In other news

The article advises approaching salary talks with preparation and professionalism: research market rates and your value, time the conversation well, avoid threats or ultimatums, and frame requests around data and impact. It emphasizes staying calm, collaborative, and flexible on total compensation (bonuses, equity, benefits) rather than fixating solely on base pay.

The article argues Boeing is experiencing a tentative turnaround in early 2025 after years of crises. It highlights rising aircraft orders, progress in resolving legal issues, and new defense contracts—momentum helped by a favorable policy environment under Trump. While not declaring Boeing’s troubles over, it suggests the company’s outlook is improving as operational stability and demand return.

The article discusses growing concerns that China could disrupt or degrade GPS signals, leveraging its extensive investments in BeiDou, its rival global navigation satellite system. As geopolitical tensions rise and trust in guaranteed U.S. support wavers, reliance on GPS—vital for military, economic, and civilian functions—appears increasingly risky. China’s capabilities likely include regional jamming and spoofing, and its BeiDou network provides it with resilience and potential strategic leverage. The piece underscores the need for diversified navigation solutions, anti-jam technologies, and policy planning to mitigate vulnerabilities to satellite-navigation interference.

The article argues that Donald Trump’s emerging foreign policy mirrors China’s pragmatic, transactional approach—especially in the Middle East—by prioritizing deals, narrow self-interest, and limited commitments over grand strategy or values. While China has long avoided deep entanglements and acted like a “middle power” outside its region, Trump is adopting a similar playbook: focusing on business-like arrangements, cutting tactical bargains, and blaming U.S. interventions for instability—positions Beijing itself has pushed. This convergence underscores a shift toward deal-driven great-power behavior that sidelines traditional American leadership norms.

The EU’s push to cut business red tape is failing to convince companies. Firms like DP World have invested heavily to meet complex sustainability and due-diligence rules (such as CSRD and related reporting), collecting vast amounts of data and hiring consultants—only to see the EU revise requirements midstream. This “alphabet soup” of regulations, from CSRD to GDPR, still imposes heavy, shifting compliance burdens, undermining promised simplification and frustrating businesses that had already adapted.

Rupert Murdoch, 94, tried and failed in a Nevada probate court to alter a family trust to block three of his children from controlling Fox Corporation and News Corp after his death, with an appeal pending. Despite this bitter family feud, investors remain bullish on the legacy media empire, reflecting confidence in the companies’ underlying performance and strategic positioning even amid governance uncertainty.

The article discusses Donald Trump’s proposal for a “Golden Dome,” a national missile-defense shield inspired by Reagan’s “Star Wars” and Israel’s Iron Dome. It would rely on a vast constellation of satellites to track and intercept missiles during launch. The piece situates the plan within rising astropolitical competition—particularly with China and Russia—and raises questions about technological feasibility, costs, escalation risks (including weaponizing space), and the strategic stability implications of pursuing orbital missile defense.

The Economist is accepting applications for the 2025 Marjorie Deane six-month paid business-writing internship in London. No prior journalism experience is required. Applicants should email a CV and an original, publishable Business-section article of up to 600 words to deaneintern@economist.com by July 31. Start date is flexible.

The article describes the rise of a “gig economy” for cybercrime, where plug-and-play hacking kits and services—purchased with cryptocurrency—let even amateurs execute major attacks. Recent incidents at British retailers like Harrods, Marks & Spencer, and the Co-op illustrate how cheap, accessible tools enable global-scale disruptions that once required skilled hacker groups. This shift turns cybercrime into a service-based marketplace, lowering barriers to entry, amplifying impact, and complicating corporate and national defenses.

The Murdoch family is embroiled in a secretive legal dispute in Nevada over control of the family trust that governs their media empire, including Fox and News Corp. The case centers on whether Rupert Murdoch’s succession plans—especially the balance of power among his children—can be altered, which could determine the future political direction of the outlets. The outcome may shift control to heirs with differing editorial leanings, potentially reshaping the empire’s stance on conservative politics. The trial began on September 16, 2024.

A 2-year-old boy at Newark Liberty International Airport climbed onto a luggage conveyor belt and was carried into the baggage screening area while his mother rebooked a flight. Port Authority officers quickly searched the system, found him near an X-ray machine, and rescued him unharmed. The incident highlights ongoing troubles at the airport, which has faced severe delays, cancellations, equipment failures including control tower blackouts, staffing issues, and a recent measles exposure. Experts suggest permanently reducing flights and using larger planes to ease chronic congestion, warning there’s no quick fix.

Yankees star Aaron Judge says he avoids leaving his hotel on road trips because his 6'7" height makes him instantly recognizable, leading to fan mobs—like a recent Starbucks stop in Seattle. He prioritizes focusing on his job over sightseeing, noting he’ll explore cities after retirement. Judge’s high profile is amplified by his elite performance this season, including a league-best .391 average and 21 home runs.

Blake Lively moved to drop her intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress claims against Justin Baldoni in their ongoing lawsuit after his lawyers sought her medical records. Baldoni’s team insists any dismissal be “with prejudice” to prevent refiling; Lively wants it “without prejudice.” Baldoni’s attorneys argue she waived doctor-patient privilege by alleging emotional and physical injuries, and a judge must decide whether she must turn over mental health records. Lively’s lawyers say they are narrowing claims while still alleging emotional distress within other counts, including sexual harassment and retaliation. Baldoni denies all allegations and has countersued Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds for $400 million for defamation and extortion. A trial is set for March 2026.

North Salinas High sophomore Clara Adams was disqualified and stripped of her California state 400m title after celebrating her win by spraying her shoes with a fire extinguisher—an homage to Olympian Maurice Greene. CIF officials deemed the act unsportsmanlike, also barring her from the 200m. Adams and her coach father said the celebration happened away from competitors; Greene urged reinstatement if no one was affected. Adams ran 53.24 and had dominated recent meets. CIF’s code stresses sportsmanship; local reports note no similar disqualifications for unsportsmanlike conduct in the past 20 years.

