Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
The European Union (EU) has advised its 450 million citizens to stockpile essential items, including food and water, to prepare for potential emergencies. This call to action is part of a broader strategy to improve disaster preparedness across the 27-nation bloc, as it faces increasing risks from war, cyberattacks, climate change, and public health crises.
The EU’s recommendation comes in light of recent global developments that have raised concerns about security and stability. Citizens are encouraged to have enough food, water, medicine, and other essential supplies to last at least 72 hours during a crisis.
Why the call for preparedness?
The EU has faced significant challenges in recent years, including the Covid-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions with Russia, and ongoing concerns about energy security. These events have exposed vulnerabilities in the bloc’s ability to respond to emergencies, prompting the need for better crisis management.
The European Union’s Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, highlighted the importance of having a personal stockpile of food and supplies during emergencies. “It is crucial for citizens to have essential items for at least 72 hours to ensure their safety in a crisis,” she said during the announcement of the EU’s new strategy for disaster preparedness.
This push for citizens to stockpile food and other essentials aligns with similar measures already in place in countries like France, Finland, and Sweden, which have longstanding systems for civil preparedness. Sweden, for example, updated its Cold War-era emergency advice in 2024 to better reflect today’s security challenges, such as how to respond to a nuclear attack.
Rising security concerns
The EU’s call to action comes at a time when Europe faces growing threats. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has sparked concerns about potential Russian military aggression, with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warning of the possibility of an attack in Europe by 2030. The EU has also been grappling with the effects of climate change, cyberattacks, and public health crises like the Covid-19 pandemic.
As these threats grow more interconnected and complex, the European Union is urging its member states and citizens to take proactive measures. Lahbib emphasised the need for a well-prepared population, saying, “Today’s threats are more complicated than ever, and it is essential that we are ready to face them.”
Stockpiling for safety
The EU has outlined several items citizens should consider including in their stockpile: food, water, flashlights, medication, and identification documents. In addition, shortwave radios are recommended as a vital communication tool in the event of a cyberattack or infrastructure failure.
While the EU’s preparedness strategy encourages individual responsibility, it is also looking to build up its own strategic reserves of critical resources. These include firefighting equipment, medical supplies, and assets designed to combat chemical, biological, and nuclear threats. By doing so, the EU aims to support member states during large-scale crises and ensure that resources are available when needed most.
Coordinating preparedness across the bloc
Not all EU countries currently have the same level of preparedness, and Lahbib has called for better coordination between member states. The EU’s new disaster management strategy seeks to unify emergency responses and ensure that countries work together to provide aid and resources during emergencies.
“We cannot rely on reactive measures alone,” Lahbib stated. “We must have a coordinated plan in place to deal with crises before they happen.”
By encouraging citizens to stockpile food and supplies, the European Union is taking a proactive approach to disaster management. The goal is to reduce the pressure on emergency services during the initial stages of a crisis and ensure that individuals and families can protect themselves until help arrives.
Lessons from other countries
The EU’s plan to encourage stockpiling of food and essential supplies mirrors strategies already in place in several member countries. For example, France and Finland have long advised their citizens to be prepared for emergencies by having a stockpile of basic necessities. Sweden’s updated guidance includes instructions for how to act during a nuclear event, a reflection of the current global security situation.
By learning from these countries, the EU hopes to create a more resilient population that is better equipped to face crises. Stockpiling food and supplies for 72 hours is a small but significant step in ensuring that citizens are prepared to weather emergencies.
Challenges ahead
As Europe faces growing risks from geopolitical tensions, climate disasters, and cyberattacks, the EU’s call to action is a reminder of the importance of preparedness. By urging citizens to stockpile food and essential supplies, the European Union is encouraging a culture of readiness that will help mitigate the impact of future crises.
With the world becoming increasingly unpredictable, the EU’s focus on disaster preparedness aims to protect both individuals and communities, ensuring that Europe remains resilient in the face of whatever challenges lie ahead.
PRIME MINISTER Keir Starmer is facing questions within the Labour party after the sacking of US ambassador Peter Mandelson.
Mandelson was removed last week after Bloomberg published emails showing messages of support he sent following Jeffrey Epstein’s conviction for sex offences. The dismissal comes just ahead of US president Donald Trump’s state visit.
Labour MPs have expressed frustration with the prime minister’s leadership. Labour backbencher Richard Burgon told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that Starmer would be “gone” if May’s elections in Scotland, Wales and England go badly. “If May’s elections go as people predict and the opinion polls predict, then I think Starmer will be gone at that time,” he said.
