Sir Keir Starmer concurs with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch that it was incorrect for a judge to allow a Gaza family to relocate to the UK via the Ukraine resettlement program, and he is taking steps to seal a loophole to avoid similar instances in the future.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 2:

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Sir Keir Starmer criticized a judge's "incorrect ruling" for allowing a Gaza family to relocate to the UK through a Ukrainian refugee program.

The prime minister stated that the government is taking steps to address a "loophole" that contributed to this particular situation, attributing the issue to the legal system established by the Conservatives.

On Wednesday, news broke that a Palestinian family of six, who escaped from Gaza, successfully appealed to reside in the UK. They had initially sought entry via a program designed for Ukrainian refugees.

At Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs), Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch questioned the government's response to a recent decision, stating, "This decision is entirely incorrect. It must not be permitted to prevail. Does the government intend to challenge this ruling legally, and if so, on what grounds?"

Sir Keir responded, "To be explicit, I do not support the decisions. She is correct."

He stated that Ms. Badenoch had failed to sufficiently prepare, asserting that "the decision in question was made during the tenure of the previous government, within the legal parameters established by that administration."

He further mentioned that the Home Office was reviewing the specifics of the incident to prevent a recurrence.

He stated, "The responsibility for establishing immigration regulations should lie with parliament, while policy-making should be the domain of the government. That is the fundamental rule."

"The Home Secretary is already investigating the legal oversight that needs to be addressed in this specific situation."

The incident concerned a family of six, comprising both parents and their four children, who were left homeless following the demolition of their residence due to a bombing in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

They sought permission to enter the UK through the Ukraine Family Scheme in order to reunite with the father's brother, a British citizen residing in the country since 2007.

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The Ukraine Family Scheme permits individuals escaping the Russian invasion to reunite with family members who are already residents in Britain, however, there is no equivalent program for Palestinian refugees.

The family's request was denied in May of the previous year and subsequently in September after they challenged the decision.

Nevertheless, they later received permission to reside in the UK when higher tribunal judges approved another appeal, based on Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which safeguards the right to family life.

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Further Reading: Unauthorized migrants to be denied UK citizenship. Proposed border control advisor to travel from Finland.

Judge Hugo Norton-Taylor described the situation in Gaza as "exceptionally dangerous" and "dire," noting that the case presented "compelling" and "exceptional" circumstances due to the ongoing security and humanitarian crises.

Ms. Badenoch urged Sir Keir to challenge the ruling, introduce new laws, or modify current bills being debated in the Commons, arguing that the case could establish a precedent that allows "millions of people globally in dire circumstances" to seek refuge in the UK.

Sir Keir stated it wasn't required but didn't provide details on which loophole would be addressed or the timing.

The spokesperson for the Prime Minister declined to provide details, stating that Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is "examining proposals to strengthen the application process in similar situations," and that these proposals are expected to be introduced "in the coming weeks."

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The man who murdered Member of Parliament Sir David Amess was removed from the Prevent counter-terrorism program 'too swiftly', according to a review. Ali Harbi Ali, who assassinated the long-serving Conservative MP, was discharged from the program just five years earlier after a single session at a McDonald's that focused on his understanding of prohibitions in Islamic law.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 10:

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An inquiry revealed that the individual responsible for the murder of Conservative MP Sir David Amess was prematurely discharged from the Prevent anti-terrorism initiative.

Sir David was fatally attacked by ISIS sympathizer Ali Harbi Ali while attending a meeting with constituents in a church hall in Leigh-on-Sea in October 2021.

The individual, who received a life sentence without parole, was influenced by ISIS ideology and had previously been a part of the Prevent anti-terrorism initiative prior to committing the assault.

Latest in Politics: Prime Minister and Badenoch Unusually Aligned on Court Ruling Regarding Gazan Refugees

His case was concluded five years ago, following a single coffee meeting at a McDonald's to address his views on "haram" (prohibited by Islamic law), along with messages and conversations with an intervention specialist.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis stated in the House of Commons on Wednesday that although the Prevent policy and guidelines were largely adhered to, the individual's case was concluded too swiftly.

After the release of a report earlier this month examining how the Prevent program dealt with Southport child murderer Axel Rudakubana, Mr. Jarvis announced that a Prevent learning review concerning the murder of Sir David would be made public this week, underscoring a dedication to openness regarding the counter-terrorism initiative.

Nonetheless, Katie, the daughter of Sir David, has criticized it as merely a "paper exercise" lacking genuine accountability and is advocating for a "comprehensive public inquiry."

Matt Juke, the lead on counter-terrorism policing, stated that the oversight and administration of Ali's case by Prevent were evidently lacking and emphasized the importance of implementing the review's findings to prevent other families from experiencing the grief endured by Sir David's relatives.

