The Celebrity Traitors 2026 latest updates have revealed another dramatic twist as Ross Kemp and Jerry Hall became the latest celebrities to leave the BBC reality competition.
Episode seven, broadcast on Thursday, 22 October, brought an end to the suspense surrounding the Traitors’ unusual murder mission.
Maya Jama, James Acaster and King Kenny had been instructed to eliminate a Faithful by making someone yawn during a conversation.
Their plan succeeded when Ross Kemp fell into the trap.
Later, Jerry Hall was banished following a tense Round Table discussion, despite being a faithful.
Claudia Winkleman hosts The Celebrity Traitors 2026 on BBC One
Joe Lycett’s Previous Elimination Still Matters
Before Ross Kemp and Jerry Hall left the competition, comedian Joe Lycett was banished during episode six.
Joe was a faithful, meaning the group had once again eliminated an innocent contestant.
His departure affected several players emotionally, including Miranda Hart.
The incorrect decision also allowed the traitors to continue operating without losing another member.
Earlier in the series, contestants successfully identified Richard E. Grant and Hannah Fry as traitors.
However, subsequent recruitment allowed the secret team to rebuild.
This has made the game particularly unpredictable.
When Is the Next Celebrity Traitors Episode?
The next episode will air on Friday, 23 October 2026, at 8pm on BBC One.
Viewers can also watch through BBC iPlayer.
Only three episodes remain following the events of 22 October.
The remaining schedule is:
Episode 8: Friday, 23 October
Episode 9: Thursday, 29 October
Episode 10 — Finale: Friday, 30 October
The final episode is scheduled to be an extended special.
Who Will Win The Celebrity Traitors 2026?
The winner has not yet been revealed.
Maya Jama, James Acaster and King Kenny remain in the game, but their positions could change quickly if the Faithful begin identifying the correct suspects.
Michael Sheen and Sharon Rooney are among the players examining the evidence.
However, suspicion continues to fall on several innocent contestants.
The outcome will depend on future murders, Round Table votes and the decisions made during the final stage of the competition.
French weekend protests will face strict new restrictions after President Emmanuel Macron announced that demonstrations not organised by recognised trade unions would generally be banned in the coming days.
The decision follows widespread unrest across France on Saturday, 17 October 2026, when demonstrations over rising living costs, education and public services were accompanied by violent clashes, looting and damage to public buildings.
Speaking on Thursday, 22 October, Macron said the government would introduce stronger security measures ahead of another expected day of protests on Saturday, 24 October.
Trade unions will still be able to submit demonstration plans, but local authorities will review them and may require organisers to follow alternative routes.
The president said the restrictions were intended to restore public order and protect businesses, public buildings and city centres.
However, the announcement has raised concerns about freedom of assembly and whether the government is going too far in restricting public demonstrations.
Why Has Macron Restricted Protests in France?
The French government announced the restrictions after demonstrations across the country escalated into serious disorder last weekend.
Thousands of people took to the streets to express frustration over rising fuel prices, living costs and problems affecting schools and public services.
Although many demonstrations were peaceful, some areas experienced clashes between protesters and police.
Shops were looted, vehicles were set on fire and public buildings were damaged.
Authorities reported particularly serious incidents in several major cities.
The violence placed considerable pressure on the government to prevent further disorder.
Macron subsequently held discussions with senior ministers and intelligence officials to review the security response.
Following those meetings, he announced that authorities would take a more restrictive approach to planned demonstrations.
Protesters gather in Paris during nationwide French demonstrations in October 2026
Only Trade Union Demonstrations to Be Considered
Under the government’s announced approach, trade unions will remain able to organise demonstrations, subject to examination by local authorities.
However, permission will not be automatic.
Regional officials, known as prefects, will assess the proposed events and determine whether restrictions are necessary.
In some cases, organisers may be asked to change their routes to avoid commercial districts and sensitive government buildings.
Macron said demonstrations requested by groups considered to lack legitimate authority would be prohibited wherever legally possible.
The president argued that the approach would allow organised protests to continue while reducing the risk of further violence.
The distinction between trade union demonstrations and other gatherings has become one of the most controversial elements of the policy.
Student organisations and independent protest movements have questioned whether their voices will still be heard.
What Happened During the October 17 Protests?
The unrest on 17 October followed weeks of demonstrations involving students, trade unions and other protest groups.
According to figures released by the French Interior Ministry, approximately 550,000 people participated in demonstrations across the country.
In Paris, large crowds gathered in several locations, including Place de la République.
Demonstrations also took place in Lyon, Marseille, Lille and other cities.
Some protesters called for government action on fuel prices and household expenses.
Others demanded improvements in education funding, staffing and public services.
As the day progressed, violence broke out in several areas.
Police used crowd-control measures while groups of rioters damaged property and confronted officers.
The unrest resulted in widespread arrests and significant disruption.
French trade union members demonstrate in Paris with flags and banners
Macron Blames Radical Groups for Violence
Macron has blamed radical far-left groups and people involved in criminal activity for much of the violence.
The president accused some participants of attempting to undermine France’s republican institutions.
His government has argued that the latest restrictions are necessary to prevent organised violence from disrupting otherwise legitimate demonstrations.
However, those allegations should be distinguished from the motivations of the wider protest movement.
Many participants attended demonstrations to express concerns about education, living costs and public services.
The presence of violent groups does not mean every protester was involved in criminal activity.
Local authorities have already imposed restrictions in several French cities.
Paris, Lyon, Lille and Grenoble were among the locations where demonstrations planned for Thursday faced bans.
In Paris, authorities restricted gatherings near government buildings, railway stations and areas affected by previous disorder.
Lyon has also announced restrictions affecting planned Saturday demonstrations.
Additional measures are expected as officials assess the risk of further violence.
Some cities have introduced night-time curfews in selected areas.
The government says these measures are designed to protect residents, businesses and emergency services.
However, the restrictions have also generated legal challenges.
In Paris, organisers said an administrative court overturned a ban affecting one demonstration, allowing protesters to march despite the initial police decision.
The development highlights the role of the courts in reviewing restrictions on public assembly.
Student Unions and Yellow Vest Protesters Plan New Rallies
Despite the government’s announcement, protest organisers have indicated that demonstrations could continue.
France’s main student union, UNEF, has called for rallies on Saturday.
The Yellow Vest movement has also submitted plans for a demonstration in central Paris.
The Yellow Vest first became prominent in 2018 during protests over fuel taxes and living costs.
Their demonstrations subsequently developed into a wider movement expressing dissatisfaction with economic conditions and political representation.
The latest protests share some of those economic concerns.
However, the current movement also includes students campaigning over school resources and education policy.
Trade unions are involved in discussions with the government and are planning further action.
Whether particular demonstrations can proceed will depend on local decisions and any court challenges.
French Government Faces Questions Over Police Response
The violence has prompted criticism of how authorities prepared for the October 17 demonstrations.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez acknowledged shortcomings in the security response.
The government has since announced plans to strengthen policing and improve coordination between security services.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has also discussed preparations for the next demonstrations.
Officials have promised a substantial security operation to prevent further violence.
The government faces pressure both to maintain public order and to protect the right to peaceful protest.
Why Are People Protesting in France?
The current demonstrations reflect several overlapping concerns.
One major issue is the rising cost of living.
Higher fuel prices have increased pressure on household budgets and businesses.
Transport costs affect workers who commute by car, while higher energy and distribution expenses can contribute to broader price increases.
Education is another important concern.
Student groups have complained about staff shortages, inadequate facilities and insufficient resources in schools.
Some protesters have also called for changes to university admissions procedures.
The demonstrations began with school-related grievances before developing into a broader movement.
Trade unions have raised concerns about wages, public services and economic conditions.
These different demands have brought together groups that do not necessarily share the same political views.
Is France Restricting the Right to Protest?
The government’s decision has raised important legal and political questions.
Freedom of peaceful assembly is protected under French law and European human rights principles.
However, authorities may impose restrictions when they are lawful, necessary and proportionate to legitimate public-safety concerns.
French law normally requires organisers to declare demonstrations in advance.
Local prefects can introduce restrictions when there is a credible risk of serious disorder.
Those decisions can be challenged before administrative courts.
Supporters of tighter security measures argue that the government must prevent violence and protect businesses.
Critics warn that broad restrictions could prevent peaceful citizens from expressing legitimate grievances.
The legal question is whether individual bans are justified by the specific risks involved.
What Does This Mean for Businesses and Tourism?
Businesses in several French cities have experienced disruption following the unrest.
Some shops have been damaged or looted, while others have temporarily closed because of security concerns.
Retailers in central Paris have taken precautions ahead of further demonstrations.
These measures include protecting shop windows and reviewing security arrangements.
Restaurants, hotels and other businesses may also be affected by road closures and changes to public transport.
For tourists, the situation could mean disruption in central areas where demonstrations are expected.
Visitors should check official local guidance and transport updates before travelling.
The restrictions do not amount to a nationwide ban on tourism or ordinary movement.
Their practical effects will depend on the city and the measures introduced by local authorities.
Damaged shops in Paris following October 2026 protests and unrest
How Could the Protests Affect Macron’s Government?
The unrest comes during a politically sensitive period in France.
The country is preparing for a presidential election in 2027.
Macron cannot seek a third consecutive term under the French Constitution.
The protests have intensified scrutiny of the government’s handling of economic pressures and public services.
Opposition parties have criticised aspects of the response.
The administration argues that restoring public order is essential before wider discussions can progress.
The political debate is likely to continue as unions and student groups press their demands.
However, the future political consequences remain uncertain.
What Happens Next?
Saturday, 24 October, will be an important test of the government’s new security approach.
Trade unions are expected to seek permission for demonstrations in several locations.
Student groups and Yellow Vest organisers have also indicated their intention to continue protesting.
Local prefects will determine which events can proceed and whether routes must be changed.
The government is preparing additional security measures to prevent a repeat of the previous weekend’s violence.
Trade unions are also focusing on a further day of mobilisation planned for 5 November.
Much will depend on whether authorities can maintain public order while allowing peaceful demonstrations to take place.
Conclusion
French weekend protests are facing tighter restrictions after President Emmanuel Macron announced that demonstrations organised outside recognised trade unions would generally be prohibited in the coming days.
