December 2024 - United Kingdom Special Weapons News

US, UK conduct multiple strikes on Yemen's capital Sana'a IRNA 31 Dec 2024 -- Arab and Yemeni media reported on Tuesday that US and British fighter jets conducted multiple airstrikes on various locations in the Yemeni capital, Sana'a.
US, UK conduct fresh airstrikes against Yemeni capital Press TV 31 Dec 2024 -- US and British warplanes have conducted new airstrikes on the Yemeni capital Sana'a in response to the Arab country's operations against Israel.
US-UK attacks on Yemen nothing but aggression: Russia IRNA 31 Dec 2024 -- Russia has slammed American and British airstrikes on Yemeni territories, saying such attacks are aggression against an independent and sovereign Arab country.
US, UK play blame game against Iran at UNSC meeting IRNA 31 Dec 2024 -- The US Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations during her address to the Security Council while condemning the recent Yemeni operations against the Zionist regime, accused the Islamic Republic of Iran of being fueling tensions with its unrelenting support for Yemen's Ansarullah Movement.
We condemn the Houthis' reckless missile attacks on Israel: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 30 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on threats to international peace and security.
HSBC's refusal to appear at UK Parliament hearing on Hong Kong was a mistake Radio Free Asia 28 Dec 2024 -- The closing weeks of 2024 brought troubling news from Hong Kong, from the jailing of 45 democracy activists to a guilty verdict for seven people charged with "rioting" for trying to stop a violent thug attack.
UK continues to step up for Ukraine as new funding announced to bring war criminals to justice UK MOD 29 Dec 2024 -- UK leadership on Ukraine continues into 2025, backed by £3bn military aid commitment each year, and an additional £2.26bn loan.
UK TO TRAIN HUNDREDS MORE UKRAINIAN SOLDIERS IN MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID FOR COMBAT UK MOD 28 Dec 2024 -- Next year, the UK will offer 180 more Ukrainian soldiers training in mental health first aid for combat.
Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service: US, UK special forces directing attacks on bases in Syria Press TV 28 Dec 2024 -- Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) says US and British special services are plotting a series of terrorist attacks on Russian military bases in Syria, following the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad's government by militant groups earlier this month.
US and UK launch new airstrikes on Yemeni capital Press TV 27 Dec 2024 -- American and British aircraft have conducted new airstrikes on the Yemeni capital, prompting Ansarullah to pledge a response.
This resolution robustly reinforces the Council's support to Somalia: UK Statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 27 Dec 2024 -- Explanation of Position delivered by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, before the vote on AUSSOM.
Foreign Secretary statement on Hong Kong arrest warrants UK FCDO 24 Dec 2024 -- The Foreign Secretary has issued a statement following the latest arrest warrants issued under the National Security Law in Hong Kong.
If Russia is so concerned about Ukraine's defensive action then Russia should stop invading: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 23 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Fergus Eckersley, UK Minister Counsellor, at the UN Security Council meeting on threats to international peace and security.
PM call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine: 23 December 2024 Gov.UK 23 Dec 2024
Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Keir Starmer Discussed Continued Cooperation and Support for Ukrainian Arms Production President of Ukraine 23 Dec 2024
British soldiers successfully test drone killer radiowave weapon for first time UK MOD 23 Dec 2024 -- British soldiers have successful trialled for the first time a game-changing weapon that can take down a swarm of drones using radio waves for less than the cost of a pack of mince pies.
Pakistan: UK response to sentencing of civilians via military courts UK FCDO 23 Dec 2024 -- UK government response to sentencing of 25 civilians in military courts in Pakistan
The UK calls on all parties to the conflict to refrain from obstructing MONUSCO operations: UK Statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 20 Dec 2024 -- Explanation of vote delivered by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, following the vote on renewing MONUSCO's mandate.