Yankees closer Luke Weaver is headed to the injured list after tweaking his hamstring while stretching before Sunday’s ninth inning at Dodger Stadium and could miss 4–6 weeks. Weaver has been dominant (1.05 ERA, eight saves, 24 K in 25 2/3 IP). Devin Williams is expected to reclaim closing duties, having improved after a rough April, while Fernando Cruz is set to return from the IL and Mark Leiter Jr. has been pitching well, giving Aaron Boone options for late-inning matchups.

CNN chief national security correspondent Alex Marquardt is leaving the network following a $5 million defamation verdict over his 2021 report alleging Navy veteran Zachary Young exploited Afghans during the U.S. withdrawal. A Florida jury found the report defamatory; an undisclosed settlement followed before punitive damages were considered. Internal messages revealed aggressive language by Marquardt and a producer, fueling criticism of CNN’s bias. Marquardt announced his departure without citing reasons; reports suggest he was fired over “editorial differences.” CNN defended its journalism but said it would draw lessons from the case. Marquardt, an eight-year CNN veteran and award-winning former ABC foreign correspondent, recently led coverage of the Russia-Ukraine war.

CNN analyst Harry Enten expressed shock at new polling showing Republicans maintain and even widen their advantage over Democrats on economic issues despite market volatility, recession fears, and unpopular tariffs under President Trump. A May CNN poll found Republicans up 8 points on which party aligns with voters’ economic views, similar to an 11-point lead in late 2023. A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows the GOP’s edge on having a better economic plan growing from 9 points in May 2024 to 12 points in May 2025. Most striking to Enten: voters now split evenly on which party represents the middle class—a question that historically favored Democrats by large margins—signaling a major erosion of Democrats’ traditional advantage.

Jonathan Joss, the actor who voiced John Redcorn on “King of the Hill,” was escorted out of an ATX TV Festival panel on May 30 after speaking out of turn and expressing disappointment about not being included. Two days later, the 59-year-old was fatally shot in Texas following a confrontation near his burned-down home, where he reportedly discovered his dog’s remains. Police arrested neighbor Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja and charged him with first-degree murder; bond was set at $200,000. Joss’s husband alleged the shooting was a hate crime, but authorities said no evidence supports that. Joss was set to return for the “King of the Hill” revival and had previously received community support after the house fire that killed three of his dogs.

A passenger on the Norwegian Epic fell into the water while disembarking in Catania, Sicily, after strong winds up to 45 mph caused the ship to pull away from the pier. Crew quickly rescued the person, who sustained minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital. Disembarkation was paused until conditions improved. The incident follows several recent Norwegian Cruise Line mishaps involving passengers being left behind during trips.

The Justice Department, led by Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon, threatened to sue California public schools if they continue allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls’ high school sports, claiming the policy violates the Equal Protection Clause. The warning follows a trans athlete, AB Hernandez, winning two state titles at the California track meet and President Trump’s threats to cut federal funding. In response, the California Interscholastic Federation adjusted its rules to let athletes who finish behind a trans competitor share placement. California officials are preparing guidance for districts. The move is part of a broader Trump administration push to bar trans women from women’s sports, including an executive order tying compliance to federal funding and related lawsuits against states like Maine and potential actions against Minnesota and California. The state meet proceeded without major incident.

Acting FEMA chief David Richardson told staff he didn’t know the U.S. has a hurricane season, a remark DHS says was a joke but that alarmed employees given his lack of emergency management experience and the season’s start. Richardson also urged responding to this year’s hurricanes as last year, despite FEMA’s significant staffing cuts—about a quarter of full-time staff and one-fifth of coordinating officers since early in the Trump administration amid broader federal downsizing. His predecessor was ousted after defending FEMA’s necessity, and Richardson warned staff against obstructing his agenda. The episode highlights concerns about FEMA’s readiness under reduced capacity and contentious leadership.

After losing nearly 600 employees to layoffs and retirements under Trump-era federal cuts, the National Weather Service will begin targeted hiring to stabilize operations. An exemption to the hiring freeze allows 126 new positions, including meteorologists, hydrologists, physical scientists and electronics technicians, to be filled nationwide. Staffing shortages had forced reduced overnight coverage and fewer weather balloon launches, prompting concern amid a year of frequent severe weather and the start of hurricane season. NOAA officials said the National Hurricane Center remains fully staffed, and lawmakers praised the move as vital for public safety.

The Federal Trade Commission is investigating about a dozen advertising and advocacy groups, including Media Matters and Ad Fontes Media, for potential antitrust violations related to alleged coordination of advertiser boycotts aimed at avoiding ads next to hateful content online. Under Chairman Andrew Ferguson, the FTC is scrutinizing whether advertising pullbacks—especially from platforms like X—constitute illegal collusion and threaten free speech. The agency has issued broad information demands on budgets, business practices, and communications among watchdogs. Elon Musk has ongoing lawsuits against Media Matters and others over alleged organized boycotts; Media Matters denies wrongdoing. The FTC declined to comment on the active probes.

Mexico’s governing Morena party appears set to dominate Mexico’s new, popularly elected Supreme Court, with early results indicating all nine likely justices were on Morena-endorsed lists. The judicial overhaul—shifting from appointments to elections across all court levels—was championed by former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador and implemented by President Claudia Sheinbaum to democratize and clean up the judiciary. Critics warn it threatens judicial independence and enables partisan capture and criminal influence, noting several winners’ close ties to Morena. Turnout was about 13%, and allegations surfaced of “cheat sheets” guiding voter choices; authorities are investigating potential interference. Sheinbaum denies political influence over the court and pledges to respect its autonomy.