The decision follows serious violence during protests on 17 October, when hundreds of thousands of people demonstrated over living costs, education and public services.
The government says its priority is protecting businesses, public buildings and residents.
However, the restrictions have prompted concerns about the right to peaceful assembly.
As France prepares for another weekend of demonstrations, attention will focus on the decisions of local authorities, the response of protest organisers and whether further unrest can be avoided.
The challenge for the French government is to restore public safety while addressing the concerns that brought people onto the streets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Macron restricted protests in France?
Macron announced tighter restrictions following violent clashes, looting and damage to public buildings during demonstrations on 17 October 2026.
Are all protests banned in France?
No. Trade union-organised demonstrations may still be considered by local authorities, although they can face restrictions or bans.
When are the next French protests planned?
Further demonstrations are expected on Saturday, 24 October 2026.
Can trade unions still organise marches?
Yes. Trade unions can submit plans, but prefects may require alternative routes or impose restrictions based on public-safety concerns.
Why are French students protesting?
Students have raised concerns about school funding, staffing shortages, facilities and education policy.
What is the Yellow Vest movement?
The Yellow Vests are a French protest movement that emerged in 2018 over fuel taxes and wider economic grievances.
Who is France’s interior minister?
Laurent Nuñez is serving as interior minister during the October 2026 unrest.
Will the protests affect tourists?
Demonstrations may cause local transport disruption, road closures and temporary business closures, particularly in major city centres.
Neutrophils are the most abundant white blood cells in the immune system and serve as some of the body’s most important first responders. They are produced in bone marrow and then enter the bloodstream, where they patrol for bacterial, viral, and fungal threats.
The researchers found that tissue-resident macrophages, a type of immune cell that lives permanently within organs, become less able with age to dispose of another class of immune cells. That decline appears to contribute to ageing throughout the body.
When the scientists blocked a single receptor on these macrophages, multiple organs in mice retained more youthful characteristics. The effects were observed in the brain, heart, skeletal and heart muscle, liver, spleen, bone marrow, kidney, and colon. The receptor normally responds to a hormone involved in inflammation and pain in both mice and humans.
Disabling the receptor specifically in tissue-resident macrophages also protected mice from several problems associated with chronic inflammation and ageing, including frailty, excess fat accumulation and heart trouble. Cognitive decline was substantially reduced as well, according to Katrin Andreasson, MD, the Edward F. and Irene Thiel Pimley Professor in Neurology and Neurological Sciences.
“We’ve been trying to figure out why we age,” Andreasson said. “Now we know at least one big reason for it.”
The findings appear in a paper published in Science. Andreasson is the senior author, and Jessy Tan, PhD, an instructor in neurology, is the lead author.
The results provide new insight into the important role that chronic, body-wide inflammation plays in ageing and its associated health problems. They also point toward a potential drug strategy that could slow age-related deterioration in organs and possibly extend the number of years people remain healthy.
How the Immune System Clears Ageing Cells
When neutrophils encounter pathogens, they can release toxic substances and even destroy themselves, spilling long strands of biological material that form web-like traps around invading microbes.
These cells do not live for long. A neutrophil may survive for as much as 24 hours, although 12 hours is more typical. Roughly 90% of circulating neutrophils eventually arrive in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, where other immune cells remove them.
That disposal process is especially important as the body grows older. In ageing animals, most neutrophils that never encounter a pathogen quickly enter senescence, a dysfunctional state in which they can release harmful chemicals that damage nearby cells and promote inflammation.
Neutrophil numbers increase with age, and a growing proportion of them become senescent.
“Senescent neutrophils are killing our tissues,” Andreasson said. “Clearance of these cells is essential for preventing chronic inflammation.”
Immune System Clears Ageing
The Body’s Cellular Garbage Collectors
Macrophages are responsible for much of that cleanup. These versatile immune cells fight pathogens, coordinate responses from other cells and release growth factors that help damaged tissues repair themselves.
They also remove dead and dysfunctional cells.
“They’re the body’s garbage collection crew. A lot of that garbage are defunct cells,” Andreasson said.
A large share of that cellular waste consists of neutrophils, with roughly 100 billion of them needing to be cleared every day.
There are several kinds of macrophages. Tissue-resident macrophages are unusually long-lived cells that settle in organs during foetal development. Once established, they remain in those organs throughout life and adapt to perform specialised roles in each organ.
One of their most important responsibilities is swallowing senescent cells. The new findings show that neutrophils are particularly significant targets. About 100 billion neutrophils are produced each day, and they begin showing signs of senescence only 8 to 12 hours after entering the bloodstream. (Neutrophils that haven’t arrived at senescence yet but have lived long enough and seen enough to put out “kill me now” flags of surrender on their cell surfaces are fair game.)
The problem is that tissue-resident macrophages themselves deteriorate with age. Andreasson and her colleagues reported in a 2021 Nature study that these long-lived immune cells become increasingly vulnerable to inflammation as animals grow older. They can then contribute to that inflammation themselves.
An Inflammatory Signal Grows Stronger With Age
One important part of this process involves prostaglandins, hormones produced by immune cells. One of the five types, called PGE2, can affect cells in different ways depending on which receptors are present on their surfaces.
One receptor for PGE2, known as EP2, strongly promotes inflammation. Tissue-resident macrophages contain large amounts of EP2.
PGE2 production rises in response to infection, injury and toxic substances, including compounds produced as the body ages. The researchers’ earlier work showed that PGE2 levels increase substantially over time. At the same time, tissue-resident macrophages develop higher concentrations of EP2.
Together, those changes create a harmful feedback process. Increasing PGE2 activity repeatedly stimulates EP2 receptors on tissue-resident macrophages. The new study found that this stimulation weakens the macrophages’ ability to engulf neutrophils.
As a result, senescent neutrophils begin accumulating in the bloodstream and tissues.
Previous research from Andreasson’s group also showed that the energy metabolism of tissue-resident macrophages gradually deteriorates with age.
“Once that starts, there’s a steady decline in a macrophage’s performance,” she said.
The new work suggests that EP2 is critical to that decline.
“We’ve shown that when tissue-resident macrophages don’t have EP2 on their surfaces anymore or when that receptor is plugged up by a drug, this decline doesn’t happen.”
Blocking One Receptor Protects Multiple Organs
To investigate the receptor’s role more closely, Andreasson’s laboratory engineered mice whose EP2 gene could be deleted at a time chosen by the scientists, specifically in tissue-resident macrophages.
Removing EP2 restored the macrophages’ ability to dispose of neutrophils, reversing the disruption caused by PGE2.
The researchers compared younger normal mice, aged 6 to 8 months, which corresponds roughly to late adolescence or early adulthood in humans, with older normal mice, aged 23 to 25 months, which are roughly comparable to humans in their 60s or 70s. They also studied nearly identical older mice whose gene for EP2 had been deleted when they were 4 to 6 months old (their “teenage” years).
The team identified 71 blood proteins whose levels had changed significantly in normal older mice. Remarkably, 59 of those proteins remained at youthful levels in older mice whose tissue-resident macrophages lacked EP2. Many of the proteins came from the liver.
“The liver is one of the body’s most tissue-resident-macrophage-enriched organs and a major contributor to ageing-related changes in blood chemistry,” Andreasson said. “It’s the central organ determining the body’s metabolic rate.”
Normal old mice accumulated senescent neutrophils in the liver, spleen and bone marrow. The researchers also observed smaller increases in the many other organs they examined.
Older mice whose tissue-resident macrophages lacked EP2 were different. Their organs maintained the lower neutrophil levels normally seen in younger animals.
The mice also appeared younger, leaner and more physically fit than control animals of the same age. They had less visceral fat and more muscle, and their performance on tests measuring the function of several organs matched that of young mice.
Memory, Strength and Inflammation Also Improved
Removing EP2 from tissue-resident macrophages reduced inflammation in the blood, liver, colon, heart, kidney and hippocampus (a brain region tightly tied to memory and navigation ability).
Older mice without EP2 also performed like younger animals on tests of speed, balance and forelimb grip strength.
Their memory remained stronger as well. They navigated mazes and remembered previously encountered objects almost as effectively as younger mice, while outperforming similarly aged mice whose EP2 receptors continued to function normally.
Searching for a Drug That Can Target EP2
No approved drug currently exists that can selectively shut down EP2 activity, although several medications affect PGE2.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications reduce PGE2 production. Andreasson noted that this is the mechanism through which aspirin and related drugs reduce pain, fever, swelling, and redness (that’s how aspirin and similar drugs reduce pain, fever, swelling, and redness, the “four horsemen” of inflammation.)
The difficulty is that these medications also interfere to varying degrees with other prostaglandins that perform important functions. PGE2 itself can also have beneficial effects when it interacts with receptors apart from EP2.
Instead of broadly suppressing PGE2, researchers would therefore like to target the specific EP2 receptor responsible for the harmful inflammatory response.
To test whether that approach might work, the scientists gave otherwise normal 22-month-old mice an experimental drug that inhibits EP2 for two months.
The treatment brought both total neutrophil levels and the number of senescent neutrophils in old mice closer to youthful levels. Experiments in cell cultures also indicated that ageing reduced the ability of tissue-resident macrophages to engulf and digest worn-out neutrophils, while the EP2-blocking drug significantly restored that ability.
Similar Changes Appear in Human Liver Cells
The researchers then examined a large database containing information about different cell types in young, old and diseased human livers.
They found patterns resembling those observed in the mice. Older human livers showed increased neutrophil accumulation, greater neutrophil senescence, declining tissue resident macrophage function and elevated EP2 activity. Those changes were even more pronounced in diseased livers.
According to Andreasson, this study was the first time these changes had been observed in human cells.
Strengthening the body’s ability to remove ageing neutrophils could eventually offer significant therapeutic benefits.
“We need to develop a safe drug” that blocks EP2 without interfering with earlier processes such as PGE2 production, Andreasson said.
A researcher from the University of Munster in Germany also contributed to the study.
The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health (grants 1RF1AG080742, 1RF1AG070839 and P30AG066515), the American Heart Association, the Phil and Penny Knight Initiative for Brain Resilience (at the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute), Stanford University, the Arc Institute, and the Chan-Zuckerberg Biohub. Part of the work was conducted at the Neurosciences Preclinical Imaging Community Laboratory at the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute.
