First person charged in Scotland under abortion buffer zone law
A 74-year-old woman has become the first person charged in Scotland under the new Abortion Services Act 2024. The law, which came into force in September, bans anti-abortion protests within 200 metres of hospitals and clinics where terminations are performed. The police arrested and charged the woman after reports of a demonstration outside a Glasgow hospital. The case will be referred to the procurator fiscal. Scottish Greens MSP Gillian Mackay, who introduced the legislation, called the protests 'shameful' and thanked the police for their swift response. She argued that the law is necessary to protect women from intimidation while accessing healthcare. The incident follows controversial remarks by US vice-president JD Vance, who falsely claimed that Scots could be prosecuted for private prayer in their homes. The Scottish government dismissed his comments as misinformation, reaffirming that private prayer is not prohibited. Mackay urged potential demonstrators to 'think again', warning that future protests will be stopped, and legal consequences will follow.
Man ‘cured’ of his 15-year cocaine habit after taking weight loss jab
A 52-year-old man has reportedly overcome a fifteen-year cocaine addiction after receiving weight-loss injections containing semaglutide. The drug, commonly used to treat obesity and diabetes, is believed to target the brain’s hunger and reward centres, reducing cravings not only for food but also for addictive substances. This first-of-its-kind case aligns with recent studies suggesting semaglutide could help treat addiction, including reducing alcohol consumption and smoking habits. Some researchers have even dubbed it a 'fountain of youth', as it has been linked to lowered heart attack risk, improved fertility, and slowed ageing markers. The man, who previously struggled with depression, anxiety, and failed addiction treatments, sought help for both weight and drug dependency. Within twelve weeks, his focus shifted from drug use to exercise, showing improved physical health and self-esteem. Experts suggest semaglutide could be a promising treatment for addiction; however, further long-term studies are needed.
Anglicans in Wales urged to revisit same-sex blessings decision
The Church in Wales is set to reconsider its stance on same-sex blessings, with the experimental provision allowing blessings for same-sex couples due to expire in September 2026. While the Church still does not permit same-sex marriage, the blessing service was introduced in 2021 as a compromise, allowing clergy to decide individually whether to conduct such services. The Archbishop of Wales, Most Rev Andrew John, has called for prayerful and open discussions as the denomination discerns its next steps. A series of meetings will be held across Wales, providing clergy and congregants a chance to share their perspectives. Options under consideration include ending the practice, extending it, or introducing a formal service of same-sex marriage within the Church. The Archbishop emphasised the need for respectful engagement with one another, Scripture, and tradition. The Scottish Episcopal Church already permits same-sex marriage, as do the Quakers, Unitarians, and the United Reformed Church.
Ukraine: Russia refuses to accept NATO peacekeepers
At high-level talks with the USA in Saudi Arabia, foreign minister Sergei Lavrov has declared that Russia will not accept NATO peacekeeping forces in Ukraine under any peace agreement. The discussions marked the first known face-to-face meeting between Russian and American delegations since the invasion began. Both sides agreed to appoint teams to negotiate an end to the war, which US secretary of state Marco Rubio called a significant step. Ukraine was not invited, prompting Volodymyr Zelensky to express frustration over decisions being made without his country's involvement. European leaders held emergency talks in Paris but failed to reach a unified response to the negotiations. While the UK suggested a security presence in Ukraine, Germany and other European nations opposed the idea. Zelensky, visibly tired and upset, will also know that his country's chances of resisting - let alone defeating - Russian troops without American help are very slim.
