Ukraine has detained two people who it accuses of spying for Hungarian military intelligence.
The SBU security service claimed in a statement on Friday that the former members of the Ukrainian military were recruited by Hungary to conduct “espionage activities to the detriment of our state”. Relations between Kyiv and Budapest have long been strained, but the antipathy has grown amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The Ukrainian intelligence agency said that the pair had been recruited by a handler in Hungarian military intelligence to gather information about defence systems in the country’s west, host to a significant Hungarian diaspora.
There was no immediate response from the Hungarian government.
The SBU said the two suspects, a 40-year-old man and a woman, had been placed in custody and given notice that they were under suspicion of committing treason. They both now face up to life in prison, it added.
The pair was allegedly given cash and special equipment for secret communication and tasked with passing on details about air defence batteries and other military capabilities in the western Zakarpattia region bordering Hungary.
The SBU alleged the man had tried to recruit at least two people as informants.
It added that this was the first time in the history of Ukraine that a Hungarian spy network had been found to be working against Kyiv’s interests.
Flags of Ukraine, Hungary and the European Union are seen in the town of Berehove, in Zakarpattia region, which has a sizeable minority of ethnic Hungarians [File: Reuters]
Throughout the Ukraine war, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has delayed Western military aid to Kyiv and maintained warm relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, at odds with his European Union peers.
Orban has used staunch nationalism to build his political base at home, in particular stressing grievances over the territories lost to neighbouring states – including Ukraine – under the Versailles Treaty that ended World War I.
Budapest has berated Kyiv for years, claiming discriminatory actions against the 150,000 or so ethnic Hungarians, most of whom live in the Zakarpattia region.
BBC Radio 2 presenter Rylan Clark has hinted that he may have found love again after his split from husband Dan Neal in 2021, with a co-star spotting a ‘twinkle’ in his eye
Rylan had a cheeky ‘twinkle in his eye’(Image: Dave Benett, Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Rylan Clark has a cheeky new “twinkle” in his eye, according to BBC Radio 2 colleague Zoë Ball. During their show handover, she hinted that the extra sparkle might have something to a new romance – at which point Rylan disclosed that he’s decided to ditch the dating apps – potentially confirming Zoë’s theory.
“I’m not on the apps no more,” Rylan said. “I’ve come off all the apps and I’m alright.”
In response, Zoë playfully noted: “You’ve got a twinkle in your eye. I know you always have a twinkle in your eye, but that’s a particularly big one,” Rylan jokingly responded that it might just be a stye.
Rylan and Zoë enjoyed some playful banter about his love life(Image: BBC)
Following a challenging period after parting ways with husband Dan Neal back in 2021, Rylan recounted some heartbreaking moments. He revealed: “My body completely shut down. I wouldn’t eat.”
He continued describing his ordeal: “I went through a stage where I couldn’t even talk, which for some people might be quite handy. My speech was just slurred. My mum thought I was having a stroke. My body just went. I went down to nine stone and I am 6’4.”
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After making a splash with his shirtless dance in the rain at Scott Mills’s wedding last summer, there are murmurs that Rylan may be embracing love once again.
Rylan has a solid friendship with Rob Rinder, but it’s strictly platonic(Image: Karwai Tang, WireImagevia Getty Images)
Rumours had been swirling around a potential relationship with television mate Rob Rinder. However, Rylan put those whispers to rest on Jessie and Lennie Ware’s Table Manners podcast.
He quipped about their friendship: “I find it funny because I adore him, but we are like a married couple; we row all the time and we don’t have sex.”
Rylan’s love life remains somewhat of a mystery. Earlier this year, he admitted to struggling to find a partner, joking: “I don’t know where they are! I smell nice, I try my hardest…”
Rylan has quit celeb dating app Raya(Image: Karwai Tang, WireImagevia Getty Images)
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He also highlighted his financial stability, suggesting he should be a desirable catch: “I’ve got a couple of quid, what is wrong with me?” Rylan even poked fun at his iconic smile, wondering if it might be a turn-off: “Maybe they’re frightened of the teeth!”.