Putin releases jailed American Stephen Hubbard after more than four years in Russian custody, marking a significant diplomatic development as US special envoy Steve Witkoff meets the Russian president for fresh negotiations over the war in Ukraine.
The 74-year-old retired American teacher was released on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, following a direct request from US President Donald Trump.
The announcement came during a meeting between Vladimir Putin and Witkoff at the Constantine Palace in St Petersburg.
American officials and Hubbard’s family welcomed the release, while the Kremlin called the decision a humanitarian gesture.
At the same time, the meeting produced a potentially important development in Ukraine peace efforts, with Russia agreeing in principle to resume negotiations involving Moscow, Kyiv and Washington.
Who Is Stephen Hubbard, the American Released by Russia?
Stephen Hubbard is a 74-year-old retired American teacher from Michigan who had been living in Ukraine before Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Russian forces detained him in April 2022 in Izyum, a city in eastern Ukraine.
Russian prosecutors accused Hubbard of joining a Ukrainian territorial defence unit and of participating in military activities against Russian forces.
They alleged that he received weapons and training and that they promised him payment for his involvement.
Hubbard’s family and American lawyer disputed those allegations.
His lawyer said Hubbard had denied serving in a combat or military unit.
In October 2024, a Russian court sentenced Hubbard to six years and ten months in prison following a closed-door trial.
The United States subsequently designated him as wrongfully detained.
His case became a subject of diplomatic discussions between Washington and Moscow.
American citizen Stephen Hubbard appears in a Russian courtroom in October 2024
Why Did Vladimir Putin Release Stephen Hubbard?
The Kremlin said Putin decided to release Hubbard following a request from President Donald Trump.
Trump confirmed that he had personally raised the case during a recent conversation with the Russian president.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Hubbard’s health was among the considerations behind the decision.
Unlike several previous prisoner releases involving Russia and the United States, Hubbard’s freedom did not require a prisoner exchange.
Trump said Washington had not been required to release another detainee or provide anything in return.
The decision came at a sensitive diplomatic moment, as the United States attempts to revive negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.
Although the release represents a positive development for Hubbard and his family, it does not resolve the broader disagreements between Washington and Moscow.
Trump Welcomes Hubbard’s Release
President Trump welcomed the announcement and thanked Putin for agreeing to release the American citizen.
Trump said the decision followed a personal request made during a phone conversation.
The president also emphasised that no prisoner exchange had been necessary.
Hubbard was taken to St Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport in preparation for his return to the United States.
Photographs and video released after the announcement showed Hubbard meeting American and Russian officials.
His son, Joseph Coleman, told Reuters that he had spoken briefly with his father before his departure from Russia.
His American lawyer also welcomed the decision and thanked those involved in securing his release.
Donald Trump requested the release of American detainee Stephen Hubbard from Russia
Steve Witkoff Meets Putin in St Petersburg
The prisoner release coincided with a major diplomatic meeting between Putin and US special envoy Steve Witkoff.
Witkoff arrived in St Petersburg after holding discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders in Oslo, Norway.
The meeting at the Constantine Palace lasted nearly three hours.
It was Witkoff’s ninth in-person meeting with Putin during the Trump administration’s efforts to negotiate an end to the conflict.
The American envoy presented proposals intended to move the peace process forward.
The discussions included possible security arrangements for Ukraine and Russia, future negotiations and wider diplomatic cooperation.
Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner also participated remotely.
Despite the renewed engagement, the meeting did not produce a ceasefire agreement.
Witkoff Calls Putin a Humanitarian
One of the most controversial moments came when Witkoff praised Putin for releasing Hubbard.
The US envoy described the Russian president as a humanitarian during the televised portion of their meeting.
The remarks attracted criticism from American lawmakers.
Critics argued that the description was inappropriate given Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine and the civilian suffering caused by the war.
Republican Senator Thom Tillis publicly condemned the statement.
Trump later addressed the controversy, suggesting Witkoff’s comments should be understood in the specific context of Hubbard’s release.
The disagreement highlights the tension between diplomatic efforts to secure practical outcomes and wider concerns about Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy participates in discussions on ending the Russia Ukraine war
Russia Agrees to Resume Three-Way Ukraine Peace Talks
Another major development came after the meeting when Russian officials announced that Putin had agreed in principle to resume trilateral negotiations.
The proposed talks would involve representatives from Russia, Ukraine and the United States.
According to the Kremlin, discussions could begin around 10 November 2026.
Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates has been mentioned as a possible venue.
The negotiations would initially take place at a technical level, meaning government representatives and advisers would work through detailed proposals.
The discussions are expected to focus on security arrangements and the conditions required for a settlement.
However, the precise date and location have not yet been finalised.
An agreement to resume negotiations should not be confused with an agreement to end the war.
Zelenskyy Supports Renewed Negotiations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed support for renewed talks involving Ukraine, Russia and the United States.
He has indicated that Kyiv would prefer negotiations to begin as soon as possible, ideally by early November.
The Ukrainian government continues to insist that any settlement must protect its sovereignty and provide credible security guarantees.
Ukraine also wants assurances that Russia will not launch another invasion after a ceasefire or peace agreement.
Zelenskyy discussed these issues with Witkoff and European leaders during the Oslo meeting.
The discussions included proposals concerning Ukraine’s security, economic recovery and the wider European security framework.
Although American officials described the Oslo talks as constructive, Russia expressed reservations about some of the ideas presented.
Why Are Russia and Ukraine Still Far Apart?
Despite renewed diplomatic activity, Russia and Ukraine remain divided over several major issues.
One of the most difficult concerns territorial control.
Russia continues to demand full control of Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region.
Moscow also opposes Ukrainian membership of NATO.
Ukraine, meanwhile, insists that its sovereignty must be respected and that any settlement must provide meaningful protection against future aggression.
Another disagreement concerns whether the parties should first establish a temporary ceasefire or negotiate a comprehensive agreement.
Ukraine has repeatedly called for measures to reduce attacks.
Russia has indicated that it prefers a broader settlement addressing its security demands.
These differences have prevented previous negotiations from producing a lasting agreement.
US–Ukraine Relations Face Renewed Pressure
The latest diplomatic meetings come during a difficult period in relations between Washington and Kyiv.
Trump has increased pressure on Ukraine to negotiate with Russia.
His administration has also eased some restrictions affecting Russian energy exports.
The decisions have raised concerns among Ukrainian officials and some European governments.
Kyiv has complained about disruptions to certain forms of American intelligence sharing and military communications support.
Following the Oslo meeting, Zelenskyy said an agreement had been reached to address some of those problems.
American officials have disputed allegations that Washington deliberately restricted particular services.
The situation illustrates the challenges facing Ukraine as it seeks continued Western assistance while participating in diplomatic negotiations.
Fighting Continues Despite Peace Discussions
Although negotiations have resumed, the conflict remains active.
Russian missile and drone attacks continue to threaten Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.
On Wednesday evening, Ukrainian officials reported that ballistic missile attacks on Kyiv had damaged buildings and caused injuries.
The continuing violence demonstrates the gap between diplomatic discussions and conditions on the ground.
For Ukrainian civilians, a meaningful peace process would need to produce improvements in safety.
Protection of residential areas, energy infrastructure and essential services remains a major concern.
Humanitarian organisations also continue supporting displaced families and communities affected by the fighting.
Could Hubbard’s Release Improve US–Russia Relations?
The release of Stephen Hubbard may help create a more positive atmosphere for negotiations between Washington and Moscow.
Prisoner releases can serve as confidence-building measures during periods of diplomatic tension.
They demonstrate that governments can cooperate on specific issues even when major disagreements remain unresolved.
However, Hubbard’s release does not necessarily indicate that Russia is prepared to make concessions over Ukraine.
The Kremlin continues to maintain its central demands concerning territory and security.
The United States, meanwhile, is seeking progress towards a negotiated settlement.
Whether the improved diplomatic atmosphere leads to substantive agreements remains uncertain.
What Happens Next?
Attention will now turn to preparations for the proposed trilateral peace talks.
Russian officials have suggested that negotiations could begin in November.
American and Ukrainian representatives are expected to continue discussing the proposals presented during the meetings in Oslo and St Petersburg.
Key issues include territorial arrangements, security guarantees, ceasefire conditions and the implementation of any future agreement.
Diplomats may also explore the possibility of a meeting involving Trump, Putin and Zelenskyy.
However, no such summit has been confirmed.
The coming weeks will provide a clearer indication of whether the latest diplomatic efforts can produce meaningful progress.
New parents Jon and Kate Gosselin invited the Discovery Health channel
Twenty years ago, in May 2006, new parents Jon and Kate Gosselin invited the Discovery Health channel into their home for an hour-long TV special titled Surviving Sextuplets and Twins. The following year, the channel produced a follow-up special featuring the parents, twins, and sextuplets, and three months later, a regular series started shooting.
By the time TLC picked up Jon & Kate Plus 8 in 2008, the family and the show had become a cultural phenomenon, not only appearing on TV weekly but also on talk shows, in tabloids, and online.
But like many fascinating reality-TV subjects of the early 2000s, the family eventually faced years of public estrangement, disagreements, and tension spilling off-screen.
Jon & Kate Plus 8 offered a glimpse into the Gosselins’ unique home life, in which heartwarming scenes of Jon and Kate making breakfast for their eight children at once and shepherding them into a minivan occurred daily.
The show was appealing in part because of the seemingly wholesome family representation, but it also shed light on some of the ugliest parts of co-parenting and marriage, including a power-dynamic struggle between Kate and Jon.
People could tell from the jump that Kate was the more domineering and assertive of the pair, whereas Jon presented with laid-back nonchalance. After ten years of marriage, the couple’s relationship took a bitter turn, and they decided to separate.
The show was rebranded Kate Plus 8 after the couple’s very public divorce in 2009, only to be cancelled two years later. Now whatever fondness for the show was lingering has been tainted by secrets revealed in the new memoir In the Shadow of Eight: Surviving the Reality of My Childhood from Collin Gosselin, one of the now-22-year-old sextuplets.