Helen Hayes told BBC Radio 4’s Westminster Hour that if the dismissal affected Labour’s performance in the May 2026 local elections, questions about Starmer’s leadership would follow. She said she felt “devastated” about Mandelson but argued he should not have been appointed.
Baroness Smith defended Starmer, telling BBC Breakfast that Burgon had never supported him. She admitted Mandelson’s sacking was “not what we would have wanted” before Trump’s visit but said the prime minister was doing a good job.
Meanwhile, Conservative MP Alex Burghart demanded the release of documents related to Mandelson’s appointment, calling Starmer’s judgement “appalling.” He said the PM ignored warnings about Mandelson’s links to Epstein. Downing Street has said Starmer only learned of the emails on Wednesday and acted immediately.
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West Midlands Police said they were called just before 08:30 BST on Tuesday, September 9, after the woman reported being attacked by two men near Tame Road. (Representational image: iStock)
A WOMAN in her 20s was raped in Oldbury in what police are treating as a racially aggravated attack.
West Midlands Police said they were called just before 08:30 BST on Tuesday, September 9, after the woman reported being attacked by two men near Tame Road. Officers said the men made a racist remark during the incident.
Chief Supt Kim Madill of Sandwell Police said: “We are working really hard to identify those responsible, with CCTV, forensic and other enquiries well under way. We fully understand the anger and worry that this has caused, and I am speaking to people in the community today to reassure them that we are doing everything we can to identify and arrest those responsible. Incidents like this are incredibly rare, but people can expect to see extra patrols in the area.”
The first suspect has been described as white, with a shaved head and of heavy build, wearing a dark sweatshirt and gloves. The second man was also white, wearing a grey top with a silver zip. Police said the incident is being treated as isolated and urged anyone with information to call 101 quoting log 798 of September 9.
The Sikh Federation (UK) said the perpetrators reportedly told the woman: “You don't belong in this country, get out.” Dabinderjit Singh of the group said the attack happened “in broad daylight on a busy road” and criticised politicians for failing to condemn it.
Labour MP Gurinder Singh Josan said on X the case was “a truly horrific attack” and that police were treating it as a hate crime and working “extremely sympathetically with the victim at her pace.”
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The event, which Robinson has promoted for months, is being billed by him as the 'UK's biggest free speech festival.' (Photo: Getty Images)
More than 1,600 officers deployed across London on Saturday
Far-right activist Tommy Robinson to lead "Unite the Kingdom" march
Anti-racism groups to stage counter-protests in Whitehall
Police impose conditions on routes and timings of demonstrations
LONDON police will deploy more than 1,600 officers across the city on Saturday as rival demonstrations take place, including a rally organised by far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, and a counter-protest by anti-racism campaigners.
The "Unite the Kingdom" march, called by Robinson, is due to gather near Waterloo Bridge and head towards the southern end of Whitehall for a rally.
The event, which Robinson has promoted for months, is being billed by him as the "UK's biggest free speech festival." He has urged supporters to join "for freedom, for your children, and for Charlie Kirk," referring to the American conservative activist shot dead this week in Utah.
Robinson added in a message: "Bring your smiles, flags, and patriotic pride. No masks, open alcohol, or violence." He said the event will also feature far-right figures from Europe and North America. Among those expected are French politician Eric Zemmour, Petr Bystron of Germany’s AfD party, commentator Katie Hopkins, and Canadian psychologist Jordan Peterson.
Stand Up To Racism will stage a counter-protest at the other end of Whitehall. Organisers have called Robinson’s event "a festival of hate."
Police security measures
The Metropolitan Police said barriers will be in place to keep the two groups apart. Around 1,000 officers will be specifically on duty for the marches, with 500 reinforcements drafted in from other forces. Police have imposed conditions on the routes and timings, requiring both demonstrations to end by the evening.
"We will approach them as we do any other protests, policing without fear or favour, ensuring people can exercise their lawful rights but being robust in dealing with incidents or offences should they occur," said Commander Clair Haynes, who is leading the operation.
The force said the policing plan also takes into account other large events on Saturday, including Premier League football matches and concerts.
Wider political context
A similar rally held by Robinson in July 2024 drew tens of thousands. He has said he expects hundreds of thousands to attend on Saturday.
The demonstration comes after months of tensions in Britain over immigration, freedom of speech, and government restrictions. More than 28,000 people have crossed the Channel in small boats this year, with asylum claims reaching record levels.