The analysis concluded:

• In 2014, Ali was directed to the Prevent program following observations from his school that he exhibited a marked transformation in his demeanor, appearance, and behavior. Initially described as a promising student with ambitions of becoming a doctor, he notably declined academically, failing his A-levels, and expressed a desire to relocate to a "more Islamic state" due to his inability to coexist with non-believers.

• Prevent immediately handled his situation, referring him to Channel, a segment of the initiative designed to deter engagement in extremist activities.

• Mr. Jarvis stated that he was "removed from Prevent prematurely," merely five months after being judged as a low terrorism risk.

• Twelve months following his release from the Prevent program, a police assessment concluded that there were no terrorism-related concerns, leading to the closure of his case. However, this closure was not recorded for an additional eight months due to a technical problem with the IT system.

• Individuals who exit the Prevent program are scheduled to undergo reviews at six-month and one-year intervals.

• Evaluating Ali's weaknesses was deemed "ineffective and not current," due to the failure to adhere to established protocols, resulting in "doubtful choices and less-than-ideal management of the situation."

• Focus was placed more on managing Ali's symptoms rather than resolving the root problems that made him vulnerable, and the assistance he received failed to address these fundamental issues.

• Documentation of decisions, actions, and their reasoning was "inconsistent, fragmented, and unclear"

• The reasoning behind some choices was "not clearly stated"

• Ali's educational institution was excluded from conversations aimed at assessing danger and arranging suitable assistance – they received a single notification informing them that the "issue was being addressed"

• Due to a misunderstanding, only one session was conducted instead of the planned two.

Further information: Daughter of Sir David Amess pursuing legal measures

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The analysis concluded that the majority of the oversights in Ali’s situation would likely be avoided now due to more explicit guidelines and standards.

The text indicates that in Ali's situation, his school, which referred him, is consistently updated and involved. Moreover, various departments and agencies, beyond just the police, have defined responsibilities.

The review clarified which records must be maintained and noted that updated guidelines for identifying inherent weaknesses would have been beneficial.

The text notes that a provider from the Prevent program met with Ali at a McDonald's to address his interpretation of "haram" (prohibited in Islamic law).

No evaluation of risks was conducted, yet they proposed an additional meeting. Unfortunately, due to miscommunication between the police and the service provider, no further meetings took place.

Educational programs for providers have undergone significant changes, according to the review, which also notes that the issues addressed would not occur under current practices. The provider involved has stated that their procedures have been entirely revamped.

The review highlighted ongoing issues, not limited to Ali’s situation, with the Vulnerability Assessment Form. Described as an "incredibly complex document," it is essential for the Channel process and case advancement.

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The investigation also revealed that the recent policy by the College of Police to retain Prevent program data for only five years could potentially be troublesome. Had the information from Ali's case been erased due to this policy, conducting this review would have been almost unfeasible.

'Father merited more support from his parliamentary colleagues'

Katie Amess expressed her approval of the announcement made on Wednesday regarding a public inquiry into the attacks in Nottingham, stating that all victims let down by the Prevent program should receive equal attention.

She informed Sarah-Jane Mee on "The UK Tonight" that she had received a briefing on the outcomes of the educational review conducted last year.

Ms. Amess stated that she was required to sign a contract agreeing to keep the contents confidential, under threat of imprisonment or a fine if she disclosed any information.

She criticized the review for being severely inadequate, noting that it was merely compiled from current documents and email records.

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The 39-year-old, pursuing a lawsuit against Essex Police and the Home Office, expressed to Sky News that her father was owed more by his parliamentary "friends" following his many years of service as an MP.

Ms. Amess expressed disappointment over Yvette Cooper's hesitation to sanction a public inquiry, pointing out that Cooper's absence from office at the time of her father's murder shouldn't affect such decisions. She noted that previous home secretaries had authorized inquiries under comparable conditions.

She expressed to Sky News, "I'm eager to understand the secrets and the reasons behind the refusal to launch an investigation that would include me and other victims."

Ms. Amess stated that the details revealed thus far clearly highlight the ineffectiveness of the Prevent program, due to the lack of direct communication between the police, Prevent, and other agencies.

She informed Sarah-Jane Mee, "Ali actually got up during his trial and ridiculed the Prevent program. He claimed that simply stating 'I'm not a terrorist' would make them stop monitoring you – what kind of message does that communicate?"

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Attorney Keir transforms into tough Keir

In a bold shift, Keir adopts a tougher image as part of Labour's counter-strategy, following a Sky News/YouGov poll that shows Reform leading Labour for the first time.

Senior political reporter @joncraig

Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 3:

Is Sir Keir Starmer performing better during Prime Minister's Questions?

Suddenly, he's shifted from being stiff, mechanical, and overly formal to adopting a much more assertive stance against the Conservatives and Reform UK.

Recently, it's become apparent that he's intensified his criticisms of Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage.