The article argues that Taylor Swift’s decision not to rerecord her 2017 album Reputation is wise because the album’s power is inseparable from the specific turmoil, public feuds, and defiant mindset of that era. While her Taylor’s Version rerecordings served commercial and archival aims, they often diluted the immediacy of the originals. Reputation, with its snarling production, combative lyrics, and experimental risks, captured a unique moment that can’t be authentically replicated. Swift herself acknowledged it couldn’t be improved by redoing, and preserving its raw, time-bound intensity honors both the album’s artistry and the limits of recreating past work.

The article profiles Juda Engelmayer, a crisis publicist who has represented Harvey Weinstein since 2018 and built a niche handling clients others avoid. A former political operative and bialy shop owner, Engelmayer leveraged the high-profile, high-risk Weinstein job into a roster including Anna Sorokin (Anna Delvey), Nicole Daedone (OneTaste), Charlie Javice, and Carlos Watson. He charges $10,000–$30,000 per month and emphasizes long-game strategy, blunt counsel, and navigating courts and prisons. Engelmayer facilitated connections that helped Watson secure a Trump commutation, illustrating his behind-the-scenes influence. The piece follows him at Weinstein’s New York retrial, showing his combative, pragmatic style and how representing controversial figures has paradoxically elevated his access and power in crisis PR.

The Trump administration has proposed an interim arrangement allowing Iran to continue low-level uranium enrichment while a broader deal is negotiated to block its path to a nuclear weapon. The plan envisions U.S.-facilitated nuclear power reactors in Iran and enrichment managed by a regional consortium (potentially including the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and the UAE), with Iran ultimately ending all enrichment on its soil once benefits begin. Key issues remain unresolved: Iran insists on its right to enrich and demands comprehensive sanctions relief; the proposal is vague on dismantling facilities like Natanz and Fordow and on which sanctions would be lifted. Israel is skeptical and hints at military options, while Iran warns of severe retaliation if attacked. A breakthrough would be a diplomatic win for Trump, but both sides face complex domestic politics and significant gaps on terms.

A new biography of Xi Zhongxun, Xi Jinping’s father, offers insight into why Xi Jinping governs with strong authoritarian tendencies despite his father’s reformist reputation. Joseph Torigian’s “The Party’s Interests Come First” portrays Xi Zhongxun as both humane and loyal to the Communist Party, a leader who championed economic opening and some legal reforms but also endorsed harsh crackdowns when party interests demanded it. The book shows how loyalty to party and family, strict discipline, and trauma from persecution during Mao’s campaigns shaped Xi Jinping’s worldview: prioritizing unity, stability, and party control over dissent. While Xi Zhongxun opposed Cultural Revolution excesses, he supported the party after Tiananmen; Xi Jinping likewise rejects liberalization, viewing himself as charting a middle path—neither Maoist extremism nor reform-era liberalism—strengthening security and ideology even at economic cost. The biography underscores the party’s systemic cruelty to both society and its own ranks, arguing that this legacy of suffering and loyalty deeply informs Xi Jinping’s rule.

Greta Thunberg, “Game of Thrones” actor Liam Cunningham, and 10 other activists set sail from Catania, Italy, on the Freedom Flotilla Coalition’s boat Madleen, aiming to deliver baby formula, medical supplies, and other aid to Gaza and “break Israel’s siege.” The group says the unarmed mission will travel through international waters in accordance with international law to raise awareness of Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. A previous flotilla attempt was thwarted after a vessel was allegedly attacked by drones near Malta; the group blamed Israel. Israel, which has slightly eased its blockade, maintains the restrictions are to pressure Hamas to release hostages from the Oct. 7, 2023 attack. The activists expect a weeklong journey if not stopped and link the voyage to broader efforts, including a planned Global March to Gaza via Egypt.

A fire at a privately run drug rehabilitation center in San José Iturbide, Guanajuato, Mexico, killed 12 people and injured at least three. Authorities are investigating the cause; local reports say victims were locked inside. The municipality pledged funeral support for victims’ families. The incident highlights longstanding issues with unregulated, abusive rehab centers in Mexico and occurs amid Guanajuato’s ongoing cartel violence. Similar deadly attacks on rehab facilities have occurred across Mexico in recent years.

A 59-year-old German-Namibian businessman, identified as Bernd Kebbel, was killed by a lion at the Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp in northwest Namibia after stepping out of his tent to use the toilet. Fellow campers scared the lion away, but Kebbel died at the scene. Authorities are investigating. The incident occurred in a region home to desert-adapted lions, whose numbers have recently declined due to drought and human-wildlife conflict. It’s the second fatal lion attack in Africa in under six weeks.

World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen lost a classic game to 19-year-old world champion Gukesh Dommaraju in round six of Norway Chess, prompting Carlsen to slam his fist on the table before shaking hands. The moment sparked online debate about sportsmanship. Despite the loss, Carlsen remained tournament leader. Carlsen, a five-time world champion and top-ranked since 2010, holds the highest-ever rating (2882). Gukesh, the youngest world champion in history at 18, is currently ranked No. 5. The article also briefly explains chess rating systems (Elo and Glicko).

Sri Lankan customs arrested a 38-year-old Thai woman at Bandaranaike International Airport after finding nearly 10 kilograms of cocaine hidden in three plush toys—the largest cocaine bust at the airport. The drugs, packed into over 500 plastic capsules, are valued at about $1.72 million. The seizure follows recent arrests of three other foreign nationals and nearly 60 kilograms of synthetic cannabis, including a British woman allegedly carrying 46 kilograms of “kush.” All suspects could face life imprisonment. Authorities say Sri Lanka is a transit hub for narcotics, with past cases involving large heroin shipments and major cocaine seizures.

