The UK government is reviewing its use of X following concerns about AI-generated images created using its Grok chatbot. The move comes amid growing political pressure over the spread of sexualised and non-consensual deepfake images and questions about platform responsibility.

UK ministers have said no immediate ban has been imposed, but departments are reassessing whether continued use of X aligns with standards on online safety and public trust. The issue has also featured in domestic political debate, with senior figures calling for clearer regulation of generative AI tools.

In the United States, JD Vance has described sexualised AI deepfakes as unacceptable, echoing ...

Donald Trump has said the United States could take direct action against drug cartels, including potential land-based strikes, as part of a broader effort to combat drug trafficking and fentanyl-related deaths. He described the cartels as national security threats and suggested that stronger measures may be needed to disrupt their operations.

The remarks indicate a more aggressive approach than traditional law enforcement cooperation, raising questions about sovereignty, international law, and relations with neighboring countries, particularly Mexico. Critics argue that such actions could escalate tensions and carry significant legal and humanitarian risks, while supporters say tougher measures are justified by the scale ...

US president Donald Trump has proposed a record increase in US defence spending, outlining plans that would push the military budget to unprecedented levels and reshape federal priorities.

The proposal, which Trump described as necessary to strengthen US security and counter global threats, has been welcomed by defence contractors and investors. Shares in major defence firms rose following the announcement, reflecting expectations of increased government contracts and sustained demand for military equipment.

However, the scale of the proposed spending has prompted criticism from analysts and commentators, who questioned how such a budget would be funded and whether it addresses underlying strategic needs. ...

The Labour Party has reversed its position on proposed business rate changes affecting pubs, following sustained criticism from the hospitality industry and concerns over financial viability.

Under the revised approach, ministers said they would reconsider how rates are applied to pubs, after warnings that earlier plans could have led to closures and job losses. Pub operators and trade groups argued that higher fixed costs, combined with inflation and staffing pressures, were placing significant strain on the sector.

The move was welcomed by industry representatives, who said it offered some relief to businesses already facing rising energy bills and reduced consumer spending. However, ...

Reform UK has come under renewed scrutiny following criticism of comments made by its candidate for London Mayor, Laila Cunningham.

Cunningham’s remarks about London prompted accusations that she was “talking down” the capital at a time when mayoral candidates are expected to promote the city’s strengths and economic potential. Critics argued that the comments risked reinforcing negative perceptions of London rather than addressing its challenges constructively.

Reform UK defended its candidate, saying the comments were intended to highlight concerns raised by residents and businesses, including crime, infrastructure pressures and the cost of living. The party said acknowledging problems was necessary to argue ...