供核动力潜艇及相关技术。五角大楼的一些官员对是否应该向盟友提供先进的美国武器系统持怀疑态度。
被问及五角大楼的行动时,鲁比奥上周四对记者表示,这种审查是新一届政府的常规流程,并表示“我们在AUKUS问题上的政策没有改变”。

Zunaira Saieed自马来西亚吉隆坡对本文有报道贡献。

黄安伟(Edward Wong)报道全球事务、美国外交政策和

David Pierson报道中国外交政策和中国与世界的经济与文化交互。他从事新闻工作已超过20年。

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Former Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari dies aged 82 in London

Muhammadu Buhari

Nigeria’s former president Muhammadu Buhari, who led Africa’s most populous country from 2015 to 2023 and was the first Nigerian president to oust an incumbent through the ballot box, died in London on Sunday, a presidential spokesperson has said.

President Bola Tinubu’s spokesperson said in a post on X: “President Buhari died today in London at about 4.30pm [1530 GMT], following a prolonged illness.”

Buhari, 82, who first led the country as a military ruler after a coup in the 1980s, earned a devoted following for his brand of anti-corruption conviction politics.

He referred to himself as a “converted democrat” and swapped his military uniform for kaftans and prayer caps.

“I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody” was a regular refrain Buhari told supporters and critics alike.

Buhari defeated Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 in what was judged to be Nigeria’s fairest election to date. Many hoped the retired major general would crack down on armed groups, just as he had as the country’s military head of state.

Instead, violence that had mostly been confined to the north-east spread. That left swathes of Nigeria outside the control of the stretched security forces as gunmen in the north-west, armed separatists and gangs in the south-east roamed unchecked.

Much of Buhari’s appeal lay in the anti-corruption ethos that was a central plank of his agenda as a military and civilian ruler. He said endemic corruption in Nigeria’s political culture was holding people back.

But Buhari quickly disappointed after his 2015 win. He took six months to name his cabinet. During that time, the oil-dependent economy was hobbled by low crude prices, prompting people to call him “Baba Go Slow”.

His second victory in 2019 came despite his first term being blighted by Nigeria’s first recession in a generation, militant attacks on oilfields, and repeated hospital stays.

Buhari was born on 17 December 1942 in Daura, in the north-west state of Katsina, and enrolled in the army at 19. He would eventually rise to the rank of major general.

He seized power in 1983 as a military ruler, promising to revitalise a mismanaged country. Buhari took a tough line on everything from the conditions sought by the International Monetary Fund to unruliness in bus queues.

In 1984, his administration attempted to kidnap a former minister and vocal critic living in Britain. The plot failed when London airport officials opened a crate containing the abducted politician.

His first stint in power was short-lived. He was removed after only 18 months by another military officer, Ibrahim Babangida.

Buhari spent much of the following 30 years in fringe political parties and trying to run for president until his eventual victory over Jonathan in 2015.

Sinner beats Alcaraz to win first Wimbledon title

Sinner beats Alcaraz to win first Wimbledon title

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Brilliant Sinner becomes first Italian Wimbledon champion

World number one Jannik Sinner won his first Wimbledon title by wearing down Carlos Alcaraz in another high-quality Grand Slam final between the dominant forces of the men's game.

Italy's Sinner claimed a 4-6 6-4 6-4 6-4 victory at the All England Club, avenging his brutal French Open defeat by Spanish world number two Alcaraz just 35 days ago.

Then, Sinner led by two sets - and held three championship points - before Alcaraz roared back to win a five-set classic lasting more than five hours.

Now, the 23-year-old has responded by taking two-time defending champion Alcaraz's crown on the Centre Court grass, following another gripping contest which again showcased the pair's shot-making, athleticism and star power.

"It is so special," Sinner said. "I'm living my dream."

Sinner, who served a three-month doping ban earlier this year, has claimed the fourth Grand Slam title of his career and a first major victory not on a hard court.

A composed and clinical performance from the top seed ended Alcaraz's 24-match winning streak.

The manner in which he served out victory from going a break up at 3-1 in the fourth set - given his experience in Paris last month - was admirable.

There was a moment of knowing consternation among Sinner's supporters when he missed a first match point, but he reset to take his second opportunity before dropping to his haunches at the net.

Sinner's win also stopped 22-year-old Alcaraz from becoming only the fifth man in the Open era to win three consecutive Wimbledon titles.

"It is always difficult to lose, but first of all I have to congratulate Jannik again," Alcaraz said.

"It is a really well-deserved trophy. He has been playing great tennis and will continue to be a great rival."

'You have to accept the losses' - resilient Sinner bounces back

What makes Sinner so special above all else is his mentality.

The man from the mountains in northern Italy regularly remains ice-cold in the most decisive matches – which is why his fumble against Alcaraz in Paris felt so surprising.

Little appears to faze the mild-mannered Italian - on or off court.

He was able to stay sanguine during the doping controversy which rocked the sport and the manner in which he has moved on quickly from the brutal nature of his Roland Garros defeat has been impressive.

"I had a very tough loss in Paris, but at the end of the day it doesn't matter how you win or lose – you just have to understand what you did wrong," Sinner said during his on-court speech.

"We accepted the loss, kept working and that's why I'm holding this trophy."

Sinner had shown more resilience over the Wimbledon fortnight by fighting through an elbow injury which needed an MRI scan.

However, he also had a huge slice of fortune. Trailing by two sets to love in his fourth-round match against Grigor Dimitrov, Sinner advanced when his luckless opponent retired with a pectoral injury.