Last month, the government banned the group Palestine Action, sparking large protests. Nearly 900 people were arrested at a London rally last Saturday against the ban. Critics have also accused authorities of targeting free speech, following the arrest of Irish writer Graham Linehan at Heathrow Airport over online comments. Prime Minister Keir Starmer responded by urging police to focus on "the most serious issues," while Metropolitan Police chief Mark Rowley said laws should be changed so that officers are not "policing toxic culture wars debates."
Robinson’s background
Robinson, 42, has long been active in far-right movements in England. He has a string of criminal convictions but maintains a large online following.
His influence grew after his account on X was reinstated in late 2023 following Elon Musk’s takeover of the platform.
Musk has shared Robinson’s posts and previously called for his release from prison after an 18-month contempt of court sentence in 2023.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Starmer dismissed Mandelson on Thursday after reading emails published by Bloomberg in which Mandelson defended Jeffrey Epstein following his 2008 conviction. (Photo: Getty Images)
A CABINET minister has said Peter Mandelson should not have been made UK ambassador to the US, as criticism mounted over prime minister Keir Starmer’s judgment in appointing him.
Douglas Alexander, the Scotland secretary, told the BBC that Mandelson’s appointment was seen as “high-risk, high-reward” but that newly revealed emails changed the situation.
“If Keir knew then what we know now, he would not have made that appointment,” he later told LBC.
Starmer dismissed Mandelson on Thursday after reading emails published by Bloomberg in which Mandelson defended Jeffrey Epstein following his 2008 conviction. Mandelson wrote to Epstein: “I think the world of you and I feel hopeless and furious about what has happened … Your friends stay with you and love you.”
Stephen Doughty, the Foreign Office minister, told MPs the messages showed Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein was “materially different from that known at the time of his appointment.”
Mandelson, who admitted during vetting that he had maintained links with Epstein and regretted doing so, is said to feel ill-treated.
Labour MPs criticised the handling of the affair. Paula Barker said the delay in removing Mandelson had “eroded trust,” Charlotte Nichols said he should “never have been appointed,” and Sadik Al-Hassan questioned the vetting process.
The episode has drawn wider scrutiny of Starmer’s decision-making. It comes after deputy prime minister Angela Rayner resigned last week over unpaid stamp duty. Some MPs turned attention to Morgan McSweeney, Starmer’s chief of staff, who played a role in Mandelson’s appointment.
In a letter to staff, Mandelson said being ambassador was “the privilege of my life” and he regretted the circumstances of his departure. James Roscoe, his deputy, will serve as acting ambassador.
The Financial Times reported that Global Counsel, the lobbying firm co-founded by Mandelson, is preparing to cut ties with him.
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Winds could reach 70–80mph in the most exposed coastal areas
Met Office issues yellow warning from 8pm Sunday to 6pm Monday
Winds could reach 70–80mph in the most exposed coastal areas
Travel disruption and risk of falling debris expected
Residents urged to secure outdoor items ahead of stormy conditions
Strong winds expected across southern and western UK
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning ahead of the weekend, with winds of up to 80mph forecast to affect large parts of the UK. The alert will be in place from 8pm on Sunday until 6pm on Monday.
The warning covers much of west and southwest England and Wales, along with the entire southern coast of England. It also extends up the west coast towards Manchester. Gusts of 60mph are likely inland, rising to 70–80mph in exposed coastal areas and hilltops.
Monday morning peak
Forecasters expect the strongest winds on Monday morning, gradually moving east during the day. The Met Office has warned of delays to transport and the potential for injuries or danger to life from falling debris.
Residents in affected areas are advised to prepare by securing garden furniture, sheds, bins and other loose items.
Weather outlook before the storm
Before the weekend, Thursday will bring wind and rain to northwest Scotland, with a mix of sunshine and blustery showers elsewhere. Some showers may be heavy, with hail and thunder possible in western regions.
Friday is expected to remain breezy, with overnight showers along western coasts. Saturday could bring heavier downpours and isolated thunderstorms, alongside stronger winds and coastal gales.
Cooler but drier in the east
Eastern parts of the UK are likely to see brighter and drier spells, though temperatures will stay on the cooler side. London can expect highs of around 17–18°C across both Saturday and Sunday.
Forecasters monitoring Atlantic low pressure
Paul Gundersen, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “We have been monitoring a deepening area of low pressure over the North Atlantic that might bring impactful weather to the UK, most likely on Sunday and Monday. At present, a named storm is unlikely.”