The UK will continue to work closely with UNOWAS to build peace and security in West Africa and the Sahel: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 20 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Fergus Eckersley, UK Minister Counsellor, at the UN Security Council meeting on West Africa and the Sahel.
Joint Statement on Afghanistan US Dept. of State 20 Dec 2024 -- Special Envoys and Representatives for Afghanistan of Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States met in Geneva on December 16, 2024 to discuss the situation in Afghanistan.
Iran dismisses UK, Australia 'baseless' claims, urges end to interventions in West Asia Press TV 20 Dec 2024 -- The spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry has rejected as "baseless, unrealistic, and irrelevant" the recent claims made by the UK and Australia on the Islamic Republic.

U.S., Britain Impose Sanctions On Georgian Interior Ministry Officials

RFE/RL

UK sanctions Georgian officials responsible for brutal crackdown on media and protestors UK FCDO 19 Dec 2024 -- The UK has designated five Georgian officials for serious human rights violations.
The UK voted in favour of this resolution in line with our strong commitment to the international rule of law: UK statement in the UN General Assembly UK FCDO 19 Dec 2024 -- Explanation of vote by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, in the UN General Assembly meeting requesting an advisory opinion from the ICJ on Israel's legal obligations to ensure the UN and international partners can provide Palestinian civilians can get basic, life-saving supplies.
AI presents significant opportunities to support international peace and security: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 19 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on artificial intelligence.
Latest ODIHR report documents more Russian crimes in Ukraine: UK statement to the OSCE UK FCDO 19 Dec 2024 -- Acting Ambassador Deirdre Brown details some of the crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine, which are recorded in ODIHR's latest report, including torture and sexual violence.
UK leadership on Ukraine continues as Defence Secretary announced £225m support package during Kyiv visit UK MOD 19 Dec 2024 -- The Defence Secretary outlined his five principles for supporting Ukraine next year during a visit to Kyiv on Wednesday
The warring parties must end Sudan's suffering in 2025: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 19 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Sudan.
The UK calls on Israel to stop illegal settlement expansion on Palestinian land: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 18 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
PM call with President-elect Trump: 18 December 2024 Gov.UK 18 Dec 2024
U.S., U.K. Say Medvedev's Comment Calling NATO Officials 'Legitimate Targets' Irresponsible RFE/RL 18 Dec 2024 -- The U.K. and U.S. governments on December 18 said the comments of Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev following the assassination of a high-ranking Russian general by Ukrainian security services were irresponsible and yet another sign of Moscow's desperation.
DPRK must cease its support for Russia's illegal war in Ukraine: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 18 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on North Korea.
Troika renews anti-Iran accusations ahead of UNSC meeting IRNA 18 Dec 2024 -- As the UN Security Council convened Tuesday to review Resolution 2231 and the 2015 nuclear deal, three European countries - Britain, France and Germany- once again repeated their false accusations against Iran's peaceful nuclear program.
Iran warns E3 against misusing JCPOA snapback mechanism IRNA 18 Dec 2024 -- Iran's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, while emphasizing his country's commitment to diplomacy and dialogue, has warned Europe that the misuse of the snapback mechanism under the 2015 nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), will be met with a decisive and proportionate response from Iran.
Iran warns E3 against misusing JCPOA snapback mechanism Press TV 18 Dec 2024 -- Iran has warned that invoking the so-called snapback by three European members of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) will be reciprocated by a firm and proportionate response.
US, British warplanes bomb Yemeni Defense Ministry as conflict over Gaza escalates Press TV 17 Dec 2024 -- US and British warplanes have carried out fresh airstrikes on the Yemeni capital Sana'a and other regions, intensifying attacks as Yemeni Armed Forces continue their anti-Israeli operations in support of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip amid the regime's genocide.
Yemen warns of expanded response to attacks IRNA 17 Dec 2024 -- A senior political figure in Yemen has warned the United States and the United Kingdom against further escalation of attacks on the country.