The latest approach at Prime Minister's Questions aligns with Labour's aggressive advertisements targeting Reform and impactful videos promoting the government's strict measures on illegal immigration.

Certainly, the assertive stance taken by Keir is a component of Labour's counterattack following the Sky News/YouGov survey which showed Reform surpassing Labour for the first time.

In the final Prime Minister's Questions session before a two-week break – another parliamentary holiday is indeed scheduled for next week – Sir Keir harshly criticized both the Tories and Reform UK for their Monday vote against Labour's proposed borders legislation.

Indeed, according to a recent opinion poll released over the weekend, immigration is the primary concern for Reform UK supporters and Conservative voters thinking about switching their allegiance to Reform UK.

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Ministers are evaluating over 100 potential new towns

King Charles has extended an invitation to Sir Keir Starmer and the leaders of the devolved administrations for a dinner at Windsor Castle.

Sue Gray assumes position in the House of Lords – and is granted a fresh title

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In a dramatic exchange that saw Labour backbenchers participating, Sir Keir emphatically stated, "They voted against – that's Reform and the Tories.

"Members cast their votes to reject the proposal that would criminalize the coordination of purchasing, selling, and transporting small vessels."

Labour MPs consistently voiced their opposition, exclaiming "Against!" while Sir Keir went on, saying: "Opposed to criminalizing life-threatening actions at sea, opposed to the authority to detain suspected human traffickers before the act of smuggling occurs.

"They cast their votes in opposition; they supported the policy of open borders, both individuals did."

Further Reading: Unauthorized migrants to be denied UK citizenship

Nominee for border agency oversight role may travel from Finland

During a particularly fiery session of Prime Minister's Questions, Sir Keir boldly asserted that "farming is my top priority."

Indeed? New Conservative MP Harriet Cross, who appears promising, appropriately questioned him regarding a statement from a Labour minister that farmers were "not high on the government's priority list."

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Sir Ed Davey, another party leader, has been notably effective at PMQs lately, consistently addressing significant concerns that the Conservative leader seems to overlook.

This week saw President Trump issuing threats towards Ukraine and proposing tariffs, alongside a quip about imposing tariffs on American-made electric vehicles, a comment seemingly overlooked by many legislators. Yes, that includes Elon Musk’s Teslas.

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Conversely, the quality of PMQs has diminished with fewer inquiries from Stephen Flynn since the SNP has ceased to be the third largest party. His straightforward approach often achieves its aim and is greatly missed.

This leads us to discuss Kemi Badenoch. Are Sir Keir's improved appearances attributed to her weak performance, as some detractors suggest? Her strategy remains overly erratic, and the Prime Minister continues to outshine her in their regular confrontations, benefiting from his assertive tactics.

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Public inquiry led by a judge announced for Nottingham incidents

In a series of violent incidents in Nottingham in June 2023, Valdo Calocane fatally attacked Barnaby Webber, Grace O'Malley-Kumar, and Ian Coates.

Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 11:

Sir Keir Starmer has informed the relatives of the victims in the Nottingham incidents that a judicial public inquiry is set to commence within a few weeks.

At a highly emotional gathering at Number 10, the families of Barnaby Webber, Grace O'Malley-Kumar, and Ian Coates were informed that the investigation would examine a "variety of agencies."

Nineteen-year-old students Mr. Webber and Ms. O'Malley-Kumar, along with 65-year-old caretaker Mr. Coates, were murdered by Valdo Calocane, who also tried to kill three additional individuals during a series of violent incidents in the city in June 2023.

In January of the previous year, Calocane received an indefinite hospital order after pleading guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and to charges of attempted murder.

Prosecutors agreed to a manslaughter plea when specialists concurred that his schizophrenia diminished his accountability for his actions. Recently, the families expressed concerns that he had essentially "escaped murder charges."

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Addressing the media from Downing Street on Wednesday, Emma Webber, the mother of Barnaby, expressed: "This is the first piece of good news we've received in a really long time. We are still trying to comprehend it."

Dr. Sanjoy Kumar, who is Grace's father, stated, "As families, we have consistently maintained that wherever Valdo Calocane came into contact with official agencies, we experienced disappointment."

He then expressed that the public inquiry "has been wonderful news for everyone involved; we embrace it fully, having dedicated significant effort towards it."

"All those who have endured hardships as we have will see that our investigation brings about reforms, improving our nation and ensuring a safer environment for everyone."

Mrs. Webber mentioned that the families were informed the investigation would wrap up in two years, and Dr. Kumar expressed his gratitude to the prime minister, speaking "as one dad to another."

At the gathering, Sir Keir expressed that concentrating solely on one element of the situation would be inappropriate because he believed that approach "would not serve justice," and he mentioned that it would be a formal investigation.

He mentioned that a former judge will soon be appointed, stating, "Once that appointment is made, the process will begin."