Indian customs in Mumbai arrested a passenger arriving from Thailand for smuggling dozens of venomous snakes and other wildlife in checked luggage. Authorities seized 44 Indonesian pit vipers, 3 spider-tailed horned vipers, and 5 Asian leaf turtles (CITES Appendix II). Photos showed the reptiles after seizure. The case adds to a series of wildlife smuggling incidents through Mumbai, including prior seizures of gibbons, turtles, hornbills, and caimans from flights originating in Thailand.

The FBI says University of Michigan student Haoxiang Gao, a Chinese national, fled to China after being charged with illegally registering and voting in the 2024 election. Gao allegedly admitted to voting on campus and was ordered to surrender his passport and remain in Michigan, but later missed court dates and reportedly flew to Shanghai using a different Chinese passport. He now faces a federal charge of flight to avoid prosecution. The U.S. has no extradition treaty with China. The case is one of very few known instances of noncitizen voting; a Brennan Center review found 30 suspected noncitizen votes out of 23.5 million cast in certain jurisdictions in 2024.

Erin Patterson, 50, testified in her Australian trial, where she’s accused of murdering three relatives of her estranged husband and attempting to murder a fourth by serving a beef Wellington containing death cap mushrooms in July 2023. She pleaded not guilty, with her lawyer arguing the poisoning was accidental. On the stand, Patterson described marital strain, feeling distanced from her ex-husband’s family, and personal struggles. The victims—Don and Gail Patterson and Gail’s sister, Heather Wilkinson—died; Ian Wilkinson survived after a liver transplant. Evidence included testimony that Patterson plated the food, her estranged husband declined the invite, and a doctor warned her to inform her children if they had eaten any. The prosecution has rested; Patterson continues testifying. Murder in Victoria carries a potential life sentence; attempted murder up to 25 years.

Disney is implementing several hundred additional layoffs worldwide, affecting film, TV, marketing, casting, development, and corporate finance teams, as it continues cost-cutting amid industry shifts from cable to streaming. The move follows 2023 cuts of about 7,000 jobs under CEO Bob Iger’s plan to save $5.5bn. Disney says no teams will be shut down and aims to minimize impact. The company, which employs 233,000 globally, reported stronger-than-expected results in May with $23.6bn in quarterly revenue (up 7% year over year), driven by Disney+ subscriber growth. Recent film performance has been mixed, with Snow White underperforming and Lilo & Stitch setting U.S. Memorial Day box office records and surpassing $610m globally.

Greenpeace activists, disguised as staff, stole a €40,000 wax figure of French President Emmanuel Macron from Paris’s Grevin Museum and displayed it outside the Russian embassy. The protest targeted what Greenpeace calls France’s “double game”: supporting Ukraine while allowing French companies to continue importing Russian gas and fertilizers. No arrests have been made and the statue hasn’t been recovered. The action highlights ongoing European purchases of Russian fossil fuels despite sanctions, with France among EU buyers, even as Paris backs Kyiv and sanctions Moscow.

An al-Qaeda-linked group, JNIM, claimed responsibility for a major attack on Mali’s army, seizing an army base in Boulikessi on Sunday, with reports of over 30 soldiers killed, though not officially confirmed. The Malian army said it fought vigorously before withdrawing. On Monday, JNIM also targeted Timbuktu, where the army reported repelling an infiltration, killing 14 militants and arresting 31, and seizing weapons and vehicles. Reports mention explosions, gunfire, and a vehicle-borne bomb near an army camp, with claims JNIM also targeted a military airport and Russian mercenaries. The incidents highlight worsening security in Mali and the Sahel, amid U.S. warnings that Islamist groups are seeking coastal access to expand smuggling and arms trafficking. Reuters estimates over 400 soldiers have been killed in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger since early last month.

Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene resigned after losing a parliamentary confidence vote amid mass protests over alleged corruption and his family’s lavish lifestyle, highlighted by social media posts about his son’s extravagant celebrations. He will serve as caretaker for up to 30 days. The vote saw 44 in favor and 38 against out of 82 participating lawmakers, short of the required majority. Oyun-Erdene denies wrongdoing, calling the allegations a smear campaign. The uproar comes amid worsening corruption perceptions in Mongolia, which ranked 114th on Transparency International’s index, and follows broader concerns about elite wealth and governance in the country.

Severe floods in Mokwa, Niger State, Nigeria, have killed over 200 people with about 500 still missing, in what officials say is the worst flooding there in 60 years. Torrential rains swept through districts including Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa; some residents suspect a nearby dam burst, though authorities haven’t confirmed it. Rescue efforts have ceased as hopes of finding survivors fade. Bodies have been carried downstream as far as Rabba, and authorities plan to exhume buried corpses to prevent disease. Roads, bridges, and livelihoods have been heavily damaged, with relief efforts underway from NEMA and the Red Cross. Flooding is a recurrent problem during Nigeria’s April–October rainy season, with major disasters also recorded in 2022 and 2024.

Two people died and hundreds were arrested across France after celebrations of Paris Saint-Germain’s first-ever Champions League win turned violent. A 17-year-old was fatally stabbed in Dax, and a 23-year-old scooter rider was killed in Paris after being hit by a vehicle. France’s interior ministry reported 559 arrests (491 in Paris), 192 injuries, 22 police and seven firefighters hurt, and 264 vehicles burned. Shops were looted near the Champs-Élysées, and police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds. Authorities condemned the violence, distinguishing vandals from the vast majority of peaceful supporters. Despite the clashes, PSG’s victory parade proceeded with heightened security, and President Emmanuel Macron praised the team while vowing punishments for offenders.