In his book, available now, Collin opens up about his experience growing up on television and the trauma he endured in childhood, including details of his mother’s alleged abuse.
The family has been out of the public eye, split up, and estranged for many years now.
But this new wave of drama has reignited interest — Netflix has even announced an upcoming documentary revisiting the show and its impact, featuring interviews with Jon, Collin, and his sister Hannah.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Gosselins, then and now.
When TV producers found the Gosselin family of ten in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, they had been struggling financially. The couple had gotten pregnant twice through fertility treatments, once with twins born in 2000 and four years later with sextuplets.
They made the perfect subjects. Five seasons and more than 100 episodes focused on the family’s day trips, home-renovation projects, and birthday celebrations — until 2009, when Jon and Kate’s divorce derailed the series.
Kate continued the show, rebranded as Kate Plus 8. However, the solo show didn’t generate the same level of interest or viewership, and behind the scenes, legal battles over custody and scrutiny related to child labour raised tensions. After 50 more episodes, the show was cancelled in 2011.
Throughout its run, millions of viewers regularly tuned in to Jon & Kate Plus 8’s Monday night episodes. In a 2009 retrospective in honour of Jon & Kate Plus 8’s final episode, Entertainment Weekly TV critic Ken Tucker wrote, “I started watching the show during its first season.
I was just a casual viewer; the series didn’t have a season pass on my DVR. But if I was home or in a hotel room and an episode came on, I’d find I always ended up watching the entire thing, because the series was (hard as it is to believe now) completely charming.
“I remember most of the episodes they showed this last night in a quick montage, whether it was family movie night or the clan’s once-annual walk to the local Fourth of July parade, the little ones waddling along behind Jon and Kate like ducklings,” Tucker continued.
The kids were adorable and entertaining, and the interactions between Jon and Kate seemed unguarded, fresh, often amusing, and sometimes provocative.”
In June 2009, Jon and Kate’s separation-announcement episode reached a record-breaking 10.6 million viewers. Tabloids widely covered their subsequent messy divorce and gruelling 14-year-long custody battle.
Jon and Kate’s split upended the family’s dynamic, ending the original show and requiring the children to choose sides. Despite the family’s lasting estrangement, for the most part, they all lead relatively normal lives today.
During and directly following the show, matriarch Kate published four books, landed a celebrity spot on Dancing With the Stars, and appeared on the cover of countless magazines. In 2019, she also got a TLC dating show, Kate Plus Date, which aired for a single season.
On the home front, Kate had primary custody of six of the children. In 2021, she sold the family’s home and 23-acre Pennsylvania estate and moved to North Carolina. Since then, she has returned to a career in nursing but maintains public appearances through Instagram and TikTok, where she posts regularly.
In 2025, she also revealed via Instagram that she’s been dating her former bodyguard, Steve Neild, with whom Jon accused her of having an affair. The two have a dog.
In the years after Jon made back-to-back headlines with cheating rumours, the divorce, and the custody battle, his love life and relationship with his children remained his main focus.
Following the Gosselins’ public split, Jon (32 at the time) briefly dated RHONY’s Hailey Glassman (then 22). Recently, Glassman said on an episode of RHONY that their relationship informed her dating practices and relationships moving forward (she’s proudly in a self-proclaimed lavender marriage).
After publicly splitting from long-time girlfriend Colleen Conrad in 2021, Jon married Stephanie Lebo in 2025. Only two of his kids attended the wedding.
Jon reportedly has not had contact with most of his children for many years, though he won custody of Collin and Hannah in 2018 and the two lived with him full time until they turned 18. Though he has reportedly considered making a reality-TV comeback, Jon currently makes a living as a celebrity DJ.
Twins Mady and Cara chose to live with their mother until they both left home for college. Mady graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in textual studies and film-and-screen studies, while Cara studied mathematics and economics at Fordham University.
Both girls have mostly maintained low profiles, though Mady confirmed in 2023 that she and Collin don’t speak.
Four of the sextuplets chose to live with their mother following the split and reportedly haven’t had contact with their father in years. In 2021, the four of them moved with Kate to North Carolina, where they all graduated from high school.
Now they largely lead private lives: Leah posts videos of herself on TikTok, but otherwise, glimpses of them are mainly seen through Kate’s social media pages.
Hannah is one of the two sextuplets who chose to live with their father, but she still talks to her siblings. While she has stood by her brother Collin against their mother in the past, Hannah is now actively attempting to mend her relationship with Kate. She’s in her senior year at York College of Pennsylvania.
While the show was filming, Collin often rebelled against the production by acting detached rather than performing for the cameras. According to Collin, his resistance made him a threat to his mother’s show and image, so she started to target him.
He claims he was treated differently than his siblings, was often physically separated from the others during meals and custodial visits, and was pulled from school to be homeschooled by Kate.
At age 11, Collin was medicated and institutionalised for mental health and behavioural issues, and he remained at the facility for nearly two years. Following his release, he went to live with his dad and Hannah.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps after graduating high school and started recruit training in 2023, but was discharged shortly after due to his history of institutionalisation.
He later received an independent neuropsychology evaluation that reportedly found he does not have autism, bipolar disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Since 2023, he has vocally claimed he had a traumatic childhood and resents his mother as a result. Collin previously said he hadn’t seen or spoken to most of his siblings since 2016. However, he recently said he hopes he’ll get through to them with his memoir.
Gosselin Family Is Back
On October 13, Collin released a memoir alleging years of emotional and physical abuse from his mother.
Among the most concerning allegations are his claims that Kate for two years forced him to sleep and spend significant parts of the day alone in a dark, unfinished basement; yanked him by the ear until it became purple and swollen;
once zip-tied his hands and feet and medicated and institutionalised him for years without visitation.
On his book tour, Collin also discussed his estrangement from most of his siblings and the negative effects of child fame on his life. In an interview with ABC News, Collin said, “I was difficult because I was the only one out of my siblings who pushed back against filming and that whole façade that my mom spent years building.”
He continued, “The truth is that my siblings and I were being overworked; we were being exploited. There were just no adults to say, ‘Maybe this isn’t okay for children.’”
The memoir and the press surrounding it have led people to reevaluate the once-beloved show that allegedly overlooked these horrors and represented the family as picture perfect.
Since Collin first publicly accused his mother of abuse in 2023, Kate has been steadfast in her denial of the allegations, citing her son’s “multiple psychiatric diagnoses”, “distorted perception of reality”, and “history of unpredictable behaviour and violent tendencies”.
However, since the release of Collin’s memoir, Kate has yet to make any official statements. Thus far, her side of the story can only be pieced together from vague interactions in her TikTok comments section.
In response to one fan’s comment, Kate wrote, “I know rational, logical people, or anyone who has dealt with mental illness, understands what’s going on here :).”
She also liked a fan comment that said, “He will regret all of these actions someday, but as long as he is encouraged and enabled by other dysfunctional and mentally ill people, nothing will change.” She responded, “Exactly! I had nothing to do with it, except for consent because it was medically necessary.”
Jon has publicly expressed support for Collin and his allegations against Kate. “I am incredibly proud of my son’s heartbreaking memoir and his mission to help other victims of abuse,” Jon told Us Magazine.
“Also, let me be very clear: If you continue to falsely label my son Collin as ‘mentally ill’, you will be held accountable … Repeating false claims about his mental health is damaging to his reputation, his credibility, and his future …
The days of using mental health to discredit and silence my son are over.”
In a 2023 episode of Vice TV’s Dark Side of the 2000s, Hannah backed up parts of Collin’s claims, saying, “He would be separated from us. He would not be allowed to come outside and play with us. He would eat dinner at different times than us.”
Following the airing of that episode, Mady made a rare statement via her Instagram Story, taking a strong stance against her brother.
She wrote, “I do not owe my allegiance to any person(s) who has physically threatened me and every member of my immediate family (some incidents as recent as last year) … For me, there is no further conversation to be had about rebuilding relationships with anyone in my life after reaching the point of physical violence and hate speech. I cannot speak any further on why Collin has done these things, just that I have witnessed them.”
None of the Gosselin siblings have made public statements following the release of Collin’s memoir.
The father-son duo, along with Colin’s sister Hannah, will appear in a documentary on Netflix later this year. On October 21, the streamer announced plans to revisit the family drama in a documentary from producers Mike Gasparro and Julia Willoughby Nason, who worked on Death of the Pastor’s Wife and American Murder: Gabby Petito.
UK inflation and government borrowing have risen more sharply than expected, putting additional pressure on Chancellor John Healey ahead of his first Autumn Budget on Wednesday, 28 October 2026.
Official figures released on 21 October reveal that consumer price inflation increased to 3.5% in September, up from 3.1% in August. The rise was driven largely by higher fuel costs, which have been affected by the continuing conflict involving Iran and disruption to global energy markets.
Public sector debt also passed £3 trillion for the first time, although the figure remains provisional.
The figures present a difficult challenge for the government as it attempts to address the cost of living while maintaining control over public spending.
UK Inflation Climbs to 3.5% in September
According to the Office for National Statistics, the Consumer Prices Index increased by 3.5% in the 12 months to September 2026.
This was higher than the 3.1% recorded in August and exceeded economists’ expectations of approximately 3.4%.
It was also the highest annual inflation rate since October 2025.
The increase means that the prices of goods and services are rising faster than they were earlier in the year.
For households, the situation adds pressure to budgets already affected by expensive energy, food and transport.
Inflation does not mean every product has become pricier. Instead, it measures the overall rate of price changes across a representative basket of goods and services.
A rate of 3.5% means consumer prices were, on average, 3.5% higher than in September 2025.
Rising petrol and diesel prices contribute to UK inflation in october 2026
Rising Fuel Prices Drive Inflation Higher
One of the main reasons for the latest inflation increase is the rising cost of petrol and diesel.
The conflict involving Iran has disrupted international energy markets, particularly oil and gas supplies passing through the Middle East.
These disruptions have increased costs for businesses and consumers.
According to the latest figures, motor fuel prices were approximately 30% higher than a year earlier.
Petrol prices increased by around 8.2 pence per litre during September, while diesel rose by approximately 10.7 pence per litre.
Higher fuel prices affect more than just motorists.