Discover further details on Sky News: Sir David Amess' murderer left the Prevent program 'prematurely'; NHS trust incurs a £1.6 million penalty following infant fatalities.

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In a subsequent interview with Sky News on "The UK Tonight with Sarah-Jane Mee," Mrs. Webber described the families' experiences as enduring "torture" to reach this point.

She stated, "Without our unwavering determination as a group, I sincerely doubt we would have found ourselves in Number 10 today."

Mrs. Webber continued, "The one term I was looking for today was 'statutory.' I believe we presented a compelling argument last week as to why this needs to be a statutory public inquiry led by a judge, because that's the only way we'll uncover the truth."

"Solutions will be discovered, responsibility will be ensured, and change will occur."

Dr. Sinead O'Malley-Kumar, the mother of Grace, expressed her concerns to Sky News, stating, "We must identify the gaps in our healthcare system that lead to patient neglect, understand the reasons behind inadequate care, and pinpoint where the system is most strained. Is it a lack of available beds, or is there too much pressure on management? Patients are not receiving the necessary treatments, which endangers them, their families, and the broader public."

The gathering occurred subsequent to NHS England's investigation into Calocane's mental health support prior to the incidents. The report revealed that the care provided to him did not consistently fulfill his requirements.

The document outlined four instances of hospitalization from 2020 to 2022, along with numerous engagements with community groups, before he was released to his general practitioner due to minimal engagement with mental health services.

The report revealed that Calocane was permitted to forego prolonged antipsychotic treatment because he had an aversion to needles and did not acknowledge having a mental health disorder.

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The Treasury has initiated an investigation following the disclosure of economic growth projections. According to Bloomberg, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) plans to revise its growth predictions for the UK downward. A Treasury representative emphasized that the commencement of this investigation does not verify the accuracy of these reports.

Journalistic correspondent

Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 5:

An investigation into a leak will be conducted after it was reported that the government's financial oversight body has lowered its projections for economic expansion.

Bloomberg disclosed that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has lowered its economic growth projections, according to information provided to Chancellor Rachel Reeves last week.

Slower economic expansion may compel the government to further slash its expenditures or raise additional taxes.

Latest Political News: Prime Minister and Badenoch Unusually Aligned

The upcoming weather forecast is scheduled for release in March, and it is expected to remain undisclosed until then.

James Bowler, the top official at the Treasury, has verified the investigation.

He informed the Treasury Committee of the House of Commons, saying, "We will conduct an investigation and I am pleased to share the results with you."

Efforts by the government to boost the UK's economic growth have faced challenges since last year's election, with businesses expressing dissatisfaction over the policies implemented in Ms. Reeves's inaugural budget.

Labour's strategy includes a boost in housing construction and development, though these initiatives were not factored into the projections for the budget outlined last October.

Mr. Bowler attempted to minimize the significance of the leak investigation, implying that it did not confirm the accuracy of Bloomberg's report.

When queried by committee chair Meg Hillier regarding the investigation, the government official suggested that around 50 individuals in the Treasury had access to the projections.

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Is the investigation likely to uncover the source of the leak?

Senior political reporter

It was a scene straight out of Yes Minister. The senior bureaucrat testifying at the Treasury select committee might as well have been Sir Humphrey Appleby from the television show.

Indeed, it was James Bowler, quite the distinguished name for a senior government official in Whitehall! He's the permanent secretary at the Treasury, and he declared an investigation into leaks.

The sharp reporters from Bloomberg, a finance-focused website, managed to obtain a growth forecast indicating that Rachel Reeves might need to implement budget reductions.

The projection provided by the Office for Budget Responsibility was handed to the chancellor last week. However, to avoid public humiliation, she preferred to withhold its release until March 26.

"Every hint of a leak is treated with utmost seriousness, and we will conduct a thorough investigation," Mr. Bowler declared emphatically.

In classic Yes Minister style, he stated, "We need to encircle those predictions and ensure they remain confidential."

Certainly not. Investigations into leaks, on the other hand, are famously ineffective at identifying the source of the leak.

In an episode of Yes Minister, Sir Humphrey announced, "I'll immediately initiate an investigation into the leak." To this, the befuddled Minister Jim Hacker responded, "I'm not interested in an inquiry; I want to know who's responsible."

It's merely a blend of fiction and satire, obviously. Or could there be some truth to it?

In 2016, the actual cabinet secretary, Sir Jeremy Heywood, who earned the nickname "Sir Cover-up" for his penchant for confidentiality, initiated an investigation into the disclosure of a letter he penned instructing civil servants against leaking information.

It sounds almost too good to be true, akin to a civil servant in Whitehall being named Bowler!

He mentioned that a probe into the officials of the OBR is probable, despite the agency being autonomous from the government.

Downing Street has maintained a confident stance on the state of the economy.

A spokesperson from Number 10 stated: "Over the past several weeks and months, both the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and the International Monetary Fund have revised their growth projections for us upward for the coming three years."

