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The United Kingdom has begun the process of lowering the voting age to 16. The U.K. and Germany have also signed a defense treaty to stabilize the region. North Korea solidifies its relationship with Russia, expressing support for all Russian actions in Ukraine.
U.K. reduces the voting age
In a landmark decision, the British government is awaiting parliamentary approval to lower the voting age. This change will allow 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in all U.K. elections. According to Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, this change is meant to “break down barriers to participation” and encourage young voters.
This decision comes after the 2024 election cycle revealed only a 59.7% voter turnout. According to a report from the parliament, this was the lowest general election turnout since 2001. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer supports this change, emphasizing that it allows young taxpayers and workers to have their voices represented in government.
This policy was a part of Starmer’s initial campaign, so it is unlikely that there will be any obstacles as the policy goes to Parliament for approval.
Anglo-German Accord
Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have signed a mutual defense treaty. The Anglo-German Accord states that an attack on one country would be an attack on the other. This treaty is one of the ways European leaders are attempting to restabilize European security as President Trump’s foreign policy becomes more aggressive and President Putin persists in attacking Ukraine.
Though Germany does not have a nuclear weapons program, it recently increased military budgets and is a major weapons supplier to Ukraine. This treaty aims to strengthen cooperation between the two nations and reduce Britain’s isolation since it left the E.U.
North Korea commits to Russia
During a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Kim Jong Un pledged unconditional support for all Russian actions in Ukraine. This expression of support will continue to grow the relationship between Russia and North Korea. Additionally, an estimated 30,000 North Korean soldiers will deploy to Moscow to support Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This will add to the existing 11,000 soldiers already identified by Ukrainian intelligence.
As relations between North Korea and Russia improve, U.S.-Russia relations are deteriorating. President Donald Trump continues to grow frustrated with Russia’s persistent attacks on Ukraine. This alliance raises cause for concern, especially if North Korea were to make progress on its nuclear program.
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