Family of British Soldier Captured in Ukraine Appeals for Fair Treatment

Family of British Soldier Captured in Ukraine Appeals for Fair Treatment

Aiden Aslin’s loved ones urge Russia to adhere to international laws and humane treatment

The family of a British soldier believed to have been captured by Russian forces while fighting for Ukraine have called on Vladimir Putin to ensure he is “treated humanely.” Aiden Aslin, 28, originally from Nottinghamshire, had been resisting in Mariupol for 48 days before surrendering to Russian troops.

Images shared on Russian television appeared to show Aslin, handcuffed with a visible cut on his forehead, as a prisoner of war. His mother, Ang Wood, confirmed his identity after recognising his distinctive tattoos. She called on the Kremlin to follow the Geneva Convention and for the British Government to intervene in securing her son’s release. “I love my son. He is my hero. They put up one hell of a fight,” she told The Telegraph.

Ms Wood added that her son had shared with her that his unit had run out of weapons and supplies, which led to their surrender. “They have no food and no ammunition,” said a recent post from Aslin’s Twitter account, which is currently being managed by a friend.

His grandmother, Pamela Hall, expressed her hopes for his safety and fair treatment under international law. “All the guys should be treated as prisoners of war according to the Geneva Convention,” she said.

Aslin had joined the Ukrainian armed forces in 2018 and previously fought against ISIS in Syria. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is continuing efforts to verify his capture, although access to consular services in Ukraine remains limited due to the ongoing conflict.

Despite the circumstances, his family remains steadfast in their appeal for his rights to be respected. They emphasised the urgency for fair treatment as his ordeal continues.

Chris Baber: “Traditional Northeast Dishes Like Panacalty Must Be Preserved or They’ll Disappear”

Chris Baber: “Traditional Northeast Dishes Like Panacalty Must Be Preserved or They’ll Disappear”

The Instagram chef discusses his journey from TV cookery shows to sharing regional recipes and rediscovering heritage food

Chris Baber grew up in Hexham, Northumberland, with a passion for food – though his upbringing wasn’t centred on fine dining. “We had good, home-cooked food, but it was all simple classics like spag bol and cottage pie,” he reflects. His earliest cooking memories come from time spent in his grandfather’s kitchen on weekends – surrounded by music, laughter and good food.

Baber’s culinary education wasn’t traditional. Instead, he learned through TV cookery shows like Ready Steady Cook, watching episodes after school and rushing into his own kitchen to experiment. “That naturally evolved into learning how to cook,” he recalls. His passion led him to BBC One’s Yes Chef, where he triumphed in 2016, opening doors to professional kitchens and London’s Michelin-starred restaurants like Benares, where Atul Kochhar took him under his wing.

Although the professional kitchen was intense – “probably the hardest I’ve ever worked” – it taught him invaluable lessons. However, Baber chose a different path: translating his learnings into accessible recipes for everyday cooks. His debut cookbook, Easy, does just that, with an emphasis on simple, comforting dishes.

One of the highlights is the inclusion of regional specialities like panacalty (a type of corned beef pie) and singing hinnies (pan-fried scones). “These are dishes that hold special memories for me,” Baber says. “They’re simple, hearty, and they taste incredible. But if people aren’t making them, there’s always the risk they could disappear.”

He’s passionate about sharing these northeast delicacies with a wider audience. Baber describes northeast cuisine as “wholesome and hearty, designed to fill you up with tons of flavour without any unnecessary fuss.” These traditional recipes have roots in working-class homes and remain as much about simplicity as they are about taste.

With a social media following of over 161,000 on Instagram and 4.5 million views on his YouTube videos, Baber has built a loyal audience through his approachable, relatable approach to cooking. His journey has proven that a passion for food can lead to a career that enriches not just the chef but an entire community of food lovers.

“I just love food,” he concludes. “It’s one of life’s greatest joys.”

Climate Activists Stage Protest by Gluing Themselves to Government Building

Climate Activists Stage Protest by Gluing Themselves to Government Building

Extinction Rebellion demands an end to new fossil fuel projects amid climate crisis

A group of scientists and Extinction Rebellion (XR) activists have engaged in a dramatic act of civil disobedience by gluing themselves to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) building in London. Their protest is centred on what they call the “irresponsible and dangerous pursuit of new fossil fuel development” by the UK government.

XR claims that expanding fossil fuel production directly undermines the UK’s climate goals and hampers progress toward meeting international climate agreements. This latest protest marks part of a week-long series of actions targeting key economic and political institutions.

Kwasi Kwarteng, the Business Secretary, responded to the demonstration by firmly stating that the government will not cease domestic oil and gas production. He defended the decision, highlighting the risks to energy security, job opportunities, and industry stability, while suggesting that halting domestic production would only lead to increased foreign reliance.