They continued, "The government is unwaveringly committed to growth, viewing it as the sole method to sustainably improve living standards and provide the necessary investments in our public services."

Explore further:Reeves faces setback as growth projections are reducedStarmer grapples with economic expansion challengesReeves convenes meeting with banking leaders to discuss growth strategies

The two organizations marginally raised their growth projections, yet they continue to be under 2%.

Recently, the Bank of England significantly reduced its growth forecast for the UK, projecting an expansion of just 0.75% in 2025. This is expected to rise to 1.5% annually over the following two years.

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The predictions made by the OBR significantly influence government decisions, as the Treasury relies on these forecasts to determine whether they are adhering to their financial regulations.

Economic growth data for the UK will be released tomorrow, revealing the performance of the nation's economy up until the close of 2024.

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Press Briefing: Appeal for EU Assistance to the International Criminal Court (ICC)

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The head of the Human Rights Subcommittee is set to conduct a press briefing in Strasbourg today. This follows an executive order by President Trump that enforces sanctions against the ICC.

**Event Details:**

– **Date and Time:** Tuesday, February 11 at 3:00 PM CET

– **Location:** European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia Press Conference Room (WEISS N -1/201)

**Speakers:**

– Mounir Satouri, Chair of the Subcommittee on Human Rights (DROI), representing the Greens/EFA from France

– Mama Bea, member of "Association des mamans Anti-Bwaki" (AMAB), which partners with the ICC Trust Fund for Victims in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

– David Yambio, a victim of Almasri in Libya and President and spokesperson for the Refugees in Libya Association

**Language Services:**

Interpretation will be available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Polish.

**Media Participation:**

Accredited journalists are welcome to attend the press conference in person. Those wishing to participate remotely can do so via Interactio. The event will be live-streamed and recorded, accessible through the Parliament’s Multimedia Centre.

**Context:**

On February 6, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order that imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). These sanctions included the suspension of entry into the United States for ICC officials, employees, agents, and their immediate family members. In response, a delegation from the European Parliament's Subcommittee on Human Rights visited The Hague on October 29-30, 2024. They met with representatives from the International Court of Justice, the ICC, EUROJUST, and other significant entities. Following this mission, the DROI Chair expressed concerns regarding threats to these institutions, emphasizing the ICC's vital role in supporting victims and affirming that ICC rulings are obligatory for all EU member countries. In their 2023 annual report, Members of the European Parliament criticized efforts to weaken the ICC's work and legitimacy. They urged the EU and its member states to advocate for the ratification of the Rome Statute and its amendments by their partners, thereby broadening the Court’s authority.

**Media Instructions:**

To submit questions remotely during the press conference, journalists can join via Interactio at this link: https://ep.interactio.eu/s871-h7gf-91mi. The platform is compatible only with iPad (using Safari) and Mac/Windows (using Google Chrome). Upon joining, please enter your name and the media organization you represent in the designated fields. For optimal audio quality, it is recommended to use headphones and a microphone. Video is required for interpretation services. Journalists new to Interactio should log in 30 minutes before the event starts to test their connection. IT support will be available if needed. Once connected, open the chat window in the upper right corner to view service messages.

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European Union Reacts to Tariff Threats Issued by Trump

Starting at 9:00, a full assembly discussion will take place with Commissioner Šefčovič and Poland’s Minister for EU Affairs, Szłapka. The focus will be on the present condition of trade relations between the EU and the US, the role of multilateralism, and how the EU might react if the US decides to implement tariffs on goods from Europe.

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Russia's conflict in Ukraine reaching its third anniversary

Beginning at approximately 10:00, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are set to evaluate the effects of Russia's ongoing three-year conflict with Ukraine, as well as the European Union's steadfast backing of Ukraine, in a discussion featuring Commissioner Kos and Poland's Minister for EU Affairs, Adam Szłapka. A resolution will be voted on in the plenary session scheduled for March. At midday, Ruslan Stefanchuk, the head of Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada, will deliver a speech to the MEPs in an official session.

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Snjezana Kobescak Smodis

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The European Union's Approach to the Middle East

At approximately 3:00 PM, members of the European Parliament are set to engage in a discussion concerning recent events in the Middle East and potential future strategies for the EU in that area. This debate will involve Commissioner Šuica and Poland's Minister for EU Affairs, Szłapka.

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Seminar on the Digital Services Act and Media

At 2:00 PM, the Press Service of Parliament will hold a seminar for the media titled "Defending Europe's Digital Integrity: Addressing Social Media Challenges and Foreign Interference," featuring key Members of the European Parliament who are experts on the topic.

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Summary

The United States has imposed limitations on the export of semiconductor chips to certain European Union nations. During a plenary session, questions will be directed to Commission Vice-President Virkkunen regarding strategies to respond to the U.S. decision to limit chip exports used in AI technology, with discussions starting around 8 PM.