Yemeni official warns of more options for retaliation as aggression escalates Press TV 17 Dec 2024 -- A senior Yemeni official says the country has a plan for confrontation with its adversaries, including the US, vowing that more options for reprisal attacks will open as their aggression increases.
Prime Minister announces new sanctions and £35 million of emergency support for Ukraine as Russia continues to attack critical national infrastructure Gov.UK 17 Dec 2024 -- The UK has provided £35 million of emergency support to help Ukraine repair its energy grid and support the most vulnerable through a third winter of war, the Prime Minister has announced today.
The Syrian people have our full support as they build a new future: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 17 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria.
Senior British diplomats meet with head of HTS militant group in Syria Press TV 17 Dec 2024 -- A group of diplomats from the United Kingdom have held talks with the head of the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) militant group, which ousted former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government earlier this month, amid widespread reports of Western and Israeli support.
Government buys back 36,347 military homes to improve housing for forces families and save taxpayers billions UK MOD 17 Dec 2024 -- A major deal to bring the Armed Forces housing estate back into public ownership has been agreed by the government.
PM meeting with Prime Minister Kristersson of Sweden: 17 December 2024 Gov.UK 17 Dec 2024
PM meeting with Prime Minister Michal of Estonia: 17 December 2024 Gov.UK 17 Dec 2024
PM meeting with President Stubb of Finland and Prime Minister Frederiksen of Denmark: 17 December 2024 Gov.UK 17 Dec 2024
There is no justification for Iran's stockpiling of high enriched uranium: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 17 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on non-proliferation.
UK court dismisses claim against intel agency by alleged Chinese 'spy' Radio Free Asia 17 Dec 2024 -- A London-based lawyer accused of secretly working with China's propaganda arm has lost a legal appeal against the U.K.'s domestic intelligence service.
Allegation of so-called 'Chinese spy' in UK is just preposterous: Chinese FM Global Times 17 Dec 2024 -- In response to an alleged "Chinese spy" case in the UK, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Tuesday that the "China espionage" accusation is just preposterous. Advancing China-UK relations is in the interest of both countries, and conducive to global growth and response to global challenges.
Chinese embassy urges UK to cease anti-China political manipulation regarding businessman banned from entering UK Global Times 17 Dec 2024 -- The Chinese Embassy in the UK on Tuesday urged the UK side to immediately stop creating trouble, stop anti-China political manipulations, and stop undermining normal personnel exchanges between the two countries after a Chinese businessman is reportedly being banned from entering the UK.
Australian Government and industry partners reach SSN AUKUS agreement BAE Systems 17 Dec 2024 -- The Australian and UK Governments have announced a significant milestone between the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA) and industry partners that will support the delivery of the SSN AUKUS fleet of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines for the Royal Australian Navy.
US, UK conduct new airstrikes on Yemen IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- American and British warplanes have once again bombed Yemen, this time the areas of northwestern province of Hajjah.
Iran: US-UK aggression on Yemen blatant breach of international law, UN Charter Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- The spokesman for Iran's Foreign Ministry has condemned in the strongest terms a new act of aggression by the United States and Britain against several areas in northwestern Yemen.
Russia must cease its reckless attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 16 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine.
Defence tech start up opens UK headquarters in boost for industry Gov.UK 16 Dec 2024 -- An Estonian tech start up manufacturing low-cost air defence missiles is expected to open a new UK headquarters, delivering on the Prime Minister's Plan for Change.
PM meeting with Prime Minister Støre of Norway: 16 December 2024 Gov.UK 16 Dec 2024
The UK welcomes the new, inclusive, Libyan-led plan for a sustainable and prosperous future: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 16 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.
BREAKING: UK court names alleged Chinese spy 'H6' as Yang Tengbo Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- Yang Tengbo was officially named as the alleged Chinese spy in Prince Andrew's entourage after a United Kingdom court lifted an anonymity order today.