The UK has shifted its stance on Western Sahara, backing Morocco’s autonomy plan—which grants local self-rule under Moroccan sovereignty—in exchange for business opportunities tied to the 2030 World Cup and broader procurement access. Foreign Secretary David Lammy called the plan the most viable basis for a settlement and signed agreements enabling UK firms to bid on Moroccan infrastructure projects, including airport upgrades. Algeria, which supports the Polisario Front and Sahrawi independence, criticized the move, noting the plan hasn’t been put to the Sahrawis for negotiation. The UK says Morocco will reaffirm self-determination principles, update its plan, and restart talks. The shift aligns Britain with the US, Spain, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, while a UN referendum on the territory’s status remains unrealized.

Citigroup has reversed its post-Parkland firearms policy, saying it will no longer maintain a specific policy on guns. The 2018 rules had restricted services to clients selling firearms to under-21 buyers, without background checks, or offering bump stocks and high-capacity magazines. The rollback follows pressure from the Trump administration and broader claims of anti-conservative bias in banking. Citi cited regulatory developments, executive orders, and federal legislation in its decision, and updated its Code of Conduct and Global Financial Access Policy to state it does not discriminate based on political affiliation.

CNN reports that new acting FEMA head David Richardson told staff he was previously unaware the U.S. has a hurricane season, a remark some took as a joke but others found troubling given his lack of disaster management experience. DHS said the comment was made in jest and noted Richardson has referenced hurricane preparations elsewhere. Appointed in May by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem after the prior acting chief was dismissed, Richardson has vowed to enforce President Trump’s agenda and rescinded FEMA’s 2022–2026 strategic plan. He also paused an updated hurricane season disaster plan pending a new FEMA Review Council, reverting to 2024 procedures. The agency faces internal turmoil, with significant leadership turnover and a projected workforce drop from about 26,000 to 18,000 by year’s end. Reuters first reported the meeting comments.

The Netherlands’ governing coalition collapsed after Geert Wilders’ far-right PVV withdrew over demands for a much tougher asylum policy, leaving Prime Minister Dick Schoof’s government with only 51 of 150 seats. Schoof called the move irresponsible and will lead a caretaker government until a new coalition forms. Opposition parties are pushing for immediate elections; polls suggest the PVV would lose seats but remain the largest party, with gains for center-right and center-left rivals. Wilders, who remained outside the cabinet under the coalition accord, quit after the government rejected PVV proposals to close borders to asylum seekers and shut asylum centers.

Mexico held its first-ever judicial elections, with estimated turnout around 13% of roughly 100 million eligible voters, according to the INE. Voters selected about 2,600 judges and magistrates, including all nine Supreme Court justices; counting concludes June 15. President Claudia Sheinbaum called the process a “complete success,” praising a free, low-cost vote and signaling improvements for the 2027 round. Officials reported peaceful voting and said turnout met expectations, though voting is not mandatory and no minimum is required. Analysts argued the low participation undermines legitimacy and noted controversies over candidate vetting, limited experience, and questionable credentials; the ballot featured thousands of largely unknown contenders, with some embroiled in scandals, including ties to drug trafficking. Critics warn the reform could weaken checks on executive power and increase criminal influence. Authorities logged 23 reports of possible electoral crimes at the federal judiciary level.

After Donald Trump’s 2024 reelection, some Americans are accelerating plans to move abroad or obtain dual citizenship, citing political turmoil, erosion of rights, and cultural polarization. Tax and immigration advisers report a sharp rise in inquiries, especially from affluent clients, LGBTQ+ families concerned about restrictions on gender-affirming care, and those fearing democratic backsliding. Data show surges in U.S. applications for citizenship in the UK, Ireland, and Canada, with many seeking “insurance” options even without immediate relocation plans. Case studies include a North Carolina teaching couple moving to Morocco, comedian Rosie O’Donnell relocating to Ireland with her child, and a writer who settled in Italy amid widening U.S. political divisions. Changes to European citizenship rules are also prompting Americans to act quickly.

The White House sent a $9.4 billion rescissions package to Congress seeking to cancel previously approved funding, aiming to formalize DOGE’s planned cuts and reduce legal risks. Targets include the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and USAID. Though far smaller than the over $1 trillion in cuts DOGE has pledged, the move begins a potentially iterative process; OMB Director Russell Vought said more packages could follow. House Speaker Mike Johnson pledged quick action and plans a vote next week, but Democrats, led by Hakeem Jeffries, vow unified opposition and predict failure in the Senate. Congress has 45 days to consider the package, which can pass both chambers by simple majority. The effort echoes a failed 2018 attempt under Trump to rescind $15 billion in unspent funds.

Loïs Boisson, a 22-year-old French wild card ranked No. 361, has reached the 2025 French Open quarterfinals after a comeback win over world No. 3 Jessica Pegula. She’s the lowest-ranked women’s quarterfinalist at a major since 2017 and the first woman in 17 years to make the quarters on her grand slam main-draw debut. Boisson, from Dijon, debuted on the WTA Tour in 2021, won a WTA 125 in Saint-Malo in 2024, then suffered an ACL and meniscus injury that sidelined her for nine months. Returning in February, she earned her first top-25 win over Elise Mertens and her first top-5 win against Pegula. She is the last French player remaining in singles and will face world No. 6 Mirra Andreeva next.

U.S. authorities charged Chinese scientist Liu Zunyong and his girlfriend, Jian Yunqing, after Liu allegedly brought the toxic fungus Fusarium graminearum into the U.S. in his backpack. The pathogen can harm key crops like wheat, barley, maize, and rice, and can sicken livestock and humans; it has been described in scientific literature as a potential agroterrorism weapon. The FBI filed charges in Detroit including conspiracy, smuggling, making false statements, and visa fraud. Prosecutors highlighted national security concerns, noting Liu’s ties to the Chinese Communist Party. Jian, affiliated with a University of Michigan lab, appeared in court and awaits a bond hearing.

