#diplomatic-visit

#diplomatic-visit

Much of the work of the royal family in recent weeks has been overshadowed by the Epstein scandal, which was reignited when millions of documents associated with the convicted child sex offender were released by US authorities. These sparked a string of allegations against William's uncle and have led to UK police launching an investigation into Peter Mandelson over alleged misconduct in public office. The former minister has denied any wrongdoing.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's warm welcome on a visit to China this week marks a thaw in icy relations with Beijing. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in China this week with a large delegation of businesspeople and cultural figures. He received a warm welcome from Chinese President Xi Jinping. But the visit got a frosty reception from the White House, with United States President Donald Trump calling Starmer's trip dangerous.

The trip next week is a continuation of that turning point in the relationship,

The Foreign Office said there had been "a summer of Russian delay tactics at peace talks" aimed at ending the conflict in the region, as well as increased attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. Cooper added support for Kyiv was "unwavering and stronger than ever" and that fresh funding would support Ukraine through the winter and into 2026. She continued: "Putin's bombardment of Ukrainian civilians, his stalling and delaying in internationally-backed peace talks, and his blatant disregard for human life must end."