Transport companies, delivery services, farmers and manufacturers all rely on fuel.
When their costs increase, some businesses pass those expenses on to customers.
This can contribute to higher prices for food, clothing and other everyday products.
Government Borrowing Reaches £24.5 Billion
Alongside rising inflation, the government is facing higher borrowing costs.
ONS figures indicate that public sector net borrowing reached £24.5 billion in September 2026.
This was approximately £1.8 billion more than in September 2025.
It was also £1.9 billion higher than the Office for Budget Responsibility had forecast.
Government borrowing occurs when public spending exceeds revenue from taxes and other sources.
The government then borrows money to cover the difference.
Borrowing can help finance public services, infrastructure and other spending.
However, sustained deficits add to the national debt and create additional interest obligations.
The latest figures suggest that higher inflation is making those obligations pricier.
UK National Debt Passes £3 Trillion
Another significant development is that the UK public sector net debt has provisionally exceeded £3 trillion.
This is the first time the total has passed that threshold.
However, the headline figure does not tell the entire story.
The ONS estimates that public debt was approximately 94% of gross domestic product at the end of September.
That was slightly lower than the ratio recorded a year earlier.
GDP measures the total value of goods and services produced by the economy.
Comparing debt with GDP helps economists assess the size of government debt relative to the country’s economic capacity.
Although the debt-to-GDP ratio has declined, the absolute amount owed remains substantial.
The government must continue paying interest on that debt while funding public services.
Debt Interest Payments Reach Record September Level
The government paid £10.9 billion in debt interest during September.
This was the highest figure recorded for the month since comparable records began.
It was also £1.6 billion higher than in September 2025.
One reason is that some government bonds are linked to inflation.
When inflation rises, payments on those bonds can increase.
The ONS estimated that changes associated with inflation added approximately £4 billion to debt interest costs during September.
Higher interest payments create additional pressure on the public finances.
Money used to service debt cannot simultaneously be spent on other priorities without additional borrowing, taxation or spending adjustments.
This makes inflation an important issue not only for households but also for government budgeting.
Bank of England considers inflation pressures and UK interest rates
Borrowing Is Lower Than Last Year but Above Forecast
There is an important distinction between the September figures and the wider financial-year trend.
During the first six months of the 2026–27 financial year, government borrowing totalled £97.8 billion.
That was £4.4 billion less than during the same period last year.
However, it was £6 billion above the Office for Budget Responsibility’s forecast.
This means borrowing has improved compared with the previous year but remains higher than the government had planned.
Economists generally examine longer periods rather than relying on a single month’s figures.
People with tracker mortgages may see their monthly payments increase relatively quickly.
Those with fixed-rate mortgages would generally continue to pay the same amount.
However, they could face higher borrowing costs when their existing deals expire.
For first-time buyers, higher mortgage rates can reduce affordability.
Businesses may also face increased costs when taking out loans or refinancing existing debt.
On the other hand, savers may benefit if banks offer higher interest rates on savings accounts.
The overall impact depends on individual financial circumstances.
UK families face cost of living pressures as inflation reaches 3.5 percent
What Does Rising Inflation Mean for Families?
For ordinary households, the most significant concern is the continuing increase in everyday expenses.
Fuel prices have risen sharply, affecting commuting and travel expenses.
Higher transport expenses can also contribute to increased prices for delivered goods.
Energy costs remain another major concern, particularly as colder weather approaches.
Food inflation has been more contained than fuel inflation, but many families are still dealing with the cumulative effects of earlier price increases.
Even when inflation slows, prices do not necessarily fall.
They may simply rise more slowly.
This is why a higher inflation rate can be particularly difficult for households whose incomes are not increasing at the same pace.
How Could the Budget Help With the Cost of Living?
The government has several policy options available.
These include targeted financial support, changes to taxes and measures affecting household energy or transport costs.
However, every option involves trade-offs.
Reducing taxes may leave households with more disposable income but could also reduce government revenue.
Increasing public spending may provide additional support but could require higher borrowing or savings elsewhere.
Measures that increase overall demand can also affect inflation, depending on their design.
The Chancellor will therefore need to consider both immediate household pressures and longer-term fiscal sustainability.
The budget will also be accompanied by updated forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility.
These forecasts will provide a clearer picture of the government’s financial outlook.
Why Is the Iran Conflict Affecting the UK Economy?
The UK is connected to international energy markets even though it produces some oil and gas domestically.
When global energy prices rise, British businesses and consumers can be affected.
The conflict involving Iran has created disruption and uncertainty around important oil and gas shipping routes.
Higher international fuel prices can feed into British petrol, diesel and energy costs.
They can also increase production and transport expenses for businesses.
This creates a difficult economic situation because energy-driven inflation can rise even when domestic demand is relatively weak.
Higher inflation may then increase debt interest payments and complicate monetary policy decisions.
The situation illustrates how international conflicts can affect public finances and household budgets thousands of miles away.
What Happens Next?
The next major event is the Autumn Budget on 28 October.
Chancellor Healey will outline the government’s tax and spending plans.
The Office for Budget Responsibility will publish updated economic and fiscal forecasts.
Attention will then turn to the Bank of England’s interest rate decision in November.
Economists will also monitor future inflation releases to determine whether the September increase represents a temporary rise or a more persistent trend.
For households, the key questions concern the direction of fuel prices, energy bills, wages and borrowing costs.
For the government, the challenge is maintaining fiscal stability while responding to economic pressures.
The humanitarian crisis of the Ukraine war has returned to the centre of international attention after US special envoy Steve Witkoff praised Russian President Vladimir Putin during peace negotiations, even as Russian attacks continued to kill civilians and force Ukrainian children into shelters.
The controversial remarks came on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, when Witkoff met Putin at the Constantine Palace in St Petersburg.
Witkoff described the Russian leader as a humanitarian after Moscow released Stephen Hubbard, a 74-year-old American who had been imprisoned in Russia for more than four years.
The comment immediately attracted criticism because Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has caused widespread civilian casualties, displacement and destruction.
For families in Ukrainian cities such as Kharkiv, the diplomatic language contrasted sharply with the continuing threat of missiles and drones.
What did Steve Witkoff Say it to Vladimir Putin?
During the meeting, Witkoff praised Putin for ordering Hubbard’s release.
The American envoy told Putin that he considered him a humanitarian and saluted the decision.
The remarks were made during a televised portion of their meeting and quickly circulated through international news outlets.
Witkoff’s comments were particularly controversial because Putin remains the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant connected to the alleged unlawful deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children.
The Russian government rejects the allegations.
Critics argued that praising Putin in such terms overlooked the humanitarian consequences of the war.
Others interpreted Witkoff’s remarks as an attempt to maintain a cooperative atmosphere during difficult negotiations.
Regardless of the diplomatic intention, the statement became a major controversy.
Why Did Russia Release American Stephen Hubbard?
Since 2022, Russia has detained Stephen Hubbard, a retired American teacher.
Russian authorities accused him of participating in military activities on behalf of Ukraine.
He was convicted in 2024 and sentenced to nearly seven years in prison.
The United States designated Hubbard as wrongfully detained, while his family disputed the Russian accusations.
President Donald Trump said he had personally asked Putin to release Hubbard.
Russia subsequently announced his freedom without requiring a prisoner exchange.
Hubbard’s family and American officials welcomed the release.
However, the decision also became part of the wider debate about Washington’s increasingly cooperative approach towards Moscow.
The humanitarian significance of freeing an individual detainee does not resolve the separate questions surrounding Russia’s conduct in Ukraine.
Ukrainian schoolchildren attend lessons in an underground shelter in Kharkiv
Ukrainian Children Continue to Suffer From Russian Attacks
While American and Russian officials discussed diplomacy, Ukrainian families continued facing the consequences of the war.
Russian drone and missile strikes have repeatedly damaged residential buildings, schools, hospitals and energy infrastructure.
In Kharkiv, a major city near the Russian border, residents face frequent air raid warnings.
Children have been particularly affected.
Many have spent significant periods of their lives studying in shelters or underground classrooms.
Parents must regularly decide how to keep their children safe while maintaining ordinary routines.
The disruption affects education, healthcare and emotional wellbeing.
Recent attacks in the Kharkiv region have also caused civilian deaths, including children.
These experiences explain why Witkoff’s description of Putin attracted such a strong reaction.
For families living under bombardment, the immediate humanitarian issue is the protection of civilians.
Underground Schools Show the Reality of War in Ukraine
Underground education facilities have become an important part of daily life in parts of Ukraine.
In Kharkiv, schools have operated in protected spaces to reduce the danger posed by Russian attacks.
These facilities allow children to continue learning while remaining closer to shelter.
However, underground education is not a complete substitute for ordinary schooling.
Children may experience restricted movement, interrupted lessons and anxiety about future attacks.
Teachers and parents also face considerable pressure.
The existence of underground classrooms illustrates how deeply the conflict has affected civilian life.
For many Ukrainian children, air-raid procedures are now a familiar part of growing up.
Rescue workers respond to damage following an attack in Kharkiv Ukraine
Why Are Witkoff’s Comments So Controversial?
The controversy centres on the difference between diplomatic praise and the documented conduct of war.
Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Since then, international organisations have documented extensive civilian suffering and violations of international humanitarian law.
The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin in March 2023 over allegations involving the unlawful deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children.
Putin denies wrongdoing, and the allegations have not resulted in a completed trial or conviction against him.
Against that background, describing the Russian president as a humanitarian carries considerable political significance.
Critics argue that such language risks minimising the experiences of civilians who are affected by the invasion.
The Trump administration, meanwhile, has emphasised diplomatic engagement as a means of pursuing a negotiated settlement.
The disagreement raises an important question about how governments should communicate with leaders involved in ongoing conflicts.
US Lawmakers Criticise the Humanitarian Remark
Witkoff’s statement prompted criticism from American political figures, including Republicans and Democrats.
Some lawmakers described the praise as inappropriate given Russia’s continued attacks on Ukraine.
They also questioned whether Washington’s diplomatic approach was placing sufficient pressure on Moscow.
The controversy comes during a broader debate over Trump’s Russia policy.
The administration has recently eased restrictions on Russian diesel exports as part of an energy arrangement intended to address high fuel prices.