The TV personality has also expressed frustration with celebrity dating app Raya, often getting matched with people abroad. Although he’s financially comfortable, he’s not wealthy enough to own a private jet, making long-distance relationships impractical.
Leinster have named nine of their 12 players selected for the British and Irish Lions tour in the squad for Saturday’s United Rugby Championship contest against Zebre at the Aviva Stadium (17:15 BST).
James Lowe and Garry Ringrose will start in the backs with Ronan Kelleher, Joe McCarthy, Jack Conan and Josh van der Flier selected in the forwards and Jamison Gibson-Park, Andrew Porter and James Ryan included in the replacements.
The United Rugby Championship leaders retain six of their starters from last weekend’s shock Investec Cup semi-final defeat by Northampton.
Lowe, Ringrose and Lions squad omission Sam Prendergast are named in the backs with Kelleher, McCarthy and van der Flier retaining the forward starting roles.
New Zealand star Jordie Barrett is named at centre after coming on as a second-half replacement last weekend, while Conan will captain the side in the absence of injured Caelan Doris after also been introduced from the bench against Northampton.
Leinster’s replacements include Robbie Henshaw who was a notable omission from Andy Farrell’s Lions squad.
Full-back Ciaran Frawley will make his 100th Leinster appearance in Saturday’s game.
Leinster go into this weekend’s round of fixtures with an eight-point lead over second-placed Glasgow while Zebre are in 15th spot, with only marooned Dragons behind them in the table.
Leinster: Osborne; J O’Brien, Ringrose, Barrett, Lowe; Prendergast, McGrath; Boyle, Kelleher, Clarkson; McCarthy, Mangan; Baird, van der Flier, Conan (capt).
Ben Gallagher, who set up Luxe Collective with his brother Joe, has spoken out after former employees claimed the business has closed down and made all staff members redundant
Ben revealed that Luxe Collective had been robbed last year(Image: Tik Tok)
A luxury fashion business is shutting down just over a year after securing a £100,000 investment on the BBC’s Dragons’ Den. Luxe Collective, founded by brothers Ben and Joe Gallagher from Formby in 2018, had found success selling second-hand, high-end goods.
Following reports from former employees on TikTok claiming all staff had been made redundant, Ben has now confirmed the closure of Luxe Collective on the brand’s social media pages. Ben cited a break-in at the company’s Ormskirk warehouse in July last year as a significant factor in the decision, admitting he made subsequent choices that he now regrets. He assured customers that their queries about orders would be addressed in due course.
In a statement, Ben said: “Luxe Collective is closing down. I never thought I’d have to say this but the company I created seven years ago at just 18 years old will no longer exist. After a year-long fight after we were broken into last year, in which both me and my brother were doing all we could just to get us through to the next day, we are no longer able to continue”, reports the Liverpool Echo.
“The last year has been the most painful in my life and to be truly honest, whilst I’m talking to you now, I’m overwhelmed with relief – I’ve never been so mentally and physically drained, stressed and anxious. Fighting daily just to keep the lights on has really taken a lot out of us. We have tried every single avenue we possibly could to carry on – but we’ve finally been defeated.
Dragon Steven Bartlett invested in Luxe Collective(Image: Luxe Collective)
“It’s easy for me to sit here and say the only reason as to why we’ve failed is the robbery. But that’s not entirely true. The break in not only affected the financial state of the company but also took such an emotional and mental toll on me and my brother which ultimately affected my leadership and strategic decision making.
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“I made decisions that, in retrospect, I regret – they were not the right ones. I take 100% accountability for this – it’s on me. The criminals who broke in haven’t just ruined the company. They’ve ruined the livelihoods of not just me and my brother but all the amazing staff that we have had to make redundant and who’ve lost their jobs in the process.
“I want to thank everybody who, over the last seven years, has shown support to me, my brother and my company, whether that was engaging with our social media or using our service. All the team members who have been a part of Luxe Collective at any moment, especially in the last 12 months when things got tough and times were uncertain – thank you.
