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Monday 23/02/2026

Ukraine Peace Talks in London Amidst Frozen Assets Deal and Blair's Gaza Role Controversy

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy with UK, France, and Germany leaders
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Ukraine's President Zelenskyy met European leaders in London to discuss a US-backed peace proposal, amid ongoing negotiations with no breakthrough.
  • A potential deal to release frozen Russian assets in Europe to aid Ukraine is reportedly nearing completion, though no specific amount is confirmed.
  • Tony Blair has been excluded from Trump's "board of peace" for Gaza due to objections from Arab and Muslim states, but may still play a different role.
  • An investigation reveals Channel migrants are smuggling drugs into the UK, with asylum seekers allegedly transporting heroin for organized crime groups.
  • Concerns have been raised over Israeli surveillance of US forces at a joint base, prompting US military officials to demand a halt to recordings.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with leaders from the UK, France, and Germany in London to discuss a US-authored peace proposal aimed at ending the conflict with Russia. Despite constructive discussions, no breakthrough has been achieved, with Kyiv planning to send a counter-proposal to the US.

Frozen Russian Assets and Ukraine Aid

Reports suggest that a deal to release frozen Russian assets in Europe, potentially to support Ukraine's war efforts or reconstruction, is close to finalization. While the exact amount remains unspecified, this financial leverage is seen as a crucial negotiation tool with Washington.

Tony Blair's Exclusion from Gaza Peace Role

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has been removed from consideration for a key position on Donald Trump's Gaza "board of peace" following objections from Arab and Muslim nations. Blair's involvement in the 2003 Iraq invasion has fueled skepticism, though he may still contribute in a different capacity.

Channel Migrant Drug Smuggling Investigation

An investigation by the Telegraph has uncovered that migrants crossing the Channel in small boats are smuggling heroin into the UK. Asylum seekers are reportedly offered reduced crossing fees in exchange for transporting drugs for organized crime groups. The findings have been shared with the Home Office.

Israeli Surveillance Concerns at US Base

Allegations of Israeli surveillance at a US base in southern Israel have surfaced, with reports of widespread recording of US and allied forces. The US military has demanded an end to these activities, citing security concerns and the potential exploitation of sensitive information.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The ongoing peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, facilitated by the US, remain delicate. Should the release of frozen Russian assets proceed, it could provide Ukraine with much-needed resources, potentially altering the dynamics of the conflict. However, the lack of consensus on territorial concessions poses a significant hurdle.

Tony Blair's exclusion from the Gaza peace initiative reflects the complex geopolitical sensitivities surrounding Middle East diplomacy. His potential involvement in a different capacity could still influence the peace process, depending on how his role is defined.

The revelation of drug smuggling via Channel migrants highlights the intersection of immigration and organized crime, prompting potential policy responses from the UK government. Meanwhile, the Israeli surveillance issue underscores the challenges of international military cooperation, with implications for US-Israel relations.