Finland and Sweden submit formal applications to join NATO
The Nordic Countries have made the decision to pursue membership of the alliance after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The applications will be considered by the thirty member countries. NATO’s secretary general, Stoltenberg, expressed support, however Turkey’s president remains reserved, due to concerns over Finland and Sweden’s refusal to extradite thirty people accused of terrorism-related charges. Although the application process usually takes up to twelve months, the urgency of the situation may mean a decision is made within weeks.
Ukraine evacuates troops from Mariupol, ceding control to Russia
The port city of Mariupol (south-east) has been surrounded by Russian troops since early March, undergoing weeks of shelling, including attacks on a maternity ward and a theatre where civilians were taking shelter. The group of soldiers that remained at the Azovstal plant to defend the city are now being evacuated, with Zelenskyy saying that “Ukraine needs its heroes alive”. Although Moscow sees this as a victory, the bravery of the soldiers was not in vain, as they slowed down the Russian offensive in other regions (such as in Zaporizhzhia), with Russian forces concentrated there with the original intent of taking control of Mariupol before the Victory Day parade (9th May). Earlier this month, civilians sheltering inside the steel plant have also been evacuated under a cease-fire agreement.
Conservative MP arrested on suspicion of abuse of power and indecent assault
A Parliamentarian in his 50s was arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of sexual assault offences spanning seven years. He was not suspended by the Conservative party but was asked by the chief whip to stay away from the office. The MP was taken into custody and has since been bailed, pending further enquiries in mid-June. The arrest comes at a time when the Conservatives have faced several scandals, including the recent resignations of Imran Ahmad Khan and Neil Parish due to similar accusations, triggering by-elections in the respective constituencies of Wakefield and Tiverton & Honiton.
Eurovision accused of voting manipulation (mentions of winning act)
After Eurovision ended on the 14th May, reports have emerged of voting irregularities relating to the juries of Azerbaijan, Georgia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania and San Marino. An official statement from the European Broadcasting Network (running the show) said that a substitute aggregate result was announced, resulting in Sam Ryder, who represented the UK and came second, receiving 12 points from Azerbaijan and Georgia. Officials from the latter have stated that their juries actually gave the highest rating to Ukraine (who won nonetheless), not to the UK. Ryder may have also benefitted from the decision to override Romania’s results.