Increasing violence in Congo. Lawmakers are set to evaluate the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian emergency in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during discussions with the Council and Commission, scheduled to begin at approximately 4:00 PM. A resolution is expected to be voted on this Thursday.

Safeguarding the framework of global justice is on the agenda. A plenary session is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:00 PM, focusing on the preservation of international justice systems and their key bodies, notably the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice. The discussion will feature Commissioner McGrath and Poland's Minister for EU Affairs, Szłapka.

Healthcare industry. The European Union is currently facing significant hurdles due to a lack of healthcare workers and concerns about job quality in this field. These issues will be the central topics of a discussion involving Commission Vice-President Mînzatu, scheduled for the early afternoon, right after the voting session concludes.

Protests against the government are occurring in Serbia. Beginning at approximately 5:00 PM, Members of the European Parliament plan to discuss the situation in Serbia with Commissioner Kos and Poland's Minister for EU Affairs, Szłapka. This follows a tragic incident at a railway station where a canopy collapse resulted in fatalities, which has ignited an anti-corruption movement and demonstrations spearheaded by students against the Serbian government.

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The full assembly is scheduled to cast votes at 12:30, with several items on

You can watch the plenary session live on Parliament’s webstreaming service and EbS+.

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Statement from EU Leaders Regarding Ongoing Support for Ukraine

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The EU's Conference of Presidents has issued a declaration reaffirming the steadfast commitment to aiding Ukraine, now three years into Russia's full-scale aggressive conflict.

It has been three years since Russia initiated a full-scale aggressive war against Ukraine, an action lacking provocation, justification, and legality, which breached international law, defied the United Nations Charter, and threatened security in Europe and worldwide. The European Parliament Conference of Presidents once more denounces Russia's continuing aggressive campaign, which includes intentional attacks on civilians and essential infrastructure, as well as the horrific acts committed against the people of Ukraine, all of which are grave breaches of international law and humanitarian principles.

We express our unwavering support for the citizens of Ukraine as they consistently show remarkable bravery and strength in protecting their sovereignty, independence, and territorial unity.

The European Union needs to stay cohesive in its dedication to aiding Ukraine, encompassing political, military, economic, humanitarian, and financial aid. We praise the actions of Member States, institutions, civil society groups, businesses, and individuals who have rallied resources and offered shelter to millions of Ukrainians forced to flee their homes. Meanwhile, we urge the EU and its Member States to boost and expedite their support, especially in terms of military aid, and to create a legal framework for seizing Russian-owned assets that have been frozen by the EU.

We persistently advocate for justice regarding all war crimes and acts against humanity that have occurred in this aggressive conflict. We are encouraged by the recent progress towards creating a Special Tribunal to address the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine.

We urge for ongoing and increased military aid for Ukraine, which should include supplying defense gear, offering training, and providing strategic support essential for maintaining Ukraine's right to defend itself as outlined in Article 51 of the UN Charter.

The European Union reiterates its dedication to providing enduring and sustainable financial and economic aid to Ukraine. This includes macro-financial assistance, backing for reconstruction efforts, support for economic and social recovery, and actions to bolster the resilience of Ukraine's economy and essential infrastructure.

We urge the complete enforcement and substantial broadening of sanctions, incorporating robust strategies to stop any evasion, targeting Russia and its allies. The goal is to decisively weaken their ability to conduct warfare and to ensure accountability for those involved in acts of aggression and breaches of human rights.

We wholeheartedly endorse Ukraine's desire to integrate into Europe. The European Parliament is dedicated to helping Ukraine move forward on its journey to joining the EU, acknowledging the substantial advancements it has made in reforms despite facing extremely difficult conditions.

Amidst a difficult global and geopolitical climate, we emphasize the crucial need to uphold solidarity across the Atlantic and worldwide with Ukraine, while actively combating Russian misinformation. We further underscore the necessity for the international community to remain attentive to the impacts of this conflict and to back Ukraine in its pursuit of a thorough, fair, and enduring peace, in line with the Ukrainian peace strategy.

As we reach the third anniversary of this harsh conflict, the European Parliament's leaders commend the enduring spirit of the Ukrainian population and honor those who have given their lives for liberty and democratic principles. Our support for Ukraine remains unwavering, and we reiterate our belief that peace, safety, and justice will ultimately triumph.

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Jüri LAAS

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Statement from the European Parliament's Conference of Presidents on Sustaining EU Assistance to Ukraine

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Declaration from the Conference of Presidents affirming the European Union's steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine, three years following Russia's comprehensive military aggression.

It's been three years since Russia initiated its large-scale, unwarranted, and illegal military assault on Ukraine, breaching international norms, the UN Charter, and jeopardizing both European and worldwide stability. The European Parliament's Conference of Presidents has once more denounced Russia's continuous aggressive actions, which include intentional attacks on civilians and essential infrastructure, as well as the heinous acts perpetrated against the people of Ukraine, all of which are grave breaches of international and humanitarian law.

