Tuesday briefing: Is a social media ban in the UK enough to help protect young people?

The UK government is preparing to announce significant new regulations on social media access for young people, with plans expected to fall short of a complete ban for under-16s but still represent a substantial shift in policy. This follows an ultimatum issued to tech firms on June 8, 2026, to prevent children's phones from sharing explicit images. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly prepared for a confrontation with major technology companies over these proposed measures. In parallel, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated his intention to invite King Charles for a state visit to Ukraine as early as 2026, which would mark the highest-ranking royal visit to Kyiv since the commencement of Russia's full-scale invasion. Meanwhile, tensions in the Middle East showed signs of de-escalation on Monday, June 8, 2026, as both Israel and Iran announced a pause in their attacks following an appeal from former US President Donald Trump for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The UK's family courts are also facing scrutiny for widespread issues, though specific details were not fully elaborated in the provided text.