Meanwhile, XR activists also targeted Shell’s London headquarters on the same day, gluing themselves to the reception desk to demand a meeting with CEO Ben van Beurden. Shell has since reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and investing in low-carbon technologies, including offshore wind and electric transport. However, the company has called for safe and non-disruptive climate activism to ensure the safety of its employees and operations.

On Tuesday, climate protesters had already blocked entrances to Lloyd’s of London, a major insurance market, using chains and superglue. They are demanding that Lloyd’s stop underwriting projects linked to fossil fuels, arguing that financial institutions must take responsibility for climate change mitigation. Lloyd’s has expressed support for constructive climate engagement and is actively working toward a responsible energy transition.

Emily Cox, a social scientist and XR protester, criticised the government’s ongoing subsidies and tax breaks to fossil fuel companies while the public increasingly supports renewable energy and energy-efficiency measures. She said: “The government is choosing fossil fuels over the public interest and a livable planet.”

Responding to these actions, a BEIS spokesperson reiterated the government’s energy security strategy, which aims to balance transitioning toward renewable energy while maintaining domestic oil and gas supplies to prevent risks to energy security and employment.

The protesters’ message is clear: without immediate action to phase out new fossil fuel investments, the UK risks prioritising short-term economic measures over climate stability and public health.

Biden Administration Targets Ghost Guns with New Federal Rule

Biden Administration Targets Ghost Guns with New Federal Rule

New regulations aim to curb the rise of untraceable firearms linked to violent crimes

The Biden administration has introduced a new federal rule aimed at addressing the growing issue of “ghost guns”—untraceable firearms without serial numbers. These weapons, often assembled from parts, have increasingly appeared at crime scenes across the United States, sparking concerns among law enforcement officials.

According to the White House and Justice Department, the new rule would require ghost guns and their critical components, such as lower receivers, to bear serial numbers. Additionally, federally licensed gun dealers would need to conduct background checks on all sales, including those of ghost guns, whether they are assembled from kits, individual parts, or even 3D-printed components.

Currently, unfinished firearm components like “80-percent receivers” can be legally purchased online without serial numbers or a licence. This loophole has become a key factor in the proliferation of ghost guns, with these components often being assembled into functional firearms without official oversight. Under the new regulation, these unfinished parts would now fall under stricter licensing requirements.

Despite the administration’s efforts, the rule is expected to face significant pushback from gun advocacy groups. The Gun Owners of America has already pledged legal action against the new regulations, arguing that they violate federal laws and infringe on Second Amendment rights.

Ghost guns first drew national attention in 2013 after a high-profile shooting at Santa Monica College, in which the shooter had assembled an AR-15 following a failed background check. Since then, these untraceable firearms have become more common at crime scenes and during undercover law enforcement operations. Between 2016 and 2020, nearly 24,000 ghost guns were reported to the government as recovered at crime scenes.

The new rule will go into effect 120 days after its official publication in the Federal Register, though its implementation will likely spark legal battles. This comes after more than two years of efforts, with the administration first proposing stricter ghost gun regulations in April 2021.

The new initiative marks a critical step as officials struggle to counter the rising threat of ghost guns in the American criminal underworld while addressing gaps in existing firearm laws.

Almost 50% of Teachers in England Plan to Leave Profession by 2027

Almost 50% of Teachers in England Plan to Leave Profession by 2027

Heavy workloads and government scrutiny driving teachers to consider career changes

A new survey from the National Education Union (NEU) has revealed that nearly half of all teachers in England intend to leave their roles within the next five years. Of the 1,788 teachers surveyed, 20% indicated they plan to quit within the next two years alone.

The NEU attributes this trend to “heavy workloads” as a major factor, combined with concerns over public and governmental trust, pay levels, and increased accountability pressures. Furthermore, the union has called for the replacement of Ofsted, arguing that the inspection body has become an “unfair and unreliable” source of stress, contributing to unnecessary workload for educators.

A spokesperson for the Department for Education responded to the findings by insisting that teaching continues to be “an attractive and fulfilling profession.” They also highlighted that the number of teachers in schools remains stable and that the government is actively addressing concerns related to workload and teacher wellbeing.

In light of the poll, London-based teacher Kiri Tunks shared her perspective, discussing the realities of daily life in the classroom and the changes she believes are essential for the education system’s improvement.

You can listen to the full discussion on the Leader podcast, available on Spotify Daily Drive or other podcast streaming platforms.

