US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced new sanctions against Russian media outlet RT, accusing it of acting as an arm of Russia's intelligence apparatus. Blinken stated that RT and other Russian-backed media have covertly worked to undermine US democracy, with cyber operational capabilities linked to Russian intelligence. RT live-streamed Blinken's remarks, dismissing them as a "US conspiracy theory." Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova mocked the sanctions, suggesting a new profession in the US for Russian sanction specialists. RT’s editor-in-chief Margarita Simonyan, who was recently sanctioned, responded by highlighting that many RT staff had studied in the US, some with American funding.

Illia Yefimchyk, the Belarusian bodybuilder famed for his 6-foot frame and 340-pound weight, passed away at 36 after suffering a heart attack. Dubbed "The Mutant" in bodybuilding circles, Yefimchyk fell into a coma on September 6 and died on September 11. Despite his impressive 600-pound bench press and 700-pound deadlift, Yefimchyk never competed professionally but gained popularity online. His wife, Anna, performed chest compressions before the ambulance arrived, but doctors confirmed brain failure after a brief recovery. His death follows recent losses in the bodybuilding world, including Neil Currey and Antonio Souza.

The US is considering giving Ukraine permission to use American-supplied long-range missiles against Russian targets. The potential decision comes as Iran is reportedly supplying arms to Russia. This could expand Ukraine’s capabilities to strike deeper into Russian territory, with cities like Oryol within range. Civilians express concerns about the threat, although military targets such as rocket launchers and runways would be the focus. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington hasn’t ruled out providing these missiles, with Russian citizens remaining divided over the escalating conflict.

Russia is producing a new kamikaze drone, the Garpiya-A1, utilizing Chinese engines and components, according to European intelligence and documents. The drone, in use against Ukraine, marks a shift from reliance on Iranian designs. Over 2,500 units have been made from July 2023 to July 2024. The U.S. has expressed concerns over China's support for Russia's defense sector, highlighting the need to stop exporting critical components. The drone, which has a 1,500 km range, is being manufactured at a former cement factory in Russia, with parts supplied by Chinese companies.

Prince Harry is set to mark his 40th birthday with a boys' trip, leaving Meghan Markle and their children behind. Scheduled for September 15, 2024, Harry's getaway with close friends remains a mystery regarding location and companions. Sources indicate he will also hold a private family celebration at their Montecito mansion. Following the birthday, Harry will attend the UN General Assembly High-Level Week and Climate Week in New York, from September 22 to 29. His trip aims to support his patronages and philanthropic initiatives, including African Parks, The HALO Trust, The Diana Award, and Travalyst.

Hamza bin Laden, previously reported dead, is reportedly alive and leading Al-Qaeda from Afghanistan. Intelligence sources reveal Hamza, the 15th child of Osama bin Laden, is commanding the terror group’s resurgence. Based in Jalalabad, Hamza is said to be planning future attacks on Western targets. Senior Taliban figures are reportedly providing him and his family with protection. Despite previous claims by former US President Trump of Hamza’s death in 2019, recent reports indicate he remains active and influential within Al-Qaeda, alongside his brother Abdullah bin Laden.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rebuffed Vladimir Putin's threat that NATO countries would be at war with Russia if they allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles. Putin warned that such a move would change the "nature of the conflict". Starmer, en route to meet US President Joe Biden, retorted that Russia started the conflict with its illegal invasion of Ukraine and can end it immediately. He reaffirmed UK support for Ukraine's right to self-defense, including providing training and capabilities, while stressing that the UK does not seek conflict with Russia.

The prison population in England and Wales has decreased by over 2,000 in one week following the government's temporary early release scheme to reduce overcrowding. The plan, which began on 10 September, allows prisoners with sentences under five years to be released after serving 40% of their sentence instead of the usual 50%. Those with sentences of five years or more will be eligible from 22 October, though serious offenders like killers and terrorists are excluded. The prison population dropped from 88,521 to 86,333 as part of the effort to free up space in overcrowded facilities.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a fresh warning to NATO over the use of Western-supplied long-range missiles in Ukraine, threatening escalation if attacks target Russian territory. This comes as Moscow's FSB security service expelled six British diplomats, accusing them of involvement in espionage and sabotage. The FSB claims to have documents showing a British foreign office department coordinating efforts to escalate the political and military situation in Russia’s war against Ukraine. The British embassy in Moscow has yet to comment on the expulsion or the spying allegations. The situation underscores the growing tensions between Russia and Western nations.

The UK government has introduced the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, requiring venues and events with over 200 capacity to take steps to prevent terror attacks. The bill, named after Manchester Arena bombing victim Martyn Hett, aims to make public spaces safer. Venues that fail to comply may face fines up to £18m. The move comes seven years after the Manchester Arena attack, which killed 22 people. The bill will be debated and voted on by MPs and peers, with campaigners welcoming the move as a step towards improved security.