SCMP’s weekly Asia roundup highlights: online uproar in Japan over claims Elon Musk fathered a child with a Japanese pop star; India’s progress on its AMCA stealth fighter as a counter to Pakistan’s Chinese-made jets; and Fox host Pete Hegseth comparing Donald Trump and Singapore’s founding leader Lee Kuan Yew for their “common sense” governance approach.

Former Taiwanese defense minister Andrew Yang warns the risk of a cross-strait military mishap is rising as China intensifies “grey zone” and coastguard activities around Taiwan—operations that aren’t overtly military but send coercive signals. He says these moves increase pressure and are harder to manage, especially without direct communication channels between Beijing and Taipei, which have been suspended since 2016 after Taiwan’s leadership rejected the one-China principle. Yang urges both sides to “break the ice” and restart lower-level talks to reduce miscalculation risks.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee met twice in three days with Zhou Ji, Beijing’s newly appointed liaison office director, emphasizing the need for close communication to accurately convey the city’s situation to the central government and shape effective policies. Lee praised Zhou as humble and pragmatic, focused on livelihoods and district governance, supportive of “one country, two systems,” and actively engaging the community during weekend visits. Zhou succeeded Zheng Yanxiong and also serves as an adviser to Hong Kong’s national security committee.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick expressed optimism about a forthcoming US-India trade deal, emphasizing the need for greater US market access in India and a reduction of the trade deficit. He suggested India seeks preferential access to key US markets in return. While not naming China directly, he urged New Delhi to curb arms purchases from Russia and distance itself from Brics, citing concerns over de-dollarisation and the bloc’s alignment. Brics now includes 10 members, with recent additions such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE.

Taiwan plans to test a domestically developed kamikaze sea drone this month to bolster naval defenses against rising pressure from mainland China. Developed by NCSIST under the “Kuai Chi Project” with Lungteh Shipbuilding, the program includes three attack uncrewed surface vessels and one target boat, funded at over NT$800 million. The attack USVs, under 10 meters long and under 4 tonnes, feature AI-enabled targeting for autonomous strikes after assignment. Live combat testing is slated for August, with all tests targeted for completion by year-end and mass production in 2026. The army aims to procure over 200 units to support coastal assault operations, aligning with Taiwan’s asymmetric defense strategy emphasizing range, precision, mobility, unmanned capability, and AI integration.

Former US defence official Ely Ratner urged creating a formal collective defence pact among the US, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines to deter China, arguing Beijing is close to being able to reshape Asia by force through moves on Taiwan, the South China Sea, and undermining US-led alliances. He called such a pact both viable and essential to prevent a China-led regional order that would diminish US prosperity and security. Security experts, however, cautioned that the proposal could heighten regional tensions and faces significant political and diplomatic hurdles.

A University of South Florida study reports a record 38m tonnes of sargassum blanketing the Caribbean, Atlantic, and Gulf of Mexico in May, surpassing the 2022 peak of 22m tonnes, with even more expected in June. The massive blooms, whose precise causes remain unclear, are likely driven by factors such as agricultural runoff, warming waters, and changing winds and currents. While sargassum supports marine life offshore, nearshore accumulations smother coral reefs and seagrasses, kill wildlife, emit noxious gases, and disrupt tourism across islands from Puerto Rico to Guyana. Cleanup efforts—ranging from floating barriers and specialized vessels to heavy equipment—are costly, labor-intensive, and risk harming sea turtle nests, leaving many hotels to shoulder the burden and offer guest accommodations to unaffected beaches. Authorities in places like the Dominican Republic, Sint Maarten, and the French Caribbean are deploying emergency measures amid worsening odor and health complaints.

Casablanca Finance City (CFC) has become a flagship for Morocco’s bid to be a gateway for investment into Africa, attracting 240 companies and over 7,000 jobs since 2010 through tax incentives and a stable business environment. Moroccan investment in Africa has surged, and the hub is positioned to support the African Continental Free Trade Area amid global trade tensions and rising tariffs. CFC is deepening ties with African investment agencies, hosting the Africa50 infrastructure fund, and pivoting into AI, fintech, and sustainable finance, including efforts to build a voluntary carbon market. Supporters cite Morocco’s political and macroeconomic stability as key advantages. Critics argue the model prioritizes foreign capital over domestic inequality, that most Moroccan exports still go to the EU, and that hubs risk becoming shortcuts that avoid deeper reforms needed to reduce red tape and improve cross-border business across Africa.

A UN aid convoy carrying food for El Fasher in North Darfur was attacked in RSF-controlled Al Koma, leaving at least five dead and several injured. The convoy, comprising WFP and Unicef trucks, was awaiting clearance to proceed to the besieged city, where about 2 million people face famine conditions. Both the Sudanese army and the RSF blamed each other; local volunteers alleged army drone strikes, days after an army airstrike reportedly killed at least 89 at a nearby market. The UN agencies called for an urgent investigation. The incident underscores the worsening humanitarian crisis: over 4 million have fled Sudan, 11.6 million are internally displaced, and the RSF siege has choked supplies into El Fasher, with reports of acute shortages and alleged use of starvation as a weapon by both sides.

Kenyan software developer and activist Rose Njeri was arrested after creating a one-click tool that let citizens email objections to the Finance Bill 2025, and was charged under the country’s cybercrime law for allegedly disrupting parliamentary systems. Her detention sparked widespread outrage from activists, politicians, and rights groups; Amnesty International Kenya said her rights were violated and a fair trial is at risk. The case highlights growing repression in East Africa, with recent incidents including deportations and alleged assaults of activists in Tanzania and expanded militarized justice in Uganda, as governments intensify crackdowns on dissent linked to economic and political pressures.

