Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to meet King Charles III to discuss U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks about annexing Canada. The meeting follows criticism of the British monarch’s silence on the issue, as he remains Canada’s head of state. Trudeau emphasised that protecting Canada’s sovereignty is a top priority. Experts warn that addressing the matter publicly could risk diplomatic tensions. While some expect Trudeau to request a statement from King Charles, others argue he should first consult U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The debate raises broader questions about the monarchy’s role in Canada’s political landscape.
UK TO SUPPLY UKRAINE MISSILES
The UK has announced a major arms deal to supply Ukraine with 5,000 air defence missiles, manufactured by Thales in Belfast. The contract, worth up to €1.9 billion, is part of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s four-point roadmap to defend Ukraine and seek peace. A Ukrainian partner firm will produce launchers and command vehicles for the missiles. The deal follows a previous agreement for 650 missiles and aligns with the UK’s increased defence spending. Starmer emphasized the dual benefits: supporting Ukraine’s security while creating jobs in the UK. Defence Minister John Healey stated the move aims to deter further Russian aggression.
FRANCE-ALGERIA MIGRATION PACT RE-EXAMINED
France is set to “reexamine” its 1968 migration pact with Algeria following diplomatic tensions and security concerns. French Prime Minister François Bayrou cited Algeria’s reluctance to accept deported citizens, especially after a recent deadly knife attack in Mulhouse. Algeria firmly rejected any threats, warning of reciprocal actions. The strained relationship has worsened due to political disputes, including France’s stance on Western Sahara and the detention of Algerian writer Boualem Sansal. The diplomatic rift extends to social media, with France arresting pro-Algeria influencers. The French government will review the pact over the next six weeks.
JAPAN SKIPS UN NUCLEAR TALKS
Japan has declined to attend a UN conference on the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear-Weapons, citing concerns over undermining its reliance on US nuclear deterrence. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized that Japan’s security depends on Washington’s nuclear shield. While Japan supports nuclear disarmament, it considers the treaty impractical without nuclear-armed nations’ participation. The decision has drawn criticism from atomic bomb survivors and advocacy groups, who accuse the government of prioritizing security alliances over nuclear abolition. Japan continues to advocate for strengthening the Non-Proliferation Treaty amid regional tensions.
ZELENSKYY, TRUMP CLASH OVER UKRAINE AID
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reiterated his call for security guarantees following a heated Oval Office exchange with U.S. President Donald Trump. Critical to continued U.S. support for Ukraine, Trump accused Zelenskyy of ingratitude and dismissed Kyiv’s commitment to peace. Zelenskyy, in an interview with Fox News, urged Trump to stand with Ukraine against Russian aggression, warning that a ceasefire without guarantees would be unacceptable. He emphasized the need for U.S. support, referencing past Russian treaty violations. The meeting, expected to ease tensions, instead underscored deep divisions over Ukraine’s future and U.S. foreign policy.