We express our unwavering support for the citizens of Ukraine, who persistently show remarkable strength and bravery in protecting their nation's sovereignty, independence, and territorial borders.

The European Union needs to stay cohesive in its dedication to aiding Ukraine with political, military, economic, humanitarian, and financial support. We praise the actions taken by Member States, institutions, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and individuals who have rallied to help and offered shelter to millions of Ukrainians forced to flee their homes. Concurrently, we urge the EU and its Member States to enhance and expedite the provision of their assistance, especially in terms of military aid, and to create a legal framework to enable the seizure of Russian-owned assets that have been frozen by the EU.

We persistently advocate for holding individuals responsible for all war crimes and crimes against humanity that have occurred during this aggressive conflict. We are encouraged by the recent progress towards forming a Special Tribunal to address the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine.

We urge for ongoing and increased military aid to Ukraine, which should include supplying defense equipment, offering training, and providing strategic support essential for maintaining Ukraine's right to self-defense as outlined in Article 51 of the UN Charter.

The European Union reiterates its dedication to providing ongoing and sustainable financial and economic support to Ukraine. This includes macro-financial aid, backing for reconstruction efforts, and initiatives aimed at economic and social recovery. Additionally, the EU is committed to implementing measures that will strengthen Ukraine's economic resilience and protect its vital infrastructure.

We urge for the complete enforcement and considerable broadening of sanctions targeting Russia and its allies. This includes implementing strong actions to stop any attempts to bypass these restrictions, with the goal of thoroughly crippling Russia's ability to conduct warfare and ensuring that those guilty of aggression and human rights abuses face consequences.

We wholeheartedly back Ukraine's ambitions to integrate with Europe. The European Parliament is dedicated to helping Ukraine move towards joining the EU, acknowledging the remarkable strides it has made in reforms despite facing tough challenges.

Amid a complex global and geopolitical landscape, it is crucial to uphold solidarity across the Atlantic and worldwide with Ukraine and to combat Russian misinformation. We emphasize the necessity for the international community to remain attentive to the impacts of this conflict and to assist Ukraine in securing a full, fair, and enduring peace in line with the Ukrainian peace plan.

As we acknowledge the third anniversary of this harsh conflict, the European Parliament's leaders commend the strength of the Ukrainian citizens and honor those who have given their lives in the pursuit of liberty and democratic values. Our support for Ukraine remains unwavering, as we emphasize our belief that peace, stability, and justice will ultimately triumph.

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Jüri Laas

Delphine Colard

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Media Briefing: Appeal for EU Backing of the International Criminal Court (ICC)

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The head of the Human Rights Subcommittee is set to conduct a media briefing in Strasbourg today, following the announcement of an executive order by President Trump that enforces sanctions on the ICC.

Scheduled for Tuesday, February 11 at 3:00 PM CET, the press conference will be held in the Daphne Caruana Galizia room at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Participants include Mounir Satouri, the Chair of the Subcommittee on Human Rights (DROI) from the Greens/EFA of France, Mama Bea from the NGO "Association des mamans Anti-Bwaki" (AMAB) which collaborates with the ICC Trust Fund for Victims in the DRC, and David Yambio, a Libyan victim of Almasri and the President and spokesperson for Refugees in Libya Association.

The event will offer interpretation services in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Polish. Journalists with media accreditation can attend the conference in person. Those wishing to participate remotely can do so via Interactio, with the event being live-streamed and recorded on the Parliament's Multimedia Centre.

Contextually, on February 6, 2025, US President Donald Trump enacted an executive order enforcing sanctions on the International Criminal Court, affecting the travel rights of ICC officials and their families to the US. In response, members of the European Parliament's Subcommittee on Human Rights visited The Hague on October 29-30, 2024, for discussions with the International Court of Justice, the ICC, EUROJUST, and other significant entities. Following this visit, the DROI Chair expressed worry over the threats to these institutions, emphasizing the ICC's vital role in victim support and asserting that its decisions are obligatory for all EU member states.

In their 2023 annual report on global human rights and democracy, MEPs criticized efforts to undermine the ICC's work and legitimacy, urging the EU and its member states to motivate their partners to ratify the Rome Statute and its amendments, thereby broadening the Court's jurisdiction.

Media representatives can use Interactio to pose questions during the press conference by connecting via the provided link. Interactio is compatible with iPad (using Safari) and Mac/Windows (using Google Chrome). Users should enter their name and media organization in the designated fields and are advised to use headphones and a microphone for optimal sound quality. Video is required for interpretation. First-time users should connect 30 minutes prior to the event for a system check, with IT support available if needed. Upon connecting, open the chat window in the upper right corner to access service messages.