Peru’s culture ministry has nearly halved the protected Nazca Archaeological Reserve from about 5,600 sq km to roughly 3,200 sq km, prompting outrage from archaeologists and environmentalists who warn it will expose the area to illegal and informal mining. Critics say the excluded 2,000+ sq km overlaps with around 300 mining concessions and includes zones tied to the oldest Nazca rituals, threatening newly discovered geoglyphs and broader archaeological context. The ministry claims a 20-year study underpins the decision and that the UNESCO World Heritage site and its buffer zone remain unaffected, but opponents argue protections are being weakened amid high gold prices and inadequate oversight of informal mining.

Vanuatu’s climate minister, Ralph Regenvanu, criticised Australia for approving an extension of Woodside’s North West Shelf LNG project until 2070 while seeking to co-host Cop31 with Pacific nations. He called the move contradictory to Australia’s climate commitments and the leadership expected by Pacific countries, noting scientists link the extension to up to 6bn tonnes of future emissions. Despite labeling Australia’s stance as “double speak,” Regenvanu said Vanuatu still supports Australia’s Cop31 bid, though the decision raises doubts about Australia as a trusted Pacific partner. Other Pacific leaders, including from Palau and Tuvalu, also warned the project undermines the credibility of Australia’s proposed “Pacific Cop.”

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof resigned after Geert Wilders’ far-right Party for Freedom (PVV) withdrew from the ruling coalition over disagreements on strict asylum policies. Despite PVV’s 2023 election victory, coalition partners balked at PVV’s 10-point plan, including halting asylum and suspending family reunification for recognized refugees. Coalition leaders accused Wilders of prioritizing personal politics, while the Farmer-Citizen Movement warned the collapse could stall governance for up to 18 months and open the door to more lenient immigration policies. Opposition parties are calling for new elections amid steady but inflation-pressured economic growth.

Euro zone inflation fell to 1.9% in May, below the ECB’s 2% target and economists’ 2% forecast, driven by a sharp drop in services inflation to 3.2%. Core inflation eased to 2.3% from 2.7%. The data supports expectations of an ECB rate cut this week and strengthens the case for another in July. Market reaction included lower German and French bond yields and a slightly weaker euro. Despite global uncertainties, including potential U.S. tariffs, the OECD still projects 1% euro area growth in 2025 and 2.2% inflation for the year.

Fund manager Giles Parkinson sold Trinity Bridge’s Moncler stake in February after tourist tax-refund data from Global Blue showed a sharp deceleration in European luxury spending (+19% in January to +9% in February), a proxy he views as a reliable short-term indicator for the sector. The call proved prescient: Moncler fell ~14% in March, and Q1 results showed slowing growth (group sales +1% to €829m; Moncler brand +2%; EMEA -1%). Global Blue’s March data slowed further to +7%. Analysts at Deutsche Bank and RBC also use tax-free shopping data as a proxy for luxury demand, though Bernstein cautions it should be one input among many. The article highlights how alternative, real-time tourist spending data can inform trades in luxury stocks, especially when market sentiment expects a rebound.

SXSW launched its first London edition in Shoreditch, positioning the city as a global tech and investment hub. Mayor Sadiq Khan promoted London’s openness and took veiled shots at U.S. trade policies. The event featured major tech voices including Google DeepMind’s Demis Hassabis and Hugging Face’s Thomas Wolf, with AI as the dominant theme—spanning open-source models, robotics, and autonomous vehicles. Hassabis predicted AGI’s impact would surpass the Industrial Revolution and the internet, while stressing responsible development and forecasting a decade where tech-savvy creatives achieve “superhuman” output. The festival mixed talks, brand activations from Ray-Ban and Polestar, and pricey merch (notably £18/$24 socks), underscoring SXSW’s blend of culture, commerce, and cutting-edge tech.

Klarna is piloting a Visa-powered debit card, Klarna Card, in the U.S. with a wider rollout planned domestically and in Europe later this year. The card includes an FDIC-insured account via WebBank and uses Visa’s Flexible Credential to let users pay from debit by default or switch to Klarna’s BNPL options like Pay in 4 or Pay in 30 Days. The move is part of Klarna’s push, ahead of a possible IPO, to reposition from a BNPL-focused company to a broader neobank-style player, competing with major U.S. banks and fintechs.

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Sierra Leone, home to over 120 rescued and traumatized western chimpanzees, faces an existential threat from illegal land grabs encroaching on its protected forest. Despite government promises and initial intervention, enforcement has faltered, with authorities admitting complicity and weak oversight amid rapid urban growth. In response, Tacugama has closed to visitors to prioritize conservation, rehabilitation, and research—sacrificing vital tourism revenue as USAID funding has also paused. The sanctuary, central to national identity efforts that made the chimpanzee Sierra Leone’s national animal, warns that continued encroachment, hunting for bushmeat, and illegal pet trade undermine decades of progress and public awareness. Founder Bala Amarasekaran urges stronger leadership and law enforcement to protect the country’s most significant wildlife asset.

Former U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, who served under President Biden, told Sky News he believes Israel has “without a doubt” committed war crimes in Gaza, though he does not consider the conflict a genocide. He said individual Israeli soldiers have likely committed war crimes and criticized a lack of accountability, while noting it’s an open question whether the Israeli state pursued policies amounting to war crimes. Miller detailed internal disagreements within the Biden administration over Gaza policy and arms deliveries to Israel, including pausing certain munitions and debating broader suspensions. He reflected that more might have been done to pressure Israel toward a ceasefire in 2024–2025. Now out of office, he emphasized that as spokesperson he conveyed official positions, and the U.S. government has not formally concluded Israel committed war crimes. Miller also said that, had he been outside government, he would have preferred a “better candidate” than Joe Biden for the 2024 election, citing a lack of consensus within the Democratic Party to push for an alternative.