“We had some unbelievable talent in this building and if there’s any business watching this who are interested in taking new people on I’d be more than happy to provide a reference. Although we have failed in succeeding with this brand…there are still things that no one will be able to take away from me.
The businessman had been forced to make staff redundant(Image: Tik Tok)
“I started this brand as a teenager and in the space of 7 years it was recognised all over the world and got the whole industry talking about us. We generated over £30M in revenue from starting in our bedroom with £0 investment. It took me all over the world to cities like Tokyo and New York. I went to fashion shows like Valentino and Hugo Boss in Milan.
“I reached over 3 million followers and 1 Billion Views on social media. I went on Grace Beverley’s podcast and met so many other amazing, super successful people “But most importantly, I built a relationship with my brother that would never have existed without going on this journey with him. Now, we’re both back to square one. Not left with much except the 7 years of priceless experience and a fresh head to start something new with..
“To any customers this may affect, please reach out through the appropriate channels, and we will get back to you as soon as we can. To everyone who is reaching out publicly and privately, you don’t understand how much it means during a time like this – thank you.”
The online community has been pouring out messages of encouragement after a heartfelt announcement, with former employee and influencer Ella Hewitt sharing: “I’ve cried for days about this and I’m not sure what else to say other than I’m so beyond proud of you both for the brand you built, the community we created, and thankful for the opportunity that you gave me.
“Luxe Collective saved my life, it will forever feel like my baby and I am so sad to see it come to an end. My love goes out to all the staff affected by this. Ben and Joe, 99% of us will never understand the decision or feelings you’re going through- what you achieved was truly incredible and I’m sure whatever you do next will be on another level. Love you guys.”
Ben Gallagher confirmed the sad news on TikTok(Image: Ben Gallagher)
Ben’s videos showcasing the fashion industry’s ins and outs took the internet by storm, making Luxe Collective a viral hit while also enticing people to engage with the brand’s offerings. The allure of their content reached new heights in January 2024 when the company snagged a record-breaking £100,000 from entrepreneur Steven Bartlett on the hit series Dragon’s Den.
But in an unforeseen twist, Ben announced in July via the company’s social media platforms, divulging that their Ormskirk warehouse had been victim to cunning “professional group” culprits who managed to circumvent security and make off with half of their treasured stock last weekend.
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A spokesperson for Lancashire Police confirmed they received a report of a theft on Seafire Way in Ormskirk that Monday morning, July 22, stating enquiries were ongoing. By November, Ben revealed they had been compensated for the stolen items. Lancashire Police commented in the same month: “This crime has been investigated as far as reasonably possible and the case has been closed pending further investigative opportunities becoming available.”
Former Made In Chelsea star Sam Thompson is preparing to take part in charity football match, Soccer Aid, with One Direction star Louis Tomlinson
Pete Wicks teases Sam Thompson on ‘rivalries’ ahead of Soccer Aid with Louis Tomlinson(Image: Getty Images for the NTA’s)
Sam Thompson’s best friend, Pete Wicks, joked about the upcoming Soccer Aid match as the former Made In Chelsea star risks an awkward moment with ex-girlfriend Zara McDermott’s new love interest, Louis Tomlinson. Love Island star Zara, who previously dated Sam for five years, moved on with the One Direction star and were pictured holding hands in recent weeks.
Radio star Sam, 32, has been keeping his mind busy from the split with dates and was recently seen sharing a smooch with yet another Love Islander, Samie Elishi, when they attended Olivia Attwood’s birthday party. Amid the new romances, Sam is getting ready to play for England in the chairty football match, Soccer Aid, in June.
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Sam and Zara split up in December(Image: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
Both Sam and Louis, 33, are playing for England, which could result in an awkward run-in. Sam’s best friend Pete couldn’t help but tease him in their Staying Relevant podcast.
In a clip posted on their TikTok account on Thursday, Pete asked Sam: “You’re really going through it with the whole f****** body and dieting and training loads. Is that for Soccer Aid?”
Sam said he’s ‘loving it’ but it’s ‘not for the game’ as Pete added: “Are you sure it’s not for Soccer Aid? How are you feeling? You’re playing again. Must be really exciting.”
