UK and US News Highlights: Green Party, Trump Media Ban, and International Developments

The UK's Green Party has experienced a surge in membership, with around 160,000 new members joining since Zack Polanski became leader. According to The Guardian, many of these members are described as 'watermelons'—a term used to refer to individuals who are environmentally focused but also aligned with socialist ideologies. This growth is attributed to a perceived political vacuum on the left, following the Labour Party's policies.

In the US, the Department of Justice has supported President Donald Trump's decision to ban CNN, Politico, and MS Now from White House access, citing national security concerns and arguing that such access is a 'privilege' rather than a 'right.' The news organizations have challenged this move, claiming it violates the First Amendment.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has defended his previous comments about the UK being 'in hock' to global bond markets, stating that his remarks were misinterpreted by former Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his advisers. Burnham emphasized that his goal was to build a more resilient economy, not increase borrowing and spending.

The UK is also set to join the EU's OceanEye program, a global ocean science initiative aimed at improving predictions of extreme weather and climate events. This move aligns with the UK's broader efforts to strengthen ties with Europe, especially in light of the growing impact of climate-related events such as the 'supersized' El Niño phenomenon.

Meanwhile, the EU and Canada have expressed interest in a deeper partnership, but the EU currently lacks a legal framework to accommodate such an arrangement. Additionally, the UK has been unable to move forward on a deal with Mauritius over the Chagos Islands due to Trump's opposition. The US has also invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the G20 summit in Miami, a move that is likely to raise concerns among Ukraine and EU countries.