Ukrainian officials have criticised that decision, arguing that additional Russian energy revenue could weaken economic pressure on Moscow.
Supporters of diplomatic engagement maintain that negotiations may require direct communication and concessions.
Critics argue that such measures should be accompanied by clear demands for civilian protection and respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
What Happened During Witkoff’s Meeting With Putin?
The meeting in St Petersburg focused on efforts to revive negotiations over the Russia-Ukraine war.
Witkoff presented proposals following discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European representatives in Norway.
The American envoy said there was some momentum for further talks.
Putin thanked Trump and first lady Melania Trump for their attention to efforts to end the conflict.
Russian officials also discussed potential economic cooperation with the United States.
However, the negotiations did not produce an immediate ceasefire.
Major disagreements remain over territory, security guarantees and the conditions for a lasting settlement.
Russia continues to demand control over areas of Ukraine that Kyiv considers sovereign Ukrainian territory.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly called for stronger international action to protect civilians.
He has also expressed concern about diplomatic approaches that place greater pressure on Kyiv than on Moscow.
Ukraine maintains that Russia must be held accountable for its invasion and attacks on civilian infrastructure.
Zelenskyy has indicated that his government is prepared to negotiate but insists that Ukraine must participate directly in decisions affecting its future.
Security guarantees remain one of Kyiv’s principal demands.
Ukrainian officials fear that a ceasefire without effective protections could allow Russia to prepare for another offensive.
The Ukrainian government has also called for continued military assistance and intelligence cooperation from Western partners.
What Does International Humanitarian Law Say?
International humanitarian law establishes rules intended to protect civilians during armed conflict.
The principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution are central to those protections.
Parties to a conflict must distinguish between military objectives and civilians.
Deliberate attacks against civilians are prohibited.
Attacks expected to cause excessive civilian harm compared with the anticipated concrete and direct military advantage are also prohibited.
Schools, hospitals and residential buildings generally enjoy civilian protection, although their legal status can depend on how they are being used.
International investigators assess alleged violations using evidence about individual incidents.
The legal responsibility of particular individuals must be established through appropriate proceedings.
These principles apply regardless of the political positions of the governments involved.
Can Diplomacy End the War Without Ignoring Civilian Suffering?
Negotiations are an important part of efforts to end armed conflicts.
Diplomats may use conciliatory language to encourage dialogue or secure practical outcomes, including prisoner releases.
However, critics argue that diplomacy should not obscure the consequences of military operations.
The release of Stephen Hubbard represents a positive development for him and his family.
At the same time, Ukrainian civilians continue to face serious dangers.
Both realities can be acknowledged without treating them as equivalent.
A durable settlement would need to address the causes of the conflict, Ukraine’s security and the protection of civilian populations.
Humanitarian organisations also continue to emphasise the need for access to affected communities and support for displaced families.
What Happens Next?
The United States is expected to continue consultations with Russia, Ukraine and European governments.
Further negotiations may address ceasefire proposals, security guarantees and economic arrangements.
However, no comprehensive peace agreement has been announced.
The situation on the battlefield remains dangerous.
Ukrainian cities continue to face attacks, while diplomatic disagreements persist.
International attention will remain focused on whether negotiations produce measurable improvements in civilian safety.
For families living near the front line, the most important developments will be those that reduce attacks, protect children and allow communities to rebuild.
His comments followed the release of American detainee Stephen Hubbard, an important development for Hubbard and his family.
However, the remarks came while Ukrainian civilians continued suffering from Russian attacks.
The contrast has renewed scrutiny of Washington’s approach to Moscow and raised questions about how humanitarian concerns should shape peace negotiations.
Diplomatic engagement may help create opportunities for ending the conflict, but lasting peace will require more than favourable statements between leaders.
For Ukraine’s children and families, the central concern remains the same: safety from attacks and the opportunity to live without the constant threat of war.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who called Vladimir Putin a humanitarian?
US special envoy Steve Witkoff used the description during a meeting with Putin in St Petersburg on 21 October 2026.
Why did Witkoff praise Putin?
The comments followed Russia’s decision to release American detainee Stephen Hubbard.
Who is Stephen Hubbard?
Hubbard is a 74-year-old American retired teacher who spent more than four years in Russian custody and was designated wrongfully detained by the United States.
Why are Ukrainian children studying underground?
Some schools operate in protected underground facilities because of the continuing threat of Russian missile and drone attacks.
Is Vladimir Putin wanted by the International Criminal Court?
Yes. The ICC issued an arrest warrant in March 2023 over allegations concerning the unlawful deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children. An arrest warrant is not a criminal conviction.
Has the Russia-Ukraine war ended?
No. Fighting continues, and no comprehensive peace agreement has been reached.
What are the main obstacles to peace?
Major disagreements concern territory, security guarantees, ceasefire arrangements and the implementation of any future settlement.
Russia is preparing to send its first diesel tanker to the United States under an energy agreement announced by President Donald Trump, a milestone in relations between Washington and Moscow.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, that the first shipment would leave Russia on Thursday.
The planned delivery comes as American consumers and businesses struggle with high diesel prices, while international energy markets face disruptions linked to conflicts in the Middle East and the continuing war in Ukraine.
The agreement has also raised political questions because the United States previously restricted imports of Russian petroleum products following Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Although the Trump administration hopes additional diesel supplies will help ease fuel costs, Ukrainian officials and some American lawmakers have criticised the decision to relax restrictions on Russian energy exports.
Russia Confirms First Diesel Tanker Shipment to America
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced that the first tanker would depart on 22 October 2026.
According to Russian officials, the shipment involves approximately 40,000 metric tonnes of diesel fuel.
The vessel’s destination in the United States has not been disclosed.
Novak also indicated that the necessary contractual arrangements were nearing completion.
Additional shipments are expected to follow if Russian refineries can produce sufficient fuel.
However, the announcement does not mean the tanker has already reached American waters.
As of 21 October, the departure remained scheduled rather than independently confirmed.
What Is Trump’s Diesel Deal With Russia?
The diesel agreement follows discussions between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump announced the arrangement on 9 October, outlining plans for Russia to supply diesel to American and international markets.
An additional one million metric tonnes in subsequent shipments.
Together, those quantities amount to approximately 1.8 million metric tonnes.
The first tanker represents only a small portion of the proposed total.
Actual deliveries will depend on production capacity, shipping arrangements, contracts and applicable regulations.
The agreement is particularly significant because Washington has used energy sanctions as part of its response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin discuss US Russia relations and energy cooperation
Why Does the United States Need Russian Diesel?
The United States is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of petroleum products.
However, being a major producer does not prevent the country from experiencing regional fuel shortages or high prices.
Diesel is essential for the American economy.
It powers heavy goods vehicles, agricultural machinery, construction equipment and many industrial operations.
When diesel becomes expensive, transport and production costs increase.
These higher expenses can eventually affect the prices consumers pay for groceries, household goods and other products.
International fuel disruptions, refinery constraints and regional supply shortages have contributed to pressure on American diesel prices.
The Trump administration is seeking additional supplies to reduce that pressure.
Nevertheless, importing Russian diesel does not guarantee that retail fuel prices will fall immediately.
US Diesel Prices Remain Above Six Dollars Per Gallon
American diesel prices have become a major economic concern.
According to figures reported by Reuters on 21 October, the American Automobile Association placed the national average diesel price at approximately $6.31 per gallon.
That compares with around $6.51 a month earlier.
Although prices have declined from their recent levels, diesel remains expensive for businesses that depend heavily on fuel.
Transport companies are particularly exposed because fuel represents a substantial operating expense.
Farmers also depend on diesel for tractors, harvesting equipment and other machinery.
Higher costs can reduce business margins or lead companies to increase prices.
The administration hopes that additional supplies will help stabilise the market, but any individual shipment is likely to have a limited effect.
High diesel fuel prices at an American filling station in 2026
How Much Difference Will the First Tanker Make?
The first shipment is relatively small compared with overall American diesel consumption.
Forty thousand metric tonnes of diesel is roughly equivalent to 300,000 barrels, depending on fuel density.
The United States consumes several million barrels of distillate fuel each day.
Consequently, the initial Russian shipment would represent only a small fraction of daily American demand.
This is an important consideration when evaluating the potential economic impact.
Larger and sustained deliveries could contribute additional supply, but prices are also influenced by crude oil costs, refining capacity, distribution networks and international demand.
The commercial terms of the Russian agreement will therefore matter as much as the headline shipment volume.
Why Did Russia Restrict Diesel Exports?
Russia previously introduced restrictions on diesel exports to protect domestic fuel supplies.
The restrictions followed disruptions to the country’s refining industry.
Ukrainian drone attacks have repeatedly targeted Russian oil refineries and related energy infrastructure.
These attacks have affected production and increased pressure on Russia’s domestic fuel market.
Moscow lifted its self-imposed diesel export ban on 9 October after reaching the new arrangement with Washington.
However, Russian officials have acknowledged that refinery operations have not fully recovered.
Novak indicated that Russia might not restore previous export volumes until the end of 2026.
This means that Moscow’s ability to fulfil the entire agreement remains an important uncertainty.
Russian oil refining infrastructure faces production disruptions amid Ukraine war
Ukraine Criticises the US-Russia Energy Agreement
The agreement has attracted criticism from Ukraine.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has argued that easing restrictions on Russian energy exports risks providing Moscow with additional revenue while the war continues.
Ukrainian officials believe sanctions are an important tool for limiting Russia’s ability to finance military operations.
They have also questioned the economic justification for importing Russian diesel into the United States, given America’s substantial refining and export capacity.
Supporters of the Trump administration’s approach argue that increasing fuel supplies could help reduce economic pressure and support wider diplomatic engagement.
The disagreement reflects competing priorities: lowering energy costs, maintaining pressure on Russia and negotiating an end to the war.
No comprehensive peace agreement has been announced.
US Lawmakers Question Trump’s Russia Sanctions Policy
The diesel arrangement has also become controversial in Washington.
Republican and Democratic lawmakers have criticised recent decisions to ease sanctions pressure on Moscow.
Some argue that allowing additional Russian energy exports could weaken the effectiveness of measures intended to penalise Russia for its invasion of Ukraine.