NHS Faces ‘Brutal’ Easter as Government Accused of Neglecting Covid Responsibility

NHS Faces ‘Brutal’ Easter as Government Accused of Neglecting Covid Responsibility

Leaders criticise the government’s inaction as pressure on emergency services and Covid admissions soars

NHS leaders have strongly criticised the government for “abandoning interest” in Covid and failing to address the escalating crisis as the NHS faces a “brutal” Easter period. According to the NHS Confederation, the situation is now as dire as the pressures experienced during winter, with staff and patients enduring significant strain.

The government has been urged to adopt a more robust response to Covid, particularly as hospital admissions continue to climb. Over 20,000 hospital beds in England were occupied by Covid-positive patients last week, while staff absences due to the virus reached their highest level in 10 weeks. Emergency services are also under enormous pressure, with 20 A&Es diverting ambulances and hospitals declaring critical incidents nationwide.

Reports suggest delays for ambulance services are unprecedented, with some stroke and suspected heart attack patients waiting over four hours for care—far longer than the 18-minute target. Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation, stated: “The brutal reality for staff and patients is that this Easter in the NHS is as bad as any winter.”

Taylor accused the government of neglecting responsibility, highlighting that “No 10 has seemingly abandoned any interest in Covid whatsoever.” Financial pressures are compounding the crisis, with cuts to NHS funding and high inflation reducing the real value of budgets. Despite these challenges, NHS England has had to pull hundreds of millions from its central budget to address shortfalls in Covid testing following the winding down of the government’s Test and Trace programme.

The NHS Confederation is calling for the government to reverse this financial strain, enhance public health messaging around Covid precautions, and adopt a realistic approach to the NHS’s capacity amidst high infection rates, rising emergency demand, and a growing backlog of planned care.

Taylor added: “Covid is far from over, as ministers appear to want to believe, and we urge them to get a grip on this – both for the current spike in infections but also for potential future ones.”

In response, the Department of Health and Social Care defended its position, stating that vaccination and antiviral success, combined with public understanding, allowed Covid to transition into a “living with Covid” approach. A spokesperson added: “We are incredibly grateful to NHS staff and we have set out our plan to tackle the Covid backlog and deliver long-term recovery and reform, backed by our record multibillion-pound investment over the next three years.”

Despite this assurance, the NHS continues to struggle under immense pressure as it faces both immediate challenges and long-term financial uncertainty.

Murderer on Life Sentence Recaptured After Failing to Return to Prison

Murderer on Life Sentence Recaptured After Failing to Return to Prison

Jason Mills arrested near Bristol Temple Meads after escaping from open prison

A convicted murderer who failed to return to prison after a scheduled appointment has been successfully recaptured, police have confirmed. Jason Mills, 49, was serving a life sentence for murder at HMP Leyhill near Thornbury, Gloucestershire, when he went missing on Wednesday.

Mills had attended an appointment at Bridewell Police Station in Bristol city centre that morning but did not return to the open prison afterwards. Following his disappearance, Avon and Somerset Police launched a public appeal on Thursday to locate him, warning the public not to approach him.

On Friday, police confirmed that Mills was arrested by British Transport Police near Bristol Temple Meads, the city’s primary train station.

Avon and Somerset Police expressed gratitude to members of the public for their assistance with the appeal, stating: “The public’s support with our inquiries makes a significant difference.”

Mills has been serving a life sentence since his murder conviction in 2001.

State Department Struggles to Account for Missing Gift Records from Trump Administration

State Department Struggles to Account for Missing Gift Records from Trump Administration

Key information on foreign gifts to officials remains incomplete amid data gaps

The State Department has admitted it cannot produce a full and accurate record of gifts given to former President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, and other US officials by foreign governments during 2020 due to missing data from the White House.

According to a report set to publish in the Federal Register next week, the Executive Office of the President failed to provide information on gifts received by Trump and his family from foreign leaders, while the General Services Administration (GSA) did not supply data regarding gifts given to Pence and other White House staff during that same year.

Despite reaching out to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the GSA for the missing records, the State Department was informed that “potentially relevant records” are inaccessible due to restrictions on retired records. A partial list of gifts has been released in previous years, primarily to prevent conflicts of interest, but this year’s report reveals significant gaps.

The report highlights that oversight may have played a role, as the State Department’s Office of Protocol failed to request comprehensive gift data from all relevant agencies before Trump’s term ended on 20 January 2021. Furthermore, the report suggests inadequate recordkeeping of diplomatic gifts throughout Trump’s presidency, from his inauguration in 2017 to the end of his term.

This issue comes amid broader investigations into Trump’s post-presidency actions. House lawmakers are probing reports of Trump taking classified materials to his Mar-a-Lago estate after leaving office. The National Archives and Records Administration has requested that the Justice Department examine the matter.

Additionally, the House panel investigating the 6 January Capitol insurrection has identified an eight-hour gap in White House call records during the attack, with evidence suggesting key events may have been omitted.

