In Ukraine, rare wartime demonstrations erupted following the removal of Defence Minister Mykhailo (Misha) Fedorov, who had served six months credited with battlefield impact and anti-corruption efforts. Reports indicate Fedorov clashed with Ukraine’s commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, over war strategy. President Zelensky stated he had to choose a side for unity amid a broader government reshuffle.

This leadership change comes during Ukraine’s ongoing "40-day influence operation," targeting Russian refineries and ships in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea, marking a sensitive phase in the conflict.

On the international front, tensions in the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and the US continue. It has been a month since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, initially hailed by President Trump with the call, "Ships of the world, start your engines, let the oil flow!" However, Trump later declared the deal over while paradoxically allowing negotiations to continue. Oil prices and petrol costs have surged globally amid renewed threats, including Trump’s warnings to target Iranian infrastructure and Tehran’s vow to "crush every US interest that’s still intact in the Middle East."

In the UK, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stepped down, drawing criticism for a lack of creativity and boldness, with Andy Burnham set to take over leadership. Burnham is noted as a guitar-playing Stone Roses fan who enjoys the song "I Am the Resurrection" and daily Wordle puzzles.

Sources: France 24 English

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