How another gripping 'Sincaraz' final panned out

Jannik Sinner celebrates winning a point against Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon finalImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Jannik Sinner is the first Italian player to win a Wimbledon singles title

Sinner and Alcaraz have created a duopoly in the men's game over the past two seasons, forging a gripping rivalry which is starting to fill the void left by the sport's ageing superstars.

This was another demonstration of how the duel - which the ATP Tour has long pinned its hopes on replacing the Roger Federer-Rafael Nadal-Novak Djokovic gap - could be a blockbuster for years to come.

Few would have confidently predicted which way their first meeting in the Wimbledon final would go.

Alcaraz, having won 35 of his 38 grass-court matches, had the greater pedigree on the surface, but Sinner had won their sole previous encounter at Wimbledon in 2022.

Alcaraz had made relatively slow starts with his service games over the past fortnight, which contributed to the Spaniard facing a total of 48 break points compared to Sinner's 17.

When he lost serve and trailed 4-2 in the opener, it felt Alcaraz would again have to fight back from behind.

But he pounced when Sinner got sloppy in the eighth game to level and the subtle change of momentum led to Alcaraz claiming the lead with a stretching backhand which he somehow turned into an astonishing winner.

One of the factors that makes this rivalry intriguing is their opposite styles. Alcaraz has a higher ceiling of artistic shot-making, but his level can dip lower than the steadier Sinner.

That happened in the second set as Alcaraz's serve – and concentration – went walkabout.

Sinner broke in the first game and, having survived pressure at 2-1 when his service motion was also disrupted by a champagne cork shooting on to the baseline, it was a decisive one.

With the scoreline locked at one set each, it felt like another classic in the making.

There continued to be little difference between the pair in the third set until Sinner swarmed over Alcaraz's second serve in the ninth game to break and serve out for the lead.

Sinner's relentlessly clean ball-striking from the back of the court, plus his fleet of foot when his opponent tried to lure him forward, began to frustrate Alcaraz in the fourth set.

Another early break put Sinner in command. The real test was serving out victory given what had happened in Paris – which he passed confidently.

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UK sizzles for final day of heatwave ahead of heavy rain

ANDY RAIN/EPA/Shutterstock A boy gets his head wet standing on grass in front of a water sprinkler at Parliament Square in London on 12 July.ANDY RAIN/EPA/Shutterstock

Hot weather will continue across the UK on Sunday with possible highs of 31C as the country moves past the peak of its third heatwave this year.

Temperatures are forecast to dip slightly on Sunday before a cooler change on Monday that will bring "heavy spells of rain" for many areas, the Met Office said.

Amber heat health alerts remain in place for the Midlands, southern and eastern England until 9:00 on Monday.

On Saturday Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales all recorded their warmest day of the year so far, while England saw a temperature high of 33.1C in Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire.

Aviemore in the Scottish Highlands recorded a temperature of 32.2C - the first time Scotland has exceeded 30C since June 2023, according to the Met Office.

In Northern Ireland, there was a high of 30C in Magilligan, Londonderry - the first time that temperature has been reached since July 2022, the weather service said, adding that in Wales, Cardiff's Bute Park reached 33.1C.

The amber heat health alerts have been issued for six regions of England - the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, South West, London and East of England.

Amber alerts mean weather impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

It warns of possible health impacts across the wider population, including a potential increase in the risk to health of people aged 65 and over, or those with pre-existing health conditions, as well as a rise in deaths for the over 65 age group.

Less severe yellow health warnings are in place until 9:00 on Monday for the North East, North West and Yorkshire and The Humber.

The latest heatwave has led to hosepipe bans being declared for millions of people in Yorkshire, Kent and Sussex.

This can mean restrictions on certain activities like watering gardens, washing cars, or filling up paddling pools - and those who break the ban could face a fine.

In Scotland, an "extreme" wildfire warning is in effect across much of the country with crews battling a blaze in Perth.

Firefighters in Surrey were also battling a wildfire to the south of Farnham which had grown to eight hectares as of Saturday evening.

The Surrey Fire and Rescue Service have told the public to avoid the area and urged nearby residents to close windows and doors.

The heat has also affected sporting events, with Wimbledon fans braving close to the hottest women's finals day at the tennis championship.

Temperatures hit 31C in Wimbledon, south-west London, as Iga Swiatek beat Amanda Anisimova in the women's singles final.

Sunday's men's finals day will see a cooler shift to 29C as the intense heat begins to ease, which will make conditions more comfortable for fans and players.

According to the Met Office, "the heatwave will begin to breakdown" from Sunday, and Monday will see showers developing across many parts of the UK.

"If you're not a fan of the heat, temperatures will be falling away but also bringing some heavy spells of rain, or welcome rainfall, for many of us," Met Office meteorologist Kathryn Chalk said.

The heatwave is expected to end for most on Monday, as cooler Atlantic air brings temperatures closer to the seasonal average for much of the UK.

The changed weather pattern will also bring rain to some areas, including those where rain has been seriously lacking recently.

However, those in the south-east of England may have to wait until Tuesday for some respite from the heat, with temperatures set to remain around 27C or 28C on Monday.

While linking climate change with specific individual extreme weather events can be difficult, scientists say that climate change is generally making heatwaves hotter, longer and more frequent.

Three summer heatwaves in quick succession after an unusually warm spring suggests climate change is having some effect on 2025's weather - impacting not just humans but wildlife as well.

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