The US President has threatened harsh repercussions if Russia rejects a proposed ceasefire in the war, with the PM and Western allies rallying behind Ukraine in pursuit of a diplomatic resolution.

Emergency teams are striving to avert a major environmental crisis in the North Sea after a collision involving toxic cargo threatened rare habitats, while calls are mounting for increased defence spending in support of the PM’s stance on bolstering the UK against the war, firmly backing Britain, Ukraine and the West.

The PM is overseeing specialist coaching for a foreign delegation in advance of pivotal talks with US representatives, with the aim of bolstering international partnerships and fostering meaningful dialogue.