Others are concerned about the relationship between energy negotiations and wider diplomatic discussions.
The administration maintains that its approach aims to address fuel prices and encourage negotiations.
The debate comes shortly before the November 2026 midterm elections.
Energy affordability is an important economic issue, but the eventual political impact of the agreement remains uncertain.
Steve Witkoff Discusses Energy Cooperation With Putin
The diesel announcement coincided with US special envoy Steve Witkoff’s visit to Russia.
Witkoff met President Vladimir Putin in St Petersburg as part of continuing diplomatic efforts concerning the Ukraine war.
They discussed energy cooperation among the subjects.
Russian officials indicated that preparations were underway for several tankers to supply the United States.
Putin also raised the possibility of exporting fertilisers to the American market.
Such proposals would represent a broader expansion of trade discussions.
However, potential fertiliser exports should not be treated as confirmed deliveries.
Their implementation would require further commercial and regulatory arrangements.
Could Russian Diesel Lower Global Energy Prices?
Additional Russian diesel supplies could influence international markets if deliveries become substantial and sustained.
Diesel prices are affected by the balance between supply and demand.
When supply is disrupted, prices can rise, particularly in regions with limited refining capacity.
Restoring some Russian exports could provide additional fuel to international buyers.
However, several factors may limit the impact.
Russian refineries have experienced damage and operational disruptions.
Shipping availability, sanctions compliance and commercial financing can also affect deliveries.
Meanwhile, instability in the Middle East continues to influence global energy prices.
As a result, the Russian agreement is only one part of a much larger market.
What Does the Deal Mean for Europe and the UK?
European countries have spent several years reducing their dependence on Russian energy supplies.
The latest American agreement could raise questions about the future direction of international sanctions policy.
European governments may assess whether expanded US-Russia energy trade affects their own efforts to maintain economic pressure on Moscow.
For the United Kingdom, global diesel prices are relevant because transport, agriculture and industry depend on petroleum products.
However, the effect on British pump prices would be indirect.
UK fuel prices depend on wholesale markets, exchange rates, taxes, distribution costs and retailer pricing.
A Russian tanker arriving in the United States would not automatically lead to cheaper diesel at British filling stations.
What Happens Next?
The immediate focus is whether the first tanker departs Russia on 22 October as planned.
Several details remain to be confirmed, including the vessel’s identity, loading port, destination and expected arrival date.
Attention will then turn to the delivery schedule for the remaining shipments.
Market analysts will also assess whether the additional supplies influence wholesale diesel prices.
Diplomatically, the agreement may remain controversial as Washington continues discussions with Moscow and Kyiv.
The coming weeks will help establish whether the arrangement becomes a substantial energy-trade programme or remains limited by production and logistical challenges.
The agreement comes at a time of high American fuel prices, disrupted international energy markets and continuing diplomatic efforts over the Ukraine war.
Russia has announced an initial shipment of approximately 40,000 metric tonnes, with further deliveries planned.
However, the first tanker had not been independently confirmed as departing by 21 October.
Questions also remain about Russia’s refining capacity, the economic benefits for American consumers and the political consequences of easing energy restrictions.
For now, the agreement highlights how closely energy security, international diplomacy and the Russia-Ukraine conflict remain connected.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Russia send its first diesel tanker to the US?
Russian officials say the first tanker is scheduled to depart on Thursday, 22 October 2026.
How much diesel will the first shipment contain?
Officials have described a shipment of approximately 40,000 metric tonnes.
Why is Trump importing Russian diesel?
The administration is seeking additional fuel supplies amid high diesel prices and international energy-market disruptions.
How much diesel has Russia agreed to supply?
The announced schedule totals approximately 1.8 million metric tonnes in several stages.
Will Russian diesel reduce American fuel prices?
Additional supplies may help, but the first shipment is small compared with overall US demand. Any price impact remains uncertain.
Why is Ukraine opposed to the deal?
Ukrainian officials are concerned that additional Russian energy revenue could weaken economic pressure on Moscow during the war.
Has the Russian tanker arrived in America?
No confirmed arrival had been reported as of 21 October 2026. The first departure was scheduled for the following day.
The Steve Witkoff Putin meeting has become a major focus of international diplomacy as the United States attempts to revive negotiations aimed at ending Russia’s war against Ukraine.
US special envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in St Petersburg on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, following talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders in Oslo, Norway.
American officials described Tuesday’s discussions as constructive, saying the participants had made progress in developing a coordinated approach to negotiations with Moscow.
The diplomatic effort comes during a difficult period in relations between Washington and Kyiv, with President Donald Trump increasing pressure on Ukraine to reach a settlement with Russia.
Although officials have expressed cautious optimism about renewed dialogue, significant disagreements remain over territory, security guarantees and the conditions required for a lasting peace.
Steve Witkoff Arrives in Russia for Talks With Vladimir Putin
Witkoff arrived in St Petersburg on Wednesday morning, where Russian presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev welcomed him.
The US representative was scheduled to meet President Vladimir Putin at the Constantine Palace.
Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yury Ushakov confirmed that the war in Ukraine would be a central subject of the discussions.
The visit represents another attempt by the Trump administration to bring Russian and Ukrainian representatives closer to direct negotiations.
Witkoff has held several meetings with Russian officials during previous diplomatic efforts.
However, earlier negotiations have failed to produce a comprehensive ceasefire or a lasting peace agreement.
The latest meeting follows renewed consultations with Ukraine and European governments.
Steve Witkoff arrives in St Petersburg for negotiations with Vladimir Putin
What Happened During the Norway Peace Talks?
On Tuesday, 20 October, Zelenskyy met Witkoff and European leaders in Oslo.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre hosted the discussions, which also included Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
Representatives from the European Union, NATO and several European countries also participated.
Trump’s son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner joined the discussions remotely.
According to a US official, Ukraine presented new ideas and proposals that the participants examined during the meeting.
Participants discussed possible steps towards a comprehensive peace framework.
The agenda included security arrangements for Ukraine, post-war economic recovery and the future of European security.
The official described the discussions as constructive and said participants had made meaningful progress in coordinating their approach.
However, the talks did not produce a publicly announced peace agreement.
Zelenskyy Says Ukraine Is Ready for Negotiations
President Zelenskyy has repeatedly stated that Ukraine is prepared to participate in meaningful peace negotiations.
Following the Oslo discussions, he expressed cautious optimism about the diplomatic process.
However, the Ukrainian president emphasised that decisions affecting his country’s future must involve Ukraine directly.
Kyiv has consistently opposed proposals under which major powers would determine Ukraine’s future without Ukrainian participation.
Zelenskyy has also called for reliable security guarantees that would help prevent another Russian invasion after any agreement.
For Ukraine, the central question is not simply how to stop the fighting but how to ensure that a future peace settlement can be maintained.
The Ukrainian government continues to insist that it must respect its sovereignty and security.
Trump Increases Pressure on Ukraine to Reach a Deal
President Donald Trump has intensified his calls for Ukraine to negotiate an end to the war.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Trump argued that Kyiv should make an agreement with Moscow.
He also suggested that Russia’s military resources and continued battlefield pressure made negotiations increasingly important.
Trump’s comments have drawn attention because his administration has recently taken steps that Ukraine and some European officials see as favourable to Moscow.
These include easing certain restrictions affecting Russian energy exports.
The White House has defended its diplomatic approach as an effort to create conditions for negotiations.
Critics argue that placing greater pressure on Ukraine than on Russia could weaken Kyiv’s negotiating position.
The disagreement reflects the difficult balance between encouraging peace talks and ensuring that any settlement is acceptable to the countries directly affected.
US President Donald Trump discusses negotiations to end the Russia Ukraine war
US Restores Intelligence Sharing With Ukraine
One of the most important developments following the Oslo meeting concerned American intelligence support.
Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine was once again receiving advance warnings about incoming Russian missile attacks.
Such information can help Ukrainian authorities prepare air defences and warn civilians before strikes.
The Ukrainian president welcomed the restoration of the warnings, saying they were important for protecting ordinary people.
The announcement followed reports of interruptions in US intelligence sharing during a period of strained relations between Washington and Kyiv.
American officials have disputed claims that the administration deliberately restricted military assistance.
Nevertheless, Ukraine welcomed the renewed flow of information.
The development suggests that some immediate disagreements between the two governments may have been addressed, even though broader tensions remain.
Ukrainian air defence systems protect civilians against Russian missile attacks
Security Guarantees Remain a Major Challenge
One of the most difficult questions in the peace negotiations concerns Ukraine’s long-term security.
Kyiv wants assurances that Russia would not be able to launch another invasion after a ceasefire or peace settlement.
Possible arrangements could involve commitments from the United States and European partners.
Zelenskyy has discussed guarantees that resemble NATO’s collective defence principles.
However, the precise form of any security arrangement remains unresolved.
Russia has previously opposed Ukraine’s membership of NATO and objected to certain forms of Western military involvement.
European governments have emphasised that any peace agreement must be both credible and sustainable.
Without reliable guarantees, Ukrainian officials fear that a ceasefire could simply provide an opportunity for Russian forces to regroup.
The challenge for negotiators is finding arrangements that provide meaningful protection while addressing the wider security issues under discussion.
Norway and Finland Play Important Diplomatic Roles
Norway and Finland have emerged as important participants in the latest diplomatic effort.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre hosted the Oslo talks and welcomed the renewed engagement between Ukraine and the United States.
He also stressed the importance of involving European countries in decisions affecting the continent’s security.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb expressed optimism that the diplomatic process was moving forward.
Finland’s participation is particularly significant because the country shares a long border with Russia and joined NATO in 2023.
Both Nordic leaders have stressed the importance of negotiations that respect international law.
Their involvement also reflects Europe’s concern that any agreement between Washington and Moscow must take into account Ukraine’s interests and the security of neighbouring countries.
Could Trump, Putin and Zelenskyy Hold a Three-Way Summit?
A possible trilateral meeting involving Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy is among the proposals under discussion.
American officials hope Witkoff’s visit to Russia will help establish a pathway towards direct negotiations.
Such a meeting would allow the leaders to discuss major unresolved issues together.
However, Moscow has not agreed to the proposed format.
