In a bold move to enhance national security, the UK’s Secret Intelligence Service, MI6, is set to unveil a dedicated portal on the dark web aimed at recruiting new spies, particularly from Russia. The initiative, named ‘Silent Courier,’ is designed to streamline the process of identifying and engaging potential agents worldwide. The announcement is expected to be confirmed by outgoing MI6 chief Sir Richard Moore during a speech in Istanbul on Friday morning. Sir Richard is scheduled to hand over his role to Blaise Metreweli later this month. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, ‘National security is the first duty of any government. As threats evolve, we must ensure the UK remains ahead of its adversaries. Our intelligence agencies are at the forefront of this effort, and this new technology will bolster their capabilities.’ The portal, accessible from Friday, will allow individuals to securely share sensitive information related to terrorism or hostile intelligence activities. Instructions for using the portal will be available on MI6’s verified YouTube channel, with recommendations to access it via secure VPNs and untraceable devices. This strategy mirrors the CIA’s 2023 campaign to recruit Russian spies through social media videos. However, the CIA faced significant setbacks when its dark web connections were compromised by China’s Ministry of State Security, leading to one of the most severe security breaches in recent years.
分类： politics
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US House Democrats call on FCC chair to resign after pressuring Disney
In a dramatic escalation of tensions between Democratic leaders and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other prominent figures have called for the resignation of FCC Chair Brendan Carr. The demand follows allegations that Carr pressured Walt Disney Co. and ABC affiliates to cease airing “Jimmy Kimmel Live” after the late-night host made controversial remarks about Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Jeffries accused Carr of “disgracing the office he holds by bullying ABC, the employer of Jimmy Kimmel, and forcing the company to bend the knee to the Trump administration.” This incident is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding Carr’s tenure. Earlier this year, congressional Democrats launched an investigation into what they termed “sham” probes targeting major media outlets, including CBS, NBC, and ABC, alleging these actions were designed to intimidate the press. The call for Carr’s resignation underscores the deepening rift between the FCC and Democratic lawmakers, who view his actions as a threat to media freedom and democratic principles.
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Germany approves 2025 budget, ushering in new era of spending
In a landmark decision, Germany’s Bundestag, the lower house of parliament, has approved the nation’s 2025 federal budget, marking a significant departure from decades of fiscal conservatism. The budget, passed on September 18, 2025, in Berlin, allocates a record €116 billion ($136.94 billion) in investments, enabled by a €500 billion infrastructure fund and exemptions from debt rules for defense spending, which were approved earlier in March. Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil hailed the budget as a ‘huge paradigm shift in German fiscal policy,’ emphasizing its role in revitalizing the economy and bolstering national defense. The budget reflects Germany’s commitment to increased military spending, particularly in support of Ukraine and NATO allies, while addressing the economic stagnation that has plagued Europe’s largest economy. The 2025 budget also includes a core borrowing plan of €81.8 billion, with total borrowing rising to €143.2 billion when accounting for special funds for infrastructure and defense. This fiscal shift comes after Germany operated on a provisional budget in 2024 due to the collapse of the former ruling coalition. Looking ahead, Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s coalition government faces challenges in balancing future budgets, particularly with a projected €30 billion shortfall in 2027. Difficult debates on welfare cuts and spending priorities are expected, as the coalition seeks to reconcile differing views between conservative and Social Democrat partners. Parliament is set to begin discussions on the 2026 budget next week, with final approval anticipated in November.
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Russia says it will answer Japan’s new sanctions
MOSCOW, Sept 18 (Reuters) – Russia has strongly criticized Japan’s latest round of sanctions, labeling them as ‘unfriendly’ and warning that they will not go unanswered. The sanctions, announced last week, are part of Japan’s response to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. They target additional individuals and entities while also lowering the price cap on Russian oil exports. Maria Zakharova, the spokeswoman for Russia’s Foreign Ministry, addressed the media on Thursday, emphasizing that Russia’s response would be carefully considered and aligned with its national interests. ‘Japan’s latest unfriendly actions will not go unanswered,’ Zakharova stated. ‘Our response will be well thought out and based on national interests. We will continue to take appropriate countermeasures, including those of an asymmetric nature.’ The escalating tensions between the two nations come amidst a broader geopolitical struggle, as Japan aligns itself with Western nations in imposing economic measures against Russia. The situation underscores the deepening rift between Russia and countries supporting Ukraine, with economic sanctions becoming a key tool in this conflict.
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Sarah Smith: Trump visit showed UK’s warm relations – and limited influence
Donald Trump’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom was marked by grandeur, personal connections, and subtle diplomatic maneuvers. While the U.S. president appeared more captivated by his time at Windsor Castle with King Charles and Queen Camilla than his discussions with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Chequers, the visit underscored the enduring strength of the UK-US alliance. The trip, meticulously orchestrated, showcased the ceremonial aspects of diplomacy, from an aerial display by the British Army’s Red Devils to an elaborate banquet at Windsor Castle, which Trump described as the highlight of his journey. Despite the pomp, the visit also revealed the limits of personal rapport in influencing policy. During a joint news conference, Trump and Starmer addressed contentious issues such as UK plans to recognize Palestinian statehood and the dismissal of Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US. While the leaders maintained a cordial tone, it was evident that their fundamental disagreements remained unchanged. Trump’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, candidly stated that the visit would not alter US policy on trade, tariffs, or international affairs. Nevertheless, Starmer’s adept handling of the relationship ensured that the UK avoided the punitive trade tariffs imposed on other nations and maintained a respectful, if not influential, dialogue with the US president. The visit concluded with a sense of mutual respect, highlighting that while personal connections can ease tensions, they do not necessarily shift geopolitical stances.