Joint Statement from Foreign Ministers Condemning DPRK-Russia Cooperation European External Action Service (EEAS) 16 Dec 2024 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Foreign Ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the High Representative of the European Union.
Statement on Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN) UK FCDO 16 Dec 2024 -- Statement follows 16 December 2024 AUKMIN meeting between the UK Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary and the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence.
14th Australia-United Kingdom Ministerial Consultations Australia DOD 15 Dec 2024 -- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles and Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong will today travel to the United Kingdom to attend the Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN).
UK announces £50 million new support for vulnerable Syrians UK FCDO 15 Dec 2024 -- UK announces £50 million package of international aid to help the most vulnerable Syrians, including refugees across the region.
Secretary Blinken's Call with UK Foreign Secretary Lammy US Dept. of State 15 Dec 2024
PM call with G7 leaders: 13 December 2024 Gov.UK 13 Dec 2024
This resolution extends the Al-Shabaab sanctions regime at a critical period for Somalia's security transition: UK Statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 13 Dec 2024 -- UK Explanation of Vote delivered by Jess Jambert-Gray, UK Deputy Political Coordinator, following the vote on the UN Security Council resolution on the 2713 sanctions regime.
The UK will continue to support Chad's political transition amidst the conflict in Sudan: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 13 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on UNOCA/LRA.
Ukraine and the United Kingdom Held the Fourth Round of Negotiations on the Agreement on Transitioning to a Stronger and Deeper Partnership President of Ukraine 12 Dec 2024
Berlin Declaration Spain MFA 12 Dec 2024 -- "We, Foreign Ministers of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom as well as the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, have come together with the Foreign Minister of Ukraine today at a watershed moment in Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine."
2024 has been another year of Russian aggression against Ukraine and OSCE principles: UK statement to the OSCE UK FCDO 12 Dec 2024 -- Ambassador Holland sets out some of the examples of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and its OSCE commitments that we have witnessed so far in 2024.
The Taliban's draconian decision to restrict medical education for women will put thousands of lives at risk: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 12 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Afghanistan.
The UK reiterates calls for full respect of DRC's territorial integrity: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 12 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on MONUSCO
UK statement on Ethiopia–Somalia relations UK FCDO 12 Dec 2024 -- UK statement on the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Somalia
British troops thanked for defending Polish airspace as successful air defence deployment concludes UK MOD 12 Dec 2024 -- The operation has concluded after more than two years of successfully protecting Polish airspace.
Russia must end its war and stop trying to undermine dialogue: UK statement to the OSCE UK FCDO 11 Dec 2024 -- Ambassador Neil Holland thanks Denmark for their professional and principled chairing of the Forum for Security Cooperation, despite Russia's repeated distractions and breaches of its OSCE commitments.
British Army successfully tests new drone-destroying laser UK MOD 11 Dec 2024 -- First ever UK high-energy laser weapon system mounted on an armoured vehicle at a UK trials range.
We call for the immediate release of UN aid workers in Yemen: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 11 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.
UK and Cyprus to tackle serious organised crime and Russian illicit finance in closer cooperation Gov.UK 10 Dec 2024 -- The UK will support Cyprus in establishing a new National Sanctions Implementation Unit to crack down on illicit Russian finance flowing through Europe.
The UK remains a steadfast supporter of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals' work: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 10 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Legal Adviser Colin McIntyre at the UN Security Council meeting on the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals.
Lord Coaker visits South America to strengthen defence ties UK MOD 10 Dec 2024 -- Defence Minister Lord Coaker visits Chile and Brazil for talks with counterparts and industry as the UK strengthens relations with partners around the world.
Readout of Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks' Meeting With UK Permanent Under Secretary for the Ministry of Defence David Williams at the U.S.-UK Defense Dialogue DoD 09 Dec 2024
PM meeting with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia: 9 December 2024 Gov.UK 09 Dec 2024
PM meeting with the President of the United Arab Emirates: 9 December 2024 Gov.UK 09 Dec 2024
Syria: Foreign Secretary's statement UK FCDO 09 Dec 2024 -- The Foreign Secretary made a statement to the House of Commons on the situation in Syria on 9 December.