German police are launching a new search in Portugal for Madeleine McCann, focusing on more than 20 plots east of Praia da Luz near where suspect Christian B once lived. Ground-penetrating radar will be used as part of a European Investigation Order executed by Portuguese authorities. The UK’s Metropolitan Police will not be present but will offer support if needed. Previous searches included a 2023 operation at the Barragem do Arade reservoir. Authorities are seeking Madeleine’s remains or signs she was there. Christian B, nearing the end of a sentence for a separate 2005 rape in Praia da Luz, denies involvement and has not been charged in the McCann case. Madeleine’s parents recently marked 18 years since her disappearance.

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Foreign Secretary David Lammy warned they will take Roman Abramovich to court to seize the £2.5bn proceeds from his 2022 sale of Chelsea FC if a deal isn’t reached soon. The funds, frozen in a UK bank account and intended for humanitarian aid related to the Ukraine war, have been stalled amid deadlocked negotiations with Abramovich, who is sanctioned over alleged ties to Vladimir Putin, which he denies. The government says it remains open to talks but is prepared to act legally to ensure the money benefits Ukraine.

Following PSG’s 5-0 Champions League final win over Inter Milan, celebrations across France turned violent, leaving two people dead—a 17-year-old stabbed in Dax and a man in his 20s hit by a car while on a scooter. Nearly 560 arrests were made nationwide (491 in Paris), with 192 people injured, around 30 police hurt, and 692 fires reported, including 264 vehicle fires. Paris police used tear gas, pepper spray, and a water cannon on the Champs-Elysees amid fireworks aimed at officers and attacks on firefighters. Several shops were targeted and cars torched near Parc des Princes. Despite the unrest, PSG paraded the trophy in Paris and met President Emmanuel Macron, who praised the victory; player Ousmane Dembele urged fans to celebrate peacefully.

Samaritan’s Purse, led by Franklin Graham, has donated 20 ambulances to Israel’s Magen David Adom, with a total of 42 planned, including 28 armored units capable of operating under fire. At a dedication ceremony in Jerusalem, attended by Graham, former Gov. Mike Huckabee, Pastor Greg Laurie, MDA leaders, and terror survivors, speakers emphasized ongoing security threats and solidarity with Israel. A mobile ICU armored ambulance funded by Harvest Christian Fellowship was dedicated, and survivor Karina Engel shared her story of captivity and loss. MDA officials praised the support, noting its operational and symbolic value. Twenty-two more armored ambulances are expected by year’s end.

Amid reported U.S.-facilitated direct talks between Israel and Syria, a growing number of Syrians are openly calling for peace with Israel, prioritizing stability and economic recovery over decades of confrontation tied to the “Axis of Resistance.” Following President Trump’s engagement with Syria’s interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, discussions have focused on border security and potential normalization, signaling a break from previous Syrian policy. Public voices cited in the report say the Palestinian cause was exploited by past regimes and militias, and argue peace could bring reconstruction and development. Analysts note a broader regional trend where populations under Iran-aligned influence increasingly favor de-escalation and new partnerships. While skepticism about Syria’s new leadership remains, many Syrians now view normalization with Israel as a pragmatic path to a better future.

France’s push for a political endgame in Gaza—centered on recognizing a Palestinian state and co-hosting a UN summit to advance a two-state solution—has drawn sharp backlash from Israel and some US figures. President Emmanuel Macron’s stance, framed as both moral and strategic, has prompted Israel to accuse France of hostility and misinformation amid growing international isolation over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. The tensions fit a long, cyclical pattern in Franco-Israeli relations—once close, later marked by embargoes, diplomatic spats at French-administered Jerusalem sites, and recurring Israeli allegations of French anti-Semitism. Analysts say Israel’s heightened vitriol reflects anxiety over rapidly shifting Western public opinion and a shrinking pool of supporters.

US President Donald Trump declared the U.S. will not allow any uranium enrichment by Iran under a prospective nuclear deal, rejecting reports of a proposal permitting limited low-level enrichment. The stance comes after five rounds of indirect talks since April to replace the 2015 accord Trump exited in 2018. Iran insists its program is peaceful, demands effective sanctions relief, and says it will continue enrichment with or without a deal. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi called for more transparency after a report indicated Iran increased enrichment up to 60%. Regional actors urged de-escalation, while the U.S. envoy reiterated a zero-enrichment “red line.” Reports suggest Washington proposed Iran halt enrichment and consider a regional nuclear power initiative.

Syria reopened the Damascus Securities Exchange after a six-month closure amid the fall of Bashar Assad, signaling efforts by the new leadership to revive the war-torn economy. Finance Minister Mohammed Yisr Barnieh said the exchange will operate as a private, digitally focused hub to attract investment. The move follows U.S. and EU easing of sanctions and a $7 billion energy deal with Qatari, Turkish, and U.S. firms to add roughly 5,000 megawatts of power through gas turbines and solar, aimed at restoring the country’s electricity grid and supporting reconstruction.

Top Trump administration officials toured Alaska’s Prudhoe Bay oil field to promote a major expansion of fossil fuel development. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said President Trump wants to double oil throughput in the trans-Alaska pipeline and advance a large liquefied natural gas project to serve Alaska and Asian markets. Interior announced plans to repeal Biden-era limits on leasing and development in protected areas of the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, drawing sharp criticism from environmental groups citing climate risks. Alaska’s Republican leaders and many Alaska Native leaders in the Arctic voiced support, saying prior policies were too restrictive. Asian industry officials joined the visit as the administration seeks foreign investment; public comments will be taken on Interior’s proposed rollback.