Zelenskyy has supported direct negotiations provided Ukraine participates as an equal party.
Several obstacles remain, including disagreements over occupied territory, sanctions and security arrangements.
Even if a leaders’ summit is eventually organised, it would not automatically lead to a peace agreement.
Diplomats would still need to negotiate detailed terms and implementation arrangements.
Russia and Ukraine Remain Far Apart on Peace Conditions
Despite renewed diplomatic activity, Russia and Ukraine continue to hold significantly different positions.
Russia controls parts of Ukrainian territory and has demanded concessions that Kyiv considers unacceptable.
Ukraine insists that its sovereignty must be protected and that any agreement should not reward further military aggression.
The question of territorial control remains particularly difficult.
Sanctions, military restrictions, reconstruction funding and future security arrangements also require negotiation.
Meanwhile, fighting continues along the front line, and both countries have carried out long-range strikes.
The ongoing violence demonstrates that diplomatic engagement has not yet translated into a reduction in hostilities.
What Happens Next in the Ukraine Peace Process?
Witkoff’s discussions with Putin are expected to provide an indication of whether Moscow is willing to engage with the proposals developed in Oslo.
The US envoy is also expected to continue consultations with European and Ukrainian officials.
Several questions will shape the next stage of diplomacy.
Will Russia agree to direct talks with Ukraine?
Can the United States and European governments establish a common approach to security guarantees?
Will the parties consider a ceasefire before reaching a comprehensive settlement?
And can negotiators bridge the differences over territory and sanctions?
The answers remain uncertain.
Officials have expressed hope that renewed dialogue could create momentum, but no final agreement has been announced.
The US envoy’s visit to St Petersburg follows constructive talks with Zelenskyy and European leaders in Norway, where participants discussed security guarantees, reconstruction and possible direct negotiations.
The restoration of American missile-warning intelligence to Ukraine is a significant development amid strained relations between Washington and Kyiv.
However, major disagreements remain over territory, security and the conditions for ending the conflict.
While the latest meetings demonstrate renewed diplomatic engagement, a lasting peace agreement remains uncertain.
The coming days may provide greater clarity about whether Russia, Ukraine and the United States can move towards substantive negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Steve Witkoff?
Steve Witkoff is a US special envoy working on diplomatic negotiations under President Trump’s leadership.
Why is Steve Witkoff meeting Vladimir Putin?
The meeting is intended to discuss proposals for ending the Russia-Ukraine war and explore possibilities for direct negotiations.
When did Witkoff meet Zelenskyy in Norway?
Witkoff met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Oslo on 20 October 2026.
Where is Witkoff meeting Putin?
The meeting was scheduled to take place at the Constantine Palace in St Petersburg, Russia, on 21 October 2026.
What did the Norway peace talks achieve?
US officials described the discussions as constructive and reported progress in coordinating proposals, but no final peace agreement was announced.
Has the United States restored intelligence sharing with Ukraine?
Zelenskyy said that Ukraine was again receiving American early-warning information about incoming Russian missile attacks.
Will Trump, Putin and Zelenskyy meet together?
A three-way meeting has been proposed, but no confirmed summit has been announced.
Has the Russia-Ukraine war ended?
No. Fighting continues, and the parties have not reached a comprehensive peace agreement.
Tunis, Tunisia – Like many Tunisian university graduates, Cherine Ghanmi believed a degree would offer her family a way out of poverty.
Cherine Ghanmi grew up in the marginalised town of al-Mazzunah, in the central Sidi Bou Zid governorate, and walked 5km (3.1 miles) to the school that her parents struggled to afford. They hoped she would eventually find a job and support them financially, easing their burden after years of sacrifice.
But more than a decade after graduating in 2012, she remains unemployed. Instead of supporting her parents, she says, she continues to rely on them.
“We studied and graduated believing we had finally found a way out of poverty,” she said. “We thought that once we found jobs, we could make up for all that hardship, repay our parents for their sacrifices and make them happy.”
“Unfortunately, reality was a big shock for us,” she added. “Instead of helping them, we have burdened them even more.”
For Ghanmi and thousands of other unemployed university graduates, the struggle to find work has become a symbol of Tunisia’s wider economic crisis, marked by limited opportunities, mounting financial pressure and growing frustration with successive governments.
The ‘Dignity March’
On September 27, unemployed university graduates began a roughly 300 km (186-mile) march from Menzel Bouzaiane in central Tunisia to the capital, Tunis, to demand jobs and the implementation of legislation intended to provide a clear path to public-sector employment.
Known as the “Dignity March”, it began with 23 participants, according to the organisers. More graduates joined along the route, with the coordinating committee later estimating that the number had grown to more than 120.
The journey was physically demanding. Participants paused at points due to exhaustion and injuries before continuing towards the capital.
On October 6, police blocked the group from moving forward in the town of Borj Cedria, south of Tunis. Participants said they were told they could travel individually, but not as a group. The marchers had hoped to reach the Tunis suburb of Carthage, where the presidential palace is located, to press their demands.
For Ghanmi, “the Dignity March was not just a march,” she said, describing it as an expression of the hardship and disappointment experienced by graduates who had spent years searching for work.
Many protesters say they have waited years for promises of public-sector recruitment to translate into real opportunities.
Their demands came amid broader discontent over Tunisia’s economic and political direction.
On October 17, thousands gathered in Tunis to protest against President Kais Saied, deteriorating living conditions, and restrictions on freedoms. The demonstration, led by the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT), opposition groups and civil society organisations, was among the largest against Saied in years.
Participants voiced frustration over unemployment and the difficulties many households face in meeting their basic needs.
Saied, who has concentrated power since 2021, has presented his political project as a response to corruption and the failures of the established political class. Critics say the concentration of power has weakened democratic checks and balances while doing little to resolve the country’s economic problems.
Stalled promises
The unemployment figures reflect the scale of the challenge. According to Tunisia’s National Institute of Statistics (INS), the overall unemployment rate stood at 14.9 per cent in the second quarter of 2026. Among university graduates, it was 26.6 per cent. The rate for women graduates was 35.6 per cent, compared with 14.2 per cent for men. Among those aged 15 to 24, unemployment reached 35.4 per cent.
“Almost all the governments that succeeded one another after the [2011] revolution did not make the economic situation, development and the treatment of social issues real priorities,” Cherif Khraifi, spokesperson for the Tunisian Union of Higher Education Graduates, told Al Jazeera.
“Their biggest concern was ensuring they stayed in power.”
Tunisia’s economic crisis fuels growing frustration over unemployment, rising living costs and fading hopes for a better future [Al Jazeera]
Attempts to address graduate unemployment have repeatedly raised expectations. The 2022 Law No. 38 intended to establish an employment pathway for long-term unemployed university graduates, but the law’s implementation stalled amid financial constraints.
Khraifi said measures intended to address the crisis have too often served as “tools for letting off steam” rather than resolving the problem.
The 2025 Law No. 18 provides for the exceptional recruitment of long-term unemployed university graduates into the public sector and civil service. It calls for a digital platform to register eligible applicants and sets out the criteria for prioritising candidates. Recruitment is to take place in phases over no more than three years from the law’s publication.
The law was dated 22 December 2025 and published in Tunisia’s Official Gazette on 23 December 2025, when it entered into force. Article 6 provides for recruitment in phases over a period not exceeding three years from the date of publication.
The graduates taking part in the Dignity March have demanded a clear process for implementing the law, including practical arrangements and a timetable for recruitment. For people who have already spent years out of work, only concrete steps towards employment can provide reassurance.
Ghanmi is also sceptical of Saied’s community-based companies programme, which aims to promote local development and employment through projects established by people in their communities.
“The authorities insist on promoting community companies as a solution for jobs and development, yet none of these companies managed to do that,” she said.
Public-sector recruitment alone cannot resolve a problem of this scale, Khraifi argued. Tunisia also needs investment and businesses capable of expanding and hiring. In disadvantaged regions, where employment is scarce and access to capital is limited, starting a business can be difficult.
For graduates such as Ghanmi, the central question is whether government policies will translate into actual jobs.
An economy struggling to create opportunities
Anis Ben Said, a tax adviser and university professor, said Tunisia’s “problem is not a lack of skills but the economy’s inability to turn skills into production, investment and job opportunities.”
Weak investment has constrained the creation of businesses and jobs, he told Al Jazeera. Poor infrastructure and unreliable public services also make it harder for businesses to operate, particularly in regions already struggling to attract investment.
According to the INS, Tunisia’s economy grew by 2.7 per cent in 2025 and by 2.4 per cent in the first half of 2026. In September, the World Bank projected growth of 2.3 per cent for the full year.
But economic growth does not necessarily create enough jobs for those who need them. For unemployed graduates, the figures offer little reassurance unless growth translates into accessible employment opportunities.
“The financial crisis explains part of the problem, but it does not justify all of it,” Ben Said said.
He pointed to shortcomings in investment and the management and maintenance of public infrastructure as barriers to economic activity.
“Infrastructure investment is not just a public expense; it is a productive economic investment,” he said.
Tunisians voice frustration over economic hardship and the lack of opportunities for a better future [Al Jazeera]
This summer, extreme heat coincided with electricity cuts and water shortages in several parts of Tunisia. Disruptions to these basic services affected businesses and added to public frustration.
The Reuters news agency reported that recurring power and water cuts were among the grievances raised at the October 17 demonstration.
For small businesses, interruptions to basic services can mean lost customers and income. Where jobs are already scarce, such disruptions make earning a living even harder.
In L’Aouina, a northern suburb of Tunis, 20-year-old barber Khalil said he was waiting for an opportunity to leave the country by boat.
“There’s nothing worth staying for in this country. Dying at sea would be a relief,” he said.
“I’m going to leave as soon as I can, and let them figure out the solutions on their own. Our generation has suffered the worst of these crises, and we have nothing left.
Others are having a hard time keeping their business going.
Khalil’s neighbour, a grocery shop owner who asked not to be named, said the persistent problems with the water supply had become exhausting.
“I think the only solution is for someone to take over this shop. I cannot keep up with these crises any more,” he said.
For Ghanmi, the years without work have brought more than financial hardship.
“The wound on the body heals, but the wound in the mind and heart does not heal,” she said. “It really does not heal.”