Stability in the Middle East vital to delivery at home, Prime Minister says Gov.UK 09 Dec 2024 -- The stability of the Middle East is paramount to delivering a foundation of security at home, the Prime Minister has said during a visit to the Gulf today [9 December 2024].
Iran's further escalation of its nuclear programme: joint statement by France, Germany and the UK UK FCDO 09 Dec 2024 -- Joint statement by the spokespeople for the foreign ministries of France, Germany and the United Kingdom on the Iranian nuclear programme.
Britain Restricts Contact With Georgia, Slams Crackdown On Journalists, Protesters RFE/RL 09 Dec 2024 -- Britain has said it is severely restricting its contacts with the Georgia government and blasted its "shocking" crackdown on journalists and pro-Western demonstrators, reflecting earlier moves by the United States and European Union.
Foreign Secretary Statement: Situation in Georgia UK FCDO 09 Dec 2024 -- UK Foreign Secretary has announced the UK will reduce its support and engagement with the Georgian Government.
PM statement on Syria Gov.UK 08 Dec 2024
New funding for White Helmets in Syria in response to escalation UK FCDO 06 Dec 2024 -- UK announces new funding to support White Helmets' response to the current escalations in Syria
The United Kingdom Can Demonstrate Leadership in Strengthening Ukraine - Andriy Yermak in His Speech at Chatham House President of Ukraine 06 Dec 2024
Joint Statement From The Combined Space Operations Initiative Principals' Board Meeting in Italy to Advance Space Security DoD 06 Dec 2024 -- The Combined Space Operations (CSpO) Initiative Principals' Board met from December 3-5, 2024, in Florence, Italy. Senior representatives from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States gathered for the annual meeting.
UK statement: Taliban imposes medical training ban on women and girls UK FCDO 06 Dec 2024 -- The UK government expresses concerns following reports of the Taliban's decision to suspend medical education for women and girls in Afghanistan
Survivors and victims of Daesh crimes deserve justice: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 06 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on meeting on Iraq.
UK-Qatar defence partnership strengthened during state visit UK MOD 05 Dec 2024 -- New agreements signed as Defence Secretary John Healey and Amir of Qatar visit Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
No matter how long it takes, the perpetrators must be held to account for the use of chemical weapons in Syria: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 05 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Jess Jambert-Gray, UK Deputy Political Coordinator, at the UN Security Council meeting on chemical weapons in Syria.
UK Parliament confronts 'Italian' tomato puree made with Uyghur forced labor Radio Free Asia 03 Dec 2024 -- The U.K. Parliament is discussing possible steps of action after an investigative report found that "Italian" tomato purees sold in British supermarkets are actually often made with Uyghur forced labor in China.
International Criminal Court Assembly of States Parties 2024: FCDO Director General Legal's statement UK FCDO 03 Dec 2024 -- FCDO Director General Legal Sally Langrish gave a statement on behalf of the UK at the session of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute on 3 December 2024.
Second India-UK 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue India MEA 03 Dec 2024 -- The second India-UK 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue was convened in New Delhi on 3 December 2024.
Special Representative of the Chinese Government on Eurasian Affairs Li Hui Meets with Director of Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Ben Fender at the Latter's Request PRC MofA 02 Dec 2024
"National security is the foundation for growth" - Defence Secretary launches new strategy to boost UK jobs and growth. UK MOD 02 Dec 2024 -- UK based defence firms will be prioritised for government investment under a new defence industrial strategy.
Joint Statement on the Developments in Syria US Dept. of State 01 Dec 2024 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom to discuss the current situation in Syria.

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December 2024 - United Kingdom Special Weapons News