While the 2020 gift report includes records for senior officials like former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, former Defence Secretary Mark Esper, and former CIA Director Gina Haspel, the gaps in data mean that a complete accounting remains out of reach. The State Department has made repeated attempts to gather the data but has been stymied by the limited accessibility of relevant records.

Queen to Commemorate Prince Philip’s First Death Anniversary in Private Ceremony

Queen to Commemorate Prince Philip’s First Death Anniversary in Private Ceremony

The Duke of Edinburgh’s legacy continues as the Queen reflects on his role as her “constant strength and guide”

The first anniversary of Prince Philip’s passing is expected to be observed privately by the Queen and her closest family members. Described by the monarch as her “constant strength and guide,” the Duke of Edinburgh passed away peacefully in his sleep on 9 April 2021 at Windsor Castle, just months shy of his 100th birthday.

Philip’s death, announced by Buckingham Palace just after noon that day, prompted condolences from world leaders, royal families, and the many charities he supported during his lifetime. Known for his passion for engineering, science, and his candid nature, the duke was an integral part of the Queen’s life and a prominent public figure for over seven decades following his marriage to Her Majesty.

During a recent memorial service, The Right Reverend David Conner, Dean of Windsor, paid tribute to the Duke’s dedication and candid personality, describing him as “a man of passionate commitment” who channelled his intellectual and physical energy into numerous practical ventures while acknowledging his occasional bluntness during conversations.

The Queen is thought to be at Windsor Castle and will commemorate this solemn anniversary in private. Last Christmas, during her annual broadcast, she shared a personal reflection on her late husband, noting the absence of “one familiar laugh” as she mourned his passing. She paid heartfelt tribute to his “mischievous, enquiring twinkle”—a quality that remained with him until the very end.

Philip’s funeral, limited to just 30 mourners due to Covid-19 restrictions, saw the Queen sit alone in her mask, symbolising the profound personal loss she faced. The royal family marked what would have been Philip’s 100th birthday in June 2021 with social media tributes, while Princess Eugenie shared a photo of her grandparents smiling outside St George’s Chapel following her wedding in 2018.

The Earl of Wessex has since shared insights into his father’s character, noting that the Duke would likely have found the celebrations for his centenary “too much fuss.” Edward reflected on Philip’s humility and preference to avoid excessive attention.

To commemorate Philip’s memory, the Queen recently oversaw the planting of a rose named in his honour. This gesture, gifted by the Royal Horticultural Society, was planted in the Windsor Castle gardens as a symbol of Philip’s enduring legacy.

Additionally, a new exhibition will open on Saturday at the National Museum of the Royal Navy in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, celebrating the Queen’s longstanding connection to the Navy as part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The exhibition will feature the Duke’s naval uniform and his admiral’s cap on public display for the first time.

When and Where to Watch the Historic First All-Private Mission to the International Space Station

When and Where to Watch the Historic First All-Private Mission to the International Space Station

Axiom-1’s groundbreaking launch marks a new era of commercial space exploration

The first entirely private crewed mission to the International Space Station, Axiom-1, is scheduled to launch on Friday, 8 April, at 11:17am Eastern Time from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida using the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. This historic event will be streamed live across multiple platforms, including the SpaceX, Axiom Space, and NASA Live websites.

The livestream coverage is expected to start at 7:55am Eastern Time on SpaceX and Axiom Space’s platforms, with a separate NASA live feed beginning at 10:00am Eastern Time. The four-person crew will travel aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft, a tried-and-tested model that has been facilitating missions to the ISS since 2020.

Although Michael López-Alegría, the mission commander, is a former NASA astronaut and former Axiom vice president, the remaining crew members have no prior spaceflight experience. These include Mark Pathy, an investment banker; Larry Connor, an executive at an education non-profit; and Eytan Stibbe, a former Israeli Air Force veteran and businessman—each contributing $55 million to participate in this private mission.

The crew will spend eight days on the ISS conducting groundbreaking scientific research, including experiments such as testing the effects of tumour growth to advance cancer research, evaluating self-assembling robotics, and trialling a new biodegradable laundry detergent.

This mission is about more than research. Axiom-1 is pivotal for the company’s larger vision: the development of a fully commercial space station to eventually replace the ISS. In 2020, NASA awarded Axiom Space the role of developing the first Commercial Destination module, which will eventually be expanded into a fully operational stand-alone space station. These commercial spaceflight crews are anticipated to play a vital role in this development.

NASA’s strategic plan involves focusing on exploration beyond low Earth orbit, prioritising the Moon, Mars, and other deep-space science missions while transitioning out of operating the ISS by the end of the decade. This makes Axiom-1’s mission not just a technological milestone but a vital step toward sustainable commercial space activities.