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She moved on with Louis – who is taking part in Soccer Aid with Sam(Image: PA)
TOWIE star Pete went on: “How do you feel about the line up? Do you think you’ve got a strong team?” as Sam nervously laughed and agreed that they had a ‘strong team’.
Pete wouldn’t let it go and said: “Any kind of people in there who you’re looking forward to playing with?” with Sam answering: “Loads. Tom Grennan. I’m really looking forward to playing alongside Wayne Rooney, Tyson Fury’s the manager. I can’t wait'”
Pete then joked: “I mean that’s gonna be f****** amazing. Make sure you get him on side though because you may need him in your corner in case you fall out with anyone. Not that you will but just in case there’s any rivalries or anything.
“You know, you have to train together and it’s a lot, you know when you’re kind of in close quarters with someone like that. All sorts gets brought up. Anyway…”
It comes as Zara and Louis went Instagram official when the One Direction left a comment on one of her posts. Zara shared a picture of herself editing her new documentary series as she explained that she is feeling more ‘confident’ in front of the camera and gushed that she is ‘unbelievably excited’ for fans to watch.
She captioned the post: ” In the edit for my new series all about Thailand I’m so unbelievably excited about this one. I can’t believe I’ve been making documentaries for 5 years now… every year that goes by I feel my confidence in front of the camera, in my producing (and in myself!!) growing so much. I feel really proud of this, of our amazing team for creating such a special series with so much depth to it, exploring some pretty serious topics but also capturing the fun too.
“I learnt SO much making this programme. I cannot wait @bbcthree (Thailand will be out later this year after my stalking documentary which will be out this summer).”
Louis quickly took to the comments and wrote: ‘Proud of you x’.
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Mandeep Sanghera
BBC Sport journalist
Liverpool manager Arne Slot says he is not going to “tell the fans how they should react” to Trent Alexander-Arnold after the right-back announced he will leave the club this summer.
The 26-year-old said on Monday that he is going to bring his 20-year spell at Anfield to an end by departing on a free transfer when his contract runs out on 30 June 2025.
Since then, Real Madrid – the club he has been heavily linked with during the season – have approached Liverpool about signing Alexander-Arnold before his deal runs out so he can play at the Fifa Club World Cup, which starts on 14 June in the United States.
“That people have an opinion about us, if it is Trent or me or someone else, that is not new for anyone,” said Slot on Friday before his side’s game against Arsenal on Sunday (16:30 BST).
“Probably, it’s a bit more now for him than he is used to and probably a bit more negative than he’s used to but I don’t follow all of this.
“I am not here to tell the fans how they should react. I will see Trent in a bit – the boys had a few days off as well – so I will wait and see how he feels about him announcing that he is going to leave the club. I did speak to him on WhatsApp.
“Let’s wait and see but I’m not here to tell the fans how they should react. We are all disappointed but Trent is the first one also who said that he would prefer us as a team and a club not to be not too much distracted by this announcement.
‘If a very good player is leaving then the next player will step up’
Getty Images
Slot refused to get drawn into Alexander-Arnold’s next club but hinted he knew when asked about Real Madrid trying to sign him for the Club World Cup.
“He hasn’t said anything about it himself,” added the Dutchman. “For me, it’s impossible to comment on where he’s going and if that is a club that is going to play in the Club World Cup.
“You see by my smile we both know where he’s going to but it hasn’t been said yet. That’s impossible for me to comment on.”
Slot confirmed Northern Ireland international Conor Bradley, 21, will start against Arsenal on Sunday at right-back as he prepares for Alexander-Arnold’s exit in a situation he was used to at his previous clubs.
“Like everybody who likes Liverpool and is a fan of Liverpool, were disappointed for him leaving because not only a good human being is leaving the club but also a very, very good full-back is leaving us as well,” said Slot.
“I also worked at a clubs like AZ Alkmaar and Feyenoord where every season a very good player or multiple good players have left the club. I’m a bit more used to players leaving the club.