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Britain says first migrant returned to France under ‘one in, one out’ deal
In a significant move to address illegal migration, the United Kingdom has deported its first migrant to France under the newly implemented ‘one in, one out’ agreement. The pilot scheme, agreed upon by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron in July 2025, aims to remove undocumented individuals arriving in small boats to France while accepting an equal number of legitimate asylum seekers with British family ties. The UK’s Home Office confirmed that a man who arrived by small boat in August was removed on a commercial flight, with additional flights scheduled in the coming weeks. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the importance of this step in securing the UK’s borders and deterring illegal crossings. The policy, however, has faced legal challenges, with London’s High Court temporarily halting the removal of one asylum seeker pending a full legal review. Despite these hurdles, the government remains committed to the scheme, reviewing modern slavery legislation to prevent its misuse. Critics, including campaign group Freedom from Torture, argue that the policy lacks compassion and access to legal support, urging a more humane approach to asylum seekers.
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EU floats plan to use frozen Russian assets for Ukraine loan, bypassing a Hungary veto
The European Union is actively considering innovative financial strategies to support Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. One such proposal involves leveraging frozen Russian assets to underpin a ‘reparation loan’ aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s wartime finances. This approach seeks to circumvent potential vetoes from Hungary, a member state known for its pro-Moscow stance. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently introduced the concept, emphasizing that the loan would be structured around cash balances linked to Russian central bank assets frozen in the West following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. Crucially, the plan avoids seizing these assets, a move that has been a red line for some EU members. The proposed mechanism would involve replacing the frozen Russian assets with zero-coupon bonds issued by the European Commission, guaranteed by either all EU countries or a coalition of willing participants. This strategy aims to ensure that Ukraine would only repay the loan once it receives compensation from Russia for war-related damages. The initiative is still in its preliminary stages, with many details, including the exact amounts, yet to be finalized. However, officials believe that this approach could provide Ukraine with much-needed financial support while minimizing political risks associated with Hungary’s potential veto. The EU has already been using interest from the frozen assets to repay a $50 billion loan extended to Ukraine by G7 countries. Moving forward, the proposed scheme could offer greater investment flexibility and higher returns, further aiding Ukraine’s recovery efforts.
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Albania’s Rama starts fourth term as PM, targets EU membership
Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama has been confirmed for a historic fourth consecutive term by the country’s parliament, solidifying his leadership in the Balkan nation. The Socialist Party leader, who ran unopposed, secured 82 votes in the 140-seat assembly, marking another majority victory following May’s elections. During his address to lawmakers, Rama emphasized his commitment to steering Albania toward European Union membership by 2030, declaring it the cornerstone of his new mandate. ‘European Albania is the guiding compass for every aspect of our program and the metronome for the rhythm of every reform we will undertake,’ he stated. However, Albania’s path to EU integration faces significant hurdles, including widespread corruption and its reputation as a hub for money laundering linked to drug and weapons trafficking. In a bold and controversial move, Rama recently appointed an AI-powered bot named Diella to oversee public tenders, aiming to curb corruption. Diella, introduced via a video address, asserted its role as a facilitator rather than a replacement for human oversight. The opposition has vehemently criticized the appointment, labeling it unconstitutional and potentially exacerbating corruption. Sali Berisha, leader of the Democratic Party, accused Rama’s mandate of being ‘based on crime, corruption, drugs, and the violation of the Constitution.’ The lack of parliamentary debate on the new government further fueled opposition discontent. Despite these challenges, Rama remains steadfast in his vision for Albania’s future within the EU.
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US embassy in India says it revoked, denied visas over fentanyl links
The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi has taken decisive action against certain Indian business executives and corporate leaders by revoking or denying their visas. This move comes in response to their alleged involvement in trafficking fentanyl precursors, as confirmed by the embassy in an official statement released on Thursday. Fentanyl precursors are the essential chemicals used in the production of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid responsible for a significant public health crisis in the United States. The embassy did not disclose the identities of the individuals affected by this visa action, maintaining confidentiality in line with its protocols. This development underscores the U.S. government’s intensified efforts to combat the global fentanyl trade and its supply chain. The decision also highlights the growing scrutiny of international business leaders linked to activities that contribute to the opioid epidemic. The embassy’s statement serves as a stern reminder of the legal and diplomatic consequences for those involved in such illicit activities.
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Starmer, Trump to discuss foreign affairs, investment after pomp-filled royal welcome
U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened at Chequers, the Prime Minister’s country residence, on September 18, 2025, to solidify a landmark £150 billion ($205 billion) U.S. investment package in the UK. The deal, spanning technology, energy, and life sciences, aims to rejuvenate the historic ‘special relationship’ between the two nations. This meeting, part of Trump’s second state visit to the UK, shifted focus from domestic political challenges to global affairs, following a day of ceremonial events with King Charles III. Despite the celebratory tone, underlying tensions over Ukraine, Israel, and sensitive domestic issues loomed. Starmer, facing domestic pressures, sought to leverage the visit to bolster his international standing. Trump, meanwhile, emphasized the value of U.S.-UK ties, praising Britain’s historical contributions to global values. The leaders also addressed contentious topics, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Israel’s actions in Gaza, which could strain discussions. While Starmer secured significant U.S. investments, hopes for reduced steel and aluminium tariffs were dashed. The visit underscored both cooperation and friction in the U.S.-UK alliance.