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Elodie LABORIE

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Parliament has given the green light to a new tuna fishing pact with Cabo Verde. Under this revised agreement, 56 European Union ships will be permitted to catch tuna and similar species in the waters surrounding Cabo Verde over the next five years.

A fleet consisting of 24 freezer tuna seiners, 10 pole-and-line tuna boats, and 22 surface longliners, originating from Spain, France, and Portugal, has been granted permission to harvest up to 7,000 tonnes of tuna and associated species annually until 2029.

In return, the European Union is set to provide an annual financial support of €780,000, which includes €350,000 for permission to fish in the waters of Cabo Verde and €430,000 to enhance Cabo Verde's fisheries policy and its blue economy initiatives. Furthermore, the fees paid by the owners of fishing vessels could total nearly €600,000 each year.

The agreement seeks to boost collaboration between the European Union and Cabo Verde with the goal of fostering a sustainable approach to fisheries and encouraging socioeconomic growth in the region. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance fisheries regulation and combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The deal encompasses regulations aimed at improving the tracking of vessels, overseeing fishing permits, and implementing management strategies for shark populations.

Members of the European Parliament approved the new protocol with 507 votes supporting it, 76 opposing, and 16 choosing not to vote.

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This arrangement merges payment for fishing rights with assistance for the long-term growth of Cabo Verde's fishing industry, focusing on regulation and combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices. Additionally, it aims to improve working conditions and enhance scientific expertise in Cabo Verde. Rapporteur Paulo do Nascimento Cabral (EPP, PT) stated that this is a beneficial agreement that safeguards fishermen from both regions and ensures the preservation of our marine ecosystems.

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The deal establishes the legal structure allowing EU ships to catch highly migratory species like tuna and sharks in the waters of Cape Verde. This agreement is one of several the EU has with coastal nations in West Africa, including Morocco, Mauritania, and Guinea-Bissau.

The initial pact with Cabo Verde, established in 1990, was superseded in 2007 by the present agreement, which has been consistently updated every five years. The latest protocol executing this agreement has been temporarily in effect starting from July 23, 2024.

The text discusses the regulations surrounding the fishing of tuna and related species as established by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT).

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Raquel Ramalho LOPES

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Ruslan Stefanchuk emphasized that maintaining strength is essential for peace in Ukraine.

On Tuesday, Ruslan Stefanchuk, the head of Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada, spoke at an official session of the European Parliament held in Strasbourg.

As Mr. Stefanchuk entered the European Parliament's assembly hall, President Roberta Metsola expressed her pride in the Parliament's steadfast support for Ukraine since the conflict's onset. She emphasized the institution's continued commitment to advocating for peace, insisting that any peace agreement should be fair, respectful, and adhere to the principle of "Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine."

During his speech, Ruslan Stefanchuk urged the European Union to sustain and bolster its assistance to Ukraine. He emphasized that Ukraine requires additional defense systems, more aircraft, and increased investment in its defense sector.

Mr. Stefanchuk emphasized that achieving peace in Ukraine requires a steadfast and united effort to apply pressure on Russia, which is seen as the aggressor. He warned that Russia's ambitions extend beyond just destabilizing Ukraine; they aim to expand westward, targeting cities like Kyiv initially, and eventually setting their sights on Warsaw and Brussels. "The threat is nearer than you might realize," he cautioned.

In order to halt the aggression and secure enduring peace, it is crucial that Russia encounters sanctions that are impossible to bypass, he stated, urging for more stringent measures. The head of Ukraine's Parliament also demanded accountability for individuals guilty of war crimes. "Russia has breached every conceivable red line in this conflict," he remarked.

Discussing Ukraine's aspirations to join the European Union, Ruslan Stefanchuk expressed confidence that Ukraine would emerge more resilient and improved following the current conflict, emphasizing the nation's dedication to implementing reforms. He mentioned that Ukraine aims to begin addressing the initial set of topics in negotiations during Poland's presidency.

Discussion on the European Union's assistance to Ukraine, following three years of Russia's aggressive conflict

During a discussion leading up to Mr. Stefanchuk's speech, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) reflected on the likelihood of upcoming ceasefire talks and the establishment of a peace agreement. Some participants stressed that any deliberations concerning Ukraine should involve Ukraine directly and that no decisions should be made without Europe's participation. They emphasized that Europe must be prepared to take on a larger role in offering security assurances and assisting Kyiv in its efforts to join NATO and the EU in the future. Additionally, some MEPs highlighted the importance of seizing Russian assets to fund Ukraine's rebuilding and recovery. However, several expressed significant worries regarding the financial burden Europe has borne and will continue to bear in supporting Ukraine.

You have the option to rewatch the debate at this link. (February 11, 2025)

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Viktor ALMQVIST

Snježana KOBEŠĆAK SMODIŠ

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